d e lig htf u l e x pe r i e n c e s
Break in the bush:
aha Makalali, Ivory Tree + Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodges
nelson makamo capturing the culture of our cities
Bailey schneider let’s us in on how she does it all!
Volume 10
DIY
14
2 | aha MOMENTS!
Contents 21
Elate 6 From the Publisher’s desk
21 Art: Nelson Makamo
Shining the light on the face of an African child
Regulars 10 Events
Run 4 Good - Comrades Marathon: Race 4 Charity Beer Hunt: Easter Festivities at SAB World of Beer Museum
aha Portfolio 74 aha Hotels and Lodges’ latest portfolio
Hot picks
Exclusive
12 Travel your way with the latest Eco-
16 Bailey Schneider: Smile FM104.5’s
30 All things Beauty! Maintain the glow in
Earth luggage set
all kinds of weather.
Hot spots 14 Dine in style at La Colombe in
show host lets us in on how she manages a busy career in the spotlight and her family life.
Constantia
71
Features 32 Fashion
Leading up to the runway: African Style Story
16 Cover Star: Bailey Schneider Photograph supplied
3 | aha MOMENTS!
Contents continued
64 32
aha Travel 24 34 38 42 60 64 68
aha The Rex Hotel aha Gateway Hotel Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge aha Makalali Private Game Lodge Ivory Tree Game Lodge aha Lesedi aha Casa Do Sol Hotel & Resort
aha Food 50 Cook it like Mynhardt: Season’s
recipes by Chef Mynhardt Joubert
aha Drive
79
46 The Mercedes Benz C180 at its
best
Encore
>>
71 A taste of France: La Cite du Vin
4 | aha MOMENTS!
30
79
Hot books
Latest book releases
JOIN US!
ALLEN’S GALLINULE MArK MUller
FIND, IDENTIFY, ATTRACT & CONSERVE THE CONTINENT’S BIRDS Now you can delight in Africa’s birdlife six times a year, without leaving home… Subscribe to African Birdlife and enjoy the wealth of birding on the continent, wherever you are. Brought to you by BirdLife South Africa, African Birdlife is a bi-monthly, 80-page glossy magazine that features an engaging mix of authoritative articles on bird behaviour, the latest news on African bird conservation and research, interesting personalities, top destinations, rare bird sightings, and informed reviews of new equipment and books to help guide your choices. All this, combined with inspiring photography and tips on how to improve your images, make the magazine a must-have, collectible item for all birdlovers. The magazine is available on subscription and in selected retail outlets throughout southern Africa. For more information visit www.birdlife.org.za
AfricAN Birdlife iS AvAilABle iN Both priNt ANd digitAl editioNS
www.birdlife.org.za
They speak to us of belonging to Africa... Stone, wood, bark, beads and clay transformed into items of beauty, a celebration of the living spirit of Africa. Facts weave with myths as Out of Africa takes you on a journey of authentic crafts, textiles, masks, sculptures, furniture and jewellery. Discover the whole continent of Africa in one unique shopping experience. Each memento captivates and excites… a handmade reflection of the skill, passion and heritage of Africa. From functionality to urban chic you’ll discover the very best that Africa has to offer. Out of Africa is dedicated to social upliftment and job creation. Many of the products are produced and purchased from community development programmes. Discover an exciting range of products that change lives… with each purchase, leave behind a brighter tomorrow for our local artists and craftspeople. OR TAMBO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT TERMINAL A, DUTY FREE MALL, TEL: 011 390 1683 V&A WATERFRONT SHOP 125/6, LOWER LEVEL, TEL: 021 418 5505 CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SHOP 15, INTERNATIONAL DEPARTURES, TEL: 021 934 8901
publisher’s note
“I am reminded that winter is fast approaching, so avoid the rush and plan that getaway; this is one of the best times to explore our beautiful country.”
I
t was the late wordsmith, Erma Bombeck who once said “All of us have a moment in our lives that test our courage. Taking children into a house with a white carpet is one of them.” I’m reminded of this by the opportunity we often overlook when choosing a holiday destination suitable for a family. I’m quite fortunate to have a chance to experience a bit of both of these worlds (by default or association). It is the uncontrollable peals of laughter and cub roars that often allow you to sit back and let your hair down. You’re in the jungle after all, and this is a space to heal and rejuvenate. More vital is the educational aspect, learning about the ins and outs of our environment, different cultures and cuisine. I hope this will give you the courage to ditch that trolley and add all these amazing destinations to your bucket list. With that, I am reminded that winter is fast approaching, so avoid the rush and plan that getaway; this is one of the best times to explore our beautiful country. With numerous public and school holidays, there are plenty of opportunities to take a midyear break and spend some time with your loved ones. Whether you prefer the crisp outdoors or the bustling city, our portfolio of properties provides exciting getaways to suit any preference. The Easter holiday period is always a favourite for South Africans to sneak in a getaway and we have a host of properties that cater to everyone’s needs – whether you need somewhere that keeps everyone in the family smiling or are looking for somewhere private to reconnect with your partner, aha Hotels & Lodges has you covered. On the subject of families, our cover star for this edition is radio show host, Bailey Schneider from Cape Town’s Smile 90.4 FM. Read about her journey as a radio host and
aha Hotels & Lodges brand manager Thabang Willie thabang.willie@aha.co.za Tel: +27 10 442 5800
the challenges of balancing work and family time on pages 16-19. The temperate climates of the bushveld make it the perfect choice for a midyear break. Just under three hours from Johannesburg, you will find the Pilanesberg National Park, set in the ecologically rich transition zone between the Kalahari and the Lowveld in an ancient volcanic crater. Located within the park and offering an authentic African bush escape, are Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge (pages 38-40) and Ivory Tree Game Lodge (pages 60-62). Staying with the richness and diversity of Africa, we feature a story on the rise of artist Nelson Makamo. This celebrated young SA painter hails from Modimolle in Limpopo, and his work is renowned for capturing the vibrancy of everyday South Africans, moving across cultures and generations. His work has been exhibited in the US, France, Italy and the Netherlands, catching the attention of figures like musician Annie Lennox and celebrated designer, Giorgio Armarni. Read more about this amazing talent on pages 21-23. Get started on planning your next holiday on our website, www.aha.co.za, and fill your calendar with amazing moments to see you through the year. Happy Travels and take care
Pam Komani
Marketing manager
Ruzandri Stoltz Email: ruzandri.stoltz@aha.co.za
Central Reservations & Head Office Tel: +27-(0)-10-442-5888 Fax: +27 (0) 86 865 3992 cro@aha.co.za 11 Autumn Street Rivonia Johannesburg 2191
Cape Town Sales Office Tel: +27-(0)-21-207-6161 The Estuaries Suite 12 Oxbow Crescent Office 10, First floor Century City, Cape Town 7441
Durban Sales Office Tel: +27-(0)-31-536-6500 8th Floor Strauss Daly Place Ridgeside Office Estate Umhlanga 4230 Web: www.aha.co.za Twitter: ahahotelslodges Instagram: @ahahotelsandlodges Facebook: ahaHotels&Lodges
ahaGram www.momentsmagazine.co.za
Instagram: ahamoments_mag | Facebook: Aha Moments magazine | Twitter: Moments_mags
Featured experiences on our Instagram pages: Relax and enjoy a trip to some of the county’s top luxury bush lodges and indulge in delicious cuisine.
June Communications Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 The Campus, Twickenham building 57 Sloane Street Bryanston www.junecommunications.co.za
publisher Pam Komani Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 Cell: +27 (0)79 498 6144 Email: pam@junecommunications.co.za
Graphic designer Megan Ross megan@junecommunications.co.za
Book your next stay at aha Hotels & Lodges.
Copy editing: Mohlomi Maubane
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Ross Trevor Crighton Uzanenkosi Mahlangu Lisa Witepski Bernie Hellberg jr Jade Novelist
Advertising Sales
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Yellow Pepper Media email: info@yellowpeppermedia.co.za Tel: 011 575 0420
• shepherdstreegamelodge • Ivorytreegamelodge • Makalali_aha
www.yellowpeppermedia.co.za
STOCK Images © Adobe Stock COVER IMAGE: Supplied
PRINTING:
Unveiled a few months ago, Glenmorangie Allta is the first whisky created from yeast growing wild on Glenmorangie’s own barley and marked the tenth anniversary of the Highland Distillery’s pioneering Private Edition series. For a decade, Glenmorangie has invited whisky aficionados to explore its passion for innovation through this acclaimed series of rare and intriguing limited-edition single malts. Now, in the collection’s rich, fruity tenth release, Glenmorangie Allta (Scots Gaelic for ‘wild’ and pronounced ‘al-ta’), the Distillery revealed the importance of yeast to Scotch whisky’s myriad flavours. 8 | aha MOMENTS!
+27 861 42 42 59 318 Derdepoort Road Silverton 0184
Disclaimer: aha MOMENTS MAGAZINE is published for aha Hotels &
Lodges by June Communications. While precautions have been taken to ensure accuracy of information, neither the editor, nor June Communications and its subsidiaries can be held responsible for any inaccuracies that may arise.
www.momentsmagazine.co.za RELEVANCE
Whisky Innovation
Business Print Centre
events guide
formula 1: feel the rush Images: © Craig Kolesky / Red Bull Content Pool
South Africans will finally get to see Formula 1 in their back yard when multiple world championship-winning team Aston Martin Red Bull Racing brings speed, sound - and maybe a couple of doughnuts - to Cape Town’s streets in June. Red Bull Cape Town Circuit will take place at Cape Town’s iconic Grand Parade on 2 June 2019 and promises to be a motorsport spectacle of note, showcasing the best of what modern racing technology can do. The Aston Martin Red Bull Racing machine is truly a technological marvel, designed and built by some of
10 | aha MOMENTS!
the world’s top engineers and has won four back-to-back Formula 1 World Constructors’ Championships. Fans will see the Aston Martin Red Bull Racing car speeding along an urban track, starting in front of the iconic City Hall facade. The car, which accelerates from 0-100km/h in 2.4 seconds, can reach speeds of 250km/h and above, at the hands of one of Aston Martin Red Bull Racing’s experienced drivers. The international star driver for the Red Bull Cape Town Circuit display will be revealed in the next few months in the
lead-up to the event. He’ll be joined by a host of South African motorsport stars, who will bring their local brand of South African speed to the show. The Aston Martin Red Bull Racing crew have taken this powerful machine to a number of incredible locations around the world. They’ve powered through the streets of Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam, lit up Marseille’s docklands, scythed through Belfast at night and done doughnuts on the roof of a skyscraper in Miami. Now, it’s Cape Town’s turn… The day itself will be packed
with family-friendly events and entrance will be free. Witnessing the kind of raw power and spectacular sound that the Aston Martin Red Bull Racing machine brings to the track, up-close and personal, is an experience like no other – and could be a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity for Capetonians and South Africa, at large. Visit: redbullcapetowncircuit.com
easter funday Gauteng’s 5-Star tourist attraction will incorporate a special ‘beer hunt’ for adults into its daily beer tour on Easter Sunday. Guests can win prizes if they spot the SAB brands on route and correctly answer the tour guide’s questions, so be sure to “beer” on the lookout. No under 18’s are permitted to consume alcohol. When: Sunday 21 April 2019 Time: 10h00 - 16h00 Venue: SAB World of Beer, Newtown, Johannesburg Cost: R 130 for a guided beer tour per person which includes two beers in the Taproom and a complimentary commemorative glass. R200 for a guided beer tour and tasting package per person which includes a tour & tasting of six different brands, two beers in the Taproom and a complimentary commemorative glass.
