legacy pride – Standing together against crime
ISSUE 4
issue 04
THE COMMODORE – CAPE TOWN IN TRUE STYLE
Cape town in true style luxury at the commodore
A lunatic in all of us • The changing texture of art • A dream come true Romance the one you love • One planet, one future • New York, New York
Content s 02 FOOTPRINTS An inspiring year
04 SOCIAL Spotting the who’s who 08 EXPERIENCE Where to go and what to do
12 LUXURY A nautical time at The Commodore
18 INSIDE The life and times of Spud
20 OUTSIDE Get to know Bono 22 PLAY New York! New York!
30 LIFESTYLE 2010 World Cup show jumping
63 MONUMENT
64 SCULPT Mediums of art 68 DÉCOR A closer look at Va-Room
74 WINE A tour to Boschendal
80 INDULGE Cocktails anyone? 82 TASTE Our chef on footie, kitchens and fresh fish
86 DRIVE Ride in the McLaren MP4-12C
88 FLY Take to the skies in your own plane
90 BALANCE Relax at the Michelangelo Spa
94 STYLE Own your own Apple briefcase
96 PASSPORT Walk with the gorillas in Uganda
fashion extravaganza
102 ESCAPE Plan your
memories on camera
game rangers
36 EXPOSE Cape Town
52 INTEREST Catch your
62 PRIDE Our vision to fight crime
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…inspires
A nation together
Valentines Day
108 OUTDOOR Calling aspiring 112 BACKCHAT Just for laughs
Publisher Samantha Stevens samantha@medianova.co.za SENIOR KEY ACCOUNT MANAGER Nazreen Herman nazreen@medianova.co.za EDITOR Charlene Carroll charlene@medianova.co.za ART DIRECTOR Daniel J. Parker daniel@medianova.co.za DESIGNER Michelle Cory SUB EDITOR Ian Parsons CONTRIBUTORS Mike Rowley, Kendyll Webbstock legacy@medianova.co.za www.legacyinspires.com Writer: Lauren Keulemans Photographers: Anthony Friend, Sam Norval EDITORIAL ENQUIRIES TEL: +27 (0)86 176 5833 FAX: +27 (0)86 558 8119 ADVERTISING GROUP SALES DIRECTOR Shanee Smart WESTERN CAPE Monique Stein and Tharien Nel for Cape Town GAUTENG Musi Motsuenyane, Marc Lahoud, Rui Barbosa for Jozi KWAZULU NATAL Jenni McCallum for KZN PHYSICAL ADDRESS 8th Floor, Fredman Towers, 13 Fredman Drive, Sandown, 2196, Johannesburg POSTAL ADDRESS PO Box 785828, Sandton, 2146 TEL: +27 (0)861 765 833 FAX: +27 (0) 86 558 8119 Legacy Inspires is published by Media Nova (Pty) Ltd MANAGING DIRECTOR Tony Vaughan tony@medianova.co.za Disclaimer: The publisher, editor and the Legacy Group give no warranties, guarantees or assurances and make no representations regarding any goods or services advertised within this edition. Copyright Media Nova (Pty) Limited. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in any form without prior written consent from Media Nova (Pty) Limited. The publishers and the Legacy Group are not responsible for any unsolicited material.
“It is about the footprints we leave in the sands of time”
FOOTPRINTS
2011 Here we come
I
f we take a brief look back at 2010, the most powerful message that emerges is that we as South Africans can and do, achieve greatness when we commit ourselves. The World Cup 2010 will forever stand as a monument to our collective efforts - certainly the buildings and structures, but more importantly how we, as one nation, showed the world what we can do. A safe, secure environment with friendly, service-oriented people – committed with passion and enthusiasm to making this historic event a success. Sadly, and maybe to be expected, after the World Cup we have lost momentum. Jobs gained have been lost and opportunities created have not been capitalised on. A bit like the vacuum created once the match is over or the exam is written. But now 2011 is upon us and the challenges and opportunities are as great as ever. It is a period of New Year’s resolutions – setting goals. It’s a time when we rejuvenate ourselves, embrace those around us and miss those we have lost. Let’s go out in the spirit of the World Cup 2010 and show the world what we are made of – leaving behind collective footprints as we partner in building a safer and more prosperous future for all in our South African Family. In October, Linda and I were fortunate to spend a few days in Uganda, Africa’s Garden of Eden, a truly amazing country. The highlight of our visit was our time with the gorillas at Bwindi. The majesty and trust these amazing animals have placed with the incredible people of the Ugandan Wildlife team and their ability to convert the risk of their extinction into a business that sustains the people who live in the area. Once a threat and an enemy to farmers in the area, they are now a treasured asset and key to the survival of the people of Bwindi – a force that is drawing tourism into the region and Uganda as a whole. In this lies a message for all of us in South Africa. South Africa belongs to all of us – let us look after each other by using our assets wisely for our and future generations to enjoy. Bart Dorrestein
A New Year is upon us
T
he African summer is my favourite time of the year. Living in Jo’burg means that summer brings with it random afternoon thundershowers. The rains wash away the grit and dust from the dry winters, and the later sunsets mean there is time to spend outdoors after a long day behind the keyboard. The summers in South Africa are long and last right through to April, when the weather slowly starts to turn towards the crisp airs of autumn. We celebrate our holiday period just before the end of the year well into the New Year, as we all try and take advantage of the invigorating sunshine. 2010 has been an amazing year for South Africa. We hosted the 2010 World Cup, waved our flags and laughed and cried together as a nation. On the back of the event, and as a result of the camaraderie and togetherness it instilled in us, we also saw the launch of campaigns like SHOUT and LEAD SA, where we pledged to take back our country and stand united against the many social and economic challenges facing us. But now with 2011 upon us, there is a renewed energy among the people of South Africa, a spirit of awakening and awareness. To my mind this is good news for our country and after the long year that was 2010, it is with great excitement that we face a new year, with new opportunities, and a new outlook. As this is our holiday issue, we hope that you enjoy the articles we have put together, from our visit to the Commodore in Cape Town, a New Year in New York, photographic tips for the aspiring photographer, a preview for Valentine’s Day and a trip to Uganda with the gorillas. And our cocktail menu gives six new ways to see the summer through. We trust you enjoy your latest issue of Legacy Inspires and look forward to engaging with you right through 2011. Charlene Carroll
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Scenearoundt own Scene
Reggi Xabo, Noni Xabo
Africa Melane, Sara B. Cohen
Lester Bergstedt, Cindy Batts
Heading “Downtown” with Belvedere Vodka Guests to the Belvedere Vodka VIP Downtown Event, which took place in Cape Town this November, were treated to a clash of black and white. Guests arrived on a black carpet and were welcomed with cutting-edge Belvedere cocktails and designer canapés. Cuttingedge graffiti artist, Atang Tshikare, produced an amazing graffiti artwork live in front of guests, while talented art photographer, Leah Hawker, executed a live art photo shoot with an Eyes Wide Shut theme. The highlight of the evening was the surprise fashion show, which took place on the white runway that
Michelle Allen, Paul Snodgrass
Morgens Tholstrup, Gretha Scholtz
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flowed through the whole venue.
Brian McMillan, Anina Malherbe, Craig Dore
Henri Slier, Alan Ford
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Scene
Chukka’s and Pimms Celebrities and guests were recently invited to the beautiful premier lifestyle polo and wine estate of Val de Vie for the Pink Polo event in aid of Reach for Recovery, a charity that celebrates brave women fighting the battle with breast cancer. Guests were treated to a lavish high tea while they enjoyed an exciting polo match. The Pink Blackberry Curve team won the match in style. Sponsored by Blackberry, the event included entertainment, prizes and goodie bags. Highlights included a fashion show by acclaimed fashion designer, Kobus Dippenaar, who showcased his latest summer trends.
