TRAVEL

LIVE like a local while TRAVELLING

Let us introduce you to two diamonds on our doorstep

We’re not sure what possesses Joburgers to travel offshore when we can take advantage of our own unique landscapes. It’s not just our country’s scenery that’s captivating, but its culture too. As you begin to meander through South Africa’s diverse paths, you’ll too realise why there’s no place like home. Sweetly put, local is always lekker! These are two top local picks for the month.

MELVILLE’S MUSE - PABLO HOUSE If you’re looking for: An unforgettable staycation where you’ll escape the city and Monday blues Transport required: Order an Uber Pet-friendly: Yes This mini breakawayis an absolute must-do for20 plenty. Notonly is this a truly rare hidden Jozi gem, it’s also beautifully designed with intricately architecture. Nestled in what seems like a treehouse, the seven suites are smartly intended to blend in casually with the evergreen environment. Cascading trees, palms and plants envelope the structure and with walkways down the Melville Mountain to make it feels as if you’re rooted deep in nature. It’s rustic and charming and has a calming and tranquil ambience.

Each room has its own unique view and large windows maximize this, with gorgeous bathrooms fittedwith arain shower, Nespresso coffee machine, trendyMarshallspeakerandUHD smartTVwith Netflix and YouTube. And, yes, Pablo House has all-over Wi-Fi connectivity that actually works throughout! Suite 1 and 2 are both standard double rooms, suite 3 offersadeluxedoubleroomandismore spacious, suite 4 and 5 are deluxe twin rooms and accommodate up to two guests each, suite 6 is asuperiordouble room and

suite 8 is the crème de lacrèmewherewerecommendyoubook–this deluxe loft accommodates up to four guests and is a double story dream. There’s a kitchen and fridge, which allows for a self-catering option, as well as a beautiful dining room, self-contained workspace, lounge area and expansive bathroom. This self-contained oasis boasts its very own private terrace too, so you’ll have your very own little nook with a north- facing city view that could easily melt hearts (especially over sunset). Plus, throughout your stay you’ll be kept company by Jana Hamman and Pauline Gutter, whose artworks decorate the walls handsomely.

You won’t want to miss the hotel’s pool and chill zone. Surrounded by rich and lush greenery, the pool is down at the bottom of the property and is molded around the existing environment with an unbelievable view of the Melville Koppies. When you’re basking in the sunshine on alounger, you’llfeelas if you’re in afive-starresort in the bush. This fantastic slice of paradise is where we recommend you spendhours untilyourtummystarts to grumble –then visitthe restauranton site. Dos Manos offers hotelguests andregular Joburgers a private dining experience beneath the stars. While the sky is being painted rose gold, pink and sweet orange, order one of the famous cocktails: A gin sling, a lemongrass ginger mule or a kiwi martini shoulddo the trick, accompaniedwith aflavourbomb of puff-puffpizzathat’sallhandmade andpreparedonsite. The simple menualsoofferssalads,Greekstylelambchops,chickenwings,panko prawns anddelicious nachos with guac. Itticks allthe taste buds –humble food that’s excellently priced and all created beautifully. The restaurant is open six days a week for lunch and dinner but for breakfast you’ll grab a tuk-tuk and head on over to sister eatery Pablo Eggs-Go-Bar. What you’ll remember: The exquisite depiction of local art celebrated all over the property. Gloat to friends about art by South African artists Richard Smith and Julian Venter and South African photographer Fausto Becatti.

3 4th Avenue, Melville m 066 215 0993 K www.pablohouse.co.za E @pablohousemelville Q @pablohousemelville Words Bianca Spinner Images Brandon Hinton

THE KAROO’S CROWN JEWEL - NEW HOLME COUNTRY HOUSE If you’re looking for: An adventure outside your comfort zone to explore nature and all her raw beauty Transport required: Seven-hour self-drive from Joburg Pet-friendly: No but you’ll meet their rescue meerkat upon arrival

Words Bianca Spinner Images Di Brown The natural world is the focus in this location with stupendous caramel coloured desert landscapes, thirsty scenery, unparalleled beauty and small-town hospitality. This marvellously casual style accommodation is a member of Cape Country Routes portfolio (members compromise owner operated and managed accommodation and activity establishments). New Holme is situated in the mesmerising Karoo Gariep Nature Reserve alongside the Seekoei River and is completely secluded and tucked away far from civilisation.