Africa Tourism Indaba The Indaba Durban is an event promoting tourism and travel agencies. The exhibition displays the widest variety of Southern Africa’s best tourism products and attracts international buyers and media from across the world. INDABA is owned by South African Tourism. The conference will cover areas like aspects of the marketing discipline, fresh ideas on marketing their products and services, inspire and assist the marketing and communication industry. Venue: Inkosi Albert Luthuli Convention Centre (Durban ICC) Dates: 2 - 4 May 2019 NB: Admission is reserved for delegates over 16 years of age. www.indaba-southafrica.co.za
Conquer and do Good The Comrades Marathon Amabeadibeadi Campaign consists of six official charities namely: CHOC (Childhood Cancer Foundation South Africa), Community Chest Durban & Pietermaritzburg, Hillcrest Aids Centre Trust, Hospice Palliative Care Association of South Africa, Wildlands Conservation Trust and World Vision South Africa. An Amabeadibeadi gift will be enclosed in your race number pack when you make a minimum donation of R50.00. Please support our Comrades Marathon Official Charities. The Race 4 Charity campaign is intended to foster broader support for charitable fundraising for the CMA’s six official charities. An exciting facet to this campaign is that Comrade Marathon runners have the opportunity to improve their seeding batch while raising funds for a good cause. The CMA has reserved 500 entries for runners, who need to raise R6 000 each.
This will ensure that they get to start in the “Charity ” batch near the front of the field on race day. Follow the link on the Comrades Website to sign up, and encourage your family, friends, co-workers and supporters to donate and leave messages of motivation on your fundraising page. Runners get to choose which of the six Amabeadibeadi charities they would like to support. All Race 4 Charity runners will also be on the receiving end of an exclusive goodie bag which they can collect during registration. The entry process is also a simple one. Runners need to enter the Comrades 2019 by the closing date of entries but will have until 02 May 2019 to sign up and raise funds. Please note that normal race rules still apply for entries and there are no refunds, should a runner fail to qualify or raise the minimum amount. Visit www.comrades.com aha MOMENTS! | 11
HOT picks
Eco Earth Monaco Luggage Set: traveller’s choice Whether you’re road-tripping, working, carrying-on or checking in your luggage at the airport, the Eco Earth Monaco 2-piece is designed to provide travellers with comfort, functionality, reliability, and peace of mind. This hard-shell spin rolling luggage set includes a 76cm and 54cm spinner. Made of extremely lightweight and long lasting ABS hard shell materials for maximum impact resistance. The ABS materials give the shell greater rigidity so that it will not permanently deform when under pressure. It features multiple-stage self-locking retractable aluminium telescopic handle system. The spinners feature state of the art 360-degree 12 | aha MOMENTS!
spinner wheels, allowing effortless manoeuvrability in all directions. Pack all of your essentials in the spacious main compartment with full interior lining. It has top and side carry handles for easy lifting, an interior zippered garment compartment, and internal straps that compress and secure the load for easy packing, plus, a quick detachable clip offers add-a-bag versatility. You can find this must-have stylish set on Takealot.com
A nd
Ele
g
n a t
Smart Amongst the recently launched wearables is the Huawei Watch GT Sport, a fitness watch with a lightweight design for the sports enthusiast who loves running, biking, swimming, mountaineering, or hiking. This watch, which boasts a two-week battery life (with up to two hours of charging time), offers various training options, including real-time coaching and training effect analysis. The device’s TruSeen 3.0 gets a more accurate heart rate monitoring experience 24 hours a day through its AI software model and next-generation hardware. It also has a standalone GPS that provides a more precise positioning through three different kinds of online satellite positioning systems simultaneously. R4 999.00 aha MOMENTS! | 13
HOT Spots
Dine at La Colombe Text Supplied | Images © Andrea van der Spuy
La Colombe’s new home at Silver Mist Estate is nothing short of breathtaking
T
he world’s largest and most trusted travel website, TripAdvisor, named its top fine dining restaurants for 2018 in the Traveller’s Choice Awards, with La Colombe in Constantia being named 6th best restaurant in the world. The ultimate dining experience is a seamless integration of many elements…. an inspiring setting, the finest seasonal ingredients, service excellence, a talented team led by James Gaag, an executive chef with a clear sense of purpose. The internationally acclaimed La Colombe which recently underwent an extensive renovation provides customers with a pinnacle dining experience.
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The La Colombe interior has been comprehensively revamped, offering a sense of space and tranquillity that mirrors its environment. La Colombe means ‘the dove’, and you’ll see this bird’s subtle presence throughout. Firstly, in the majestic, hand-drawn artwork by Lucie de Moyencourt on the main feature wall, and then also the carved wooden doves by local artisan Lameck Tayengwa. The white oiled chevron oak floors, travertine mosaic and hand-cut bespoke terracotta tiles, and the touches of brass and oak complement the crisp white linen of fine dining.
aha MOMENTS! | 15
Exclusive
On Motherhood, and a Career in the Spotlight Bailey Schneider has always thought of her career as a presenter, DJ and blogger as her “baby”. So what’s changed, now that she has a real live toddler on the scene?
I
Text: Lisa Witepski | Images: © Supplied f genes are anything to go by, George – now just shy of his second birthday – is heading straight to the limelight. How can your fate be any different, when your mom’s a knock-out celeb, and your dad, Socrates (aka DJ Sox) regularly blows up the decks as one of SA’s best-known DJ’s? Whatever his future holds, though, things are decidedly low key for George right now. Bailey and Sox take turns co-parenting without the help of a nanny, which means that dad’s in charge whenever Bailey’s busy with her radio show (catch her on weekdays between 9 am and 12 am on Cape Town’s 90.4 SmileFM), at meetings, doing voiceovers or MCing events – and vice versa. “It’s been 19 months, and so far we have managed incredibly well,” Bailey muses. >>
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Favourite Getaways? “I will always love the bush, especially parts of North West. It’s incredibly special.”
aha MOMENTS! | 17
“In hindsight, this may have been a little too soon. However, I made it work , and I’m really proud that I was able to balance both. In September 2018, when George was 15 months old, I realised my radio dream when I was promoted to host (and produce) my own radio show.”
Some might say she’s being modest, given the stellar trajectory of her career in the past year. Bailey went back to work after just 10 weeks of maternity leave. “In hindsight, this may have been a little too soon. However, I made it work , and I’m really proud that I was able to balance both. In September 2018, when George was 15 months old, I realised my radio dream when I was promoted to host (and produce) my own radio show.” Bailey was ecstatic not just because of the satisfaction that comes with achieving a lifelong goal, but because the move has allowed her fantastically flexible hours, so she gets to spend a full afternoon with her son every day. Has motherhood changed the way she approaches her job? Not really, Bailey answers; especially as there is a lot of overlap between her various roles. “For example, my Vanilla Blonde blog content has evolved to include motherhood experiences, and my radio show now has a parenting segment. I suppose the key here is that I don’t really see them as roles, but as separate parts of me and my essence. What you see is what you get, whether that’s Celeb Bailey, Mom Bailey, Daughter Bailey, Friend Bailey, Wife Bailey…” That said, the Bailey of today is rather different from the Bailey that walked into a delivery room. “Motherhood has woken me and humbled me. It’s made me realise how
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precious and miraculous life is. It’s made me appreciate my body, and it’s certainly made me realise I have an inner Lioness. Motherhood has made me an even better person and I am so grateful that I get to be George’s Mama - it’s a real honour.” On a more practical level, it’s turned her into a time management superhero who is completely clear on her priorities. Not surprisingly, George tops that list. “I love seeing the world afresh through his eyes. He inspires me to find joy in the smallest things, since that’s what he does - like saying: “weeee” when we’re in a lift, going up two floors!”
Work elicits a similar thrill, Bailey admits. “I still get that electric tingle in my body when I switch on the microphone. Every. Single. Time. I love that no two days are the same, which keeps it interesting; plus, I get to meet some incredible people. I absolutely love storytelling and broadcasting.” What’s up next for this dynamo? Bailey is “super excited” about watching her radio station grow and being part of that growth. She’s also eager to see her own little family grow but, she says, there’s no pressure. “Sox and I have always followed the mantra: ‘Everything is the way it should be, and what’s meant to be, will be’.”
Bailey’s top tips: Travelling with a toddler 1. Most moms don’t want to travel when their baby is tiny, but that’s actually the best time. They’re still so sleepy and unfussy, and they don’t need to be entertained. 2. If you’re flying, make sure your baby is sucking something at take-off and landing. This helps their little ears. If your baby takes a dummy, that’s great. George rejected the dummy at two months, so we give him a bottle. 3. While you’re packing extra clothes for the baby, don’t forget to have a change of clothes for you and your partner. Accidents happen. 4. Make sure you have snacks, activities for the plane or car or even a new toy they’ve never seen. 5. My must-have travel accessory is my Doona. It’s a pram and car seat all in one, and a real lifesaver for traveling. 6. If you’re on holiday, so is your routine. You don’t have to discard your structure entirely, but if you’re not relaxed and flexible you’re not going to enjoy your holiday.
aha MOMENTS! | 19
art
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From Modimolle to the World! Artist Nelson Makamo’s portraits capture the pulsating energy of South Africa’s urban landscapes and the effect it has on its citizens. Text: Trevor Crighton | Images: © Nelson Makamo
M
odimolle-born artist Nelson Makamo has come a long way since he started exhibiting his work at local shows around Limpopo. He joined the Artist Proof Studio in 2003 and via a bursary from Johnson & Johnson International and Pinpoint One, opened his first solo exhibition at the Obert Contemporary Art Gallery in Johannesburg in 2005. Since then, his work has travelled the world, from Italy to the Netherlands and Paris to London & the USA – while still living, working and exhibiting in South Africa. On his travels, he’s won fans including singer Annie Lennox and designer Giorgio Armani, who both own his works. Art South Africa ranked him 7th in South Africa’s ‘Bright Young Thing’ list, and he was also recently named as the country’s second biggest-selling artist – a sign of how prolific he is in terms of producing new works. His work is characterised by vibrant portraits, rooted firmly in blood
& guts urban landscapes of Africa. Harnessing the chaotic energy of city life – his permanent studio is in August House in the Jo’burg regeneration hub of New Doornfontein – he captures the everyday essence of the people he meets, using vibrant colours and textures to create works that positively vibrate with the energy of the city. Commissioned works play an important role in sustaining many artists’ livelihood, and Makamo has created custom works for Lakalakala in Makopane, portraits of Nelson Mandela, Oliver Tambo and Walter Sisulu for Matasis Investment Holdings, the City of Johannesburg, Standard Chartered, Telkom and Unisa. His work also adds energy to a Rea Vaya Bus station on Route 1b in Johannesburg, alongside other artists including Bronwen Findlay, Craig Smith, Jan Tshikhuthula and Lucas Nkgweng. One of the driving forces behind his constant production of new works is his sketchbooks, of which he has about 150. aha MOMENTS! | 21
“My work is my life, pain and joy.”
“His work has travelled the world, from Italy to the Netherlands and Paris to London & the USA – while still living, working and exhibiting in South Africa.” He told an interviewer that he sketches almost every night, when the opportunity arises – and hopes to one day have an exhibition of these works, which tell stories with poignant immediacy. He takes his inspiration from everyday life, using his interactions with people and his environment to inform his work. His Artist Statement sums up his works neatly, showcasing the depth of emotion which marks him out as a leading light in the local – and international art worlds. “My work is my life, pain and joy, from the first piece to the last piece. In my work I am a storyteller, a narrator; I share, I document each day visually because for me each day is a blessing, being able to capture movement and feelings of people who live around me. I find joy within that because I believe that in each and every person is a special light that gives off a glow that reflects on others around”. 22 | aha MOMENTS!