Ryan O’Conner
Derek van Dam
Leanne Summers & partner
Brigitte Williers & Tammy-Ann Fortuin
Edith Venter & Jo-Ann Strauss
Tammy-Ann Fortuin, Michele Stuurman (Carrol Boyes), Lanie Visser (Blackberry), Edith Venter, with the winning Pink Blackberry Curve team
Zuraida Jardine
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scene
Master of the Quaich, Pierre Meintjes, takes visitors through a Bunnahabhain tasting Dave Broom, whisky expert and global ambassador for FNB Whisky Live Festival, enjoys a dram
Just about to start the whisky trail at the FNB Whisky Live Festival Visitors learn about whisky in the Classic Malts hall
Whisky Live Now in its eighth year, the FNB Whisky Live Festival is the largest whisky and lifestyle event of its kind, attracting more visitors and brands than any other whisky festival in the world. According to the Scotch Whisky Association, South Africa is the fifth largest Scotch market by volume. This year saw a bigger capacity crowd and even more exhibitors, with a host of new distilleries making an appearance for the first time.
Taste of Joburg Now in its fourth year, the 2010 Taste of Joburg was the perfect event for the avid foodie to sample signature dishes freshly prepared by highly acclaimed chefs, while exploring specialist culinary delights, tasting fine beverages and enjoying a fabulous programme of music and entertainment.
Enjoying refreshments in the sun
Aspiring chefs flocked to the event in their droves
Open-air environment and large exhibitor stands were the order of the day
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Guests enjoyed culinary delights from around the world
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DISCOVERING THE SECRETS OF THE BEST CHEFS IS NOT SO DIFFICULT. JUST TAKE A SEAT AT THEIR TABLE. THE FINE DINING WATERS ADV 207x277 INTER Dual2010.indd 1
15/10/10 11:32
Experience
A view of South Legacy Inspires breathes in the sights, sounds and tastes of South Africa’s top places to see and be seen Jo’burg As the urban heartbeat of South Africa, Jo’burg is home to aspiring artists, young entrepreneurs and the country’s elite. Offering something for everyone, Jo’burg is a must-see for any visitor. VISIT 8 at the Towers @ 8 Maude Street, Michelangelo Towers, Sandton. International fusion cuisine at its best with plush surrounds and a diverse menu. Open for breakfasts right through to lunches and late night dinners. +27(0) 11 884 1333 Le Canard Restaurant @ 163 Rivonia Road Morningside. Voted the best romantic restaurant by Peoples Choice Awards. A Haven of Peace and Charm. Contemporary, Continental, European, Fine Dining, French, International, Seafood. +27 (0)11 884 4597
Browns Linger Longer @ Wierda Valley, Sandton. Enjoy South African cuisine in beautiful surroundings.
Browns of Rivonia @ 21 Wessels Road Rivonia.
Maxim @ Legacy Corner Mall, Nelson Mandela
Linger Longer is well known around the world for
Browns is possibly the first South African restaurant
Square. Sandton’s premier cigar and whisky
its high culinary standards. +27 (0)11 884 0465
to introduce a French Cheese room, adding a
lounge, offering elegance, sophistication, style
unique dimension to your dining experience.
and luxury. +27 (0)11 292 7111
Mythos @ Athol Square Sandton. For those
+27(0)11 803 7533 Vilamoura @ Maude Street, Sandton. Revitalising
Greek culinary enthusiasts, this restaurant offers the same fusion of Greek delights with a hint of
Marco Polo @ Legacy Corner Mall, Nelson
your senses and tantalising your desire of
sophistication. +27 (0)11 783 5615
Mandela Square. The Venetian themed Marco
exploration, Vilamoura caters for all your needs,
Polo is situated in the Legacy Corner Mall, just
nurturing your experience from the moment you
FTV Cafe @ Shop P1 Michelangelo Towers,
off the Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton. An
enter. +27 (0)11 884 0360/1
Maude Street, Sandton. With its contemporary,
up market gaming and entertainment venue with
cool setting, this up market destination offers an
its Venetian Showbar dedicated to performances
Maximillien @ Legacy Corner Mall, Nelson
assortment of Mediterranean cuisine and is touted as
featuring Comedy shows to Salsa.
Mandela Square. Offers panoramic views of
a place to ‘be seen’ in Sandton. +27(0) 11-7831864
+27 (0)11 783 4182
the Sandton skyline and an atmosphere of contemporary elegance provides the perfect dining experience. +27 (0)78 804 2091 Annica’s Deli @ Michelangelo Towers Mall, Maude Street, Sandton. Experience a taste of sophistication. Indulge yourself in high tea or perhaps champagne and caviar. +27 (0)11 884 9445 Pigalle @ 4th Floor, Michelangelo Towers, Maude Street, Sandton. A fine dining experience exuding luxury, true baroque attitude and an urban style allows you to take in a sumptuous menu
FTV
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against the backdrop of class and sophistication. +27(0) 11 884 8899
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Experience
African hotspots cape town As the cultural pulse of South Africa, Cape Town offers breathtaking sights, a host of historical sites and a range of dining and theatre experiences that are simply not to be missed. VISIT Cosecha @ Noble Hill Wine Estate, Paarl. French and Mediterranean-style dishes, discover a world of comfort food and good service. +27 (0)21 874 3844 Paulaner Brauhaus @ Cape Town. Waterfront Traditional German cuisine with brass brewing kettles to enhance the ambience of a true German beer brewery. +27 (0)21 418 9999 Cantina Tequila @ 86 Edward Street, Bellville. Mexican cuisine coupled with a long South African history, quality food and high service levels. +27 (0)21 919 1556
cosecha
The Bombay Bicycle Club @ 158 Kloof Street, Gardens. Cape Town’s wonderfully wacky bohemian
Tank @ Cape Quarter Waterkant Street Cape
Constantia Uitsig Restaurant @ Constantia Wine
setting with food to tantalise your taste buds.
Town. The funkiest, freshest and finest sushi social
Estate. Here only the finest ingredients are used. All
+27 (0)21 423 6805
experience. +27 (0)21 419 0007
fruits and vegetables are locally sourced.
The Brass Bell @ 2 Colyn Road, Fish Hoek.
Pakalol @ 10 Main Road, Hout Bay. A Carribean-
For amazing seafood and panoramic views of the
style bistro/bar that offers live entertainment.
Bloemendal Restaurant @ Racecourse Road,
Atlantic Ocean. +27 (0)21 788 5455
+27 (0)21 790 0700
Durbanville. The restaurant is positioned on top
+27 (0)21 794 4480
of one of the highest hills in the Northern Suburbs,
The bombay bicycle club
which gives it a panoramic view of the Cape Peninsula. +27 (0)21 975 7575 Jakes on Summerley @ Kenilworth. Enjoy an al fresco dining experience in a cheerful, friendly and noisy atmosphere. +27 (0)21 797 0366 Nobu @ Dock Road. Diners can indulge in fresh South African seafood and indigenous spices used creatively in mesmerising dishes. +27 (0)21 431 5111 Pure @ Bavianskloof, Hout Bay. A must for those wishing to indulge in an evening of gourmet delights and the finer things in life. +27 (0)21 791 9393 Gold Restaurant @ 96 Strand Street. Offers an interactive drumming experience, followed by live entertainment during dinner with a unique Malian Puppet performance, which is accompanied by dancers and singers. +27 (0)21 421 4653
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Experience
upcoming events South Africa offers a melting pot of cultures, sights, activities and places to visit. We explore some of the best places to visit in your travels as well as some of the upcoming events that shouldn’t be missed. cradle of humankind
Cape Town U2 SOUTH AFRICA 360° CONCERT Cape Town Stadium – Their first visit to South Africa since their PopMart Tour in 1998. Come see this amazing band perform their famous 360° concert in one of the most beautiful stadiums in South Africa. Friday, 18 February 2011, 20:00 P.M. – 23:30 P.M.; computicket.com DAVID KRAMER’S BREYANI Rondebosch – In Breyani, running at the Baxter Concert Hall, David Kramer celebrates rhythm, instrumentation, vocal styling and language
GAUTENG
shop in South Africa for all your biking needs.
with music that is uniquely from the Cape.