Lapping up this this secret sanctuary is a fortuitous leap into a simpler life. Once you enter the nature reserve, over the dusty road there’s a diamondwaitingto be discovered. There are five accommodation options to choose from, consisting of the Mieliefontein Karoo Guest Farm, Wolmade self-cateringcottage, Stoffels Rus self-cateringlog cabin, Karoo Gariep tent and the incredibly extraordinary New Holme Karoo Guesthouse. Hands-on owners PC Ferreira and his wife Marisca have one secret ingredient to the success of this guest farm, and that’s that everything they’ve created radiates with love. Combining his outdoor talents and her culinary skills in the kitchen, this small country escape is impeccably brought to life.

The comfortable, farm-style en-suite rooms are all individually decorated andhaveelectricblankets, air-conditioningandteaandcoffeestations. Ifyou’revisitinginsummer, be preparedforscorchingsun-filleddays, but you’ll be pleased to know there’s a gorgeous pool on the property. During your stay, activities include a Karoo ‘Shy 5’ Night Drive where you can see aardvark, aardwolf, black footed cat, porcupine and bat eared fox as well as daily birdwatching drives, sundowner trips to the hippo pool and an after-breakfast walk to see the Koi San etchings where PC regales stories on the history of the region. Our top pick when it comes to this nature reserve is the canoeing safari, which is offeredbyNewHolme andrun bymastermindPC and the Doornkloof Nature Reserve. To get there, you’ll pass through

80km of undulatingmountainscapes dottedwith kudu andwarthog and thus begins your aquatic escapade. You’ll be demanded to relax, wind down and spend two days on the Gariep River (formerly known as the Orange River), canoeing and revolving around the untouched, unspoiled beauty. The trip’s drawcard is the colossal rocky gorges climaxing out of the aquamarine waters, which you’ll gently steer through. After day one of canoeing, you’ll sleep over in a tented camp where the tawny and untamed river will be your bathtub. Once it seems you couldn’t possibly become any more content, you’ll fallasleep to the songs of the kingfisher. Allcampingandcanoeing equipment as well as food and drinks are included and set up for you.

What you’ll remember: The mouthwateringly delectable braai broodjies made on the campfire alongwith apotof freshlybrewed ‘moerse lekkerkoffie’ whilstabsorbingintoxicatingsunsetskies. Also, the sensational home-cooked Karoo-style feasting that takes place at New Holme, from freshly baked caramel bread to homemade carrot and brandy pudding.

New Holme Country House m 082 567 9211 K www.karoogariep.co.za E @capecountryroutes D @capecountryr Q @capecountryroutes

The WONDROUS WINE COUNTRY

Exceptional dining experiences in the Cape Winelands – from Constantia to Stellenbosch to Franschhoek Yes, you can do the Cape Winelands in an afternoon, but with tutored tastings and farm-to-table dining along with breathtaking beauty, eye-catching architecture, magnificent gardens and serious art collections, it’s worth staying a few days. And did we mention the wine? It was tough to single out a handful, but these restaurants on wine farms are all at the top of their game.

HOME BASE With 18 elegantly furnished self-catering apartments with only the finestinfixtures,appliancesandlinen,The Den Apartments by Cape Summer Villas in Stellenbosch is right at home in a historic town known for its Cape Dutch architecture. We highly recommend booking one of the sophisticated open-plan studio apartments (two-bedrooms are also available) at Cape Summer Villas’ most recent addition to its boutique collection of properties in the Western Cape for your Winelands visit. Situated on the top level, theyhave absolutelyeverythingyou need: Aflat-screen TV withDStvandNetflix, afullyequippedkitchenette, air-conditioning, complimentaryuncapped fibreInternet,secureoff-streetundercover parking as well as access to the communal rooftop pool and braai area. More importantly, most of the wineries and restaurants you’ll want tovisitarebetween6kmand30kmaway,makingUberanaffordable waytogetaround.CapeTownInternationalAirportisalso30kmaway.

