d e l i g ht f u l e x pe r i e n c e s
the hot summer
Fashion + Trend Travel guide
enhle mbali
Smart, tenacious & owning it
Celebrate
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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
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Contents Elate 6
A welcome note from the aha Hotels & Lodges CEO, Neil Bald
Regulars 20 Events
Investec Art Fair Decorex Durban 2019 Catch up on trends and style at the Durban Exhibition Centre
24
Lifestyle 46 Happy New Born! – Planning expenses
associated with maternity leave
Hot spot 12 Alba Restaurant
Hot picks 11 Meet the “King” of smart phones:
Hauwei Mate 20 Pro
Experience The Alba restaurant’s dining at the V&A Waterfront
Exclusive 16 ENHLE MBALI
Wakanda Empress to you
16
Cover star: Enhle Mbali Photography © Khieran Trent @ Brand Cartel Crop Top & Crown: Gert Johan Cotzee Dress/ Skirt: Ryan Keys 3 | aha MOMENTS!
Contents continued 36 56 aha Riverside Hotel 64 aha Alpine Heath Resort
32
aha Drive 48 Mercedes Benz
aha Portfolio 71 Come and visit! Choose from our range of
hotels and lodges in Southern Africa
Hot books 78 Latest book releases 80 Book review
aha Food 48 Chef Talk
28
All eyes on O’ Bar & Eatery’s Executive chef: Gerhard van Niekerk
Encore Features
72 Dubai’s family friendly attractions.
24 Chrisél Van der Merwe
Capturing Johannesburg’s artbeat
52 Grant Hinds
He’s got game: South Africa’s top YouTuber
aha Travel 28 aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel 42 aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites >>
42 4 | aha MOMENTS!
DIY
Book. Stay.Snap.
WIN ONE YEAR’S FREE ACCOMMODATION When you book your stay between 1 October 2018 and 31 January 2019.
Find out more: www.aha.co.za 6 | aha MOMENTS!
HOTELS & LODGES
A Moment with the CEO
aha Hotels & Lodges Brand Manager
T
he holiday season is here again! It is the perfect opportunity to appreciate our precious natural and cultural heritage by travelling and exploring our beautiful country and continent and what better way to do so than with family and friends. One great way to start exploring is through our exciting summer campaign “Stay aha”, where one lucky aha traveller could win a holiday adventure of a lifetime!–a year’s free accommodation in any of our hotels and lodges. Visit www.aha.co.za for more details and discover more of our exciting holiday destinations. Competition closes on 31 January 2019. Family is also a top priority for our cover star Enhle Mbali; besides being a mother and wife, the multi-faceted actress knows all about prioritising. She tells us about her rise to stardom and attaining the perfect balance when it comes to her loved ones and dynamic career. While the topic of those near and dear to us is fondly on our mind, we feature a range of our ultimate family suited holiday destinations in this edition; starting with aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel on page 28-30. This beautiful 4-Star establishment is intimate and ideal for a tranquil family escape and provides the perfect opportunity to discover more about one of South Africa’s oldest towns. Inge Wulff on page 32 is forging her mark in the industry, and the former KLûK CGDT stylist tells us about her very interesting revolution of Kimonos. Amongst our brand pillars; something we really pride ourselves in, is the food and drink aspect which provides an experience that is unique and always served with generosity. We have invested millions in our restaurant offerings; the most recent include the refurbishment of the Canal Café on page 42-44. Located within aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites in Cape Town, it caters to both in-house guests and local patrons and is guaranteed to be a diners’ absolute delight with its home-style cooked meals. We are equally pleased to debut the newly built O Bar & Eatery; our new dining spot at aha The Rex Hotel on page 74-75. This chic, contemporary styled eatery will also cater to in-house guests and local patrons, serving a range of signature dishes and will certainly prove to be one of Knysna’s most sought-after “eating spots”. We also chat to the eatery’s Head Chef; Gerhard van Niekerk to find out what inspired his culinary passion. From food to the arts; the talented painter, sculptor and printmaker Chrisél van der Merwe tells us about her unique academic approach to her work on page 24-27. Take time and treasure the Moments with those near and dear to you this holiday season. Always be open to new discoveries, new friendships and life-changing experiences and look forward to 2019 with zest! May your season be bright and even more fulfilling as we ring in the New Year! Until next time, take care.
Neil
Thabang Willie Email: thabang.willie@aha.co.za Tel: +27 10 442 5800 11 Autumn road Rivonia www.aha.co.za
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
These social pages will make you book your next stay at aha Hotels & Lodges.
June Communications Tel: +27 (0)11 575 0420 The Campus, Twickenham building 57 Sloane Street Bryanston
Follow: ahaTheRex ahaQuayside
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
Copy editing Mohlomi Maubane
@aha Twitter
CONTRIBUTORS Megan Ross Trevor Crighton Juliet McGuire Uzanenkosi Mahlangu Angeline Marokoane
Advertising Sales Yellow Pepper Media email: info@yellowpeppermedia.coza
STOCK Images @Shutterstock COVER IMAGE: Khieran Trent
Book a stay and get 20% off from the best available rate. Share your holiday snaps to stand a chance to win a YEAR’S FREE ACCOMMODATION! (Period 01 October 2018 -31 January 2019). T’s and C’s apply. House rules: How to share your unique experience? 1. Request the competition cut out at reception 2. Snap a pic of yourself, family, or friends anywhere at the aha destination 3. Post it to either Facebook, Instagram or Twitter using the hashtag #stayaha and tag the hotel or lodge you’re staying at! Visit: www.aha.co.za for more
8 | aha MOMENTS!
Business Print Centre +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
competition alert!
PRINTING:
Here’s to the Festive Spirit Clink
! t ha t to
Veuve introduces Rich Rosé Get mixing with mixologists selected ingredients to add a unique twist and magnified the signature notes of the wine. Clicquot Rich Rosé is best enjoyed over ice with fresh ingredients, including lime, pineapple, ginger or tea. The perfect serve in 3 easy steps: 1. Place ice in a large wine glass 2. Add your choice of one fresh ingredient: lime, pineapple, ginger or tea 3. Finish with chilled Veuve Clicquot Rich Rosé.
Graham Beck A good old brut never disappoints, dubbed the “President’s Choice” as was served at the late Nelson Mandela’s inauguration - we see it fit to raise a glass and toast to celebrate his legacy. This Brut NV is intended to cleanse the palate, stimulate the taste buds and entice you to progress to the ‘next level’ in your tasting journey as you savour the nuances and complexities of the other bubbles in our portfolio. The Graham Beck Brut NV has a fresh taste with hints of lime and is popular with crowds.
DaLuca Prosecco This beauty from Sicily, Da Luca is best served chilled, and can be enjoyed as is or in cocktails, as a refreshing aperitif or with meals. The taste is fresh, zingy citric flavours with attractive palate weight rounded by balanced fruit sweetness. Long and persistent with pinapple notes and a clean mouth-watering finish.
events guide Master classes by the legendary Jan Harlan The South African International Film Festival is pleased to announce that it will host German-born film producer Jan Harlan for its fourth instalment, which runs at the Market Theatre from 1 March to 10 March 2019. Harlan, mostly known as an executive producer for Stanley Kubrick classics such as The Shining, Full Metal Jacket and Eyes Wide Shut, as well as the Steven Spielberg - Kubrick collaboration A.I. Artificial Intelligence, will give three Master classes at the upcoming festival, which has renewed its relationship with the Market Theatre as a hosting venue for the next three years.
Harlan’s Master classes will explore different facets of the filmmaking process: • It’s All in the Writing: Making a film with a limited budget. • The SHORT - The Calling Card, and Music as a Scripting Tool - A Possible Pillar for a Film’s Structure. Harlan’s Master classes will take place on the 2nd and 3rd of March 2019, starting off with It’s All in the Writing, which takes place on 2 March from 10am to 2pm. The SHORT will follow in an afternoon session from 3pm to 6pm, while the final class, Music as a Scripting Tool will take place on 3 March from 10am to 2pm. Tickets are available through Webtickets. • Visit www.rapidlion.co.za
2019 Design & Décor Trends decorex durban Head over to the Durban Exhibition Centre, and you’ll see the most beautiful concepts and products from a collection of expertly curated designers and manufacturers. The African continent is positioning itself as a global style icon, fusing the influences of international trend-makers with the unique colour and vibrancy that characterises its people and cultures. The impact of this colourful continent on the 2019 lifestyle trends will be brought home through the features and products showcasing at Africa’s most prominent décor and design exhibition – Decorex SA. The much-anticipated theme for 2019 ‘Designing for Africa – feels like home’ encapsulates the re-birth of the African style powerhouse.
Dates: 21-24 March 2019 Book: www.computicket.com
Let’s talk about Art
More than 100 galleries and exhibitors from around Africa and the world will be taking part in the upcoming Investec Cape Town Art Fair, at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC). The panel “Curating in the 21st Century” will feature esteemed scholars and curators from diverse localities to unpack the state of exhibition making today. Participants include Renaud Proch, Director of Independent Curators International, New York City who will be joined by Chief curator of Jo’burg Art Gallery, Khwezi Gule, and Vilma Jurkute Director at Alserkal Avenue, Dubai. This panel will anchor the series of talks 10 | aha MOMENTS!
touching on everything new, safe and unchartered in the art world. Collecting digital arts is another topic that is growing popularity in this information age. Tegan Bristow, Head of Digital media at Wits University, will bring together a host of multimedia adventure seekers from the country’s most exciting online initiatives. Additional talks will wrestle with issues of copyright, creative hubs and, to round off, in depth conversations with renowned international artists whose work will hang at the art fair and around the city.
When: 15 to 17 February 2019 Visit: www.investeccapetownartfair.co.za
HOT picks
Get smart with the Huawei Mate 20 Pro Huawei Technologies crowns its Mate 20 Pro as the king of smartphones, with a monstrous performance and ultra-wide-angle triple camera that will blow your mind. Top features for travellers: Powerful, efficient performance The Huawei Mate 20 is powered by the Kirin 980 chip, which offers improved performance and smooth user experience, even after extended use. Lifetime performance is a key focus for Huawei, so the speed of their devices remains as fast as on the day you buy them. A camera system that will make you a pro photographer Building on the impressive camera system of the Huawei P20, Huawei’s Mate 20 Pro helps you not only see wider when taking a shot but also closer. The device has a 16mm Leica Ultra-Wide-Angle Lens, which creates a sense of spaciousness and adds a threedimensional effect to your images. The Huawei Mate 20 also features professional filmmaking skills, making it possible for even novice filmmakers to create blockbusters. One of these is the AI Portrait Colour video mode. Using AI, the Huawei Mate 20 Series can isolate and highlight the colours of a subject by desaturating everything else.