THE CRADLE OF HUMANKIND WORLD
18–20 February 2011. +27 (0)11 266 3000;
7 – 31 December 2010. +27 (0)21 685 7880;
HERITAGE SITE
allthingsbike.co.za
baxter.co.za
archaeological value. Rich in anthropological
U2 South Africa 2011 360° Concert
QUIZ NIGHTS AT THE TOAD
treasures, game reserves, cultural villages and
Soccer City / FNB Stadium – U2 are journeying
Noordhoek – Quiz Night at the Toad in the Village at
many other attractions. +27 (0)11 355 1208;
back to South Africa to perform their 360° concert
Noordhoek Farm Village is an experience not to be
cradleofhumankind.co.za
in the now world famous calabash, returning for the
missed. Every Tuesday, the quizmaster challenges
first time since PopMart Tour in 1998 the concert is
teams on current affairs and specific subjects. Double
NELSON MANDELA MUSEUM
not to be missed. Sunday, 13 February 2011,
up on your strongest category and take on the
Soweto – Mandela has been at the centre of a most
20:00 P.M. – 23:30 P.M.; computicket.com
challenge to win great prizes. +27 (0)21 789 2973;
Gauteng – 13 excavated sites of rich
noordhoekvillage.co.za
compelling and inspiring political story the building of a post-apartheid South Africa. +27 (0)11 936 7754
Johannesburg International Mozart Festival
PADDOCKS LIFESTYLE MARKET
NATIONAL BOTANICAL GARDENS
Parktown – In it’s fourth year, the Johannesburg
Milnerton – A great vibe can be enjoyed at the
Brummeria, Pretoria – This 76ha urban oasis is
International Mozart Festival will be showcasing
Paddocks Lifestyle Market! Gourmet food, original
a pristine getaway with more than 500 indigenous
musical excellence. The festival started in 2006 to
art, locally handcrafted jewellery, hippy-chic clothing
tree species and in the region of 1,700 flower
commemorate Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s 250th
and lots of goodies with proudly Capetonian crafts,
species. Wheelchair friendly. 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
birthday anniversary and has grown into a well
every Friday – Sunday. +27 (0)21 554 2165;
+27 (0)12 804 3200; sanbi-org.co.za
loved classical music festival. 27 January 2011 -
goodhopemarkets.co.za
14 February 2011. +27 (0)11 447 9264; THE ELEPHANT SANCTUARY
join-mozart-festival.org
Camps Bay – Following its inaugural success,
elephant experiences where you get a chance to touch, feed, walk trunk-in-hand and even ride
THE HANSGROHE MASTERS OF WATER – STAGE TWO
Hartbeespoort Dam – Hands-on interactive
the Rhino and lion nature reserve
Hansgrohe continues to promote, train and
these magnificent African elephants. Booking
develop top lifesavers. The events include beach
essential, and evening tours are available.
flags, sprints, swim, board, ski and the iron man
+27 (0)12 258 9904/5; elephantsanctuary.co.za
challenge. 16 January 2011. +27 (0)21 448 2020; expatcapetown.com
THE RHINO AND LION NATURE RESERVE Kromdraai – The Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve
J&B MET
is a privately owned, non-subsidised game
Kenilworth – One of South Africa’s biggest summer
reserve, covering approximately 1 200ha in
racing, fashion and entertainment occasions,
typical Highveld and boasting 25 different
and Africa’s hottest horseracing event.
species. Rare and endangered species include
19 January 2011. jbmet.co.za
white rhino, lion, cheetah, Cape wild dog, Bengal tiger, Siberian tiger and white lion.
HANDS-ON-HARVEST
+27 (0)11 411 5155; rhinolion.co.za
Robertson – Offering wine aficionados and budding vintners a chance to experience the magic of
ALL THINGS BIKE AT GALLAGHER
harvest for a day. Groups are small and intimate
Gallagher Estate, Johannesburg – A retail
to ensure that you have the very best hands-on
exhibition focused on all aspects of the biking
experience. 25–27 February 2011.
industry. This event will be the biggest one-stop
+27 (0)23 626 3167; handsonharvest.com
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legacyinspires.co.za
ESKD129562/E
Give your electricity
use a break too Make your stay in our hotels an energy efficient one by following the energy saving tips below: - Switch off electrical appliances, such as televisions, cell phone chargers and laptops when you are not using them - Stand-by power uses almost 50% of the energy that an electric appliance would normally use so please switch off standby - Don’t leave the lights on in unoccupied rooms or when you leave your room - Only use the air conditioner when it is really necessary and set the temperature to the energy saving ‘golden zone’ of between 18 – 22ºC - Open windows to allow cool, fresh air from outside to flow into the room - Take a shower instead of having a bath because showers use less hot water - Don’t open the bar fridge unnecessarily or leave the door open too long as this allows cold air to escape and warm air in, causing it to use more power to maintain the correct temperature - If you need hot water use a plug to fill the basin rather than leave taps running - Only fill the kettle with as much water as you need for your morning tea or coffee
www.eskom.co.za/dsm
luxury
Commodore A stay at the
Taking in the sights of Cape Town in true style and ultimate luxury
N
o visit to South Africa is complete if it doesn’t include a trip to Cape Town, fondly known as the Mother City. Residents of the city have an almost privileged air about them – and why not? With its beautiful stretch of coastline, Table Mountain, and the wine lands in its outlying areas, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. To see what all the fuss is about, the Legacy Inspires team packed our bags and headed off to the airport to catch a flight to Cape Town. Situated in the province of the Western Cape, Cape Town is a place steeped in history, being the first landing point for settlers from Europe.
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luxury Kite surfing
twelve apostles
Photographs by Cape Town Tourism, capetown.travel
Wine farm
V&A Waterfront
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luxury Aerial view of cape town
Getting to Cape Town is straightforward. It has an international airport that receives direct flights from around the globe as well as connecting flights from Johannesburg. But don’t fool yourself, South Africa is a huge country and a drive from Jo’burg to Cape Town can take 12 hours on beautifully tarred roads, so if your time is limited it is best to fly. On arrival we hired a car and made our way to the heart of the city. The drive itself really was the beginning of our holiday. We passed a number of different sights along the way, all in stark contrast to what could be termed a claustrophobic Johannesburg. My favourite view was of the weathered trees – just before entering the city – lying almost completely on their sides as a result of the whipping coastal winds that Cape Town experiences on a regular basis, giving testimony to the nickname the Cape of Storms. We were booked into The Commodore, Legacy’s flagship hotel in Cape Town, and
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on arrival I was delighted to see its proximity to the Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront. The location is ideal for walking to places of interest and shopping spots. The hotel enjoys views of the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain, Robben Island, the harbour and the Atlantic Ocean. Walking into The Commodore was itself a treat. The hotel has a nautical theme and its grand entrance with opulent and stylish furnishings and finishes left me feeling like I had boarded a luxury liner headed for an exotic destination. In the material we had received about The Commodore before our trip, we were told about its excellent service and friendly staff, a claim that most hotels put on their marketing material in order to lure you to their rooms. But The Commodore is different; it really lives up to its promises. Staff members are friendly and goodhumoured. We got chatting to Muneeb Eksteen, the guest relations officer at the hotel. He not only had us splitting our sides
with laughter, but also had some fantastic stories to share about his more than eightyear tenure at the hotel. According to Muneeb, the biggest draw card for first-time visitors to The Commodore is its location. After one visit, they are generally hooked, with one particular guest having returned a total of 62 times and with more visits booked for the future. “The Commodore is a home away from home for business travellers in particular. We aren’t a fancy, flashy destination, but we offer all the comforts and amenities required of a five-star hotel. Our philosophy is to combine comfort with service and create a destination that people want to return to again and again,” says Muneeb. Warm colours and rich tones are the order of the day with plush seating in pause areas and a host of breakaway sections where guests can sit back and unwind. All of the rooms are named after passenger liners that have passed the
legacyinspires.co.za
luxury
the Commodore