4 Dennesig Road, Stellenbosch m 066 297 4358 K www.capesummervillas.co.za k enquiries@thedenstellenbosch.co.za E @thedenstellies Q @thedenstellenbosch

LA PETITE COLOMBE Best for: TheatricaldiningthatfuseslocalingredientswithFrenchflair The perfect pairing: Fine and Rare Wine Experience As part of the La Colombe group, little sister La Petite Colombe enjoys iconic status –atable mustbe reservedwellin advance of arrivalin the Winelands, especially in summer. The experience begins at the bar, where you’re served a refreshing sake-based cocktail with a zesty kalamansi foam inspired by head chef John Norris-Rogers’ recent trip to Japan. You’re then showntoyourtableintherelaxedyetrefinedglass-windoweddiningroom from which you can see the peeks of the Franschhoek mountains. The atmosphere isneitherhushednorstiff–instead, there’sasteadyhumof animated conversation and glasses and cutlery are clinking enthusiastically. Each of the tasting menus can be ordered with wine pairings and unless you’re driving, the grand Chef ’s Experience paired with the Fine andRareWineExperienceisdefinitelythewaytogo.First,snacksarrivein an enchanting mobile garden followed by a br ead course paired with a beer from Hey Joe Brewing Company down the road. From there, you can anticipate French-Asian inspired dishes withadepthofflavouroneveryplate and spot-on accurate pairings featuring limited-edition and boutique label wines. From the Malay tuna with avocado and coriander, to the scallop with pork, wild garlic, celeriac and katsuobushi, to the duck with langoustine, mussel and ham, each dish is more effortlesslybalanced and downright delicious than the next. Ultimately,it’sallabouttheflavours.And don’t skip the cheese course of Boerenkaas, buckwheat and rhubarb before dessert.

Take note: From early May, La Petite Colombe will move into a larger standalone space on Leeu Estates, also in Franschhoek.

Le Quartier Français Hotel, corner of Berg & Wilhelmina Streets, Franschhoek m 021 202 3395 k www.lapetitecolombe.com E @lapetitecolombesa D @lapetitecolombe Q @lapetitecolombe

TERROIR Best for: Seasonal produce-driven cuisine and subtly nuanced wines The perfect pairing: KleineZalzeFamilyReserve CheninBlanc2013 Located on Kleine Zalze Wine Estate, a family owned wine farm that’s risen to prominence in both South Africa and internationally thanks to its award-winning chenin blanc and shiraz, Chef Michael Broughton’s Terroirrestaurantis aregularfixture on ourcountry’s top 10 lists for goodreason. Refinedbistro fare with apronouncedseasonalinfluence characterise the chalkboard menu of ‘deceptively simple’ dishes, such as the iconic prawn risotto anddessertsoufflés. We recommendstarting with the elegant and luxuriously creamy prawn risotto stirred with corn, basil, langoustine butter and sauce Americaine. Another top-notch option is the fresh yellowtail ceviche complemented by the sweetness of pickled vegetables, soy and mirin and the spiciness of ginger vinaigrette, which brings aperfectbalance of flavours. Movingonto mains, the filletof

TRYN Best for: Oysters and bubbly overlooking verdant vineyards The perfect pairing: Steenberg1682 ChardonnayMCC The Steenberg Farm outpost of new signature restaurant, Tryn is sheer magic to look at with drop-dead gorgeous views, from the tranquil outstretched terrace, of the entire Constantia Valley across False Bay to the distant mountains. Dedicated to Steenberg’s 17th century founder, Catharina Ras or Tryn as she was known to her nearest and dearest, the restaurant features solid timber and hardy stone, delicate layering of textured fabricsandwalleffectsaswellasrichburntorangeandmustardtones in soft furnishings, which coats the space with her femininity with scatterings of her feisty character. But the fabulous food is even more magical than the setting, thanks to chef Kerry Kilpin’s inventive Asian and Middle Eastern-inflectedmenu. Forstarters, orderafewof the oysters with a zesty lime, chilli, coriander and ponzu granite spooned over them followed by the tempura prawns with charred pineapple and peanut salsa, avo, blackgarlic oil, srirachaandlime –aboundary-pushing innovative dishthatpacksaheftyflavourpunchratherthanjustlooking prettyon the plate. Formains, both the ethicallysourcedfish with an aubergine parcel, butternut, coriander, harissa and rose petal as well as the lamb rack with pumpkin purée, shimeji, English spinach, onion petals and a lemon rosemary jus are sensory overloads that make for a memorable experience. Lastly, when you’re nearing capacity, dessert is a surprising yet delightful celebration of the infusion of some unexpected savoury notes such as basil, coriander, thyme andcardamom –anodto Kerry’s cleveruse of flavours andtextures.