Charge is the industry’s fastest wireless charging solution. Long battery life The new Huawei SuperCharge, Huawei Wireless Quick Charge and powerful battery work in tandem to provide you with the best battery life. The 40W Huawei SuperCharge gives your phone a 70 per cent charge in 30 minutes and Huawei’s Wireless 15W Quick
EMUI 9 enables a quality life The device’s smart operating system enables the Huawei Mate 20 Pro to perform a range of tasks from object identification to food calorie counting by simply pointing camera towards objects. It is also able to recognise famous paintings and landmarks. aha MOMENTS! | 11
rock the boat The Alba is the first of its kind in Cape Town, an exclusive fine dining, floating restaurant experience. Text & Images: ŠSupplied
M
easuring 22 metres in length with a six metre beam, The Alba has a seating capacity of seventy-two guests or a hundred guests for cocktail functions. With an enclosed deck of floor-to-ceiling glass windows, The Alba lets in those famous views of Table Mountain and the twinkling harbour, while it cruises around the marina. The lunch and dinner menus have classic dishes for tourists who are keen to sample SA game. Baked camembert with figs and spiced walnuts; Karoo springbok carpaccio; and citrus-cured salmon are on offer for starters. Mains are a choice between beef fillet medallions with roasted bone marrow jus and truffled mash; seabass with coriander and chilli; or braised springbok shank with mash and caramelised onion. End on sweets like dark chocolate mousse with orange zest or truffles rolled in pistachio with a touch of chilli. The meals are Halaal friendly, and vegetarian and vegan options are available on request. As for drinks, the Durbanville Hills Rhinofields range is available as a 12 | aha MOMENTS!
wine pairing with each course; alternatively, guests can order beers or soft drinks, all-inclusive in the price of the cruise experience. The daily bubbly brunch cruise at 10am offers a cold and hot breakfast spread and bottomless bubbly (R495), and the daily lunch cruise at 1pm offers a three-course plated meal with wine pairing (R595). At 4pm from Monday to Friday and on Sunday, the afternoon cocktail cruise offers a selection of canapĂŠs, wine and cocktails (R595). On Saturdays at 4pm you can opt for the high tea cruise, which offers a selection of sweet and savoury treats (R495). Finally, the daily dinner cruise at 7pm offers a three-course plated meal with wine pairing (R695). All cruises include a glass of bubbly on arrival, and coffee or tea. The Alba also offers WiFi for those envy-inducing Instagram posts.
For more information, visit www.thealba.co.za or email bookings @thealba.co.za to make a reservation.
HOT Spots
Eat like a local
Text: Supplied | Images: ŠKoa Photography
F
lourish Bistro offers plant-based, refined sugar and gluten-free meals and is located in the heart of Woodstock, Cape Town. Owned and managed by sous chef Johanna de Groot - they pride themselves on providing visitors with superior quality food which is healthy and good for the planet. The decor is sourced from local craftsmen, and most accessories procured from hospice shops. Have breakfast all-day and lunch starts at noon. You can expect a fresh vegan Caesar salad, healthy Buddha bowls, Fully loaded nachos, barbequed Jackfruit sliders and hearty Taco meat sandwiches for lunch accompanied by delicious desserts.
m e h t Visit
403 Albert Road Woodstock, Cape Town Open: Monday to Saturday 9-4pm Instagram: @flourishbistro
aha MOMENTS! | 13
HOME GROWN
Meet the Accidental Wine Fundi 5 minutes with Roland Peens, DIRECTOR OF WINE CELLAR INSIDERS on this exciting new venture and on taking the guesswork out of ordering fine wine Text & Images: ©Supplied
W
ine professionals and expert palates Roland Peens and James Pietersen of Wine Cellar – fine wine merchants are set to launch Cape Town’s hottest new online wine club, Wine Cellar Insiders, with an aim of taking the guess-work out of shopping for fine wine and exposing wine aficionados to a whole new world of exciting wines. South Africa is being quoted by leading international wine experts such as Master of
14 | aha MOMENTS!
Wine Tim Atkin as one of the most exciting wine producing countries in the world. Not only is South Africa pushing the boundaries of fine wine, it’s also producing some of the best value wines in the world. With so many exciting new producers and an abundance of choice, it can be difficult to select fine wines, be it for a big occasion or a quiet night in. Tasting over 5000 wines each year and with over 35 years of combined fine wine
experience, Roland Peens and James Pietersen will select wines that they enjoy on a regular basis – anything from larger, dependable producers through to cuttingedge Young Guns and even international wines to expand drinking horizons. Each month, the Wine Cellar duo will select 6 exciting wines for the Wine Cellar Insiders club cases, delivered directly to your door. We caught up with Roland Peens to chat about his exciting new venture…
Q: A little known fact is that you and James Pietersen taste over 5000 wines each year and have over 35 years of combined fine wine experience. Explain the selection process for choosing wines that will be included in the Wine Cellar Insider cases each month. A: This is more of an organic process. We are constantly tasting new wines and identifying producers and wineries that offer exceptional value. Often we taste a wine and go ‘Wow! This offers incredible value, we need to tell our customers about it’. Since the consumer is inundated with wine offers, this gives us the opportunity to show off the exciting, better value wines. Unlike many wine clubs, the Wine Cellar Insiders selection is specially curated each month to highlight the wines you should be drinking! Each month our selection also includes a benchmark international wine to further expand your wine horizon. Q: Every delivery also comes with notes on each wine and food pairing ideas, please tell us a bit more about the information supplied in each case. A: Some of the exciting New Wave, Young Gun wines that are pushing the boundaries in South Africa are often not made in the traditional style. These often have no oak maturation, lower alcohol, have a different texture or are made from grape varieties that are rather unknown. The wine scene has moved away from just Chardonnay, Cabernet and Sauvignon blanc. We therefore offer the customer more information on each wine and how to enjoy them. With or without food, what temperature and what to expect. This doesn’t mean that there will only be ‘geeky’, ‘hipster’ or ‘natural wine’, we always add a few classics, as they too are better than ever before. Q: Subscribing to the Wine Cellar Insider is an easy and sure way to broaden one’s wine knowledge and educate one’s palate. Sounds like an amazing gift idea – is it possible to purchase as such? A: For sure. I think this is a great gift idea, especially if you have to drink the same boring supermarket brand every time you head to your in-laws for example. Expanding your palate opens you up to new flavours and experiences, especially with the explosion of diversity in SA wine.
Q: Wine Cellar Insiders offers free delivery – does this count for Cape Town and Johannesburg? What is the radius of delivery? A: We deliver at no charge all around the country, direct to your office in Sandton or to your farm in Citrusdal. You place the order online, we deliver fine wine. Q: Subscribing to Wine Cellar Insiders certainly saves one time on decision making. What are the different subscription plans, and which one do you recommend A: You can purchase the monthly case onceoff at any time for R1000. Or subscribe for six months at R950. A 12-month subscription is just R900 monthly, which is automatically debited off your credit card, so it’s hasslefree experimentation of fine wines at your fingertips. Q: There are different Wine Cellar Insider case options to choose from. Please tell us about the first options you will be offering. A: We have recently added a Champagne Insiders membership too. For R1500 per month, you will receive exciting, different and benchmark Champagnes every second month. James and I love Champagne and again, we want to show our customers the incredible diversity within the region. From Grower champagnes to Grand Marques, Rosé to Blanc de Blancs, the Champagne Insiders Club will be an incredible journey of exploration, flavour and celebration!
To become a Wine Cellar Insider, and order your first case, visit www.winecellar.co.za/wine-insiders-case aha MOMENTS! | 15
Exclusive
Her Own Boss!
Enhle Mbali has global ambitions and the work ethic to achieve them. Text Trevor Crighton | Images Š Khieran Trent @ Brand Cartel
16 | aha MOMENTS!
aha MOMENTS! | 17
E
nhle Mbali feels like a permanent fixture on South African TV screens despite turning just 30 in 2018. An early start in the industry probably contributed – she was only 16 when she made her acting debut on Mtunzini.com in 2005. She has been part of the TV industry for much longer than that – her mother was a makeup artist who’d pay the young Enhle – known then as Mbali Mlotshwa - R5 for working as her assistant. “Being able to see the industry through her eyes, and blending into the background, definitely taught me a lot about it,” says Enhle. “I’m a very observant person, so sitting back and watching taught me a lot. I saw that it wasn’t glamorous – it’s a job like any other, and you have to have a certain work ethic to get where you want to be”.
18 | aha MOMENTS!
” “
I live in the world - home is where the heart is.
That work ethic is something which has defined her career, even as she’s branched out beyond TV into other spheres. Her CV now reads something along the lines of Actor/ Presenter/ Artist/ Entrepreneur/ Designer/ Wife/ Mom – with ever-more slashes being added as she embraces the opportunities that hard work brings her way. “In this industry, you need to have a lot of ‘slashes’,” she says. “I’m still young – I may be 30, but I feel 18 – so I have all the energy in the world to go for every opportunity. >> aha MOMENTS! | 19
20 | aha MOMENTS!
”
“The photo shoot is going to see pregnant women embrace their sensuality – it may be a bit risqué for some people, but it’s time to break boundaries.”
“
“I don’t quite have ‘the fear’ yet, that comes with getting older. If anything, having kids has motivated me even more, because it’s accelerated the plan”. Her 20-year plan rapidly became her five-year plan, with far loftier longer-term goals now in place. Those goals include a focus on acting – particularly in film. “I love dramatic performance – there’s so much emotion in me that I haven’t played with on screen yet. It’s like going to a psychologist and bearing my heart and soul,” she says. “I’d love to play the sort of characters that Charlize Theron gets to play – where you can dive in for a good six months and become this person, before coming up for air and reclaiming who you are”. Like Theron, she has big plans to add an additional slash – Film Producer – but won’t reveal too much detail just yet. It’s not all work, though – her sons Asante and Anesu are a major focus as she tries to give them the stability she never had, growing up, while maintaining her relationship with her equally hardworking husband, one of the world’s hottest DJ’s, Black Coffee (real name Nkosinathi Maphumulo). “After my ordeal (she was hospitalised after a hijacking in Johannesburg in 2017) I tend to keep them away from the spotlight, for their safety,” she says. “I also want them to have as normal and stable an upbringing as possible, and give them all the things I didn’t have
when I was growing up”. Despite their busy schedules, the couple spends plenty of time together – during SA summer season, they are together at least six days a week, but when her high-profile husband jets to Ibiza for residencies at some of the world’s biggest clubs, they see each other at least two weeks a month. She tries not to travel too much, in the interest of that everpresent need for stability for her boys – but does get out to the island often to spend time with, in her words, “my man!”. “We like to keep our relationship fresh and spicy and the fact that we’re not in each other’s faces every day helps out,” says Enhle. “We never go long without seeing each other - not this girl; I make a plan. I’m crazy in love, so I make it happen…” Asked about what makes the jet-setting relationship tick, she says she can’t honestly explain the formula. “Love, I guess…” she says wistfully. They met when she was 19 and working on Tshisa for SABC1 – then, he was still ‘DJ Nathi’ – and she thought he was a ‘cool dude’ but didn’t trust DJ’s. ‘Pursued’ is a strong word, but he persisted for nearly four years before they ran into each other on the yellow carpet at the MTN South African Music Awards, where she was presenting, and he was nominated for his first award. The conversation there won her over, and she decided to give him a chance – and after finally aligning their schedules
she joined him on what turned out to be a club-hopping first date where he played a number of sets, ending in sharing earlymorning microwave meals from a 24-hour petrol station shop. “The next day, we saw each other again when he dropped food off at my place – from there, we saw each other every day until we got engaged, which was three months later,” she says sheepishly, before cooing “he’s amazing”. There is plenty of brand building in the works – starting with the summer launch of a lingerie and swimwear range from her SE Preggoz maternity wear brand. “The photo shoot is going to see pregnant women embrace their sensuality – it may be a bit risqué for some people, but it’s time to break boundaries,” she says. On the acting front, her ’15 year plan’ is to develop her international options. “By ‘international’, I mean Africa, America and possibly Asia – I love Asian movies, and I’m incredibly drawn to the culture”. That plan doesn’t necessarily mean being based in SA – or anywhere in particular. “I live in the world – home is where the heart is. I just want stability for the first couple of years for the kids, and then I want them to see the world – open their minds and show them that there’s more to the world than our little bubble, here on the southern tip of Africa. The world is not that…” aha MOMENTS! | 21
DIY
22 | aha MOMENTS!