For more information about Makamo: Visit: www.nelsonmakamo.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/Nelson-Makamo-370520028359/ Instagram: @nelsonmakamo.
FOOD
aha MOMENTS! | 23
aha | TRAVEL
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Let the Garden Route Ignite the Magic in You Text & Images: © aha Hotels & Lodges
W
hen looking to escape the city’s bustle this Easter and looking for a destination with a quaint charm; the serene lagoon and majestic forests of Knysna could just be the place. Reflecting the sophistication and energy of this glorious garden route destination is the aha Rex Hotel. Here, travellers looking to sample Knysna’s array of activities can do so while coming home to the chic and contemporary hotel that is considered one of Knysna’s finest. Uniquely styled and recently refurbished, the aha Rex Hotel feels as crisp and classic as the town of Knysna itself, with hospitality that will make you feel immediately at home.
As a location for an Easter break, visitors are spoilt for choice in Knysna and the surrounds. Pristine beaches await those looking to soak up the sun or cruise the lagoon on a yacht or kayak. Stroll in the tranquil beauty of the green-canopied forests or take a guided tour to learn about the rich culture and history of the area. Knysna is also renowned for its festivals and cultural events, particularly around this time of the year, so the visitors will always have a choice to join in the fun of music, film and theatre options to keep you entertained. If adrenaline seeking is more your vibe, you can bungee jump, surf or paraglide, while leisure lovers can sample delicious menus and craft beer from the numerous excellent >> aha MOMENTS! | 25
“Pristine beaches await those looking to soak up the sun or cruise the lagoon on a yacht or kayak. Stroll in the tranquil beauty of the green-canopied forests or take a guided tour to learn about the rich culture and history of the area.”
aha Rex Hotel at a glance: This 4-Star hotel offers a variety of room options to cater to every need. Each room has air-conditioning, and a remote-controlled LCD TV with DSTV, as well as uncapped wireless internet. The hotel also features landscaped gardens and a new pool.
restaurants in the town, including the newly-unveiled O Bar and Eatery. The stylish restaurant boasts a menu filled with fresh flavours, prepared with seasonal ingredients 26 | aha MOMENTS!
and served with flair. Don’t get caught up in the crowd this Easter, but rather seek out the natural coastal allure of Knysna at the aha Rex Hotel.
The Address: D119, off Old Cavernberg Road, Jagersrust, The Address: 8 Gray St, 3354 Knysna Northern Drakensberg, Central, Knysna, 6571 Hotel Contact details: 036 438 6484 Hotel Contact details:Reservations: 044 302 5900/ Bookings on Central 0800 600 889 010 442 5888 Bookings on Central Web:aha.co.za | Email:Reservations: cro@aha.co.za 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: cro@aha.co.za
THE REX HOTEL
Catch your breath
Kysna is a heaven of beaches, forests, lakes and sea, aha The Rex Hotel is one of this town’s most sophisticated accommodation offerings. This Easter, treat your family to a perfect beach escape. With 2-Bedroom apartments that reflect an urban chic ambiance, as well as superb cuisine at the o bar & eatery, your family is guaranteed to have an unforgettable Easter break.
FOR BOOKINGS: +27 10 442 5888 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za
aha MOMENTS! | 27
ESSENCE
No Mountain High Enough
After being the first black person in history to climb Mount Everest, Sibusiso Vilane went on to walk to both the North and South Poles, climb all seven summits and summit Everest again — this time, from the notoriously difficult North Side. We chatted to this adventurer and recipient of the Order of Ikhamanga about staying motivated and what he hopes to accomplish for African adventurers who wish to follow in his footsteps. Text: Megan Ross | Images: ©Supplied You have reached dizzying heights as an adventurer. What has been the peak of this journey, the biggest professional high?
We both agreed that this would be a perfect time for me to take up the challenge, and we did. And the rest is history, as the saying goes!
I come from a non-climber/mountaineer background. Climbing mountains wasn’t my childhood hobby. So to come from that background and believe that I could climb Mount Everest and go out and do that will always be the peak of my mountaineering and adventure journey.
How did you motivate yourself during the training and the actual climb itself?
What compelled you to climb Everest? After a friend of mine had told me that an African Black person had never attempted to summit the Mountain I decided that if I had a chance and the means to do it, I would try it. So in mid-2002 he wrote a letter to me saying that he had found a company that was going to run an expedition to attempt Everest during its 50th anniversary. 28 | aha MOMENTS!
I did not have time and money to go the conventional way of training for climbing mountains. Instead, I did what I thought could help me to climb and then went to the expedition. Telling myself that I was doing it for all Africans was enough motivation. What would you say to people who would like to do something similar but have no idea where to start? You start with ‘why?’ – once you know the reason, your ‘why’, then you follow this up by climbing smaller mountains to test if your
“You start with ‘why?’ – once you know the reason, you follow by climbing smaller mountains to test if your ‘why’ is serious.”
‘why’ is really serious. So what I am saying is that it takes a decision to commit to it. Ask for guidance as to what to do and go on with it. Never over think it, just commit. How did your friend, John Doble, inspire you to begin your journey as a world-wide adventurer? John is a great friend and I will always feel indebted to him for all that he did so that I could be given a chance to attempt Mount Everest. He looked at me while guiding him on a trail in a nature reserve and saw that how capable I was. He went on to commit a lot of his hard-earned finances to pay for some of my climbing expeditions while attempting to climb the seven summits. If it wasn’t for his unselfishness and his willingness to help, I wouldn’t have climbed any mountain! Which has been the most challenging climb for you? Mountaineers find it difficult to single out one mountain, but if I had to, Mount Everest would take the cup on all those aspects. I found Mount McKinley in North America to be physically exhausting but mentally manageable. Mount Everest has all of it: it’s both tough and mentally challenging.
have raised enough to pay for a child’s schools fees. Being a part of the annual Trek4mandela and Caring4Girls initiative while climbing Kilimanjaro has been fulfilling for me. We support hundreds of thousands of underprivileged girls who would otherwise miss school because of lack of sanitary towels. I still wish I could do more, though!
How does it feel to be have accomplished the Explorers Grand Slam and represent our continent on a global stage?
Is there an anticlimactic moment once you have finished a climb, considering all the preparation and training it takes?
I am humbled when I think of it! Who would have thought that a rural, ordinary game ranger would go this far? Who would have thought that a kid who never went to school until the age of 10 would go on and be Africa’s greatest Mountaineer and adventurer? Not in my wildest dreams as a kid did I ever think I would be saying, “that is me”. I am very proud of myself, but more than anything else, I am grateful to John Doble! Because of him, I have created personal history.
Standing on the summit becomes the anticlimactic moment; your energy levels go down as soon as you get to the summit of the mountain; you realise from the summit that all of it has ended. You need to find something soon that will pick you up and fuel you to go on to the next one. The excitement of a climbing expedition is during the planning, the training and the early stages of the climb. After the summit, everything is dead. You have to find something that will motivate you to go on.
What do you envisage for the future of mountaineering in Southern Africa? As much as I see that there is growing interest in following in our footsteps, I am disappointed by the lack of financial support for mountaineers. It is not easy to inspire people, when at the end you tell them that there is no such thing as a professional mountaineer in Africa. If you cannot make a living while doing it then you lose people. So we have got a long way to go for the region, and yet we hope that it will all change one day, and that is why we keep going, even in spite of the difficulty in securing sponsorships.
Did writing a book feel like a natural extension of your mountaineering career? I never thought I would write a book after climbing Everest, but as I shared my experiences with audiences I discovered that the lessons I had learned necessitated that I write the story in book form. I wanted those who wouldn’t have the chance to hear my story to be able to access it. That is the sole reason I write books about my expedition experiences. With seven summits behind you, where to next?
What has been the most meaningful moment in your career? It has given me joy to walk off of a mountain and realise that I had raised a bit of money to support educational research on children, or
Tough question to answer! I have a number of mountains I would love to climb in my life time. I have since decided that my legacy will be about mountains climbed, so – to more mountains it is then! aha MOMENTS! | 29
The Glow Effect BEAUTY
Autumn is the perfect time to ensure your skin gets moisturised, well protected, and ready for the dry winter months. We’ve selected a few products to keep your skin looking fresh and flawless.
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Age Affect Power Serum‌R160 Get the glow and youthful skin with Sobert’s Age Affect Power Serum, this concentrated anti-age treatment is scientifically formulated and enriched with vitamins (A, C & E) to help combat the signs of ageing and restore your skin to a healthy and youthful appearance.
Salon Skin Daily Skin Polish Powder R220 Brighten & Restore. Micro-exfoliates and instantly brightens skin with Salicylic Acid, Papain and Rice Powder.
Hydro Skin Lip Therapy R55 Prevent flaking lips with this Hydro Skin with Hyaluronic Acid, Omega 3 & 6 and Vitamins A & E. It helps to restore this barrier by drawing moisture into the deeper layers of the skin, optimising moisturisation, improving texture and relieving irritation.
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FASHION
African brand Stories from the fashion scene:
Going Loco with
Carla Pinto Fashion creative Carla Pinto’s story is akin to that of a Third Culture Kid, in her case, one who’s made her way around the world and found a home in Mama Africa. A great deal of this shows in her passion and appreciation of cultural patterns. It is through this vision that her fashion label African Style Story was birthed. Carla’ s team turned heads at the 2016 SA Fashion week which enabled them to retail with various local stores such as Zando, Spree, and Big Blue. We catch up with her just before the launch of her Spring/Summer collection. 32 | aha MOMENTS!
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ooking at your collection, there is a twist of tradition and also a representation of different cultures, please take us through what inspired these elements?
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hat inspired the brand name African Style Story?
My brand is a very personal affair! It is my story which I want to share with everyone! I want to tell my vision in terms of style and fashion, to tell my story as a woman who has travelled the world, lived in four different countries, trying to bring a bit of each culture to my clothes. As a working mom, a wife, a Communications Director who became a Fashion designer because of Africa, an entrepreneur, who, despite a busy life, wants to feel empowered by what she wears. Hopefully an inspiring story of someone who always stayed humble and never gives up!
The African Style Story collection is inspired by multicultural influences and traditions from Africa and around the World. Diversity is always our starting point but then “the sky is the limit”! It can be anything, I personally love the African geometrical prints but also elements from nature, buildings, and retro patterns. We have a team of designers behind the process of creating our exclusive prints and designs, which helps to build a solid story. We try to recreate and reinvent these cultural elements by adding a very personal interpretation. Sometimes we combine them, sometimes we individualise them, but always to bring surprise and innovation, and in my opinion, this is what makes each collection so unique and timeless.
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ell us a bit about your customer and the journey they experience in wearing your line… Women who buy African Style Story know that it’s a very exclusive brand, which has the original prints as a signature. These
Opposite page: Thembisa Mdoda walking for African Style Story, wearing the dress and the head wrap which was used for our Cancer Campaign “Heads Up”. She was the face of this amazing initiative we did with teenage girls who are going through Cancer treatments at the Soweto Hospital. This page: The show’s grand finale: Carla Pinto, Thembisa Mdoda and blogger, Tiffany Lekuku.
women are active and cosmopolitan with busy lives. They seek an effortless look and comfortable clothing. But at the same time, they need to feel ultra feminine, sophisticated and elegant all day long. I create clothes to empower women, to make them feel beautiful and confident about themselves!