beautifully cooked kob with plump, pillowy gnocchi, summer baby vegetables and velouté sauce makes for a decadent meal. Meat lovers maypreferthe spectacularbeef filletwith arich mushroom purée, Pommes Anna, garlic chips and baby carrots. Your last course isn’t up fordiscussion –chef Michael’s chocolate crémeuxwith cinnamon, caramel corn and vanilla sherbet is one of the dreamiest desserts ever that will satisfy any cocoa lover. It’s comparable to a velvet-like creamy custard with an intense chocolate taste and sits atop a crumble base for fantastic texture. Once you’ve hadyourfill, you can workitoffatthe 18-hole De Zalze Golf Course designed by Peter Matkovich.

Strand Road, Stellenbosch m 021 880 8167 K www.kleinezalze.co.za E @kleinezalzeofficial D @kleine_zalze Q @kleinezalze

Steenberg Road, Tokai m 021 713 7178 K www.steenbergfarm.com E @steenbergfarm D @steenbergwines Q @steenbergfarm

REFUEL BETWEEN SIPS Perched high on the upper reaches of the Constantiaberg in the oldest wine producing region of South Africa, the magnificent Constantia Glen is the place to grab local charcuterie and cheeses in Constantia. We recommend stopping by for the Constantia Glen Flagship Tasting, which includes four wines: The Constantia Glen Sauvignon Blanc, Constantia Glen TWO, Constantia Glen THREE and Constantia Glen FIVE. Our top pick is the fresh, classically styled sauvignon blanc, which combines tropical fruitflavours with well-integratedminerality. The tasting pairs well with the Charcuterie platter of prosciutto, coppa and Salami Felino with caper berries, gherkins, sourdough baguette and smoked rooibos butter orthe Cheese &Charcuterie platter–a luxurious spreadof fine cheeses andcuredmeatswithsourdough baguette and homemade condiments

Constantia Main Road, Constantia m 021 795 5639 K www.constantiaglen.com E @constantiaglen D @constantiaglen Q @constantiaglen

TOKARA RESTAURANT Best for: A feast followed by a stroll through fragrant olive groves The perfect pairing: TokaraDirector’s Reserve White 2017 There’s a lot more growing in these fertile valleys than just plump grapes. Tokara Wine Estate’s olive oil is known to be as exceptional as its wine, so arrive an hourbefore lunch to fitin an olive oiltastingatTokara Delicatessen first. Duringthe tasting, you’llgetto sample the estate’s fourcold-pressedextravirgin olive oils, from the delicatelyflavoured Mission to the spicy Frantoio, as well as its preserved Calamata olives and olive paste. Afterwards, you can stock up on olive oil products and cheeses. Then it’s time forlunch atTokaraRestaurant–with the estate being situated on the top of the scenic Helshoogte Pass, the restaurant offers breathtakingviews overthe valleybelowandTable Mountain. ChefCarolizeCoetzee’smenuisSouthAfricanwithahintofEurope–think lots of springbok and ostrich, but also pasta and seafood. We recommend the à la carte options, however, a four-course set Life is too short to not have oysters and champagne sometimes, and gourmet glamourcouldn’tcomefinerthanatGrande Provence Heritage Wine Estate in Franschhoek. Here, you can truly indulge with the new Cap Classique & Oyster Pairing that includes three uniquely dressed oysters shucked directly from the wine estate’s oyster tank to complement the character and personality of Grande Provence Cap Classiques. The Grande Provence Brut Rosé, which bursts with red berry and strawberry, is paired with two differentoysters: Oneenrichedwithpineapple and cucumber salsa and another enlivened with a sliced grape, soy and sesame glaze. In our opinion, the star of the show is the beautifully balanced Grande Provence Brut paired with an oyster bedecked with kimchi and sweet lemon mayonnaise and then sprinkled with toasted black and white sesame seeds.