YOU COULD BE SOMEONE’S HOPE OF LIFE
FOOD
The Sunflower Fund creates awareness and educates the public about the need for and the process involved in becoming blood stem cell donors. We raise funds to cover the tissue-typing costs involved in recruiting potential donors and maintain a registry of committed donors.
share. give. register
0800 12 10 82 | www.sunflowerfund.org.za aha MOMENTS! | 23
art
Capturing Johan n esb u rg’s A r t b e at Painter, sculptor and printmaker Chrisél van der Merwe’s work mixes an academic approach with the confluence of ‘happy accidents’ to produce powerful new work. Text: Trevor Crighton | Images: © Chrisél van der Merwe
24 | aha MOMENTS!
I
f one of art’s roles is the documentation of history, then Chrisél van der Merwe’s works are set to become an important record of the rejuvenation of Johannesburg’s inner city. Her art, in oil, concrete and copper plate – amongst other mediums – provides a snapshot of the growth of Johannesburg. She draws inspiration from the creation, decay and regeneration that make up the permanent state of flux of the city. As part of her ‘Architectus Konstruksie’ series, she buried copper printmaking plates under the surface of construction sites around the city, recording the impressions made by the workers and machinery tasked with bringing life back into the Johannesburg CBD. The resulting prints, made from the plates after they’re dug up, are effectively a physical representation of the heartbeat of the construction site – and a testament to the hard work being put into restoring the city to its former glory. The plates themselves, twisted and pitted by the constant movement of man and machine,
“Initially my experience of the city was grounded in my travels to and from my studio.“ become works of art, themselves. Chrisél didn’t set out to document the development of the city, but rather to document her own experience of the growth around her studio at August House in New Doornfontein. “Initially my experience of the city was grounded in my travels to and from my studio. The one thing that interested me most was the constant flux of the city – it never looked the same to me,” she says. “The many construction sites that I would pass in my travels became to me the embodiment of the changing nature of the city. >> aha MOMENTS! | 25
Chrisél didn’t set out to document the development of the city, but rather to document her own experience of the growth around her studio at August House in New Doornfontein.
“The one thing that interested me most was the constant flux of the city – it never looked the same to me.”
26 | aha MOMENTS!
“It speaks about the workers and labourers and planners and architects that envision some new development in the inner-city.” “I started working on construction sites as a means to capture something about the energy of the city - I wasn’t exactly sure what I would end up with.” She feels that the resulting prints are, in some way, a testament of rejuvenation of the inner-city. “Since my plates are damaged on construction sites, it speaks to the potential of development. It speaks about the workers and labourers and planners and architects that envision some new development in the inner-city”. Chrisél began her practice while studying towards her BA Fine Arts degree at the University of Pretoria, which she completed – with distinction – in 2016. The development of her work since then has seen the outcome, less important to her than the processes used in its conception. “The experimental nature of these processes I willingly use limit my control and allow for happy accidents to happen. These accidents are the most exciting parts of the process,” she says. A recipient of a 2018 Young Female Residency Award with The Project Space,
she participated in an invaluable mentorship program and many of South African art fairs, with the potential to take part in international art fairs and residencies. In 2018 alone, she exhibited at the Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees; Art@First (First Rand’s pop-up
exhibition space); the Turbine Art Fair; the Sanlam Handmade Contemporary Fair; the Top 100 ABSA L’Atelier exhibition and many more – including a solo exhibition titled Substratum at the Lizamore & Associates Gallery in Johannesburg. aha MOMENTS! | 27
aha | TRAVEL
Sail Away in Style Explore the picturesque aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel along with the town’s rich naval history
a
ha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel is perfectly positioned on the water’s edge of the Simon’s Town yacht basin, with breath-taking views over False Bay and the majestic Simon’s Kloof Mountains. This 4-star Simon’s Town hotel has a unique location, offering superb views of the yachts and boats in the harbour. A year ago the hotel underwent a comprehensive state of the art R8.6m refurbishment, involving a complete overhaul to all 26 bedrooms, bathrooms and public facilities; with an addition of three entirely new bedrooms, bringing the total
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number of rooms to 29. There are eight Sea View rooms (with balcony) 14 Sea View (without a terrace). What makes these rooms extra exceptional is that guests have occasionally spotted whales from the comfort of their room. The hotel also offers seven Mountain View rooms, overlooking the Kloof Mountains. The entire aesthetic look and feel of the establishment changed, but there are a few subtle nautical nuances that still reflect the towns’ rich maritime history. The rooms are spacious and modern, exuding luxuriousness.
A warm yellow tone colour was added to the walls enhancing the overall ambience of the rooms and ensuring that guests are cosseted in sheer comfort and style. Although the hotel does not have an in-house restaurant, the surrounding neighbourhood offers the most amazing eateries, such as the Saveur Restaurant, a modern European style Restaurant Group which specialises in superior, delectable quality food and drinks, and is accessible to service the local market in a comfortable and contemporary settings. Other great
“Located just a few steps from the Hotels’ entrance, you will find Just Nuisance’s prominent statue, an adorable, but inquisitive Great Dane (hence the name).”
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dining places include Bertha’s which has become a wellknown stopping point in Simon’s Town for both local and international travellers. Salty Dog, Black Marlin, and Lighthouse Café also tops the list for great eateries. Simon’s Town is one of South Africa’s oldest towns, and it is steeped in military history and gives visitors a glimpse into the past. There’s an abundance of museums as well such as the South African Naval Museum and memorials that ensure the city’s military history is honoured and remembered. From 1813 to 1957, Simon’s Town was home to the Royal Navy of the South Atlantic, and from 1957 to date, it is home to the South African Navy. Located just a few steps from the Hotels’ entrance, you will find Just Nuisance’s prominent statue, an adorable, but inquisitive Great Dane (hence the name). He was the only dog ever to be officially enlisted in the Royal Navy. He served at HMS Afrikander, a Royal Navy shore establishment from 1939 and 1944. He died in 1944 at the age of seven years and was buried with full military honours. Nuisance never went to sea with the Navy, but he fulfilled many roles ashore like accompanying sailors on train journeys and escorting them back to base when the pubs closed. Other nearby attractions includes The Cape Point Nature Reserve, a boat trip to Seal Island or Cape Point. aha Simon’s TownQuaysideisalsoincloseproximitytothefamousBoulders Beach which is home to the biggest African penguin colony, plus it’s the ideal swimming spot for kids. Boulder beach has also been listed as one of the top 10 places to visit in the world. Jubilee Square market is also a great market to venture >> aha MOMENTS! | 29
around and get authentic arts and crafts from talented artists and crafters. It’s a great spot to set up camp for the day and enjoy a beach picnic. For the more adventurous at heart,
shark cage diving with Great White sharks presents the ultimate adventure, alternatively taking in the beautiful surrounds, is the perfect way to round off the day.
The Address: St Georges St, Jubilee Square, Simon’s Town, Cape Town, 7975 Hotel Contact details: 021 786 3838 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 | Web: aha.co.za | Email: cro@aha.co.za 30 | aha MOMENTS!
FOOD
SIMON’S TOWN QUAYSIDE HOTEL
aha Simon’s Town Quayside Hotel is perfectly positioned on the water’s edge of the Simon’s Town yacht basin. Enjoy its breath-taking room views over False Bay and the majestic Simon’s Kloof Mountains and discover the town’s rich maritime history.
Book Now: +27 21 786 3838 | reservations@quayside.co.za | www.aha.co.za aha MOMENTS! | 31
BEAUTY
F r es h e r th a n yo u We’re going gaga over these latest finds from L’Oréal KIEHL’S Glow Formula Skin Hydrator Discover how to get glowing skin instantly with our unique Glow Formula. This moisturiser hydrates skin to smooth and soften while imparting a soft, subtle facial glow. Boosts skin radiance over time with the benefits of antioxidant protection. Enriched with Pomegranate Extract and Illuminating Minerals. For all skin types and skin tones. R660 50ml
Viktor & Rolf Flowerbomb Nectar Eau De Parfum A sensual blend of bewitching flowers, Flowerbomb Nectar completes the Flowerbomb collection. An eau de parfum intense, Flowerbomb Nectar is a deep variation of the original Flowerbomb juice with explosive notes of orange flower and tonka bean. Top notes of bergamot oil, blackcurrant bud, and “Living Gunpowder” notes of mineral, smoky, metallic, and ambery notes bring a fusing and vertical effect. Middle tones of orange flower, jasmine Sambac, and osmanthus reveal a base of tonka bean, benzoin, vanilla, and patchouli oil. R1,680 50ml
URBAN DECAY NAKED CHERRY “Sultry & Ripe for the picking! These 12 all-new shades include of-the-moment soft mattes and sizzling metallics, ranging from creamy ivory and shimmering rose gold to the most intense black cherry. Whether you’re at the office, in between flights or getting ready at the apartment, Naked Cherry spices up everything from chill neutrals and sexy shimmers to super smoky eyes. R875.00 32 | aha MOMENTS!