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luxury surrounding coastline. Finishes include portholes and shipping paraphernalia elegantly and tastefully displayed to give you the feeling of a luxury liner. The hotel continues to attract a host of local and international celebrities and is a favourite accommodation spot for touring sports teams. It was also a favourite of soccer teams during the 2010 World CupTM. Muneeb took us on a tour through the hotel. With 236 rooms, I think Muneeb may have been downplaying the size of the destination. Rooms on offer include 165 standard rooms, ideal for the business person or tourist on a whirlwind visit with little time to spend in the city. The standard rooms have wonderful views of Table Mountain, the Atlantic Ocean or Robben Island. The standard rooms have exactly what you would expect from a luxury hotel, including airconditioning, safes, hair dryers, mini bars, flat screen TVs and spacious en-suite bathrooms. Each unit is beautifully furnished in warm colours and continues the nautical theme. The hotel also offers 57 business class rooms. These rooms are slightly bigger and guests can take in even more spectacular views of the Mother City from the balcony. The rooms offer the same facilities as the standard rooms. If being pampered is what you’re looking for, book yourself into one of the hotel’s 5 Executive Suites. Providing a true firstclass experience, these suites are plush and spacious with an adjacent lounge area and balcony, an en-suite bathroom as well as a guest restroom in the lounge area. If you really want to kick back in style and feel like one of the chosen few, you have to book the highly sought-after Imperial Suite. There is only one, and on entering you can see why. Crowning the hotel, the Imperial Suite has a lounge, dining room with seating for six guests that opens onto a sweeping balcony, a separate bathroom with a gorgeous walk-in shower and bath, and a magnificent bedroom with a king-size bed. After our tour, we made our way back to our own rooms, changed into comfy walking shoes and set off for the guest relations desk to find out from Muneeb what the most popular Cape Town attractions are. According to him, the most popular tours are a trip to Table Mountain, the ferry ride to Robben Island and the Cape Peninsula tour. Other favourites include one of the various wine routes, whale watching tours and for the more adventurous, shark-cage diving. Our time in the Mother City was limited, so we decided on the Cape Peninsula tour. This full-day experience takes you right through some of the most spectacular places in the
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V&A Waterfront
legacyinspires.co.za
luxury the Commodore
Table Mountain’s cable car
winelands
Cape. The hotel organised a tour operator for us and we were off. The journey took us through a variety of changing landscapes. We took in the beaches of Clifton and Hout Bay. At Mariner’s Wharf we took a boat ride to see the seals at Duiker Island, after which we headed to Chapman’s Peak. We then headed to Cape Point Nature Reserve, where we saw beautiful Fynbos, took the funicular to the lighthouse and spotted the rare Cape mountain zebra. While we didn’t have time to visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, we did pass through historic Simon’s Town before heading off to the Groot Constantia Wine Estate. The trip is busy, and you have to pack in a lot of sights in a short space of time. But it is definitely worth it. We suggest you wear comfortable walking shoes, and pack a camera - the scenery is out of this world: old fishing cottages, the stunning rugged coastline, the magnificent Fynbos and the host of animal and bird species you will meet along the way. Afterwards we headed back to The Commodore. Our ravenous stomachs led us through the hallways towards the magnificent smells from the Clipper Restaurant. The Clipper is stunning. It follows the same nautical theme that is used throughout The Commodore, but its shape gives you the impression that you are in the heart of the dining halls of the Titanic. The menu is extensive, and Executive Chef Rob Creaser really outdid himself. We were treated to a selection of some of the finest seafood delicacies, including a selection of fresh Namibian oysters, mussels with garlic and herbs, and crayfish bisque topped with cream and chive slivers. In addition, the red meat selection included smoked venison, beef fillet, and roast venison. While the menu included a selection of light meals such as prawn curry and chicken-andleek phyllo pie, we were far more interested in the roast Kingklip, warm smoked salmon fillet, grilled West Coast rock lobster and confit of duck leg. If you ever find yourself at the Clipper – and I urge you to make the trip – be sure that you get to speak to the chef Rob. He is outlandish, funny and eccentric, and he will have your table in stitches. Some advice: don’t mention the Chelsea football team or you may never leave! We didn’t have the time to experience the swimming pool or the gym and its stunning steam room first hand, but we did try and walk off a heady meal by taking an amble through the hotel’s facilities. We also made a pledge to return with more time on our hands so that we could spoil ourselves at the Casuarina Spa and Wellness Centre, where we saw fellow
patrons being pampered from head to toe. The Commodore is a real jewel. Not only is its location convenient, its facilities world class and its staff friendly, accommodating and energetic, it really does give you the sense of a home away from home. It offers a refreshing reprieve from the sterile atmosphere of many hotels throughout the country and a stunning holiday destination in the heart of Cape Town. It is no wonder that General Manager Roger Newton is so proud of his hotel and his team, whose unbending philosophy of “When the going gets tough the tough get going” ebbs into the quality of service and guest experience you have come to expect from a Legacy hotel.
General
• 22km from Cape Town International Airport • 24-hour security • Porter service • Babysitting • Adjacent to the V&A Waterfront • Valet service • Secretarial services • Medical service on call • Foreign exchange • Guest relations • Credit cards • Car rental and chauffeur services • Events team Entertainment and Dining
• Clipper Restaurant • Cocktail bar and lounge Facilities
• Business centre • Conference facilities for up to 80 delegates • Wireless Internet connectivity • Unlimited free Internet access • Health and wellness centre • Sauna and gymnasium • Swimming pool • Undercover parking The rooms
• 236 rooms • 3 accessible rooms • 24-hour room service • Mini-bar • In-room Internet • Cots • TV with DStv • Same-day laundry and dry cleaning
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inside
A lunatic in all of us
Take the life of an average high school boy, pop him in a South African boarding school, slap on the antics of a group of adolescent boys, a crazy English teacher and a less than functional family, the result? A book and feature film that is touching the lives of millions.
W
hen a young schoolboy named Spud hit our shelves, no one would have guessed how much his life with the Crazy Eight would creep into the hearts of a global audience. Legacy Inspires talks to the author of the Spud series, John van de Ruit, about his inspiration and the journey to the making of the film. Q: Since Spud first hit the shelves, your life has been quite a whirlwind. Did you ever think it would gain as much attention as it did? It wasn’t really something I thought about while I was writing Spud, as I was too busy attempting to string coherent sentences together and search for the letter ‘S’ on my keyboard. The real dream, of course, was the search for some sort of writing Legacy, so my goal was simply to be published. To be honest, I wasn’t convinced that a book about the life of an ordinary boy with underdeveloped tackle would resonate with anyone beyond the lunatic fringe. On the basis of Spud’s sales it would appear that there are far more lunatics in this country than previously reported. I have since given up attempting to predict the future of Spud and concentrate instead on experiencing as much as I can while the whirlwind lasts. Q: You have created such an eclectic mix of personalities and characters in the books. Who is your favourite character in the series and why? I love them all like a large and slightly deranged extended family. It would probably be true to say that the characters that provide the most scope for humour often become my favourites, and that shifts from book to book – even within the books themselves. For example, Spud’s family provides
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much of the comic momentum in the first book, whereas Vern and Mad Dog carry the second, and Boggo and Garth Garlic the third. Overall, however, the two that I could never tire of writing about are coincidentally my most insane characters, the Guv and Vern. What that says about me personally I’d rather not know. Q: Did you find converting the books into a script to be a challenge, and do you believe that anything was lost or could have been done better in the making? I thought Don Marsh did a fantastic job in adapting the screenplay, considering he attended Bishops in Cape Town. The producers had an inclusive view towards my involvement in the film and as such, I have had numerous opportunities to share my thoughts on the direction and content of the story, and was even encouraged to tinker about with the screenplay. Obviously, when thinking of an entire book being condensed into a mere 100 minutes of film, there are some extremely important
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choices to be made as to what is chopped out and what is ultimately filmed. I’m hugely impressed with what has been created and I would like people to judge the film on its own merits, rather than on how it measures up to the book. Q: Getting John Cleese to play the eccentric Guv must have been a wonderful victory for the team. How has working with such a stellar cast been? And what were some of your fondest moments of the filming process? Witnessing John Cleese striding across the lawn of the main quad at Michaelhouse was undoubtedly a defining memory of the shoot. That was when the enormity of it all began to sink in. JC achieved something very special in his portrayal of the Guv and went far deeper into the character than any of us thought he would. I was reminded of the seldom-mentioned fact that to be a great comedian you have to be a great actor first. Young Troye Sivan was also hugely impressive and really possessed the role of Spud. Despite the fact that he weighs less than a bottle of cooking oil, I predict fame and fortune for him further down the road. I also greatly enjoyed watching the developing gang mentality of the Crazy Eight and how their identities appeared to morph into their characters as the shoot wore on. This was great news for the film but probably not quite the result that the boys’ mothers were hoping for.