Main Road, Franschhoek m 021 876 8600 K www.grandeprovence.co.za E @gpwineestate D @grande_provence Q @grandeprovence

menu optionally paired with Tokara wines is also available at lunchtime. If you love shellfish andcrave big, boldflavours, the steamedmussels with papaya, coconut, kapokbos, orange, samphire and a squid ink crisp is a must-order for starters. Also try the goat’s milk cheese ravioli with peas, green asparagus, lemon and velouté or the springbok loin with peach and apricot mebos, green beans, Pommes Anna and an apricot and buchu jus for mains. Desserts range from a hazelnut brownie to a coconut and vanilla panna cotta to a Spanish almond cake and are all superb. Of course, the wine list is extensive and carries only South African wines.

Take note: The restaurant is closed on Mondays.

Helshoogte Road, Stellenbosch m 021 885 2550 K www.tokararestaurant.co.za E @tokararestaurant D @tokara_ Q @eatokara

CAVALLI RESTAURANT Best for: A nighttime escape with glimpses of elegant racehorses The perfect pairing: Cavalli BlackBeautyShiraz 2014 You’ll be forgiven for mistaking Cavalli Restaurant for an art gallery with its polished copper details, blonde wood, palm swivel chairs, Italian designer lighting and behemoth glass panels showcasing views framed by the distant Helderberg mountains in every direction. A long drive from the main gate of wine and stud farm, Cavalli Estate is this starkly contemporary space that stands out amid its other Winelands peers thanks to its sleek eco-friendly architecture and cutting-edge design. Here, head chef Michael Deg turns out creative takes on classics: Free-range Oak Valley pork with a pulled pork and mushroom spring roll, sweet potato, bok choy, fennel, chilli jam and kimchi; grilled line-caught hake lightly cured in a Cape Malay curry sauce with a smoked snoek croquette, pickled mussels, apricots and raisin crème fraiche; or vegan pearl couscous ‘risotto’ with red pepper velouté, root vegetable brunoise, almond yoghurt, pickled naartjie and a kale crisp. Dining in this opulent environment from which you can see horses gambling in designer paddocks transports you to another era, where life was slower and unapologetically more decadent. Ahead of your meal, we suggest visiting the art gallery and doing a little wine tasting (try the Cavalli Pink Pony Grenache Rosé) in the subterranean wine tasting lounge, which has a slightly nightclub-y ambience. Afterwards, you simply must pop into the glamorous in-house boutique, Equus and splurge on items like Kretschmer womenswear, Ida Elsje jewellery, L’MAD scarves, Terre d’Afrique organic skincare products and Jeanne Laubser ceramics.

Strand Road, Somerset West m 021 855 3218 K www.cavalliestate.com E @cavalliestate D @cavalliestate Q @cavalliestate

HAUTE CABRIÈRE Best for: That perfect Winelands lunch amid postcard-worthy scenery The perfect pairing: Haute Cabrière Chardonnay Pinot Noir When visiting Franschhoek, the epicurean epicentre of the Winelands, the hardest thing is deciding which world-class restaurants in a stunning natural setting to visit. The recently renovated Haute Cabrière is an epic destination forgourmands who love fine diningandshouldbe atthe top of your list. The drive up the picturesque Franschhoek Pass sets the tone for the arrival at this unpretentious wine farm with wraparound mountain views and majestic stone arches. Rolling lawns inviteyoutowardtheexpansiveinfinitydeck, whichwasbuiltwhentheoutdoorareawastransformed andencapsulatedinglass –the mostnotable change atHaute Cabrière. Nowmore ofadestination than atraditionaltastingroomandrestaurant, the light-filledspace balanceschicwithrelaxedwhile maintaining a timeless elegance. The menu is French inspired, but it’s the South African take on it that will have you enthralled. The chef ’s confident exploration of tastes, flavours, textures and cooking styles comes in the form of dishes like ricotta and garden spinach dumplings with courgette, cep mushroom, cheese and celeriac foam; curriedlamb springrolls with saffron andpearchutney, coconut-infused curry sauce, yoghurt and coriander; herb-crusted lamb rack with warm spelt and vegetable ragout, roasted aubergine, lemon jus, coriander, and mint and cumin yoghurt; and homemade tagliatelle with flash-friedprawns, chilliandgarlic. Eachcourse isataste explosion thatleaves you wantingmore –justdon’tforego the peanutbutter, chocolate and caramel bar for dessert.