URBAN DECAY LO-FI LIP MOUSSE Ready for modern matte lip color that’s as chill as an afternoon record-shopping sesh? Whipped to airy perfection, Lo-Fi Lip Mousse is a weightless, buildable, waterproof lip color. Lo-Fi provides high-impact color with a velvety soft finish that feels like you’re wearing nothing. R300.00
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d n a ss e . n ts a sh e e tr Fr y e t r u o a e M b t d n n e a g e l s indu ct, volumi ace f e t t a o r A th S P p s u c i n e et m ht s g i o C br t i f e n e with B Dream Screen Its oil-free and it absorbs super-fast, and your skin will thank you for it. Dream Screen sun cream is packed with SPF45.
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They’re real lengthening mascara The eye-opening Hook ‘n’ Roll™ brush grabs, separates, lifts and curls…while the instant curvesetting formula holds for 12 hours. Contains provitamin B5 and serine, ingredients known for their lash-conditioning benefits.
Chachatint check and lip stain Charm your way around this summer with this mango-tinted stain that beautifully blushes lips & cheeks with a tropical coral hue.
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FASHION
Kimono she didn’t gender-neutral, luxurious and chic: ING kimonos are perfect for lounging around & hitting the town. By Inge Wulff | Images ©Jerri Mokgofe Photography
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K
imonos have made a mark in the fashion industry in the last two years as a closet staple. Introduced to us from the Japanese (“ki” meaning “wear” and “mono” meaning “thing”) kimonos are a traditional garment made from four single pieces of fabric. A kimono can be seen as a sign of opulence and subtle sensuality, although perhaps the recent interest in the garment can be attributed to the world-wide increased desire for modest fashion. You might ask yourself why you need a kimono. But believe me: the list of reasons for why you don’t need one is a lot shorter!
Your three must-have kimonos:
1. the brocade kimono Perhaps the more traditional of kimonos, the brocade kimono is guaranteed to look like moving art. The statement piece of any outfit, this item is not designed to blend in. It can be worn with a solid colour underneath to emphasize the contrast or tied in the waist and worn as a dress on its own. Either way? You’re sure to dazzle.
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2. the velvet kimono Not all summer nights are hot and some hot evenings require only a throw-over, the velvet kimono is the perfect ‘oh, this old thing’ to elevate any casual look to something more sophisticated. The velvet kimono, ideally in any jewel tone, will make you look like wealth personified.
3. the lace kimono Pair this with a slip dress for an elegant evening look or over your swimsuit for a more relaxed beach-to-bar transition. This is an item you will have in your closet for the rest of your life. The lace kimono was one of our best-sellers because it is so versatile.
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(in)ge crowd
a minute with inge wulff
Ing kimonos are available through instagram: @wear_ing for R750
The 29-year-old ex-East Londoner currently resides in Johannesburg, where her day job is in marketing. Off peak, she is a fabric storyteller. “I have always loved working with fabrics and trimmings.” In primary school, she flexed her entrepreneurial muscles by selling hand-made denim handbags to her friends. “Growing up, I made a lot of my own clothes or re-modelled my mother or grandmothers existing ones.” After studying at the University of Cape Town, Inge interned for local design house, KLûK CGDT. “I jumped at it and worked for them for four years. I then tried my hands in a corporate space.” Her first collection of robes for .ing was a reflection of her love for colour. “Once I opened myself up to prioritising design, I found another opportunity to create custom printed medical scrubs, inspired by a doctor-friend who wanted to sport something more daring to hospital.” And after work-hours, Inge returns to her fabrics and colours, moonlighting as a designer-entrepreneur. aha MOMENTS! | 39
t i f e n Be metics s o c BEAUTY
e v i t s fe t sets gi f
get the pretty started Get the Pretty Started Throw yourself a pretty party with this limited edition cheek palette! Bronze with hoola matte bronzer, highlight & strobe with watt’s up! cream highlighter and warm cheeks with GALifornia golden pink blush.
Sweeten up Buttercup Extra slice of sexy please! Makeup is a cakewalk with this kit for brows, face & lashes! Get bold, volumized lashes, full & fluffy brows, practically porelesslooking skin and a believable bronze with this Benefit bestsellers set. It even comes all wrapped and ready-to-give in a collectible makeup bag!
Goodie Goodie Gorgeous Benefit’s bestselling makeup trio Layer on the goodies with this Benefit bestsellers giftset! Get long lashes with They’re Real! Mascara, sunkissed with Hoola matte bronzer and radiant with The POREfessional: Pearl Primer. Comes wrapped & ready-to-give in a delicious cake-inspired tin!
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vanity fLare This everyday neutral eyeshadow palette features 12 powder eyeshadows in three finishes: soft matte, satin and shimmer. Play with the rich, blendable shades for easy eyeshadow looks. Also includes our Signature Tips & Tricks with guided eyeshadow application steps. Palette features built-in mirror for on-the-go application.
Triple Decker Decadence Full face makeup set 4 Benefit bestsellers in 1 cake-inspired tin…what a delicious indulgence! Get our hottest & newest volumising mascara, iconic face primer for pores, brow highlighting pencil and bright cherry tinted lip and cheek stain. Comes ready-for-gifting in an adorable cake-inspired tin!
Magical Brow Stars Limited edition blockbuster brow set This limited edition brow set contains 5 FULL-SIZE faves, 1 PRO tool and brow tips & tricks…all at an AMAZING VALUE! From brow pencils to powders to gels and more, this set has everything you need to transform your brows…all in an adorable magic brow trunk.
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aha | TRAVEL
Welcome to the Canal Cafe: We’re Eager to impress L
ocated in the Foreshore area of Cape Town city centre, this beautifully refurbished glass-styled restaurant is famous for the magnificent views of the Cape Town Harbour. Catering to both inhouse guests as well as patrons of aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites; the menu is set to delight diners as they enjoy delectable cuisine that is both local and international, through light, home-style cooked meals such as the famous steak and chips, freshly made sandwiches and tasty salads.
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The décor is contemporary and rustic, reflecting vintage elements that are uniquely incorporated with leather and unplastered brick walls providing a laid back and inviting ambience. Its close proximity to the Cape Town International Convention Centre makes it the ideal spot for a quick business lunch meeting or for a quick lunch and relaxing drink after a hectic spell at the office. Set to be famous for sundowners, guests can enjoy a refreshing drink and food from the delicious tapas.
The bar serves a full range of drinks including wine sourced from some of the best South African vintners. Guests can unwind comfortably at the rooftop pool, with fantastic natural scenery, including a view of the Lion’s Head. You will be right in the hype of activities, because aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites is ideally positioned near the renowned V&A Waterfront recognised for its street food stands, craft beer and live music performances or hop on the water taxi.
Explore the surrounds or take a leisurely stroll and shop at various outlets, ranging from curio shops where you will find some exciting and memorable souvenirs. There are lots of entertainment venues available to keep your day filled to the brim. Nearby Attractions You’ll be energised by the atmosphere around you, enjoy the raw talent of buskers, vibrant street dancers, and artists, with lots of live entertainment, including creative workshops, concerts and puppet shows (mostly free). A choice of museums and markets, and a chance to learn all about the city harbour together with a visit to the famous and familyfriendly Two Oceans Aquarium. Taking a tour to the top of Table Mountain, one of the world’s most recognisable natural icons and one of the official New 7 Wonders of Nature, is a definite must do! On a clear day, the rooftop offers breathtaking views of Robben Island, the infamous prison island; where the late former statesman, Nelson Mandela, was incarcerated for 18 years. >> aha MOMENTS! | 43
You’ll get a birds’-eye view of the iconic Cape Town stadium and the incredible 12 Apostles Mountain range in all its splendour. If you are feeling a little adventurous, how about taking a flight in a helicopter and experience a helicopter flip or simply take a boat trip around the harbour and along the coast. For the not so adventurous that’d instead prefer to stay grounded, take a stroll to the Clock Tower Precinct and be entertained by a colony of Cape fur seals. These creatures have found a home here on the old tyres lining the quaysides around
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the Waterfront. Visitors can also explore the Garden Route by taking the 7 or 10 Day Classic Enfield Tour, through the magnificent beauty of the region. The tour takes visitors through unfamiliar roads, through the mountain passes and into towns and villages unspoiled by modern technology. Bike riders of all levels are welcomed, and if you don’t wish to ride a bike, you can journey comfortably in the vehicle and still enjoy the surrounding beauty and thrill of the adventure. More details are available at the hotel reception.
The address: Dockrail Road, Roggebaai Canal, Cape Town, 8001 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web:aha.co.za | Email: cro@aha.co.za
Unsurpassed location & ideal convenience
This exclusive 4-Star hotel is set against a backdrop of picturesque mountain views and spectacular views of the canal and harbour. Located near the V&A Waterfront and within the Cape Town International Convention Centre precinct, it’s ideally suited for the business and leisure traveller.
For bookings: +27 10 442 5888 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za
HARBOUR BRIDGE HOTEL &ahaSUITES MOMENTS! | 45
y p p a H ! n r o B w e N
LIFESTYLE
Do you know what you’re covered for during maternity leave? By Irvin Partners PR | Images: ©Sourced
T
here’s a lot to think about when a baby is on the way. Amidst all the excitement as preparations are made, it soon becomes clear that it’s also a costly time. There is often a long list of things you will need to purchase; a cot or crib, clothes, nappies, toiletries, and so much more. Moreover, maternity leave often creates a gap in income, further adding to the financial stress. It’s time to get serious and start doing calculations, so that you can budget for the new arrival. Sit down and look at your finances to determine what income you might be losing, what you have coming in, and what claims you can make on insurance policies. Fortunately, there are ways to alleviate some of the pressure. First, be sure to check your medical aid policy and contact your policy provider to check what maternity benefits you are
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covered for. They will provide you with a list of what is specifically covered under your plan and in some instances, you need to register to receive additional maternity benefits. When choosing a doctor and hospital, you’ll also want to check what medical aid they accept and how much they charge versus the payout provided by your insurance provider. Some will charge medical aid rates, while others could cost significantly more than what your medical aid pays out. There might also be only certain hospitals associated with your medical aid plan. When it comes to maternity leave and pay, you’ll need to go through your employment contract. While you are legally entitled to maternity leave, your employer does not have to pay you during this time. You are, however, allowed to claim a portion of your salary from the Unemployment Insurance Fund. The process can be tedious, standing
“When choosing a doctor and hospital, you’ll also want to check what medical aid they accept and how much they charge versus the payout provided by your insurance provider.” in line at the Department of Labour each month and filling out paperwork, but some companies offer this as a service for a once-off fee. It’s also worth checking your insurance policies. With a new dependent on the way, it is critical to ensure that any life insurance
About Switch2
and income continuation benefits you have in place will also extend to your child. You should also update your will or write one up with an attorney if you haven’t already. You might also be able to claim on credit life insurance, which you will find in your credit contracts ‒ for example, your credit cards, retail store cards, home loans and vehicle finance agreement. If you have accrued debt over the years, it might be worrying that you’re still dealing with paying off past purchases. However, the good news is that credit life insurance is built into many debt contracts and is there to protect you if you are unable to make payments on your loans. It kicks into action in circumstances such as maternity, retrenchment, disability and death.