Q: Which part of the film should we be looking out for? The scenes between the Guv and Spud, which inevitably involve discussing literature and the mysteries of women, are memorable, as is the rise and fall of Spud’s friendship with Gecko. Appreciate too the design team’s attention to detail for what is a 1990-era period film, and the beautiful natural locations around Michaelhouse and the Balgowan valley. Finally, the poignancy and profundity of the film will sneak up on audiences and remain with them long after the credits have rolled. Q: Something everyone wants to know … how much of John Milton’s experiences were your own? The first, and to a degree the second book, contain events or moments from my life. Some of the characters, too, were inspired by people that I’ve met along the way. Wombat, for example, was about as close to a portrait of my grandmother as you could get. On the other hand, my poor father has been consistently and terribly maligned. That said, I really didn’t set out to write a
and you’re discovered throwing a tantrum in your local Volkskas. Some form of insanity and a strong tendency towards denial will surely come in use as your chosen career is in no way logical or sensible and is bound to attract sniggers from smug German-cardriving marketing people with fake Tuscan homes and kids called Josh and Kayla. Make sure, too, you have many close friends whom you can leech off when the going gets seriously tough (which I’m afraid is most of the time). Just one close friend won’t do because after the first lean season they’ll stop taking your desperate calls for help and cigarette money. Brush up on your waitering skills because it’s decidedly more civilised than pizza delivery or handing out biscuits in a supermarket while dressed as a clown. If you can read the above without flinching then you’re probably an artist. Good luck. Q: What lies on the road less travelled for John? Do you have any future plans or projects under way? I have recently written a behind-the-scenes book with producer Ross Garland detailing
“I wasn’t convinced that a book about the life of an ordinary boy with underdeveloped tackle would resonate with anyone beyond the lunatic fringe” memoir or an autobiographical account of my teenage years. I used my experience as fodder for Spud’s life, which in the end is infinitely more eventful and interesting than my own. Q: You are very much a man immersed in the arts. What advice would you give aspiring young South African writers, actors and authors? A healthy sense of humour is essential, because it won’t be an easy road to walk – unless, of course, you’re Charlize Theron
the five-year roller coaster ride of turning Spud into a film which releases along with the film. I then have one more Spud novel to write, which will detail the poor lad’s final year at boarding school. Thereafter it’s a clean slate, the thought of which is both highly exciting and slightly daunting. Q: If you could leave behind a single Legacy in your life, what would you hope for it to be? That I made more people laugh than PW Botha did.
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The man
behind the glasses A man of many faces Bono continues to inspire audiences around the world Name: Paul David “Bono” Hewson Born: May 10, 1960, Dublin, Ireland Nickname: Bono derived from “Bonavox” meaning “good voice” in Latin Instrument: Vocals, guitar Nominated for a Nobel Peace Prize, the recipient of an honorary knighthood by the Queen of England and once voted as person of the year by Time magazine, this man is by no means an ordinary vocalist and front man. Bono, as we know him, is a man driven by his passion, a passion that has been threaded through the words of his husky and melancholy lyrics. Rising to fame as songwriter and front man for the band U2, Bono has used his life experiences to develop the band’s unique sound and often controversial lyrics.
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Recognisable by his signature black attire and dark glasses, few people know that the glasses aren’t merely for vanity, but rather to help him against light sensitivity which he has suffered from for years. He is no stranger to being the centre of dubious attention, with his band being attacked by angry IRA supporters, a threatened kidnapping and getting in trouble with the US law after defacing a monument in a moment of passion on U2’s Rattle and Hum tour in the 80’s. Not to mention a bit closer to home when their music hit a nerve with the South African government in the 80’s with their song “Silver and Gold”, written about the plight of an oppressed man in a shanty town in Johannesburg. More than twenty years later, Bono can
there he travelled to Ethiopia with his wife Ali as part of the World Vision charity organisation, living and working in feeding camps. He has also travelled to South America with Amnesty International, campaigned with Greenpeace and highlighted the conflict in Bosnia. A man of great influence, he has always used this influence to the benefit of others, whether it has been as the spokesman for the Jubilee 2000 project, campaigning for the reduction of World Debt; acting as co-founder of DATA (Debt Aid Trade Africa); launching the ONE campaign; working with Bob Geldof on his Live concerts; the creation of the EDUN clothing line; or the launch with Bobby Shriver of the Product (RED) campaign to fight Aids, TB and malaria, Bono’s commitment has been unwavering. The Bono of today is a far cry from his humble beginnings as an aspiring rock star in Ireland in the 70’s, responding to an advertisement to form a band with the men who are now his best friends and getting their break by winning a talent show. He is able to connect with fans on stage to the point where each individual feels he is speaking to them directly. Outside of the lights, the sunglasses, the almost sermon-like performances, the undying fans and the inspiring lyrics, the most profound impact this man has had is debatably his ability to inspire and almost transform the lives of everyday men and women, no matter what race, creed, country or culture. Bono the husband, the father of four, the singer, the humanitarian and the man, has truly left his Legacy on the lives of all he has touched. U2 will be performing its 360 Degree tour live in South Africa in February 2011.
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enter South Africa undeterred, in fact he is good friends with Archbishop Desmond Tutu and has met with and befriended our very own Nelson Mandela in a bid to alleviate Africa’s debt. He has a deep passion for Africa, perhaps as a result of the similarities he saw with the oppression of the Irish in the 70’s and the oppression that Africa saw for decades. Bono has invested more time, money and resources into the plight of Africans than most individuals ever have. It has been said that Bono has to remind himself that he is a pop star. Some may call him arrogant, some may call him egotistical. But let’s be honest, there is a certain amount of arrogance that a man who can sing to a sold out concert hall, walk into a meeting with leading heads of states and billionaires from around the world and get them to offer up billions in the fight against Aids and hunger in Africa, is entitled to have. Life outside of U2 has been a whirlwind for Bono with the first major cause he supported starting with Live Aid in the early 80’s. From
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New York
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The world’s most metropolitan city
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T
o the seasoned traveller one city looks remarkably like the rest, and there is little that sets each one apart. But New York is one of those iconic places that continues to play on the heart strings of its inhabitants and its visitors, making it a destination that people return to year after year. Formerly the land of hope for millions of immigrants flocking to a new world away from the depressions, famines and tyrannical rulers of old, New York has morphed from a transitional city to one of the world’s most well known metropolises. It is no wonder that when thinking of New York you could be tempted to break into a Frank Sinatra song, or muse over the words “New York, New York, so good they named it twice”. Personally I am not a great fan of claustrophobic large cities, but I have to admit I do love New York with its people, its districts and its range of fashions, arts and dining experiences. It is a cultural melting pot of people from all corners of the globe with ex-immigrant eastern Europeans, Italians and Irish to name but a few. For years New York was seen, by the majority of Americans, as a country all on its own, not affiliated or recognised as the heartbeat of the United States. But times have changed and New York is now embraced by its fellow states, cities and people and is celebrated as a cultural and economic centre of the US. There is so much to do and see in New York that a single visit just won’t give you enough time to take it all in. It really is a seasonal city and each season presents its own set of experiences. In spring the trees and flowers burst to life, heady summers are sweltering and humid, autumn in Central Park is breathtaking and winter can be an icy wonderland. Christmas and New Year fall in the heart of the New York winter, offering a unique experience to visitors looking to escape the heat of summer in the Southern Hemisphere. In this issue we take a trip to New York and see what a chilly New York winter has on offer.