Lambrechts Road, Franschhoek m 021 876 8500 K www.cabriere.co.za E @hautecabriere D @hautecabriere Q @hautecabriere

MAURITIUS HOTELS AND RESORTS

AMBRE, A SUN RESORT The all-inclusive, adult-only Ambre welcomesadults16yearsandup.The resort is set along a tranquil beach between Belle Mare and Trou d’Eau Douce on the untamed east coast of the island. It faces the widest lagoon, catches sunrise and instantly warms up guests to its light and rhythmic ambience. Expansive and open to interaction, cool and cheerful, Ambre is the perfect young-at-heart getaway for carefree holidays. This is the place to refresh, mix and mingle, burst out laughing in good company, enjoy discoveries together, connect and reconnect. m +230 401 8188 1 www.ambremauritius.com

LONG BEACH, A SUN RESORT With its bold, island-chic and vibrant offer, LongBeach calls outto highspirited families and couples with a passion for the now, seeking energetic times or relaxation. This unique resort faces an extensive seafront along the famous Belle Mare beach in the delightful coastal village of Belle Mare andoffers awealth of facilities and activities strewn across the property, allowing guests a real sense of exploration. Here, possibilities forfulfillingtimes go farandwide, creating that unique feeling of being positivelyfilledwith energyandlonglasting memories. m +230 401 1919 1 www.longbeachmauritius.com

LA PIROGUE, A SUN RESORT Having undergone a full transformation, La Pirogue is hipper now than ever. The resort weaves privacy into an intimate nest with the unrivalled charm of its cosy and unique thatch-roofed bungalows in alushcoconutgroveontheflamboyant sunset coast. Here, guests revel in the exquisite feeling of stepping from one’s very own island home straight into the gardens and onto an endless beach and vast lagoon. m +230 403 3900 1 www.lapirogue.com

SUGAR BEACH, A SUN RESORT Sugar Beach is an accommodation experience at its best with rooms and suites in the iconic, plantation-style ‘Manor House’ and widely spread out in separate luxurious Creole-style ‘Villa Houses’ across the delightfully landscaped gardens and along the beach. Soft colours and natural materials used in the rooms combined with tropical elegant designs enhance the harmony of plantation elegance and timeless chic. m +230 403 3300 1 www.sugarbeachresort.com

CORAL STRAND HOTEL Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel is a luxurious 4-star property located 10.7km(6.7mi)fromthecentreofMahe Island. Local places of interest include Beau Vallon Beach and Sainte Anne Beach. There are 131 well-appointed, air-conditioned rooms at Coral Strand Smart Choice Hotel. Guests of the hotel can make use of the room facilities thatincludeclimatecontrol,coffee/tea maker, in-room safe, direct-dial phone, balcony and speakerphone. Coral Strand SmartChoiceHoteloffersacafeteria and daily breakfast is available for an additional charge. There is also an Indian restaurant, that serves distinguished dishes of local and international cuisine and seafood as well as a famous pub with a draft beer as well as signature cocktails. 1 www.cocodemer.com

EDEN BLEU Eden Bleu Hotel is situated on Eden Island, only 5 minutes from the International Airport and 5 minutes’ drive to the capital Victoria. The hotel neighbours Eden Plaza, Seychelles only purpose-built retail centre. Its medical services, pharmacies, supermarket, shops, boutiques, nightlife, bank exchange, ATM and SPA provide plenty of choice if you need to pick up a few essentials. It's also an ideal place to plan and book leisure activities as a number of diving,fishingandcharteroperatorshave theirofficeshere. 1 www.edenbleu.com