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hat can we look forward to from you for the coming season?
A very sophisticated ready-to-wear collection with a range of versatile, uncomplicated and super comfortable clothes. Open is the name of our upcoming Collection. In the process of creating the exclusive and original prints we used “open doors” as our primary source of inspiration and based on that created some beautiful patterns, which are our own interpretation of the traditional African geometric prints. As a contrast we used storks to have some more organic elements and, as usual, our pallet has a lot of warm and African colours such as the yellows, blues, brown and of course black and white.
Follow African Style Story: Instagram @african_stylestory
aha TRAVEL
aha Gateway Connecting you to the best spots on the sunny KwaZulu-Natal coast Text & Images: ©aha Hotels & Lodges
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“Everyone in the family might have their own idea of what makes a holiday special, from luxuriating on the beach or splashing in the waves; to indulging in some retail therapy at the Gateway mall’s high-end stores. “
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ith the year already in full swing, thoughts are turning to the next big holiday break on the South African calendar – Easter Weekend. The sunny skies, golden beaches and numerous attractions that Durban has to offer make it an ever-popular Easter vacation spot and being in the know about the right place to stay can turn a pleasant holiday into a perfect one. The effortlessly chic and eco-friendly aha Gateway Hotel in the heart of Umhlanga is the destination of choice for those in the know: neatly positioned attached to the Umhlanga Theatre of shopping, the hotel’s convenient access to the buzz and bustle of Umhlanga’s many activities make taking
that refreshing Easter break that much easier. Everyone in the family might have their own idea of what makes a holiday special, from luxuriating on the beach or splashing in the waves; to indulging in some retail therapy at the Gateway mall’s high-end stores. Perhaps for the kids, it’s an exciting trip to uShaka Marine World oceanarium, where they can learn about marine life and enjoy the exhilarating water rides. For nature lovers, the Durban Botanical Gardens or the breathtaking beauty of the Valley of a Thousand Hills are easily accessible, and if you fancy a spot of golf, iPlanet Golf, The Golfers’ Club and Durban Country Club Beachwood are all nearby. No one has to feel left out, as the aha Gateway >> aha MOMENTS! | 35
“The sunny skies, golden beaches and numerous attractions that Durban has to offer make it an ever-popular Easter vacation spot and being in the know about the right place to stay can turn a pleasant holiday into a perfect one.” Hotel is the ideal base from which to enjoy all of these activities and more. What’s more, the Hotel itself offers a gorgeous rooftop pool and bar: after a long, hot day of shopping and sightseeing, sitting and sipping a refreshing cocktail and watching the sun sink over the horizon will make your pre-holiday stresses feel a million miles away. When it comes to facilities, you are spoilt for choice, as the hotel offers 146 rooms, including inter-leading family rooms and junior suites or superior rooms with an ensuite bathroom and 36 | aha MOMENTS!
balcony. There are also two rooms with access to comfortably accommodate guests with disabilities. When hungry you can head out for a meal and sample some of Durban’s flavourful and vibrant cuisine or step into the Hotel’s fresh and contemporary Fig Tree Cafe, which serves delicious meals and snacks throughout the day, styled by Chef Manoj Rama. Take a break from work stress and traffic woes to plan your Easter getaway at aha Gateway Hotel - and let the countdown to the tropical climes, and sun-kissed warmth of Umhlanga begin.
The address: Cnr Centenary Blvd &, Twilight Dr, Umhlanga Ridge, Umhlanga Hotel Contact details: 031 536 9200 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: cro@aha.co.za
GATEWAY HOTEL
Enjoy a distinctive
experience this Easter
aha Gateway Hotel is conveniently attached to the famous Gateway Theatre of Shopping. The hotel is the perfect base from which to enjoy your Easter break. Take in the beautiful surrounds of Umhlanga, enjoy direct access to The Gateway Shopping Centre, unwind at the hotel’s rooftop bar or savour the delicious continental cuisine at the hotel’s Fig Tree Café. Book Now:
031 536 9200 | reservations@thegatewayhotel.co.za
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aha | TRAVEL
Relax and unwind:
The Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge way Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
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ess than three hours from Johannesburg, the Pilanesberg is an incredibly rich and ecologically diverse game reserve where you are able to immerse yourself in the sights, scents and sounds of the African bush from ancient volcanic crater. Within this fascinating reserve is a haven of tranquility and luxury – Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge, which lives up to its reputation as a destination of choice from which to enjoy the truly unique bushveld experience that the Pilanesberg has to offer. Shepherds Tree Game Lodge is set within an exclusive use zone of the Pilanesberg Reserve, and the feel of the lodge is that of a secret hideaway, created to delight and entertain by bringing you close to nature. No comfort is sacrificed though,
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and the friendly staff and attentive hosts are never far away with their signature service with a smile. Arriving at the expansive and well-appointed Lodge, you are immediately struck by a sense of privacy – the Lodge is carefully designed to preserve the magical feeling of stepping away from the bustle of the city and into a place where anticipation exists amongst the wild plains and ancient hills. From the thrill of spotting big game to the quieter pleasures of identifying a nearly-hidden bird or simply taking the time to enjoy the spectacular colours of an African sunset, everything about Shepherds Tree Game Lodge encourages you to relax and unwind.
“Arriving at the expansive and well-appointed Lodge, you are immediately struck by a sense of privacy – the Lodge is carefully designed to preserve the magical feeling of stepping away from the bustle of the city and into a place where anticipation exists amongst the wild plains and ancient hills.
”
The game drives are an essential part of the bush getaway experience, and after climbing into an open safari vehicle, you can explore the vibrant landscape of the Pilanesberg nature reserve aided by knowledgeable guides who have a wealth of information to share. One of the greatest pleasures of being in the bushveld is not just spotting the coveted Big Five, but rather, enjoying the things that take you by surprise: catching a glimpse of an elusive honey badger, watching a kingfisher dive for its dinner or learning about the use of plants in traditional medicinal remedies. There are a range of other activities provided by the Lodge, from informative talks by the game rangers on eco-related topics, to interactive drumming circles around a hearty campfire. To feel utterly relaxed, slip off to the award-winning Amani Spa for a soothing massage or rejuvenating facial, or while away an indulgent, romantic afternoon with a couple’s spa session. Of course, no bushveld getaway would be complete without some fine dining to round off the experience. Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge serves up mouth-watering meals at its five-star restaurant for culinary enthusiasts and your host >> aha MOMENTS! | 39
Tafadzwa Manyowa can set up a Boma dinner under the stars for those looking for an experience closer to nature. The time spent at this exclusive lodge, set in this exceptional corner of the African bush will linger with you long after you depart. Don’t be surprised if on one busy, smoggy afternoon you find yourself planning your next Shepherd’s Tree getaway – the only remedy for the city blues.
the lodge at a glance: Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge offers 26 Standard Rooms (or 13 family suites) with the option to be converted to create a family room, which includes two sleeper couches. The Lodge also has four spacious Executive Suites and one Villa with two bedrooms, plunge pool and private Boma. The Address: R565, Pilanesberg Game Reserve, Bojanala, Sun City, North West, 0316 Contact details: 014 551 3910 Hotel email: ivory.shepherds@aha.co.za Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za E-mail: cro@aha.co.za 40 | aha MOMENTS!
Escape awardwinning winning Escapeat tothe the luxurious award Shepherd’s Tree Shepherd’s Tree Game GameLodge Lodge Enjoy a 5 star bush retreat and experience the best of Pilanesberg accommodation at the unique Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge. Situated in an exclusive-use area, Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge offers a variety of activities that go well beyond conventional game drives. Experience the African culture under a starlit sky with a percussion band and interactive drumming circles, ensuring a joyous night around the campfire or join us for informative talks by our knowledgeable Game Rangers to better understand the Pilanesberg environment. BOOK NOW: +27 10 442 5888 | ivory.shepherds@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za Moments_shepherds.pdf
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aha | TRAVEL
Timeout at
aha Makalali Game Reserve Looking for a bush getaway that has it all: luxury, exclusivity and privacy? Text & Images: ©aha Hotels & Lodges
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pon arriving at aha Makalali, the sensation is that of an oasis of tranquility set in the distinctive beauty of the African bushveld. A beautifully-appointed camp within the Makalali Game Reserve, - which is home to the Big 5 as well as cheetah, wild dog and general game - it is the ideal spot to enjoy a thrilling game viewing experience in perfect comfort. The enthusiastic hosts and skilled rangers will facilitate your stay to make sure
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that you have everything that you need, and no detail has been overlooked to create a genuinely delightful bush retreat. The aha Makalali Main Lodge’s 5-Star accommodation includes elements that make a bushveld getaway much more special, such as outdoor showers, while the classic wood and leather décor embody simplicity and sophistication. The distinctively designed outdoor area has a spacious deck built around indigenous
trees overlooking a waterhole – and here you can easily spend hours gazing at the scenery, enjoying the sight of African wildlife in their natural habitat. If the heat of the day becomes too intense, move to crystal waters of the infinity pool and cool down while enjoying a refreshment. Or retreat to the tranquility of the library and browse amongst the books there for information on the fauna, flora and history of the area. If you need to unwind even further, book a pamper session
“Or retreat to the tranquility of the library and browse amongst the books there for information on the fauna, flora and history of the area.� at the spa and relax at the expert hands of professional therapists. The Lodge can also arrange other personalised activities such as hot air balloon rides, golfing excursions, laser tag games and visits to a cheetah breeding project. Spend an enchanting evening under the stars in the Boma area and enjoy fine dining accompanied by the chirps, calls and echoes of the African bushveld coming alive at night. Romantics can book an intimate dinner for two on a private wooden deck, or larger parties can book ahead for a special gin stop during the game drive – savour crisp gin and tonics at a beautiful viewing site set up within the reserve. It will make cocktail hour anywhere else in the world seem dull by comparison. >> aha MOMENTS! | 43
For a more private piece of bushveld heaven, treat yourself to at the 5-Star aha Makalali River Lodge. Overlooking the Makhutswi River, this lodge only has three camps with six luxury suites each. Each camp has its own plunge pool, dining and lounge area and boma, and each luxurious suite has its own fireplace and a raised private viewing deck overlooking the river banks. Don’t miss out on the opportunity to enjoy an exclusive dinner on your private deck with just the whisper of the river and flicker of the starlight as company. Cooler evenings can be spent snuggling up in front of the fireplace with a glass of red wine. aha Makalali is a gem for those looking for a bespoke experience – and goes out of its way to ensure that your bush getaway is filled with truly magical moments.
aha MAKALALI The Address: D202, Greater Makalali Private Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, Limpopo Hotel Contact: +27-(0)-15-793-9300 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: resmakalali@ahalodges.co.za 44 | aha MOMENTS!
aha Makalali Private Game Lodge, an exquisite place of rest
aha Makalali Private Game Lodge boasts with rich wildlife - the ‘Big 5’ and varied flora and fauna. Our Game Rangers possess extensive knowledge of the rich surrounds of the park, offering guests thrilling morning and evening game drive experiences. This distinct lodge is considered as one of the leading pioneers in Eco-Tourism in South Africa and as part of coexisting in harmony with the indigenous ecosystem. Retreating to this pristine piece of paradise is an adventure waiting to come alive.