Sasha Knott, Divisional CEO of Switch2 a Division of Clientele Life, explains that “with effective planning, women who take credit life cover before they fall pregnant can rely on this type of insurance”. Once you start looking, you’ll also find that there are many small maternity benefits you might not know about. Most medical aid reward programmes offer additional maternity perks including baby bags, parenting magazine subscriptions, and even access to online tutorials, and advice. Many major retail chains also offer baby club cards and benefits and some private hospitals also provide certain incentives which could all prove useful when you have a long list of things you need for the arrival of your newborn.
Established in 2016, Switch2 Credit Life operates to help consumers save on credit life insurance. In an industry that often over-chargers unwitting customers, a large part of the company’s strategy is to educate consumers about their right to choose their own credit cover provider. Switch 2 is an authorised Financial Services Provider and Registered Insurer (FSP Number 15268). This article, as well as any comments attributed to Switch2 or Clientèle Life does not constitute financial advice.
For more information, please visit www.switch2.co.za or contact info@switch2.co.za. aha MOMENTS! | 47
drive
The new Mercedes-Benz A-Class It’s been 21 years since the first Mercedes-Benz A-Class was launched and we have certainly come a long way since then. Juliet McGuire went to find out just how far at the local launch of the fourth generation in Cape Town. By Juliet McGuire | Images: Š Mercedes-Benz South Africa
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T
he first-generation Mercedes-Benz A-Class, launched back in 1997, was not what one would consider a raging sales success. If not only due to it toppling over during a moose test, it could be argued that the car was just too ahead of its time. Nevertheless, Mercedes-Benz thankfully went back to the drawing board with the third generation A-Class back in 2013 and produced a product that would go on to sell three million units. HOW DOES IT LOOK? The third generation saw a drastic change in design that attracted a younger buyer to this compact hatch. Now, the entirely new fourth generation cues the brand’s next step in its design philosophy, called Sensual Purity, which Mercedes describes as purist and surface-accentuating. >>
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Although lighter, the new car is bigger than its predecessor – 120 mm longer, 16 mm taller, and 6 mm wider. It has a sportier yet more mature look about it, and this is precisely what Mercedes-Benz set out to achieve wanting its product to offer more utility value. AND ON THE INSIDE? It feels like you could be sitting in an S-Class when you hop into the A-Class cabin, and that’s because, well, much of the technology found in the S-Class has trickled down into the brand’s entry-level offering. The build quality is noticeably more upmarket, and if you owned the previous generation, you would notice the improvement of visibility in this model. Thanks to taller and squarer windows, visibility is 30% better. Customers should also be happy to know that the luggage capacity has been increased by 29% to a total of 370 litres. When it comes to the technology offered in this premium hatch, there is nothing quite like it on the market just yet (BMW plans to launch Personal Assistant in March 2019). The new MBUX multimedia system, which underpins the infotainment system, utilises a rather impressive voice control system that can be activated with the words, “Hey Mercedes”. It acts like a personal assistant, and with that one phrase, you can adjust 50 | aha MOMENTS!
“When it comes to the technology offered in this premium hatch, there is nothing quite like it on the market just yet (BMW plans to launch Personal Assistant in March 2019).”
the air conditioning, send a text message, heat your seats, or find the quickest route out of heavily congested traffic. What’s even more impressive is that, thanks to artificial intelligence technology, the system will learn and adapt to suit the user. As Mercedes-Benz’s Marketing Director, Selvin Govender, says, “You shouldn’t have to adapt to your car, your car should adapt to you. In fact, your car should be just like you. With the new A-Class, achieving this is as simple as striking up a conversation… making it the ultimate intelligent companion.” Another impressive bit of technology is what Mercedes-Benz calls ‘Augmented Reality Navigation’, which effectively uses a live camera feed of the road ahead and displays this with overlaid road names, direction arrows and other useful information, making navigation that much easier.
WHAT TO CHOOSE? You have a choice of two variants, namely the A200 and the A250 Sport. A diesel model is expected in South Africa in early 2019. Both the A200 and the A250 boast new engines with a 1.33-litre unit powering the A200 while a 2.0-litre engine sits under the bonnet of the A250 Sport. With 120 kW of power and 250 Nm of torque pushing the A200, this small engine provides more than enough oomph. The throttle is responsive, and with minimal lag, this engine is up to the challenge of being a daily commuter. It starts to show some of its weaker points when heading out on the open road as it gets a bit noisy at the national speed limit, but not enough to put buyers off completely. The ride quality will make up for any shortcomings of the engine, which is something previous
A-Class owners will welcome. Mercedes-Benz predicts that four out of five A-Class models sold will be an A200. If it is a sporty thrill you are after, however, you could consider the A250, but then again, you could also wait for the AMG offerings that will arrive in 2019. LAST WORD The new A-Class has brought a new standard of luxury to the premium hatchback market with technology only experienced in much more upmarket vehicles. It now has a wow factor. It looks better, drives better, and overall offers customers a more mature yet highly functional product. But all this doesn’t come cheap. Pricing starts at R499,000 for the A200 and R593,300 for the A250, and that’s before you start ticking those optional extras boxes. aha MOMENTS! | 51
FOOD
Catch of the season We’ve gone fishing so you can feast on these delicious easy to prepare summer recipes Images & Recipes: © Sea Harvest
Kingklip Kebabs with Home-made Red Pepper Pesto
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1.
Ingredients Sea Harvest Kingklip fillet cuts 600 g, cut into cubes For the red pepper pesto: 1 red pepper 1 lemon zested and juiced 2 garlic cloves 2 tsp paprika 1 tsp ground cumin 4 tbsp roughly chopped parsley ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 4 tbsp red wine vinegar
100 g walnuts, roughly chopped Salt and freshly ground black pepper Serve with a baby leaf salad made of: Baby spinach, organic baby leaves, lemon juice and shaved Parmesan Hake with Toasted Almonds, Dried Apricots & Raisin Quinoa Serves 4 – 6 Dinner is sorted! Enjoy this quick and easy refreshing summertime meal.
2.
Sweet, Sticky, Crispy Hake with Smoky Sweet Potato Wedges Ingredients Sweet & sticky sauce: 3 tbsp tomato sauce 1 tsp paprika 1 tsp smoked paprika 1 tsp ground cumin 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 2 tbsp brown sugar 3 garlic cloves, finely grated 5 cm ginger, finely grated 4 tbsp brown vinegar Sweet potato wedges: 4 Orange sweet potatoes, cut into thin wedges 1 tbsp paprika 2 tsp smoked paprika 1 Lemon, zested and juiced 4 tbsp extra virgin olive oil Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
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For t
e i d d i he K
3.
Fish Fingers Tacos: fast finger food for hungry little tummies Ingredients Sea Harvest Fish Fingers 400 g Soft tacos shells 1 tomato, finely chopped ½ red onion Fresh parsley Tomato relish Cucumber, sliced into ribbons aha MOMENTS! | 53
DRINKS
Summertime
Cocktails HENNESSY SOUR The balance of the sweet and sour allows the Hennessy Very Special flavours to shine and steal the show. Sometimes to make a great drink all you need is a great spirit and balance of sweet and sour.
FRENCH 75 The combination of Hennessy and Champagne is always delightful, they both originate from grapes, and the French 75 is a perfect example. Learn how to make this time-tested recipe with instruction from Hennessy master mixologist, Jordan Bushell. INGREDIENTS 37.5ml Hennessy Very Special 12.5ml Simple syrup 18.75ml Fresh Lemon Juice top with sparkling wine or champagne DIRECTIONS Build in a flute, top with champagne and garnish with a Lemon twist 54 | aha MOMENTS!
INGREDIENTS 37.5 ml Hennessy Very Special 12.5 ml Fresh Lime Juice 12.5 ml Fresh Lemon Juice 25ml Simple Syrup DIRECTIONS Add all liquid to a shaker tin with ice and shake until chilled, strain into a rocks glass with ice and garnish with a lemon twist.
SIDECAR The cocktail has become the single most iconic Cognac cocktail of the world. It is both strong and light, refreshing and bright.
INGREDIENTS 50ml Hennessy Very Special 18.75ml Grand Marnier 12.5ml Fresh Lemon Juice Garnish: Lemon Twist and sugared rim Glass: Coupe or Martini DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients to a shaker tin with ice, shake until chilled, strain into a chilled cocktail coupe or martini glass, garnish with a lemon twist, and an optional sugared rim.
“A simple orange twist complements the lively and robust flavours in the cognac. Before you know it, the Hennessy Caipirinha will have your hips swaying to a breezy bossa nova in the Copacabana sun.”
SUMMER SPRITZ Elegant and floral, bright and refreshing, this drink is paired with a walk through a field of wild flowers with the sun on your face. INGREDIENTS 25ml Hennessy Very Special 18.75ml Elderflower Liqueur 6.25ml fresh squeezed lemon juice Top with equal parts Moet Chandon Champagne and Soda DIRECTIONS Add all ingredients except Champagne and soda to a shaker tin with ice and shake until chilled, strain into a Collins glass with fresh ice. Top with equal parts Champagne and soda, garnish with a lemon wheel.
HENNESSY CAIPIRINHA The host of the 2016 Summer Games, Brazil is also the birthplace of the Caipirinha, a delightfully refreshing cocktail that is surprisingly simple to make. Equal parts smooth, strong, and sweet, Caipirinha’s are traditionally made from three key ingredients: lime, sugar, and cachaça. Hennessy’s take on this national favorite swaps out the cachaça for Hennessy Very Special to add body and interest. A simple orange twist complements the lively and robust flavors in the cognac. Before you know it, the Hennessy Caipirinha will have your hips swaying to a breezy bossa nova in the Copacabana sun.
INGREDIENTS 1/2 a lime quartered 37.5ml Hennessy Very Special 12.5 ml simple syrup or a spoonful of sugar with a splash of soda water Orange twist to garnish DIRECTIONS Place 4 slices of lime in the bottom of a rocks glass and muddle to extract all juice and essential oils. Add all other liquids with ice and stir to mix all ingredients together. Garnish with an orange twist.
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aha | TRAVEL
Views Fit for a Royal Take in the splendour of the Zulu Kingdom and the Umgeni River from the aha Riverside Hotel
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he beautiful aha Riverside Hotel is set high on the banks of the Umgeni River in Durban North and is only 5 minutes from the city centre. This 4-Star hotel is comfortable, yet modern and luxurious. Select rooms offer wonderful views across a magnificent green belt stretching from the Umgeni River to the Indian Ocean, these incredible views also extend to other room offerings with views of lush gardens or the idyllic ocean. It has 169 beautifully appointed rooms, which comprise of spacious Deluxe Rooms which feature separate shower and bath facilities. 56 | aha MOMENTS!