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PlAY
Winter Wonderlands A must-see for its part in history as well as its
Fifth Avenue and Central Park West across, it
old gangster enigma of old, the Rockefeller
gives new meaning to a green utopia in an
Centre and its unusual design is an icon on the
urban jungle.
New York skyline. Every year the centre has
Central Park becomes a snow-dusted
a barrage of seasonal activities and in winter
wonderland in winter and you can amble through
these include open air ice skating and a variety
the park at your own leisure, take in Belvedere
of beautifully adorned Christmas trees. The
Castle, the Great Lawn, the Blockhouse, or
gardens also transform at this time of year so
even pop into the Central Park Zoo and Wildlife
don’t forget to pop in to take a look.
Centre. Artists have also left their mark in Central
Every year the “Rock’s” famous Christmas tree
Park and a number of historic sculptures can
is lit at the beginning of December and marks
be found in its many nooks, crannies and
the opening of the holiday season for all New
labyrinths, some of the most notable ones
Yorkers. Tradition dictates that only a Norway
include Balto, Alice in Wonderland and even
Spruce is used, and the spectacle includes rows
William Shakespeare.
upon rows of approximately 30 000 LED lights
Alternatively you can head to the
on five miles of wire, crowned by the iconic
Conservatory Garden at Fifth Avenue and 105th
Swarovski crystal star. So pop on the ice skates,
street, the perfect place to disentangle yourself
make your way down to the “Rock” and take
from the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle.
a fantasy outdoor tour on ice - something
For a touch of old fashioned charm take a ride
those of us in Africa may only experience
in a horse-drawn carriage, a favourite for the
once in a lifetime.
romantic at heart.
Whenever I visit the Rockerfeller Centre one
The more sporty and adventurous can always
thing I absolutely have to do is take a lift up its
pay the “The World’s Most Famous Arena” a
70 floors to the Observation Deck. With its 360º
visit - Madison Square Garden. Home to the
unobstructed panorama of New York, the view
baseball team the New York Knicks and the New
is one that takes my breath away every time
York Rangers ice hockey team, it has also been
without fail. I just love looking down on Central
the backdrop for world-renowned musicians
Park, the Manhattan Skyline, and the streets and
for decades and is a self-styled sporting arena,
buildings that make up this vibrant city.
concert venue and theatre destination.
One of the lesser known attractions in New York, but definitely one of my favourites, is
central park
Bryant Park, billed as ‘a winter wonderland in the heart of Manhattan’ and on visiting you can certainly see why. The park’s Pond freezes over to the delight of visitors and hundreds gather to ice skate for free under open skies. If you are peckish I would suggest a visit to the Celsius. While sounding frosty the restaurant is a twostorey architectural marvel entirely enclosed in glass with indoor and outdoor heated seating for a respite from the chill of winter. Bryant Park also plays host to a European inspired openair market known as the “Holiday Shops” at Christmas time and it provides the prefect setting for artisans exhibiting their crafts from around the world, including food and home industry, toys, art, jewellery and gifts to name but a few. You simply cannot go to New York without making a trip (or several) to Central Park. A world famous landmark, the park is a staggering 843 acres of parkland right in the heart of the city. While in summer it provides a reprieve for joggers, residents and their canine friends and families wanting to have a picnic, in winter it is quite a glorious sight to behold and a favourite for the avid photographer. Spanning from 59th Street to 110th Street along and from
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The Rockefeller centre
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A cultural explosion A must see is the MoMa, or the Museum of Modern Art, which was founded in 1929 and was considered the world’s first museum dedicated to the modern era. Five floors of artworks contain everything from painting and sculpture to multimedia, photography and design. From the European art of the 1880’s to film, industrial design and traditional media art forms, the museum’s 150,000 strong collection contains something from every period of modern and contemporary visual culture up to the present day. MoMa is also home to an international collection of around 22,000 moving image works
Guggenheim museum
which incorporate all of the movements and periods in more than a century of film. Another cultural must is the Guggenheim
american museum of natural history
Museum known not only for the quality of its exhibitions but for its unusual design and its status as “one of the most significant architectural icons of the 20th century”. The building forms the heart of a complex of museums and is revered as a cultural centre and an educational institution. I have been fortunate enough to have visited the museum on a number of occasions, and have been able to take in a multitude of special exhibitions of modern and contemporary art. The museum also provides the backdrop for touring artists and critics to give lectures, as well as performances and film screenings. Each visit offers something new, making the Guggenheim Museum a place that cannot only be visited once. A great place to take the kids is the American Museum of Natural History, it is literally a maze made up of 25 buildings, interconnected by adjoining passages but individual in their own right. It really is a family destination and the delight on the faces of the kids as they move through the scientific and natural wonders in its 46 exhibition halls is a joy. The museum is simply enormous so wear comfy shoes and try to make a day of it.
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New Year’s Eve Any New York experience in and around New
seconds tick away and the New Year arrives the
One such show for this year includes; Wicked, a
Year’s Eve has to include joining in the massive
lights on the ball are turned off and the date of the
comedy inspired by the The Wizard of Oz. The
party at Times Square. Change your itinerary,
next year is displayed in the skyline. I love the
twist however is that the story takes place long
move your flights and be sure to be at the annual
pyrotechnic display that ensues but steer clear if
before Dorothy ever leaves Kansas. It is fun and
NYE Times Square celebration. Dating back to
you are allergic to confetti as it rains down from
exciting and tells the story of how two young girls
1906, this is one party that is famous the world
every rooftop around the Square.
grew up to become the Wicked Witch of the West
over. It has been the centrepiece of a number
Expect it to be loud and crowded, but a once
and the Good Witch.
of Hollywood blockbusters and you can see why
in a lifetime experience. Some advice if you are
Or perhaps you want to relive the times of
when you get there as hundreds of thousands of
planning in joining in the madness: dress warm
the gangs? Then the heady themes of murder,
people descend on the streets to sing Auld Lang
and get there early as the streets begin closing
greed, corruption, violence, exploitation,
Syne and pop champagne to celebrate the
at 43rd Street from around 6pm and move north
adultery and treachery, can be witnessed in the
New Year.
as the roads fill up. And if the thought of being
classic Chicago. Get to known the seemingly
corralled and barricaded in does not appeal, you
misunderstood chorus girl Roxie Hart who kills her
bucket list experiences in life, the countdown to
can always book a VIP table at one of the many
lover Billy Flynn, all in the name of her career.
the New Year is a celebration spectacular and is a
restaurants scattered around the Square, which
favourite for international broadcasters who, year
includes your very own seat for the night and easy
again playing host to the classic “The Nutcracker
upon year, ensure the celebrations make it to the
access to food and drinks.
ballet”, by the New York City Ballet. I believe this
You have to try and include this as one of your
As an ongoing winter treat, New York is once
year’s refreshed performance is going to bedazzle
TV. As midnight approaches music fills the Square via thousands of speakers and hoards of people
Take in a show
and delight, with a host of children and marching
wave pompoms, flags and balloons that are
For me a visit to New York would not be complete
toy soldiers taking to the stage. Reviews
handed out for free. It all culminates in a special
without taking in a show on the most famous
suggest that a glowing one-ton Christmas tree
guest, a badly kept secret each year, pushing
theatre street in the world, Broadway. Many shows
will be brought onto stage as the cast of mice,
a historic Waterford crystal button that lowers
are on offer both on and off Broadway so visitors
snowflakes, and of course the sad nutcracker,
the iconic New Year’s Eve Ball. As soon as the
can pick one, or many, that suit their tastes.
dance the night away.