CONTACT US: +27 10 442 5888 For Bookings: cro@aha.co.za cro@aha.co.za || www.aha.co.za www.aha.co.za
MAKALALI PRIVATE GAME LODGE
DRIVE
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Enter the
Executives
MERCEDES C180 vs AMG C43 By the time that the Mercedes-Benz C-Class came of age in 2014, it was already a global good-value success for the brand over its 21-year lifespan. Now, in its latest form, the C-Class continues to be the successful entry point to brand’s executive line-up. By Driven Magazine | Images: © Mercedes-Benz
T
hree years into the production of Stuttgart’s then entrylevel car, the 190 series **Kleine** Mercedes, work began on a successor that would ultimately become the C-Class compact sedan. It was the year 1986, but there would nothing resembling a design study until 1987, with the production design by Olivier Boulay, only being patented on 19 December 1990. Prototype testing began in 1989, with first production design prototypes commencing testing in 1990, and ultimately, in May 1993, the first-generation W202 C-Class was introduced as a replacement for the 190. The C-Class sedan was the company’s entry-level model up until 1997 when the A-Class took its place. While it only reigned supreme as entry option to the brand for nary a handful of years, many buyers still see the C-Class as the opening salvo when considering the Mercedes-Benz brand. But is there, indeed, such a thing as an entry-level Mercedes, or should we, instead, take a ‘horses for courses’ approach when considering our C-Class options? THE CONTENDERS Since the official brand split of Mercedes-Benz and MercedesAMG some years ago, the latter has been working aggressively to introduce more ‘affordable’ variants across the C-Class and E-Class sedan ranges. The result is the C43, a true-blue AMG, and launchpad for Mercedes performance fans. Now endowed with 17 kW more power
from the rip-roaring 3.0-litre V6 bi-turbo engine has been retained from the pre-facelift car, but has been reworked to produce 287 kW. Torque remains the same at 520 Nm, but the zero to 100 km/h dash is now covered in a claimed 4.7 seconds, thanks in part to the car’s 4Matic all-wheel-drive system. The purist Mercedes-Benz, on the other hand, has always offered starter products across all ranges, and focus on bringing more value to the entry-level mix with every C-Class upgrade. The latest is no exception. Most notable are the upgrades to the interior of the C-Class range, and the C180 specifically, although, admittedly, we would have preferred the upgraded 12” infotainment system rather than the standard 10.25” offered on the C180. Our car also came equipped with AMG interior and exterior upgrades, and Artico artificial leather seats, adding around R54,000 to the overall look and feel. All things considered, the entry-level C180’s engine is well suited to this medium-sized car, and with outputs of 115 kW and 250 Nm from its 1.6-litre turbo four-potter, it will do the job for most casual drivers. THE ALTERNATIVES Considering that this starter pack match-up is not intended to be a direct clash between two very different cars – their price tags, for one, differ by a touch over R370,000 – let’s look at the next-best alternative in both the Benz and the AMG line-up. From the bottom up, it might look inviting to consider the C200 >>
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Previous page, above left and right: AMG C43 Below left and right: Mercedes C180
over the C180, at least at first glance. We certainly place a check next to the brand new 1.5-litre turbo with electrical assist, which pushes out a credible 135 kW and 280 Nm thanks to turbocharging and a 48-volt electric system. The question we were left to answer was whether the improvements in efficiency and power over the C180 justify the slight spike in price, by nary R27,000 to R616,536? If we’re talking a like-for-like comparison of two manual cars, the answer would be a resounding ‘no’. But the smooth new engine of the C200 is much better suited to Merc’s 9G-Tronic automatic transmission than the 1.6-litre C180, and given the likelihood that C-Class buyers would prefer an automatic shifter, that might sway us towards the C200 instead. If you’re not a spirited driver, and would rather spend the cash on adding specification to your entry-level C-Class, you’d be able to do so for fractionally less on a C180. Looking at the AMG line-up, the upward comparison is not as simple… While the jump from C180 to C200 requires perhaps a minor readjustment of finances and optional extras, choosing between a C43 and the next best C63 is a vastly different exercise. For one, the price difference is massive, while the performance boost and what it represents are light years removed from one another on these two models. Even the dimensions are different, with the C63’s longer nose due to the substantially larger 4.0-litre V8 powerplant, which isn’t assembled here like its V6 cousin, but is flown in from Affalterbach and inserted into the C63 at the Mercedes-Benz assembly facility in East London.
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Although the facelifted C63 has not yet hit local shores, expect to see subtle exterior revisions, significant interior changes, the same 375 kW and 700 nm engine, and a shift from the old 7-speed transmission to the new AMG Speedshift MCT 9G transmission. SO, WHAT WILL IT BE? Both the C180 and C43, fundamentally, represent the same thing for the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands respectively – an entry point for enthusiasts. Uniquely, they draw a line in the sand for people who yearn for the status and prestige that come with owning a Mercedes product, albeit they might not be quite ready yet to blow the entire budget on their poison of choice. Crucially, too, entry-level vehicles are important for MercedesBenz in South Africa, and while there is still a big market for medium-sized sedans here – despite heavy competition from increasingly more popular SUV-styled vehicles – the C180 (and C200 if you prefer), will remain on the menu as bulwark against shrinking market share and high vehicle prices. Especially in the new car market. Buyers who are ready (both mentally and financially) to enter the heady world of AMG performance may not be as price sensitive, but they still demand good value, and the C43 offers that in spades. Frankly, who needs over the top amounts of power at OTT prices, when this understated gem and its sonorous V6 soundtrack will give you all the feels you need, and some you did not expect.
LAST WORD Having driven both the C180 and C43 cars back-to-back recently, one thing is remarkably clear – Merc seems to be getting its C-Class mojo back. The combined effect of 6,000 replacement parts on the upgraded range, solid new interiors, a design that we’re finally starting to get used to (especially in AMG Line trim), and the occasional new engine, should breathe enough life back into the range to keep it fresh until the new C-Class is expected in 2020.
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FOOD
Cook it Like Chef Mynhardt A seat at the Chef Mynhardt’s table has been reserved for you to sample some of these fabulous in-season recipes. Images & Recipes: © Mynardt Joubert
Grilled Karoo lamb Shoulder with Salsa Verde & Olive Roosterkoek Simplicity has never tasted better! I love cooking lamb on the fire and there is nothing better than keeping it simple with classic Karoo flavours. Preferably use lamb shoulder, meat cooked on the bone just add heaps of flavour. I twice cook the lamb; first in the oven, and then finish it on the fire. This guarantees the softest most succulent roast! Serve with zesty salsa verde, lashings of olive oil, old school “Roosterkoek” with olives and roasted vine tomatoes. Lamb Roast Ingredients
Method
1 large lamb shoulder with bone in 1.5 kg to 2 kg 10 cloves of garlic cleaned 200 g of smoked bacon or pancetta 10 fresh rosemary tips 2 large tablespoons of Brenda’s Karoo Spice mix or a mixture of dried coriander, coarse salt and pepper 4 large onions roughly cut into quarters with skin on A handful of fresh thyme 500 ml of white wine Ground Cape Malayan Spice Salt and pepper
1. Use a sharp paring knife to cut deep holes into the lamb, stuff with garlic, bacon and rosemary. 2. Grind the spice mix using a pestle and mortar, 3.Coat the lamb generously with olive oil and rub the ground spices into the meat. 4. Place in a large oven tray, pour over the wine and pack the onions around the lamb and add the thyme and tightly cover with heavy foil. 5. Bake for two hours at 160 degrees Celsius. 6. Remove from the pan and grill on medium-hot coals turning regularly for 45 minutes to an hour. 7. Serve with salsa verde, olive roosterkoek and grilled vine tomatoes
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Salsa Verde 1. Combine on a chopping board a handful of capers, two large tablespoons of anchovies, three Cloves of garlic, a handful of fresh basil, Italian parsley, coriander and chop finely. 2. Place in a mixing bowl and add a good glug of olive oil, the juice of one lemon and season with salt and pepper
Bo-Kaap Cape Malay Snoek with Grilled Sweet potato Ingredients for the Sosatie Sous Snoek
Method
1 medium-sized snoek 3 large onions cut into rings 1 large heaped tablespoon of butter 1 tablespoon of curry or your favourite fish masala 2 teaspoons of turmeric 2 tablespoons of soft brown sugar or xylitol for a sugar-free option 1 teaspoon cornflour 2 ground teaspoons of Brenda’s Cape Malayan Spice or 1 teaspoon of coarse sea salt 1 cups of apple cider vinegar Half a cup of your favourite chutney A handful of crushed lemon leaves 4 medium-sized yellow sweet potatoes sliced lengthways Olive oil Ground Cape Malayan Spice Salt and pepper
1. Place the snoek in a large roasting pan or deep dish and season with some salt and pepper. 2. Place the onions and the butter in a large saucepan and add a little bit of water, sweat the onions for a good 10 minutes then add the curry, turmeric, sugar and cornflour and stir through well 3. Add the ground Cape Malayan Spice or some ground salt, apple cider vinegar, chutney and lemon leaves and cook through for about 5 to 7 minutes until the sauce thickens and all the flavours are combined, take off the heat and let it cool. 4. As soon as the marinade has cooled down spoon it over the snoek making sure that you coat all sides. Let it marinade overnight, remove from the marinade. Return the marinade to a saucepan and cook on medium heat for 10 to 12 minutes. 5. Coat the sweet potatoes with olive and rub with the spice, grill on the fire before grilling the fish, keep warm on the side 6. Grill the fish on the medium to hot fire for about 8 to 12 minutes or until the fish is firm to the touch and cooked through. Be careful not to overcook and serve immediately with the hot curry sauce and grilled sweet potatoes
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Strawberry Vanilla and Rose Petal Preserve I love the subtle and gentle flavour combined in this recipe. The rose petals, rosewater and vanilla, makes a sublime combination. Enjoy the preserve with toasted baguettes and goats’ cheese for a delectable aperitif or make a splash brunch with buttered croissants, camembert topped with the strawberry vanilla and rose petal preserve. Makes 4, 125 ml jars of preserve | Cooking time: + - 1hour Ingredients
Method
600 g of fresh strawberries sliced Loose petals of 20 rose heads (should be washed and free of pesticides) 500 g of sugar 125 ml of rose water 45 ml of vanilla paste
1. Place the strawberries and rose petals in a large pot and cover with the sugar, pour over the rose water and cook on low heat until the sugar has turned to liquid. 2. Turn the heat up to a medium setting and start soft boiling the preserve. Using a sugar thermometer cook the preserve until it reaches 120 degrees Celsius. 3. If you do not have a sugar thermometer just follow the above instructions keeping in mind that: temperatures and cooking conditions also vary with height above sea level and the moisture content in the air so keep on testing the boiling syrup by dropping half a teaspoon on a cold plate and let it run. The quicker the syrup sets and becomes thick the closer you are to the perfect consistency.