The Suites have en-suite bathrooms and a lounge area, the Family and the Standard rooms have en-suite bathrooms with built-in showers. To cater to guests’ convenience, all the rooms are equipped with semi self-catering facilities, which include microwave ovens, as well as bar fridges, complimentary Tea/Coffee making facilities. Other quality comforts include satellite TV, a telephone, lounging area, and self-serve kitchenette and complimentary WI-FI access in all rooms daily. Dining at aha Riverside Hotel is an absolute delight, with two restaurants,
guests are comfortably accommodated in a setting that suits their mood and culinary palate. The Riverside Café offers world-class service and exquisite meals. A more relaxed laid back setting can be appreciated at The Hops Restaurant, has a great vibe and is renowned for their delicious Eisbein and lamb shanks. The menu also includes a range of pasta and a variety of healthy options. The Café & Bar -poolside bar is the ideal place to unwind and enjoy an array of exotic and traditional cocktails. Patrons can enjoy daily specials at the café and daily happy hour bar specials with all beverages
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Select rooms offer wonderful views across a magnificent green belt stretching from the Umgeni River to the Indian Ocean, these incredible views also extend to other room offerings with views of lush gardens or the idyllic ocean.
”
less 50% between 17h00 – 18h00. There’s great live entertainment on Fridays and Sunday lunch specials too. The hotel also presents a newly renovated state of the art conference centre which can host up to 250 delegates; offering a full range of conferencing equipment. There are four smaller boardrooms which seat up to 10 delegates in boardroom seating. Since it is located directly opposite the entrance to the hotel it ensures delegates staying at the hotel
have easy access to their rooms. The establishment also seamlessly caters to day delegates needs offering plenty of secure parking within the hotel grounds, the hotel’s location allows for easy access to modes of private and public transportation and only 20 minutes from the King Shaka International Airport. Weddings are coordinated seamlessly within these beautiful surrounds, the hotel’s professional weddings co-ordinators will
ensure that special day goes off without a hitch and assist the groom and bride to select the right package for you, including flower selection and arrangements to booking the honeymoon suite. For much-needed hair treatments to further enhance that holiday glow, the hotel has a hair salon on site and for the ultimate relaxation; guests can indulge in soothing treatments at The Riverside Spa and enjoy blissful therapeutic treatments. >> aha MOMENTS! | 57
DIY
This beautiful province is a year-round destination and offers an array of attractions and activities, guests can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities such as fishing, shark diving, surfing, wine tasting, mountain biking, surfing, safari experience� the Big Five�, experience the regions rich African culture or merely enjoy relaxed walks on the beach! The Zulu Kingdom awaits.
The Address: 10 Kenneth Kaunda Road (Northway) Durban, KwaZulu-Natal Contact details: +27 (0) 31 563 0600 Hotel email: reserve@riversidehotel.co.za Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web: aha.co.za | E-mail: cro@aha.co.za 58 | aha MOMENTS!
RIVERSIDE HOTEL
Wake up to views
of the Umgeni River and the abundant birdlife of the Umgeni Estuary below this luxury hotel. It’s located just outside the City centre and close to the International Convention Centre. Take in the stunning surrounds and enjoy world-class service and exquisite cuisine. Book Now: +27 31 563 0600 | cro@aha.co.za | www.aha.co.za
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TECH
He’s Got Game Gamer and YouTuber, Grant Hinds, cut his teeth in the media industry. After making a name for himself as a presenter on Espresso, the popular media personality turned his attention to YouTube, where he now hosts and produces what is arguably one of South Africa’s most successful YouTube channels. Megan Ross spoke to him about the future of gaming, where YouTube is taking us, and the possiblity of transformation within the gaming world. By Megan Ross | Images © Jonathan Ferreira / Red Bull Content Pool
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Q: What brought you to where you are now in your career? A: I got into the creative industry through AAA. I studied art direction and advertising but because it was a recession I ended up working at a television studio, storyboarding for a cartoon show. And I’ve kind of just taken opportunities as they’ve approached me. My first job on TV came about because of a cancellation! The producers needed someone to review a game on TV and I just said “yes”. And I did it once and they were like, hey, do you want to come along again next week? You were pretty good. I said sweet, I’ll do it; do I get another free game? My audience in tech and gaming is not really watching TV, so I got jaded with terrestrial broadcast. I pushed really hard on online and digital, and I eventually met up with YouTuber, Caspar Lee. After he told me I should be doing content production and digital video, I got really, really excited about it! I started my YouTube channel then, and eventually I actually quit writing for GQ and being on radio and TV and just focused on YouTube and Twitch. Q: Has incorporating so many different roles into a gaming-focused career come naturally to you? A: Definitely. Taking skills from different disciplines and applying them laterally to the thing that you are currently working on is extremely important. That’s the only way that you can make it your own; make it unique and really valuable. Having a career in new media and new technology, especially in South Africa, or anywhere in the world actually, means that you’ve got to be creating the industry at the same time. You have to carve it out for people coming up behind you, in the industry, and businesses that want to take hold of that industry and use it when there’s actually no established platform for it. I’ve had to take my advertising experience and apply it to the business models that I use and the same for my knowledge of TV and content creation. Not many YouTubers come from a traditional background so they don’t really have some of the learnings here. But again, you’ve got to be careful not to get stuck in the trappings of those previous learnings.
Q: How would you compare the gaming landscape in South Africa to the rest of the world? A: Africa’s in a very cool space with gaming. And the fact is that it’s still a new medium here. A lot of gaming corporations and businesses have taken over and established some kind of traditional format in other countries. Gamers in South Africa are either a few steps ahead or creating their own thing. And it’s very exciting. It allows all these new kids who are up and coming to create exciting careers and to make content as they see fit. It’s a great opportunity because it puts South Africa on the map in a big way. No one could really watch SABC abroad twenty years ago, but now we can watch what a UCT student is creating in their dorm room on YouTube. And if they’re smart about what they’re creating then people are going to watch it. Gaming as a whole is still fresh, and we still have a very different gaming genetic makeup here. A lot of people play mobile games rather than PC console, while the console market is dominated by competitive games like Fifa. The sports scene is bigger here comparatively than the rest of the world, and I think that there is a space for doing more in entertainment in South Africa in the future. Q: You’ve been outspoken about toxic masculinity in the gaming industry. In the light of political movements like #MeToo, do you think we will see a shift in the industry as well? Or am I mistaken in assuming there’s a lot of misogyny involved? A: There is a lot of toxic masculinity in the gaming industry, especially in South Africa. Because we come from a very toxic masculine culture, there’s a lot of misogyny amongst men in every different sphere and they just bring that stuff over into gaming. However, a lot of kids are growing up with a whole different outlook and a whole different view on it and the old guard, as I like to call it, of gamers, are upset about it. They don’t like that their industry is being ‘taken over’ by open-minded people or people who come from different backgrounds and cultures. We’ve got a long way to go and I think that allowing and facilitating a new generation to take over the space is part of changing
“a lot of kids are growing up with a whole different outlook and a whole different view on it and the old guard, as I like to call it, of gamers, are upset about it. They don’t like that their industry is being ‘taken over’ by open-minded people or people who come from different backgrounds and cultures.” it. I don’t know if you’re going to change mindsets that have already been cemented but you can change the industry from within. Q: A long-held perception of gamers is that they’re a bunch of nerdy white dudes playing video games in their moms’ basements. I know you personally, and understand you to be an extremely busy, energetic, go-getting kind of person. Quite the opposite! Is the gaming world in SA reflective of our multicultural society, or would you say that it’s still quite homogenous? A: The South African market is super-white when it comes to gaming. It’s an expensive hobby, and a lot of white people have the resources to game. That said, it’s also a really bad perception that gamers are these people that sit in a basement and play games. There are lots of different gamers and perceptions like this are destructive because they facilitate a toxic masculine environment that’s very one gendered and >> aha MOMENTS! | 61
one sided when there’s actually people from every different background and with very different personality type. There are a lot of black gamers who are doing many different things, like Ekasi eSports, for example. Sam Plays is an incredible local streamer who’s changing the game and again – I think it’s the new young guard that’s coming in and disrupting the space. As gamers who care about a diverse gaming environment, we must cultivate these new talents and make sure that their voices are heard. Q: How do you manage the pressures of staying current and evolving in such a fast-changing environment? I like the fact that technology evolves fast, and I like learning new things. I think it’s one of my secret weapons. I like the fact that there’s new updates to software that I have to relearn. I always see these things as an opportunity to be better and to create more. Imagine your Koki pens at school had updates and you could just do more with them every term because we upgraded them. That’s how I like to see it. You’re able to create better content if you understand the new technologies that are coming out and changing. It’s a good mindset to have: instead of being technophobic, 62 | aha MOMENTS!
embrace it and spend some time learning new technologies because those things have always helped you, in whatever you’re doing. Technology is kind of pervasive in every industry and every career.
“Gamers in South Africa are either a few steps ahead or creating their own thing. And it’s very exciting. It allows all these new kids who are up and coming to create exciting careers and to make content as they see fit. It’s a great opportunity because it puts South Africa on the map in a big way.” Q: YouTube has come to occupy a significant space in the global media landscape. What do you predict for the future of YouTube channels, and your own for that matter? A: YouTube is a very interesting space right now. Like Google, its anonymous, it’s now a verb, and it’s a universal cultural medium.