AVANI RESORT Avani hotels are perfecting the balance between work and play, design and function, service and privacy, laid-back and lavish. The city of Seychelles and its resort destinations pulse with life, emanating from the buzzy social spaces and extending throughout the hotels. Authentic, sustainable dining nourishes guests and stylish, comfy rooms are where dreams are made. Avani Resort invites you to discover a holiday in perfect balance. 1 www.avanihotels.com

COCO DE MER HOTEL AND BLACK PARROT SUITES Beauty, safety, peace, tranquillity and quality. Surrounded by nature, this hotel is named after the unique Coco de Mer Palm tree which, although extremely rare, occurs in abundance in the tropical forests surrounding the property. This modernfour-starhotelliesinover200 acres of natural beauty on the edge of the Indian Ocean. Expect spacious grounds, comfortable rooms, private location and a friendlyatmosphereofferingspectacular views of the surrounding islands, forested mountainsides and glorious sunsets. 1 www.cocodemer.com

Immerse yourself in the beauty of The Islands of The Seychelles

If you want your next company conference to be an experience for your delegates, rather than just, well, a conference, make sure you check out these amazing venues. Not only will they meet all your needs, they’ll also give you an authentic Jozi experience! The meeting PLACE of the people

Venues that will give your guests a taste of Joburg

Hello Joburg • March 2020 • www.hellojoburg.co.za 56 Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre Indaba Hotel and Conference Centre, formerly known as the Little Neath Hotel, was opened in the 1950s in whatusedto be regarded as the countryside and is now the fast-paced suburb of Fourways. At 67 yearsold,thehotelstillmaintains its warm countryside feel and is a haven from the bustling city that lies just beyond its doors. The centre, which is also home to Mowana Spa and Inverroche Gin School, boasts 24 multipurpose conference venues, ranging from executive boardrooms to large banquet halls. When the workday is said and done guests can dine at one of the fabulous on-site restaurants like Bistro 407 orChiefs Bomas –a must visit for international guests as they offer diners a chance to sample South African classics like shisa nyama and milk tart. Indaba is also just minutes away from Montecasino, which boasts an array of entertainment options such as a cinema, casino, theatres and the Montecasino Bird Park. Corner of William Nicol Drive & Peter Wenning Road, Fourways m 011 840 6600 K www.indabahotel.co.za E @indabafourways D @indabahotel Q @indabahotel FNB Conference Centre FNB Conference Centre should be your go-to if you’re looking for a contemporary and stylish venue for your conference. They have an impressive selection of 17 versatile conference venues including three boardrooms anda160-seater auditorium as well as pool and roof terrace, which is a great option for more relaxed events. The centre also has ahotelwith over120 stunning rooms, a gorgeous bar and a volleyball court that makes for a perfect facility for teambuilding. When the workday is said and done take the five-minute Uber trip to Aurum Restaurant at The Leonardo. The pool deck is the ideal place to throw back a few sundowners and soak up the spectacular views of Jozi. 114 Grayston Drive, Sandton m 087 032 8000 K www.fnbconference.fnbweb.co.za

Davinci Hotel and Suites Situated within Legacy Corner is the sophisticated Davinci Hotel and Suites that has four amazing conference venues to choose from. The Leonardo is the main banquet room and can be subdivided into two rooms for private dining, conferences and cocktail parties. Another good option for smaller conferences or meetings is the Mona Lisa Boardroom, which seats up to 12 guests. If you’re after a bigger venue then the newest conference space, The Sophia, is the one to choose as it can fit up to 110 delegates. When the workday is said and done delegates can unwind at the Maxim lounge –the onlywhisky bar in Africa’s richest square mile. Alternatively, there’s fine-dining restaurant Maximilien where guests can tuck into delicious food in an elegant setting.

Corner of 5th and Maude Streets, Sandton m 011 292 7000 K www.legacyhotels.co.za E @davincihotelsa D @davincihotelsa Q @davincihotelandsuites

Johannesburg Expo Centre With over150,000 square metres of space, Johannesburg Expo Centre’s facilities are unparalleled in size, meaning that those who are planning their conference are spoilt for choice. From massive halls to more intimate venues like the Bateleur and Black Eagle conference facilities, there’s bound to be a venue for every type of event and conference. You just can’t go wrong with the Expo Centre, which is known for hosting some of the biggest events in Joburg like Ultra and the Rand Show.