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about the chef Chef Mynhardt Joubert is well-known in hospitality circles for his generous, homely and creative entertainment style. Mynhardt grew up in the Eastern Free State, a background which still shapes his culinary approach: he is inspired by traditional food with a strong heritage link. The food Chef Mynhardt prepares are really renditions of stories he has embraced this trend by hosting top-end, yet affordable, dining experiences at his home-based restaurant in Paarl. These experiences are often inspired by seasonal flavours, and there’s room for only 10 to 30 people per sitting to enjoy these unique, delicious and generous dinners, lunches, or private events - all expertly paired to wines from some of South Africa’s top estates. Joubert, a former professional dancer, is a firm believer in the power of a beautiful performance. For his menus, he draws inspiration from cultures where dining really represents a festive occasion: hearty Mediterranean cooking, South African celebratory meals, French cuisine – and always features the best local ingredients at hand, whether it’s seasonal berries or waterblommetjies; mushrooms or cheese from the local artisanal producers, or free-range Karoo lamb. To book a culinary experience visit: www.mynhardt.co.za Twitter: @MynhardtJ Instagram: @mynhardtj Facebook: Mynhardt
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PROPERTY
Take it from HouseME Entrepreneur and CEO, Ben Shaw realised a gap in the rental market industry and co-founded HouseME, a technology driven company that uses a seamless digital platform to pair prospective tenants with landlords, it launched in 2016 and quickly began reshaping the South African rental marketplace. Text: Supplied | Images: Š Sourced
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Maintaining a good relationship with your tenant can prove to be a challenging task. Here are some of the tips for ensuring your tenants pay on time and how to better attract new prospects: Vetting is vital Preventing non-payment starts before day one of the lease agreement. Make sure that your tenant has a regular income after tax (and after other significant deductions) that is about three times the value of the rent. Take the time to get a comprehensive credit
report which details the applicant’s monthly commitments and, most importantly, whether or not the tenant is in arrears. If the applicant is already defaulting on a short-term loan, it is vital that you know, and even more important that you do not offer a lease agreement. aha MOMENTS! | 55
Communication is critical Unfortunately, vetting is never fool-proof, and sometimes even the best of tenants can fall into arrears. As soon as this happens, communication becomes vital, and communication must be sent both in writing and telephonically. Written texts keep a trail, and verbal communication shows the tenant that you are serious. Even if the tenant gives you a date by which they will pay, insist on having regular check-ins to find out if the target date of payment will still be achieved.
Learn the laws The law is like a chainsaw: if you know how to use it, you can bring down the mightiest of trees. If you do not, it can cost you an arm and a leg. Make sure you know the legal steps at your disposal. For example, it is imperative that you issue a Letter of Demand that is compliant with the law and places the necessary next steps at your disposal to lawfully cancel the lease if payment is not made. Furthermore, because a Letter of Demand requires you to wait 20 business days before you can legally cancel the lease, it is important to issue a legal letter very soon after a tenant has defaulted, even if they have committed to pay at a later date. It is no good having to wait 20 business days from an already delayed payment date. Rather have the clock start ticking as soon as you can.
Advertise and make sure your property listing is top quality. Tenants are not just shopping for a new notebook, they’re looking for a place of residence; that’s why property ads need to be pretty convincing before tenants are willing to consider moving there and set up a viewing as a first step. Use this checklist for your ad: photos, description, furniture, and any other additional extras.
Offer lots of viewing times Tenants are busy people, just like you and me. It is best to provide a mix of evening, daytime and weekend slots to accommodate working tenants’ varying schedules. At HouseME, we found that Tuesdays / Thursdays after 17:00PM and Saturdays around 11:00AM are the most popular viewing times in the industry. Either way, we recommend setting up two to five viewing times per week, to speed up the process and get on to signing the lease well before the lease start date.
Be smart about your rental price •
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and rooms to see if your price is within the market’s going rate. Remember, some properties you view may also be ill-priced, so be sure to monitor various properties before deciding on your price.
Avoiding vacancy: how to attract tenants faster
The number one cause for the lack of tenant response is overpriced properties. It can be difficult to gauge the right price as an independent landlord, so here’s our advice: Check properties in your neighbourhood with similar sizes
•
You can always lower your price in small increments to see if that improves your response.
•
If you list with HouseME, our PlaceME® Tool can also help ensure you get the best price. By allowing tenants to place offers on properties, above and below the asking price, this new technology maximises returns and minimises vacancy for landlords as well as optimising affordability and choice for tenants - keeping fair market value at the heart of every rental negotiation.
About HouseME HouseME is an online platform that makes renting easy and accessible for both landlords and tenants. For landlords, it charges a mere 2.5% of rental to advertise a property, coordinate viewings, find the best price, vet tenants, hold the deposit and lease, and collect rent. A Rental Guarantee covering late payment and non-payment (two months cover plus deposit) is also available for an additional 1%. For tenants, HouseME offers free registration and a reduced deposit of only one month.
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a Journey to Mindfulness 58 | aha MOMENTS!
Text: Jade Novelist | Images: © Sourced
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Healthy body, healthy mind. Whether in pursuit of personal goals or curiosity, now more than ever, people care more about living a healthy lifestyle.
Nike+ Training Club - Personalises workout recommendations that are based on your daily routine. Daily Yoga - It has Office Yoga series. Each session is explained in terms of both the physical but also mental purpose. Yoga Down dog - Yoga videos can be downloaded for offline streaming. It also syncs across all your devices. All these apps are available in South Africa, so there is no excuse to not take yoga with you everywhere you go.
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ome play sports, some go to the gym and some practice yoga. Now while some would call yoga an exercise routine or a hobby, for many, it is a way of life, and according to Tarryn James, professional yoga practitioner & Yoga South Africa founder, with the wide variety of styles and lineages available, yoga is something for everyone. Besides physical strength and flexibility, she says she is also grateful for the clarity, insight, grounding and relaxation that yoga brings. She gets to learn more about herself. When asked on the use of technology within the practice, she eagerly agreed that yoga has embraced technology. “Though there are pros and cons to anything but the opportunity to connect with yogis on Instagram, listen to a yoga podcast, practice online or reading more about the theory of yoga are some of the advantages of being up to speed in today’s age. It is, however, important to note that there is more to yoga than what’s merely on social media. Life itself has become a rat race, and a lot of people are more mobile than before. In some instances, you find that a lot of people are pursuing working holidays while exploring different countries or travelling for business purposes, and for those who want to stay healthy despite where they are, it’s essential to have the right tools.” “There are multiple mobile applications one can use to exercise while on the move and many of them are free to download on both Android and iOS devices. These apps include but are not limited to PEAR Personal Fitness Coach, Freeletics Bodyweight, Sworkit, StrongLifts 5x5, Personal Trainer: Home Workout and Nike+ Training Club.” Tarryn says that YouTube is her go-to app. A sentiment echoed by Humbulani Ravhura, a yogi who journeyed into yoga for fitness purposes, but later realised how positively it impacted her mental health. Humbulani takes her mat everywhere she goes. When travelling, she checks online to locate nearby yoga studios. According to Tarryn, aspiring yogis can be on the lookout for pop up yoga sessions, rooftop yoga, and most social markets have bought into the trend. In her eyes, yoga is on the rise in South Africa with more and more people sharing their experience and healing journey on social platforms, so yoga is the new normal.
When it comes to online applications, YouTube video tutorials are in abundance and easy to follow but lacks the capability of other apps, such as features that allow one to track workouts or calories lost. A lot of Yoga specific apps exist, for example, Asana Rebel, Yoga Studio and Simply Yoga to name a few but the top three Apps are the following:
aha MOMENTS! | 59
aha | TRAVEL
An African safari experience with a difference Text & Images: ©aha Hotels & Lodges
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ew venues can claim to have it all - an unspoiled location that gives you the full Big 5 African experience; luxury accommodation that combines style and comfort; the convenience of being less than three hours away from Johannesburg; and a family-friendly vibe that means that you can enjoy an extra-special holiday that the kids will love. Ivory Tree Game Lodge is a 5-Star lodge with a difference – it caters to the whole family and places emphasis on keeping all of its guests, young and old, captivated during their stay. Perched in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve which has fascinating biodiverse environment set in the crater of an ancient
60 | aha MOMENTS!
volcano and merging the Kalahari with the Lowveld to create genuinely unique game viewing and bird watching opportunities. Ivory Tree Game Lodge has an array of activities for some back-to-nature family bonding time, and the game drives on an open safari vehicle will have everyone on the edge of their seats as they try and spot the famous Big five and the many other animal and bird species that roam within the reserve. It’s an unparalleled opportunity to cultivate a love for nature and the outdoors amongst your children as they learn about the bushveld’s many secrets and surprises from the Lodge’s knowledgeable rangers. When not on safari, Ivory Tree Game Lodge
also offers an array of activities including bush archery, which is a fun and challenging new skill to learn, and the excitement of quad biking in the terrain of the reserve. For something cultural and unique that the kids will love, join in an interactive drumming circle. And after all the excitement, anyone who needs a touch of leisure time can book a lazy afternoon pamper session at the indulgent Amani Spa. Other activities within the Pilanesberg Reserve can also be arranged by request, so get creative about finding activities that the family can enjoy as a group. The food and dining options also deserves a mention, as both the outdoor Boma dinners. Expect satisfied stomachs and happy smiles!
“Other activities within the Pilanesberg Reserve can also be arranged by request, so get creative about finding activities that the family can enjoy as a group.�
A side effect of today’s fast-paced lifestyle is fewer opportunities for families to enjoy quality time together and create special memories. Ivory Tree Game Lodge is an enthusiastic partner in bringing people together and helping to make memories that are as special and authentic as possible. The genuine warm hospitality and incredible facilities that can be found at this unique lodge make for a bushveld experience that your family will never forget. >> aha MOMENTS! | 61
“It caters to the whole family and places emphasis on keeping all of its guests, young and old, captivated during their stay.�
THE LODGE IN BRIEF: aha Ivory Tree Game Lodge is situated in the north-eastern region of the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve in the North West Province. The accommodation offers four Luxury Suites, two Family Suites, one Executive Suite and 60 Standard Rooms, as well as a four roomed Villa. The Lodge also offers first-class conferencing facilities. Hotel Contact details: 014 551 3910 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: ivory.shepherds@aha.co.za
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Ivory Tree Game Lodge, a luxurious family bush retreat in the Pilanesberg aha Ivory Tree Game Lodge is situated within the Pilanesberg Game Reserve, one of the largest volcanic complexes of its kind in the world. This premium game lodge offers various room options including a family suite – ideal for a families out for a bush adventure. Activities including Archery, and Air Gun shooting. Feel the vibrations with Interactive Drumming, ride your way up and around natural obstacles on our exciting quad trail or be spoilt to a banquet for the soul and senses at our award winning Amani Spa.
BOOK NOW: +27 10 442 5888
ivory.shepherds@aha.co.za
2016
2017
south african hotel group
best african hotel group
business traveller africa awards
africa tourism awards
aha | TRAVEL
A Tale of African Tribes Text & Images: Šaha Hotels & Lodges
Just a brief drive from Johannesburg, hidden amongst the heritage-rich hills in the Cradle of Humankind lies aha Lesedi, a cultural Village and Conferencing Centre with a difference and a unique destination for a family getaway. 64 | aha MOMENTS!