It is changing all the time. You might not know this but the algorithms are completely changing: the way content is served to viewers changes which makes creators at any given time really relevant or irrelevant, as the algorithm really hides what they’ve been making. It’s a tough, competitive space to work in. It’s good to diversify your content onto other platforms. I do stuff on Twitch and Facebook is really trying to push their way forward with creating a good video platform. But you never know what’s going to be happening in the space. It’s really good to create content that you dig, that you’re passionate about, and if it picks up, that’s great. If you can, research some of the trends. Find out what’s happening with the algorithm, how content is being pushed to your viewers. See if you can either leverage that or change the content accordingly. We’re going to have to do this in a very similar way that television had to. Not everybody was watching certain kinds of shows so they had to make more reality TV, for example, because that’s what people were consuming. It’s about being open to change. Q: Gaming seems expensive and I would have no idea how to make friends who also play. What would you say to someone who wanted to start? A: It is expensive! If you really want to get into gaming straight away, then get on to your phone. Find some cool games there. Games like Clash Royale are competitive that you can play in tournaments now – for money! – that are completely mobile driven and most smart phones can play them. Another thing: buy second-hand consoles;
“it’s a large part of my responsibility to facilitate growth of these content creators, and provide a future for them. I think that’s something I would like to build: a supportive gaming culture as opposed to one that’s super competitive.” don’t worry about getting the latest one. There are new consoles rumoured to come out next year and as soon as new ones come out, the old ones get a lot cheaper. Nowadays, there’s a culture of games as a service as opposed to just being a single game. So, gamers tend to focus on playing one game for a long period of time. These games can be competitive or otherwise, they have lots of replayability. Q: Are you keen to keep pushing in the industry you’re in or have you considered side-stepping, so-to-speak, into different industries? A: I do plan on trying to keep pushing in the industry. We have a lot to contribute. It’s a very
powerful space. We have a lot of new gamers that, again, are from diverse backgrounds that don’t have the opportunities to make it in this industry. And I think it’s a large part of my responsibility to facilitate growth of these content creators, and provide a future for them. I think that’s something I would like to build: a supportive gaming culture as opposed to one that’s super competitive. I think a lot of old gamers have kept it a gated community which is really disappointing. Q: I’ve read elsewhere that it was always your goal to have a thriving YouTube channel. What inspired you to keep producing such fresh content? And how on earth do you stay likeable and current? Surely this longevity can be difficult to maintain or does your passion keep you pushing for more? A: Thank you, that’s really kind of you. I think that transparency is very important online. Honesty, too, is important. And if you are cultivating ethics and morals in your personal life and are transposing that in your videos, and also being transparent about that, you’ll come across as likeable. I hope! Being humble is something that you can’t pretend to be. It’s something you really have to cultivate and work hard at, and meditate on. Read books about. It’s good to work on yourself especially if you’re presenting yourself. The moment I don’t enjoy what I’m doing, I’ll stop. But the industry is changing drastically all the time, so it’s really easy for me to just continue. And to be honest, I’m really excited about producing content! I think that building and continuing an inclusive gaming culture is the most important thing to me right now. aha MOMENTS! | 63
aha | TRAVEL
A Mountain of Fun For the Entire Family a
ha Alpine Heath Resort holds prestige as one of South Africa’s premier family holiday destinations and the winner of the winner 2016 Lilizela Tourism Service Excellence Awards for Hotels in the category of 4-Star Self-catering Exclusive. Nestled along unsurpassed scenery along the Drakensberg Mountain range in the Ukhahlamba district of Kwa-Zulu Natal, it is midway between Durban and Johannesburg. aha Alpine Heath Resort guarantees a funfilled mountain escape for the entire family. To ensure a comfortable family holiday this 64 | aha MOMENTS!
“Nestled along unsurpassed scenery along the Drakensberg Mountain range in the Ukhahlamba district of Kwa-Zulu Natal, it is midway between Durban and Johannesburg.”
>>
summer the 4-Star resort has completed an exciting refurbishment to all 100 of their three-bedroomed, selfcatering chalets; modern and neat finishes and fixtures will guarantee that warm and homely feel. The resort offers superb North-facing self-catering chalets which have the main bedroom with an en-suite bathroom, two twin bedrooms with a shared bathroom, as well as one chalet that is specially modified to comfortably accommodate physically impaired guests. Each self-catering chalet can accommodate a maximum of six people including children and with its own private patio its ensures ultimate privacy. All chalets are equipped with a fireplace, a cosy lounge, patio, a self-catering kitchen, braai area, satellite TV, telephone, dining areas and good cellular reception. Although the resort is self-catering, it offers a number of great dining options as well as on-site eateries. The Restaurant which offers a buffet breakfast and a la carte dinner has undergone a fantastic refurb; creating for an unperturbed yet classy dining experience. The Tavern Bar which offers a snack and platter menu which is available all day has been transformed into Muso’s Studio Bar -a hard rock themed establishment with musical instruments and vinyl records incorporated into the décor and mural design of the bar. >> aha MOMENTS! | 65
The Address: D119, off Old Cavernberg Road, Jagersrust, Northern Drakensberg, 3354 Hotel Contact details: 036 438 6484 Bookings on Central Reservations: 010 442 5888 Web:aha.co.za | Email: cro@aha.co.za
The inviting Coffee Shop offers a cosy and inviting dining spot, it serves a selection of cappuccinos, espressos or lattes along with an all-day a la carte menu and a wide Pizza selection from the wood fired Pizza Inferno. With bountiful activities in store for the entire family, there’s never a dull moment. The hiking trails have been described as some of the most remarkable in South Africa and dare we say the world. Guests can take in the mountainous surroundings on horseback or enjoy some much needed downtime over a game of volleyball, puttputt, outdoor chess, tennis or squash. Treat yourself to the ultimate relaxation at our Be Spoilt Beauty Salon & Spa or enjoy some time in our weight centre or simply lounging around the pool. 66 | aha MOMENTS!
aha Alpine Heath Resort offers an excellent, scenic venue for weddings, accommodating up to 200 guests, flawlessly suitable for a day or evening wedding. Its charming chapel comfortably seats a maximum of 70 guests, and a wedding package is available to wedding parties consisting of more than 30 guests. The resort offers exceptional conferencing facilities and breakaway rooms to choose from. All 11 conference venues have also been upgraded and remodelled and fitted with state of the art wireless audio-visual equipment to make for a seamless, world class conferencing experience. The largest of our venues accommodate up to 300 delegates in Cinema Style seating, and further upgrades have also been made to
our main business area. Adding that extra touch to your stay, aha Alpine Heath Resort also offers little home comforts like baby cots, an extra fridge on request, gas braai, and charcoal braai all available for hire. Due to the area being considered a fire risk zone, the resort occasionally restricts open braai fires at chalets on occasions where high winds are being experienced as an extra precaution. Our Village Market Deli provides charcoal, selected grocery items as well as fruits and vegetables to make sure you have everything you need in your home away from home. This award-winning family resort is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime, so breakaway to the majestic aha Alpine Heath Resort today!
FOOD
ALPINE HEATH RESORT
The ultimate family resort, wedding venue and conference destination located in the hills of the Drakensberg.
FOR BOOKINGS: +27 87 075 0864 | hotel@alpineheath.co.za | www.aha.co.za
o D ert
DESSERT
s s e D
e M
Impress your dinner guests with these centuries-old decadent dessert recipes by Tia Maria. You can expect a taste of sweet liqueur and strong coffee character that consists of Tia Maria Coffee, Madagascar Vanilla and Jamaica Rum elements. Sit back and enjoy! Text & Images ©Supplied
TIA MARIA TORTE INGREDIENTS 4 cups (1 L) whipping cream 1/3 cup (75 mL) icing sugar 1/3 cup (75 mL) milk 3/4 cup (175 mL) Tia Maria® OR Kahlùa® liqueur 3 pkgs (350 g) chocolate chip cookies Semi-sweet bakers’ chocolate, shaved
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TIA MARIA CHEESECAKE Perfect for a special occasion, this American style dessert really has the wow-factor INGREDIENTS For the biscuit crust 85g hot melted butter, plus extra butter for greasing 14 plain chocolate digestive biscuits, finely crushed For the cheesecake 3 x 300g packs full-fat Philadelphia cheese
CHOCOLATE AND TIA MARIA CAKE This cake is a The Usual Saucepans original recipe and made a two-layer 20cm cake. For this recipe you can weigh out the ingredients according to the weight of eggs, so the rest of the ingredients are in ratios rather than weights.
200g golden caster sugar 4 tbsp plain flour 2 tsp vanilla extract 2 tbsp Tia Maria 3 large eggs 285ml carton soured cream For the topping 142ml carton soured cream 2 tbsp Tia Maria cocoa, for dusting 8 Ferrero Rocher chocolates, unwrapped
THE ULTIMATE TIA MARIA CHOCOLATE FUDGE CAKE INGREDIENTS CAKE 150g butter or 1.3 sticks 200g dark chocolate ½ cup cocoa powder 1 cup brown sugar ½ cup white sugar 150mls Tia Maria 50mls milk 3 eggs 1 cup flour 1 teaspoon baking powder ½ teaspoon baking soda ¼ salt ICING 375g dark chocolate ½ cup cream ½ cup Tia Maria
INGREDIENTS The Cake 3 Eggs Self-rising Flour (3 eggs’ worth) Dark Brown Sugar (1 egg’s worth) Caster Sugar (2 eggs’ worth) Butter (3 eggs’ worth) 25 ml Tia Maria 25 ml Strong Espresso 2 Tablespoons Cocoa Powder The Icing 200g Icing Sugar (sifted) 60g Butter 50ml Tia Maria 1 Tablespoon Cocoa Powder 1 Tablespoon of milk Dark Chocolate covered Coffee Beans (to Decorate)
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BOOK REVIEW
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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
KWAZULU-NATAL aha Alpine Heath Resort +2736 438 6484/8500
aha Avondale Boutique Hotel +2731 942 0004
aha Gateway Hotel +2731 536 9200
aha Riverside Hotel +2731 563 0600
aha Shakaland +2735 460 0912
NORTH WEST aha Lesedi +2771 507 1447
aha Madikwe River Lodge +2714 778 9000
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
Ivory Tree Game Lodge +2714 556 8100
LIMPOPO aha Makalali Private Game Lodge +2715 793 9300 NORTHERN CAPE aha Kathu Hotel +2753 050 0076
GAUTENG aha Kopanong Hotel & Conference Centre +2711 749 0000
FREE STATE aha Bloemfontein Hotel +2751 444 3142
Southern Africa NAMIBIA aha Eagle Tented Lodge +264 67 333 426
aha Epacha Game Lodge & Spa +264 811 249 685
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
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ENCORE
Family-friendly attractions in Dubai Dubai is an extraordinary place, a glory of manmade architecture. From the record-breaking highrise buildings to the traditional quarters, Dubai has got it all, though in originality it was just a desert along the coastline. Dubai enjoys all the top amazing places, from the best shopping sprees to sightseeing places, Dubai should be everyone’s one stop for the perfect vacations. The United Arab Emirates is well known for medical innovation and its thriving health tourism sector and Dubai today serves as a gateway to the world. The city is full of culture and modern addons so make sure when you’re visiting Dubai with your family, your tourist spots should include the following places: 72 | aha MOMENTS!
The Dubai Fountain
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Jumeirah Beach – Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa Marked as one of the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is the most remarkable and prominent landmark in Dubai. You can take a minute lift to its view deck on the 124th floor for a spectacular view of the city’s skyline. There are also multimedia presentations and different linked activities to keep everyone involved.
2. Dubai Museum This 4000 square metre museum is located in the Al – Fahidi Fort building which was built in the late 1700s and remains as one of Dubai’s oldest structure. It was transformed into the Dubai museum in 1971, and here visitors can expect to get a glimpse of the life in Dubai in the early years. It remains a place historical importance to the Emirati people. Exhibited in the main entrance of the museum are old maps of the Emirates and Dubai, which shows how the place and region grew after the oil boom.
3. The Dubai Mall
Burj Khalifa Skyscraper
Not just a shopper’s delight - Dubai mall is home to the world’s biggest suspended aquarium. Here families can sight over 140 aquatic animal species with various activities in-between. Enjoy an endless selection of family-friendly restaurants and ditch the dessert because from 18:00,
you won’t want to miss the enchanting dancing fountain just outside the Dubai Mall. Tourists and locals gather here for this half hourly choreographed fountain system which whimsically moves like magic together and perfectly timed lighting. The waves can reach every highest note Whitey Houston ever achieved.