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play Places to stay There are thousands of hotels in New York, some world-famous and others less so. From the oldest hotel by way of Roosevelt right through to perhaps the less opulent, but often sung about Chelsea Hotel, you will not be short of choices. But choose wisely and take your budget into consideration. If money is no object, and you want to truly spoil yourself we would suggest this year you look at booking yourself into the Mandarin Oriental. Rooms offer a view of Central Park and the Manhattan skyline from this 5 Star development that can be found on the top of the Time Warner Centre. Its location is ideal if you want to walk the streets of New York as a number of attractions are all within close range of the hotel, or you could just take in the Asiate, one of New York’s hottest restaurants which resides in the heart of the hotel. For an all time classic, and one of my favourite hotels you can make your way down to the prestigious Park Avenue, and book yourself into the Waldorf, which for years has been seen as one of New York’s very first ‘grand hotels’. The WaldorfAstoria has been around for more than a century and is possibly most famous not for the many thousands of celebrity guests and statesman it has hosted, but the Waldorf salad that it christened. The Waldorf has been an official New York City landmark since 1993, and now also houses the Waldorf Towers, a boutique hotel found from the 27th to 42nd floors of The Waldorf-Astoria. From the Waldorf you can walk to the Rockefeller Centre, St. Patrick’s Cathedral, the Theatre District and the countless shopping areas and art galleries on Madison and Fifth Avenues. If you want a taste of what New York used to be, tinged with what it is today then I suggest you book at least one night at the Waldorf.
st patrick’s cathedral
New York: • Currency: US Dollar
Dress warm
• Language: English
There is never a bad time to visit New York, the city’s
• Time Zone: Eastern Standard Time
pulse beats all year round and its ability to adapt and morph for the season at hand will ensure that there
City Tips:
is always something for everyone. But one word of
• Three airports service New York City: John F. Kennedy International; LaGuardia and Newark.
caution, if you plan on visiting in winter, dress warm.
• The airports are about 10-20 km from the centre of Manhattan and the commute can take 30 to 60
Snow is colder than it looks in pictures! This year we will be spending New Year ’s Eve in Times Square, where will you be?
Mandarin Oriental
minutes or longer. • Taxis and limousines can be taken into the city and cost between $35 plus an extra $4 for the bridge or tunnel toll, whereas an airport bus will cost about $12. • Avoid hiring a car or driving yourself - traffic is horrific and there is almost no parking. • Use the subway or a bus. Tickets cost $2.00 • Grab a New York Cab! It’s a treat but try avoid them at rush hour. Hailing a cab is after all a New York tradition. • When booking a Broadway show, buy your tickets online weeks in advance – they book out really quickly. • Remember New York is one of the most expensive places in the USA as far as hotels go, so choose yours wisely. • There are about 25,000 restaurants in New York City, outside of the many street vendors who operate food carts all over Manhattan. • A New Yorkers breakfast is a cup of coffee with a bagel or muffin from the local street vendor. Lunch can be a hot dog, Italian hot sausage sandwiches, Greek Gyros, Middle Eastern falafels and many other delicacies are available from the street vendors.
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Lifestyle
fearless
Sport of the
Photographs H2
Elegance, confidence and form – the marks of a true show jumper
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lifestyle
H
orse riding as a sport in South Africa has been slow to gain traction. While there has been no shortage of horses and riders in the country, the quality of local horses, difficulties in securing sponsorships and the inability to take one’s horses to international events have held the sport back. There is something quite romantic about the notion of riding. Every young girl wants a pony and every young boy has donned a broomstick as a trusty steed. We have a healthy respect for these quadruped creatures, their size, their grace, the images of wild abandon and freedom they conjure up and the ultimate bond between horse and rider that will see both race across untouched beaches or magnificent fields. One of the most exciting spectator sports within the equestrian field remains that of show jumping, but show jumping is not for the faint of heart. There is something quite humbling about hurtling headlong into 1,4 – 1,6m high fences, while at the same time ensuring you get your balance and striding right, as well as ensuring you stay within the time frame, don’t knock any poles and look the picture of elegance at all times. To round off this year’s show-jumping calendar, the Glenellen Farm in Hout Bay, Cape Town, once again played host to the final leg of the 2010 World Cup Show Jumping Qualifier, while incorporating the 2010 Fancourt World Cup Qualifier and the 2010 Western Province Championship. Top riders from around the country
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lifestyle made their way to the Cape at the end of November to compete at the event and notch up some valuable points towards their global World Cup show-jumping dreams. Organised by well-known veteran Western Province show jumper Judy Louw, the event did not disappoint and the highlight of the show was the intricate and technical course
event of its calibre hosted in Cape Town, while the other legs of the event are scattered across the country throughout the year. Only riders who have registered with the Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) are allowed to compete. The FEI, founded in 1921, is the “international body governing equestrian sport” and is recognised by the
“There is something quite humbling about hurtling headlong into 1,4 – 1,6m high fences, while at the same time ensuring you get your balance and striding right” put on for the day by top course designer Frank Rothenberger. No stranger to South Africa, Rothenberger has assisted leading equestrian South African associations with the build of their courses for a number of years. He is currently rated as the best in the world for his expertise, attention to detail and highly technical fences. The event is currently the only international
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International Olympic Committee (IOC). The FEI currently governs a number of horse sport disciplines and is affiliated to 134 national federations. It is the sole controlling authority for all international events in dressage and para-equestrian dressage, jumping, eventing, driving and para-equestrian driving, endurance, vaulting and reining. Riders taking part in the show-jumping
calendar gain points at each event in which they compete. These points are then tallied up at the end of the year where the local champion is crowned and only an elite few, who have gained enough points, are then invited to compete globally. The Cape Town World Cup is a fiveday event and attracts local and national riders competing at junior and adult levels. While the past perception of horse riding is that it is a sport that is reserved for the elite and the wealthy, the improvement in the sport locally as well as the investment into development programmes such as the Soweto Riding School, have squashed this notion and opened up the sport for people from all walks of life. A host of food stalls, live entertainment, hospitality venues and a children’s play area made this year’s event an ideal escape for families looking to do something different on their weekend. While this year’s show once again proved that South Africa is not short of good riders, many still feel that the calibre of horses at
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lifestyle our disposal are not at the same level as those in Europe. It is with this that much of the local riding community is starting to look offshore to secure well-bred bloodstock. While for the most part the 70’s and 80’s saw the predominance of thoroughbred horses in South African arenas, there has been a dramatic shift in the last two decades towards the hardier, more steady and even-tempered Warmblood breeds. The best horses come from Europe, leading competitive South African riders to turn to Holland, Germany and Belgium to look for a choice competitive ride. Warmbloods are known to make excellent show jumpers and dressage horses. A number of international stallions have been brought into the country to improve the breeding lines and raise the quality of the local competing brood. As a result, the quality of the local South African Warmbloods has improved dramatically and it can be evidenced in the youngsters coming out of stud farms in the local market. In the past, nine out of ten horses in a South
African show arena used to be thoroughbreds, a factor that has now changed with the inclusion of more Warmbloods. However, there is now a trend to incorporate the thoroughbred lines back into the Warmblood stock, as it gives them the speed and competitive attitude needed in a show jumper. With the brilliant quality of the local thoroughbreds we really do have an advantage in breeding some world-class prospects. To date there are two well-known local stud farms starting to produce horses of international quality as a result of their imported stallions and mares and the breeding of these with local thoroughbred stock. While horses are only one component of the mix in making a show-jumping team, a lot of emphasis needs to be placed on riders, their style, ability, technique and, to a certain extent, their sheer bravado. Many local riders understand that a good instructor is paramount to their success,
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lifestyle and with the introduction of international bloodlines, there has come a propensity to start looking at and incorporating a more global approach to riding. There are a number of globally recognised instructors right here on South African soil. These instructors are more inclined to follow the solid classical training principles of the riding masters of Europe, where horse and rider need to work in perfect balance and harmony, and where horses are developed slowly in accordance to training scales designed to bring out the best in them. With the combination of these techniques and the appreciation for the sport we are