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he lodge is designed to celebrate the rich diversity of African cultures, and the spirit of Ubuntu, the universal bond that connects us all, is embedded in the hospitality and welcoming warmth of the lodge and its hosts. Exploring the cultural village within aha Lesedi is a fascinating insight into the cultures and traditions of the peoples of Africa. Visitors get to learn about the protocols within various kingdoms such as saluting a Zulu king or a Xhosa chief and so on. Experience a tour of five traditional homesteads and observe the way of life and ancient customs of the Zulu, Xhosa, Bapedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes – a fun and enlightening way for children and adults to learn about and interact with different cultures. Watching the energetic African
“The lodge is designed to celebrate the rich diversity of African cultures...�
dancing display at the Ingoma Dance Boma is a must and will get your toes tapping all around. To add to the experience, take a trip back in time by touring the nearby exhibits within the Cradle of Humankind. The Cradle is a world heritage site that boasts a number of fossil sites including the famous Sterkfontein Caves, and the Maropeng Visitors Centre which showcases an array of fascinating artefacts and research relating to human ancestry. For some lighter-hearted excursions, you can take the family on game drives, 4 x 4 trails, quad biking and a treetop canopy tour. The area also offers a golf course, craft markets, horse riding and >> aha MOMENTS! | 65
the famous De Wildt Cheetah Sanctuary, to ensure that each day of your family break is jam-packed with activities. Of course, a vital aspect of African culture is the food, and at aha Lesedi, guests can relish in a delicious feast at the Nyama Choma restaurant. Taste and enjoy stupendous African dishes from ostrich or crocodile stew, and a selection of freshly prepared venison varieties, to simple South African classics, everything is made to perfection to satisfy any appetite. Going across the continent for something completely different, dine out in North African custom at the Nile Room, where the setting low length tables and guest are seated cross-legged on floor cushions. For the adventurous at heart, a visit to Ma Thabeleng’s Shebeen is guaranteed to quench your thirst. The authentic decor and vibrant murals all add to the sensation of exploring the different nations of Africa and provide a lively backdrop for each delicious dining experience. As the saying goes ”Seek and you shall find”, discover and enjoy a magical family holiday – aha Lesedi pulses with the heartbeat of Africa and makes exploring your African roots feel like the adventure of a lifetime.
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at a glance Accommodation includes eight Deluxe Rooms, four Double Rooms, 22 Twin Rooms and four Triple Rooms. Extensive conference facilities and African teambuilding activities also The Address: D119, off Old make aha Lesedi an ideal venue for Cavernberg Road, Jagersrust, corporate outings Northern Drakensberg, 3354 Hotel Contact details: 036 438 6484 Bookings on Central Reservations: The Address: R512, Lanseria, Gauteng, 010 442 5888 South Africa 1739 Web:aha.co.za | Email: cro@aha.co.za Hotel Contact details: 012 2051395 or 071 507 1447 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: enquirieslesedi@ahahotels.co.za
LESEDI
Experience fascinating South African cultures at aha Lesedi
Situated within the Cradle of Humankind, aha Lesedi is the perfect place to take your family on a “short left” this Easter. With a variety of exciting activities close by it is ideal for the adrenaline junkies and more tourists alike.
With daily cultural tours on offer, you can immerse yourself in the rich South African tribes as you explore 5 traditional homesteads. After all that adventure, experience the integral element of African culture through food at our Nyama Choma Restaurant. To wind down after a day of activity, Lesedi’s Fundudzi Bar or Ma Thabeleng’s Shebeen offers a lively location to socialise and enjoy sundowners while being entertained at our daily dance shows.
FOR BOOKINGS: +27 82 524 4549 / +27 71 507 1447 | enquiries@lesedi.com aha MOMENTS!
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aha | TRAVEL
A Thousand Splendid Smiles Text & Images © aha Hotels & Lodges
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estled in the Ilanga Nature and Game Reserve, the village architecture, tropical gardens and Mediterranean décor give the resort an exotic feel. Despite its convenient proximity to Johannesburg, once you step into aha Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort, the cares of everyday life seem to melt away with ease. The establishment has various accommodation types to choose from, depending on what is better suited to your family’s needs. Whether you opt for the twin and double suites, the opulent and private Casa Grande with its jacuzzi, sauna and private pool, or the charming villas which open onto private gardens or terraces,
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no comfort has been spared, and you are enveloped by a feeling of warmth and welcome. When it comes to choosing a day’s activities, your family will be spoilt for choice. Lazing by the pool and taking in the breathtaking views of the valley is always a pleasant option. Smaller kids can choose to cool off in the kiddies’ splash pool or spend time bonding with dad on a fishing trip. Get your fill of thrills with quad biking, river rafting and abseiling or search for rare animal sightings on a night safari. Set your pace and experience a self-drive at the Kruger National Park which is a mere 15 minutes’ drive from the hotel.
For an easy afternoon, families can experience the extraordinary natural wonders of the Panorama Route: the astonishing views from God’s Window, the unusual cylindrical rock sculptures that make up the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the other beautiful mountain scenery of the Klein Drakensberg escarpment. Then, return at the end of the day ravenous and ready for a recharge, to the mouthwatering food and exceptional wine at the Cozinha Velha Restaurant, which features a menu of options to keep even your family’s pickiest eater in smiles. For those who want to dine out under the stars, there are two braai areas: the Tropica Pool Bar and a traditional Boma. To experience a piece of paradise, tucked away in Mpumalanga, treat your family to a stay at the aha Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort and create some truly unforgettable moments together.
aha Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort comprises of four different types of accommodation: Casas, Villas, Twin and Double Suites, which cater for double occupancies and have bathrooms en-suite. Tea and coffee making facilities, as well as small fridge, is available in each room. The Casa Grande has a large sitting room opening onto a patio with a jacuzzi, sauna and private pool in an enclosed garden, while located on the upper level is a double bedroom with his and hers bathrooms
Getting there Drive: the journey will take you 4-5 hours’ drive from Johannesburg Flights: SA Airlink has a daily schedule to Kruger Mpumalanga The Address: Sabie Road (R536), Hazyview, Mpumalanga, 1242 Hotel Contact details: 013 737 8111 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: www.aha.co.za Email: cro@aha.co.za aha MOMENTS! | 69
CASA DO SOL HOTEL & RESORT
A perfect family setting
A perfect setting in the heart of scenic Mpumalanga, the luxurious aha Casa do Sol Hotel in Hazyview offers pristine pools, deeply shaded glades and lush flower gardens, perfect for a delightful family escape. The prevailing sense of peace and quiet belies the fact that the wild and untamed world of the famous Kruger National Park is a mere 15 minutes drive away. The village architecture and sub-tropical gardens create a sanctuary of tranquillity and spectacular sunsets.
Book Now: + 27 13 737 8111 | reservationscasadosol@ahahotels.co.za
ENCORE
Wine
r e d n o W
The world’s first dedicated wine museum in Bordeaux pays tribute to the world’s premier winegrowing region – and the role that wine plays in the global space. Text: Trevor Crighton | Images © Anaka / La Cité du Vin / XTU architects / Casson Mann
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listening gold in the afternoon sunlight, La Cité du Vin on the banks of the Garonne is all swirls and eddies, wine swirling in a glass and knotted rootstock – a cathedral to the history, art and culture of wine. The striking structure in the Bassins à Flot district on the outskirts of Bordeaux opened just two years ago and has already breached the 1 million visitor mark as international oenophiles flock to what is arguably the planet’s foremost wine-producing region to pay homage to the art of the grape. La Cité du Vin is part of an urban regeneration project which has significantly swelled visitor numbers to Bordeaux. aha MOMENTS! | 71
“La Cité du Vin may be an architectural marvel, but the real treasure is inside, where eight floors of interactive experiences detail the history of wine in the region, and from around the world.”
The city long held a reputation as a surly port town with little to offer in the way of tourism, as visitors chose instead to make pilgrimages to the nearby vineyards in Médoc (including St-Estèphe, Pauillac and Margaux); Graves (Sauternes); The Libournais (Saint-Émillion and Pomerol); Bourg and Blaye (Côtes-de-Bourg) and the Entre-DeuxMers. Thanks to the establishment of an efficient tramway network, new parks and green space, pedestrianised areas, renovations to buildings and the redevelopment of the region around its quays have made it an incredibly tourist-friendly city. The establishment of a high-speed TGV link between Paris and Bordeaux has also slashed both costs and travel time, with the journey now taking just two and a half hours instead of a six-hour road journey or shorter but far more expensive 70-minute flight. La Cité du Vin may be an architectural marvel, but the real treasure is inside, where eight floors of interactive experiences detail the history of wine in the region, and from around the world. The ‘Permanent Exhibition’ takes in The World Wine Tour; a Terroir Table which mimics a wine-growing landscape and comes alive with interactive videos about wines from around the world; The Metamorphoses of Wine – a series of abstract structures that illustrate the different stages involved in producing wine, with multisensory experiences; an E-Vine which breaks the story of wine into fun snippets and even an exploration into the slightly saucier side of wine, 72 | aha MOMENTS!
with Bacchus & Venus, a tribute to the way the pleasures of wine have been incorporated into art, poetry, music and film over the centuries. Complementing the Permanent Exhibition is a series of seasonal events which place wine in the context of food, art, regional specialities and trends like organic or biodynamic production – and host dinners prepared with great theatre by Michelin-starred chefs from the Gironde region, and beyond. Sophisticated hand-held audio & video guides bring the fascinating installations to life in eight languages, with the tour culminating on the 8th floor at The Belvedere for a tasting of a rotating array of wines from France – but also everywhere from Georgia to South Africa. On the way up, there are also two restaurants – from the relaxed Brasserie atmosphere of Latitude20 on the ground floor to the regal Restaurant Le 7, which offers a fine dining experience backed by panoramic views of the Garonne and the city, from the 7th floor. On the ground floor, La Cité du Vin Boutique is a marvel, an inthe-round store featuring wines from all over the world (including some fine examples from South Africa – but at Euro prices!) and at its centre, some prestige vintages from First Growth estates including Chateau Margaux Lafite-Rothschild that beg examination beyond the eye-watering price tags.
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HOTELS & LODGES DIRECTORY
WESTERN CAPE aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites +2721 431 9202
aha De Zalze Lodge +2721 880 0740
aha The Rex Hotel +2744 302 5900
aha Avondale Boutique Hotel +2731 942 0004
aha Gateway Hotel +2731 536 9200
NORTH WEST aha Lesedi +2771 507 1447
aha Madikwe River Lodge +2714 778 9000
Ivory Tree Game Lodge +2714 556 8100
Shepherd’s Tree Game Lodge +2714 551 3910
aha Thakadu River Camp +2718 365 9912
MPUMALANGA aha Bongani Mountain Lodge +2713 764 3577
aha Casa Do Sol Hotel & Resort +2713 737 8111
aha Simonstown Quayside Hotel +2721 786 3838 KWAZULU-NATAL aha Alpine Heath Resort +2736 438 6484/8500 aha Shakaland +2735 460 0912
LIMPOPO aha Makalali Private Game Lodge +2715 793 9300 GAUTENG aha Kopanong Hotel & Conference Centre +2711 749 0000
NORTHERN CAPE aha Kathu Hotel +2753 050 0076
FREE STATE aha Bloemfontein Hotel +2751 444 3142
Southern Africa BOTSWANA Chobe Marina Lodge +267 625 2221
ZIMBABWE The Elephant Camp +263 213 2844571
Masa Square Hotel +267 315 9954
Imbabala Zambezi Safari Lodge +26313 42313/42029
ZAMBIA aha The David Livingstone Safari Lodge & Spa +260 213 324601
BOOK NOW: +27 10 442 5888 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za 74 | aha MOMENTS!
STAFF PROFILE
Group HR Manager for aha Hotels and Lodges,
Nando Legasa, has a clear path and zero regrets.