4. IMG Worlds of Adventure Positioned as the biggest and the most adventurous theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure is as much as the size of 28 football grounds. This place has the most up to date rides and will give you the most realistic image of your favourite action characters. There is a wide range of fun activities available which can keep the entire family engaged.
5. Wild Wadi Ride along for the best fun; the Wild Wadi Water Park is centrally located, and within a walking distance from popular hotels. You can enjoy speed rides along the canals and they have a daylong list of activities. You can prepare to be soaked in loads of fun.
*The Wild Wadi Water Park will be closed for maintenance from the 12th of January 2019 and will reopen on the 8th of February 2019. aha MOMENTS! | 73
FOOD
chef talk
A culinary celebration at the new chic
O Bar & Eatery
O Bar & Eatery Executive Chef Gerhard van Niekerk
Few people can escape the charm of aha The Rex Hotel, often described as one of Knysna’s most sophisticated accommodation establishments. Last year the property concluded its R65 million property extension which saw the addition of 56 new standard rooms adjacent to the existing hotel. To add to an all-around offering, the hotel is set to launch its exciting newly built in-house restaurant, The O Bar & Eatery. The restaurant will begin service with a breakfast serving for its in-house guests. The a la carte menu offers signature dishes, steaks and a delicious pizza range prepared in a wood fire oven. We have a look at the life of the man behind the eatery’s delectable cuisine; Executive Chef Gerhard van Niekerk to find out what inspired his culinary passion. Chef Gerhard has honed his dexterous skill over the past decade and has been an Executive Chef for four years.
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Q: What inspired you to start cooking and how did this contribute to your decision to become a chef? A: Growing up I occasionally had to cook supper as my parents had to work late, without realising it I got interested in cooking. I also remember a show I watched where Marco Pierre White was the host, and he talked about life in the kitchen, that Christmas all I wanted was a cookbook and it took off from there. Q: Where did you train and on what was your training mainly based on? A: I enrolled in a four-year apprenticeship at aha Kopanong Hotel & Conference Centre, and they sent me to HTA school of culinary arts. My Executive chef at that time was Desmond Morgan, and I was trained in the old school way of working in a kitchen. Q: What culinary accomplishment are you most proud of? A: Achieving a reward for the ‘Best Host Employer’ in the country for the National Youth Chefs Training Programme (NYCTP) was a fantastic feeling knowing that I played a part in their development.
“[Menu and atmosphere of the restaurant is] simple, fresh, good quality and well-presented food, with a relaxed atmosphere, where guests can come and enjoy great food and wine.” Q: Tell us more about your menu at the restaurant & describe the atmosphere? A: Simple, fresh, good quality and wellpresented food, with a relaxed atmosphere, where guests can come and enjoy great food and wine. Q: What is your favourite cuisine to prepare and why? A: I don’t have a favourite cuisine; I enjoy mixing different cuisines and bringing them together to form a unique dish. Q: Is there a chef you admire the most, who and why?
Morgan. His mind-blowing passion and knowledge for the industry has inspired me to learn more. Secondly, after qualifying as a chef, I met chef Renzo Bico, whom I admire for his skills and the standards he set. Chef Renzo pushed me into my next crucial phase in my career, managing and running a kitchen brigade with the highest of standards. Q: Do you have a favourite ingredient you usually use when you cook and why? A: Fresh mixed garlic and ginger, I absolutely love the character and flavour it brings to the dishes. Q: Do you have any funny or embarrassing kitchen incidences to tell? A: I will never forget my very first day in the kitchen; I saved up some money and bought myself expensive CAT safety shoes. I was very proud of those shoes, and I bragged about never falling in the kitchen ever again. Needless to say, the method for preparing a potato salad had a new twist when I slipped and embraced the pot with all its contents.
A: Well, firstly when I started my apprenticeship - my very first executive chef, Desmond aha MOMENTS! | 75
LOCAL FINDS
As Kool as Culture Fanatical surfers, brothers Laurie and Gary’s combination of authentic Durban roots with their textile design and fine art studies ensure an eccentric, idiosyncratic label that authentically represents SA’s multi-cultural energy while remaining easy to wear. Garments are designed using raw cotton and lint which is grown in South Africa and Zimbabwe, spun into yarn in Mauritius, then knitted, dyed and finished in Pinetown, KZN.
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JEKYLL AND HIDE Complete your office look with these stylish kicks by Jekyll and Hide SA. Made out of sturdy leather and resistant full-grain, which is beautiful and long-lasting, tanned using a traditional and natural vegetable tannins. www.jekyllandhide.co.za
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BOOKS
“As First Lady of the United States of America - the first African-American to serve in that role - she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history...”
Becoming
The Ten-Minute Gardener
Michelle obama An intimate, powerful, and inspiring memoir by the former First Lady of the United States. In a life filled with meaning and accomplishment, Michelle Obama has emerged as one of the most iconic and compelling women of our era. As First Lady of the United States of America - the first African-American to serve in that role - she helped create the most welcoming and inclusive White House in history, while also establishing herself as a powerful advocate for women and girls in the U.S. and around the world, dramatically changing the ways that families pursue healthier and more active lives, and standing with her husband as he led America through some of its most harrowing moments.
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val bourne
Juror No.3 james patterson 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-by-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. 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.
FILM
SCREEN TIME Sorry to Bother You. You won’t regret it. Text& Images © Uzanenkosi (Worker Ant @ ANTS)
M
ost film critics write about movies as if, given the chance, they would make better ones. I am not one of those critics. I am reminded of a popular saying that goes something like: “Those Who Can’t.…” Get Out of here, you say. I am serious, in fact, between you, me and a few drinks, I could be made to volunteer that I am a filmmaker. The Mission Impossible, I have chosen to accept, is to help you find a movie for the occasion you might have in mind these holidays. Now, you might think you don’t need anyone’s assistance in many departments, including this one. Heed the advice of those who know me: A Star Is Born deep inside me, each time I find myself having to convince anyone of anything. In 2017, more than 730 theatrical films were produced. The numbers for 2018 are not yet in, but I am willing to drive while black and wearing a hoodie in America, if 2018 proves not to have produced even more theatrical films. Mind you, these numbers don’t include any of the content produced by the video on demand or pay television channels you might be getting some of your content from. My Bohemian Rhapsody is simply this, you can’t watch them all and some of them are worth missing. This is why I am Spider-Man in the spider-verse and the Black Panther in Wakanda. You are in very good company. There are only four occasions I will
concern myself with: reward, escape, dates and family and friends. The reward is always an IMAX movie, unless of course you believe in small measures. Aquaman and Equalizer 2 are your best bet here. Equalizer 2, I will sell to you with two words: Denzel Washington. Save for him always rescuing white girls in a time black Americans need saving, rest assured this actor has done all the worrying for you to guarantee you a rewarding experience. In Aquaman, we are given his origin story and find him caught between the surface world and the seven seas. Your mission, should you choose to accept it is to find out if he can unite the two worlds? Unlike most, you have left no Widows in your wake and so you want to go on a date. No matter how much I try to tell you about Baby Mamas and their drama, you insist you are Nobody’s Fool. Mama Mia, here we go again. Take your date to see The Oldman & The Gun. Robert Redford is an old gentleman who goes around opening bank accounts with a gun and of course there’s always a woman (Sissy Spacek). After the date, on your way home, fight the temptation to pull your gun instead of your petrol garage card. To help you with your
escape, The Forgiven and Unforgiven, look no further than Mile 22, Venom and Creed II. I can be only your accomplice for Creed II. Michael B Jordan with Rocky Balboa for a trainer, has to fight Viktor Drago, the son of Ivan Drago. If that’s not good enough for you, you get no respect from me. You have rewarded yourself, been on a few dates and escaped and now you feel like spending time with the family and they too want to see a movie. There’s the Usual Suspects like Marry Poppins and The Nutcracker & The Four Realms. You can’t go wrong with Alita, the battle angel from James Cameron and Robert Rodriguez. You don’t know who they are? Adios amigo. You can get back to Enhle Mbali.
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.
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BOOK REVIEW
ALL ABOARD
Megan Ross reviews Gau-Trained, the second book of Poetree Publications director and Johannesburg-based poet, Flow Wellington.
P
erhaps the reason I am drawn to the work of Selome Payne, AKA Flow Wellington, is because I was also born in Johannesburg, a child from the City of Gold. Maybe it’s the way Flow connects with her reader and audience, on page and on stage. It could even be the skill with which she paints an Eastern Caper’s desperation in an inland city, the anguish of a woman who has left all she knows at the coast for a place very far from the Indian Ocean. Ultimately, you nor I require any reason to read GauTrained, the latest of Flow’s collections, other than to be drawn into the rich, alluring world where all that glitters is most definitely not gold (at least not in Flow’s Johannesburg) and where nightmarish scenes of domestic dystopia play out behind suburban walls. Moving from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg is no small feat. The pace of either city couldn’t be more unmatched. Many readers will identify with prerelocation-Flow’s strong yearnings for the concrete jungle, for Gauteng and its opportunities; its psychic architecture of ambition, struggle and Rands. But Flow does
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not hold back, bravely stripping bare the hardships of moving, of adapting to a new life, of forgetting the tongues of the Indian Ocean and maintaining one’s sense of self in the face of racism and sexism; “My tears washing the cold tiles are my secret poems.” In both prose and poetry, Flow traverses the planes of motherhood and life in the big city: detailing how one survives, and also dies, in abusive relationships, and how with enough heart and poetry, it’s possible to be “regenerating, insistently, / Persistently surviving” in South Africa’s busiest city. Although Flow’s poems sparkle on the page, her poetry comes alive in performance. In a voice that is both grit and honey, Flow magically weaves a melodic tapestry, leading her audience through the complexities of everything from loving someone who speaks with their fists to cradling one’s newborn for the first time, recalling often how “Knowing is a saviour / Knowing is everything.” Although several poems in the collection stand out for their lyricism and musicality, it is ‘Instructions for Chaos’ that epitomises the collection and its fantastic blend of
languages, poetic styles and themes, a rallying cry for women to rise. “Build empires / Spoil yourself / Never mind a pants-suit – / Bulldoze boardrooms in a doek / And pumps.”
About Flow Wellington Flow Wellington is a female writer, publisher and Artpreneur. Her artistic journey began in her hometown Port Elizabeth where she flourished as a poet and stage performer. Since relocating to Johannesburg in 2011, she established her publishing company, Poetree Publications, and has helped numerous authors (nationally and internationally) publish their original works in poetry, children’s literature and autobiography.
#GauTrained: poems & stories Flow Wellington © 2018 ISBN 978-0-9946950-2-4 Retail price: R130
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