When the workday is said and done head to Barney’s Restaurant and Bar at Gold Reef City Casino for some cocktails. If you have an entire day at your disposal, make sure you pay a visit to Gold Reef City Theme Park and the Apartheid Museum.

Corner of Rand Show and Nasrec Roads, Nasrec m 011 494 1920 K www.expocentre.co.za E @jhbexpocentre1 D @hbexpocentre1 Q @johannesburgexpocentre

With 10 stations and more than 10 supporting bus routes, step off Gautrain relaxed, into a city of progress and promise.

Gautrain is your golden link to explore the endless opportunities of Gauteng

VINYL SUNDAY SOUNDBITES

3 - 7PM The Arch’s Social Collective | Call 010 495 4200 @archer_melrose

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recharge indulge hang out

Enjoy original and classic cocktails prepared by mixologists, small plate social dining and vinyl record sounds every Sunday afternoon at the Archer Bar & Eatery.

160 Seater Auditorium 23 Flexible meeting rooms 3 Executive boardrooms Video conferencing 120 Bedrooms Complimentary Gautrain shuttle service Conference Centre

INTERCONTINENTAL At the country’s only luxury airport hotel, you can expect nothing less than the crème de la crème. A short walk from the arrival’s hall, the InterContinental touts 138 impeccably appointed rooms, including two lavish suites, which feature floor-to-ceilingwindowslookingout ontothetarmac–butyou’llnever hearaplanetakeofforlandthanksto excellentsoundproofing. Clearyourhead at Camelot Spa, where you can opt for massage therapy or a specialised skin treatment while taking in awe-inspiring viewsofJoburg–thebestbalmfora busyday–orenjoythesleek,indoor heated swimming pool, hydro bath and steam room. After some pampering, head to Quills Restaurant, where an 18-metre porcupine mobile suspended from the ceiling sets the tone, while the spirit of Africaisreflectedinauthenticdisheslike slow-cooked springbok shank infused with an apricot and almond merlot jus,andchickengalantinestuffedwith pistachio nuts. Jones Road, OR Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park m 011 961 5400 1 www.tsogosun.com

SOUTHERN SUN Set directly adjacent to the airport, the Southern Sun is both an architectural marvel and a biz traveller’s dream. With direct pedestrian access and stacked with366comfortableandtastefully furnished en-suite rooms, the hotel is hardly Plan B material. A continental breakfastbuffetoffreshbreadand pastries, cheeses and cold cuts freshens every morning, and dinners are prime time for Mediterranean-themed dishes at Bernoulli’s Restaurant, from angel hairpastatossedwithdicedcrayfishtail topan-friedduckbreastfilletservedon a sautéed warm vegetable salad followed by homemade blueberry pie topped with whipped cream. Sneak to Caroline’s Day Spa & Salon for a hydration facial, aromatherapy massage, back wrap or hot oil hair treatment and you’ll feel as good as new before that big meeting. Jones Road, OR Tambo International Airport, Kempton Park m 011 977 3600 1 www.tsogosun.com

PREMIER HOTEL A mere 2.7km from the airport, the Premier Hotel is pretty swanky for what could easily be another mediocre highway hotel. The 275-room hotel, buffetedbysprawlinggardens,looks andfeelsalittlelikeatropicaloasis–but with better amenities. Take a dip in the pool or, better yet, treat yourself to an Evolving Hammam package at Evolve Day Spa - a signature ritual based on old Turkish baths - that includes a full body cleanse and exfoliation in the hammam room plus a back, neck and shoulder massage. Before you crash, take some time to mingle at the bar and then take the party to the warm and welcoming Kubatana Restaurant for a dinner of high-end African fare. 73 Gladiator Street, Rhodesfield, Kempton Park m 011 393 8000 1 www.premierhotels.co.za

HELLO ONLINE For more on dining out visit our website on: www.hellojoburg.co.za