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ow do you motivate yourself and stay motivated? My role is a very dynamic role and very rewarding as well, especially when you see your vision is realised. It can also be very challenging because my goals are dependent on other people’s willingness and ability to implement them. I remain motivated by re-looking at the goals and objectives that I wanted to achieve at a specific point and, if I haven’t reached them, I realign my aspirations accordingly. It’s imperative to take stock of how much progress I have made and areas where I have encountered obstacles. Otherwise, one gets despondent and may feel like the wheel isn’t moving fast enough. I also remain motivated by staying centred. In HR, we have so many different emotions and personalities to deal with, it’s important to understand who you are and to stay true to my core ethics and boundaries, and manage my emotions really well. If you had to start over from scratch, knowing what you know now, what would you do differently? I don’t believe in regrets. I think that everything I’ve experienced and all the mistakes that I have made have contributed to my success in some way or another. So I wouldn’t say that I would change anything because I am at a point in my career where I believe that I have encountered challenges that have taught me to do things differently and thus have improved me in various ways. What are the most important values you demonstrate as a leader? There are four: honesty, integrity, teamwork and respect. Those are most people’s values but, if you have those values as a leader, if you are honest with yourself and with the people that you are leading, it
goes a long way. People are motivated by constant communication and being made to feel valued and, when you are dishonest with them, they feel devalued. Integrity is integral in any business. Without it, the ship would sink, so that is really important. I mean integrity in terms of owning what you do, what you say, and how you do things. Mutual respect – you can’t get respect from people if you don’t give respect, so that’s my modus operandi. I’m very cognizant of what I say and how it may be perceived. It’s essential for a leader to lead by example. I also value teamwork because you can’t do it alone. When your team fails, you also fail as a leader, their win is my win, so you can’t say that you’re rewarding a leader and not the people under them. Imparting knowledge to your team is also an integral part of leadership, but it cannot happen effectively without all of the above. What was your dream job as a kid and why? My dream was to become a performing artist. I went to a performing art secondary school in Canada, and I majored in drama and dance, and I minored in music. I really excelled at athletics and gymnastics also and hoped for a career in the field, but it wasn’t meant to be. What’s one core message you received from your mentors? The one thing I remember is “don’t sweat the small stuff”. Choose your battles, choose them very carefully but don’t sweat the small stuff. Within that, my mentor told me that it’s the small wins that may get you to win the battle. So I’ve kept that within all aspects of my life, so that daily or weekly, I achieve small wins that may be overlooked and that may benefit one or more people, and that makes it worth it, and keeps me motivated. Who is your role model, and why? My mother is my obvious role model, but, besides her, it’s all the women out there who have encountered hardships and still persevere; who still wake up at three in the morning and catch a taxi to work far away from home or leave their children for long periods. Women who do all this and still manage to instil good values in their children and provide for their families in the way that they should. Those are the people I really look up to. Those women who, against all the odds, succeed at what they do and have achieved greatness. The measure of success isn’t necessarily financial success; it’s staying true to yourself, achieving your goals, managing to keep your family afloat and instilling your values within them. Any advice for women in a male-dominated industry? You don’t have to strive to be a member of the “boys club”. Be who you are meant to be. You should strive to be a valuable employee in the workplace. You are not one of the boys, you are a woman, and it’s incredible to be a woman. Don’t be afraid of being yourself.
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AUTHOR INTERVIEW
SASHA-LEE TAYLOR CHANGING LIVES, ONE BOOK, ONE CHILD, ONE SCHOOL AT A TIME! Text: kdtcomms | Images: © supplied Tell us how the Learn to Read, Learn to Lead concept came about?
the inspiration behind the campaign. It’s vital that we all play a role in making the world a better place and this is my way of making a difference. I recently sat in Parliament at the National Youth Summit and heard children as young as 10 years old ask the ministers for equal education opportunities – and that is the moment I realised we actually have a substantial educational gap in South Africa and “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” is an attempt to bridge that gap for all South Africans.
JoAnne Strauss, Elana Afrika, and Basetsana Kumalo, who are recognised for their continuous charity work and for making a difference in the South African youth and I aspire to follow in their footsteps and make a difference. Being a woman, I think it’s important to stand together, empower each other and uplift our youth who is the future of tomorrow.
What inspired this campaign?
As a young woman, why is this initiative important to you?
My passion for education, as well as empowering the youth of today would be
There are so many female leaders of today, such as Rolene Strauss, Rachel Kolisi,
I am the author, designer, and face of the “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” book series, while my younger sister did all of the illustrations. It is a real family affair.
I have always had a passion for education and giving back. I find it so necessary for everyone to have access to equal education opportunities. However, I noticed that there were many children, even young adults, who are illiterate and that is how the “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” idea was born. The name represents young children of today, becoming leaders of the future. This project is a way of connecting both my passion for giving back along with education.
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As the face of the “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” initiate, what role do you play?
Tell us about the book design and mascot - why did you go with that particular storyline and characters? I believe ‘local is lekker’ so when creating the storyline and characters I tried my best to embrace the beauty of South Africa. I wanted everyone to be able to relate to the story and characters. The story is set in a South African location. Many colours were used throughout the book to represent our Rainbow Nation and also as to make it more fun for the children. Each book has a theme in the beginning that continues throughout the book. However, most importantly, there is an educational section within the book that actually teaches the children how to read and write – in this section repetition was used to make it straightforward for the children. They also used very simple and basic English sentences throughout the book which is beneficial for each child wanting to learn how to read. The mascot and main character’s name is Tata, named after the late Nelson Mandela’s nickname. Nelson Mandela’s quote; “Education is the most powerful tool one can use to change the world” is what inspired this campaign and is why I decided to name the main character after him. I wanted to create a character that each South African can relate to and not depicting a specific race or culture this is why Tata is a little rainbow creature (again, representing all of the Rainbow Nation, I made him a little alien that came from space because children are very interested in outer space nowadays).
50% of the net profit from the book is split equally to go towards the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund and the
where I was able to speak about the “Learn to Read, Learn to Lead” project and also gain insight on all the things the youth wanted to be addressed by the government, one of the main issues being equal education opportunities. It was indeed an honour to have been invited and will undoubtedly remain one of my highlights.
You received the Young Leader in Philanthropy award - when was this and what was the requirements to receive this award?
Tshwane Child Welfare Fund. Why did you select these beneficiaries? These are two organisations that are doing amazing things to help our youth. Nelson Mandela’s dream was to improve education in our country, and I felt it would only be right to give back to one of his organisations, especially since the main character was also named after him. It is my way of building on the legacy of Nelson Mandela. The Tshwane fund has always been close to my heart and I admire the work they do for the children giving back to them was my way of showing that their work doesn’t go unrecognised. The remainder of the profits from the books will go towards converting and setting up shipping containers into classrooms and libraries to put in areas that lack educational facilities.
The book was recognised in Parliament when you were invited to the National Youth Summit - tell us more about this? In June 2018, I was invited to the National Youth Summit at Parliament in Cape Town,
This award was given to me by the CEO of the Nelson Mandela Children’s Fund at the National Youth summit that I was invited to. The award aims to recognise a “Nelson Mandela in every generation”, it is about an individual that is doing good for their community and giving back. It was even more special because it was also the centenary celebration of Nelson Mandela.
How can people get involved? Anyone is welcome to purchase a book that costs R170, people can also get in touch with regards to sponsoring books for an underprivileged school/area or even help with the converting of shipping containers into classrooms (even sponsoring a container). I would also love for people to get in touch by letting us know in which areas the books would be needed.
Where can people follow this movement? Instagram: @sashataylor21/ Facebook: facebook.com/ sashaleetaylor21/ Twitter: @Sashalee_Taylor aha MOMENTS! | 77
SCREEN T I M E
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FILM
Coming To South Africa – Sideways Text & Images © Uzanenkosi (Worker Ant @ ANTS)
“N
o journey is too great when one finds what he seeks.” Friedrich Nietzsche wrote it, but it was Prince Akeem, Eddie Murphy’s character in Coming To America, who made it trend. Mind you, this was 1988. There was no Twitter, there was no Facebook, just bioscope and VHS. In Coming To America, an African Prince breaks tradition to go all the way to America, Queens to be exact, to find a woman worthy of being an African Queen. In Prince Akeem’s words: “I want a woman who will arouse my intellect as well as my loins.” You are probably thinking, this is too late a review or too early for the sequel in the works? I wouldn’t argue with that, except, this finds you on some journey. I am curious as to what Set It Off. It’s not only the people who have been to New York or Paris who can identify the Statue of Liberty or the Eiffel Tower. Movies are the cheapest tickets to anywhere and a distant second to that, are books and music. Love Locks takes you to Pont Neuf, the longest standing bridge over the river Seine. Movies that get you there, Before Sunset, are Les Amants du Pont-Neuf, Bourne Identity or Midnight In Paris. Dubai, the city that rose Fast and Furious, from the desert in our lifetime, is your shopping destination and no newcomer to the big screen. Not too long ago it starred alongside Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible - Ghost Protocol. Movie inspired 78 | aha MOMENTS!
destinations are plenty. I mean, where in the world is Miami without Magnum PI? In 2004, Sideways told a story of a writer and a wine enthusiast who take a trip that is easily a bachelor party through wine country. The ‘sideways effect’, as it is now called, boosted Pino Noir production in California by 170 per cent to match growing demand. Our local Sideways, Semi Soet, niched itself in the Afrikaans palate and denied itself a broader local and international audience. The big screen can do so much for us as a country, but first, we have to decide what we want to be desired for as a destination and crack ourselves wide open. Coming to South Africa should be the seed planted in all our stories - beyond Iron Man’s duel with the Hulk in Avengers Age of Ultron, Denzel Washington and Ryan Reynold’s Safe House or Morgan Freeman and Matt Damon’s Invictus. From The Gods Must Be Crazy to Beyond The River.
About uzanenkosi With over 20 years of expertise in the South African Film and Television industry as a Producer, Director and Writer, Uzanenkosi’s name has become synonymous with the success of groundbreaking work across various genres.
BOOKS
“Educated and privileged, Julie is a modern woman. Living on her own, she is happy to collect the gold jewellery love-struck Eugene brings her, but has no intention of becoming his second wife.” §
The Son of the House
Youth Revolution kiara nirghin
Cheluchi OnyemelukweOnuobia In the city of Enugu in the 1970s, young Nwabulu dreams of becoming a typist as she endures her employers’ endless chores. Although a housemaid since the age of ten, she is tall and beautiful and in love with a rich man’s son. Educated and privileged, Julie is a modern woman. Living on her own, she is happy to collect the gold jewellery love-struck Eugene brings her, but has no intention of becoming his second wife. When dramatic events straight out of a movie force Nwabulu and Julie into a dank room years later, the two women relate the stories of their lives as they await their fate. Pulsing with vitality and intense human drama, Cheluchi Onyemelukwe-Onuobia’s debut is set against four decades of vibrant Nigeria and celebrates the resilience of women as they navigate and transform what remains a man’s world.
She Lies in Wait Gytha Lodge Ruby Bozarth, a newcomer to Rosedale, Mississippi, is also fresh to the Mississippi Bar – and she faces an impossible task defending a college football star accused of murder. The victim is a young woman from one of the town’s oldest families, and Rosedale’s upper crust are howling for blood. Then news breaks of a second murder, and lurid, intertwining investigations unfold. Ruby discovers that no one in Rosedale can be trusted, especially the twelve men and women on the jury. They may be hiding the biggest secret of all.
Whether you have a spacious plot or a small patch in the garden, this handbook is full of tried-and-tested tips from a seasoned old hand. It offers practical month-bymonth suggestions for making the most of the little time you can spare on both the coldest winter days and the long summer afternoons, with ideas to inspire even the most experienced allotment gardeners. Focusing on the essentials needed to produce a great crop, this is for those who want to but struggle to find the time to grow their own.
§ “It offers practical monthby-month suggestions for making the most of the little time you can spare on both the coldest winter days and the long summer afternoons, with ideas to inspire even the most experienced allotment gardeners.” aha MOMENTS! | 79
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