starting to see a dramatic shift among South African riders, as they are fast showing that they can compete at any level. The qualifiers added further impetus to this as local riders showed their mettle by facing the worldclass fences with grace. The World Cup was no different, and while the course built by Frank Rothenberger provided a challenge for some of the more inexperienced riders,
the true athletes soared over the jumps, making it look all too easy. But there are other challenges facing our local riders with aspirations to take on the global FEI field. One of the biggest setbacks for local riders has been the inability to compete on their own horses abroad. With tropical horse diseases like African Horse Sickness, quarantine times have been as
“Many local riders understand that a good instructor is paramount to their success. There has come a propensity to start incorporating a more global approach to riding”
The Legacy Horses The allure of show jumping and the chance to contribute to the local improvement of the sport as a whole is what has led Legacy to sponsor local young and upcoming rider Tara Louw and her two horses, Legacy McCauley and Legacy Littorelio, on their road to show-jumping excellence. Born and raised in the Western Cape, this young superstar has a lot going for her. A mere 20 years old, Tara started riding on her first pony, Little Dream, when she was six years old, and has subsequently represented Western Province four times in show jumping and equitation. She has also won the South African Children’s Equitation Championship twice and came second in the Children’s South African Show Jumping Championship. Known for their teamwork, competitiveness and sheer riding excellence, Tara and her first ponies were revered among horse-riding circles and the spotlight has been on this young lady for quite some time. “My ponies and I were always known as a competitive team,” she remarks. “But a lot of that is attributed to the support I have received from my mother, who also competed and has been a real rock in my career. She always made sure that I had generous, capable ponies that built my confidence along the way, something that is particularly important for female riders.” Graduating to an adult rider, Tara’s mother, Judy Louw, took her daughter off to Holland where she discovered and purchased Legacy Littorelio. “Littorelio is my dream horse. He is such a beautiful and uncomplicated ride, I love him to death,” says Tara. “When I got him two years ago we started
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working together at my mother’s yard in the Western Cape. Our relationship was at first slow to build, but when we moved to Johannesburg, everything just clicked and we are really working well together.” A nine-year-old Holsteiner Warmblood, Littorelio is what is termed a flashy Dark Bay. He has an enormous jump, fantastic technique and a heart of gold. When the duo started out together, they entered into the 1,35m classes, where they enjoyed many successes among their counterparts. Tara now believes that he is ready to reach even greater heights and will be competing with him in the 1,45m and 1,5m classes. “But all in good time,” she says, and she is waiting for him to tell her when he is ready. The dynamic team saw a number of successes in 2010, not least of which included their entry at the illustrious Avis Derby, where they placed third in the 1,45m Stal van de Kraan Young Rider’s Championship, with their only penalty coming from a single time fault. In addition, they were placed sixth in the 1,35m micro-derby. Tara’s second horse is Legacy McCauley. They have only recently started competing in the 1,30m classes, in which they have done exceptionally well. “I bought Legacy McCauley, a Light Bay South African Warmblood, a year ago and have just put him into the 1,30m competitions. He is a very competitive horse and he loves to jump,” says Tara. “He is feisty and more competitive and in terms of speed he is fantastic, which really helps when you are racing against the clock. McCauley brings a new dimension to my riding and I am really enjoying him as a ride. With time I think he is going to go far.” Understanding the value of good
instruction, Tara has continued to take lessons from Gonda Beatrix, who has been an inspiration to her. “Gonda has taught me so much of what I know today and I think one of the biggest pluses in my riding career has been that I have always had her as my instructor,” cites Tara. “There is almost no local rider that has been able to match her local and international successes. She melds traditional classical methods of riding with new influences and she focuses on getting the partnership between you and your horse right.” While currently studying Brand Management at Vega, Tara balances her life between her riding and her studies. “I love my riding; it is one of my life’s great challenges. No matter where you are in your riding, or how well you are doing, one bad experience can humble you in an instant,” she muses. “It is a volatile sport and a challenging sport and I love it. It proves that if you work hard at your riding, it can be visible in an instant. Two weeks of good preparation can be seen at your next show and the rewards are great.” “Riding to me is all about partnership. Your horse has his own personality and unless you understand him, he can change his mind in a split second and do something that you don’t expect from him. You need to be able to read it, act on it and take it in hand, knowing that there is a constant communication between the two of you.” With a rock-solid attitude, a passion for her sport and adoration for her horses, there is little doubt that Tara is going places. Rest assured that we will very soon see her taking her rightful place among some of the riding greats in South Africa.
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lifestyle long as six months for a horse. Keeping in line with this has meant that horses have had to be shipped to international quarantine zones for the duration of the period. This is a costly exercise on a South African budget. Good news for locals is that a few select South African quarantine facilities have been approved, meaning that the bulk of the period can be done locally and at more reasonable rates, as long as all vetting and blood tests are done in accordance with international standards. This is music to the ears for those competing in show jumping, dressage, eventing and equitation. It finally opens the global stage to local riders and sees a spate of internationally sponsored competitions, such as that of the World Cup Qualifiers and the resultant global event invitations for local riders based on their performance at these. While the horse lovers of Europe revere their riders and these beautiful creatures with an almost cult-like status, South African riders aren’t quite as fortunate as sponsorship opportunities are few and far between. In addition, European governments, corporate bodies and the population as a whole respect
and get involved in the sport, whereas in South Africa, it is still downplayed in terms of audience, television support and sponsors, and the government has very little interest in the sport. However, all is not lost and the FEI qualifiers, international interest and the improvement in the quality of local horses are opening up the playing field for our highly talented riders. Another area where our riders recently shone was that of the 2010 World Equestrian Games (WEG) held in Kentucky, USA in September. For the first time ever, a large contingency of South Africans were able to board their horses on planes to show their resolve on an international stage. The show-jumping team fared particularly well and placed 19th out of 27 teams. With the World Cup event drawing this year’s season to a close, we can expect great things for our riders in 2011 and while some of the horses will be getting a welldeserved break in December, others will already be donning their training attire in preparation for yet another nail-biting series of shows scheduled for next year.
Who is Tara LOUW? First Pony? Little Dream (Shetland) Ultimate horse? Legacy Littorelio Ultimate riding venue? Aachen and Hickstead Embarrassing moments? When I was about eight years old, I went to a show without my mom and my pony threw me off. I was rushed to hospital and the doctor told me that I had crushed my coccyx and wouldn’t be able to ride. I went back the next day and rode and was promptly thrown off again. Finest moment? Travelling to England and Australia with the SA Team and seeing that South Africa is not far behind in quality of riding. Ultimate saddle? Prestige, because of the Italian leather they use, it is the best quality. Who inspires you? Dominey Alexander. He embodies focus like no one else and has an immaculate style. He is an effortless rider.
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Enchantment
If there were a place where I could go to rediscover my life’s enthusiasm. If there were a place I could go where I could rekindle my loves spark. Then I think I have found it. The glorious summer days, filled with languid lounging at the poolside, adventures upon high seas and glamorous nights amongst starry-eyed lovers and a metropolitan heartbeat. This is Cape Town and this is where I have found myself. I would want to be nowhere else in the world.
Photographer Anthony Friend Assistants Ian Engelbrecht and Patrick Tshali Stylist Cally Palmer Hair And Make Up Mary Gouveia @Infidels Models Sharon @ Max Models and Bryce @ ICE Management
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Sharon: Red dress, Kluk CGDT; shoes, Errol Arendz Bryce: Suit, shirt, bow tie, pocketchief and belt all Fabiani; shoes, Watson @ Craig Port; Watch, Nixon Photographed on location at The PortsWood
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Sharon: Bikini top, Speedo; pants, Stefania Morland; shoes, Errol Arendz; scarf, Jimmy Choo; bracelets, Lulu Belle Bryce: Swimwear, Craig Port; sunglasses, Paul Smith @ Extreme Eyewear Photographed on location at The Commodore
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Sharon: Dress, Stefania Moreland; bracelets, Miyu; shoes, Errol Arendz Bryce: Top, Scporion; swimwear, Craig Port; sandals, Craig Port; watch, Toy Watch Photographed on location at the Royal Yacht Club
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Sharon: Swimwear, Kim Govaars for Miss Port; scarf, Jimmy Choo; bracelets, Miyu Bryce: Suit and scarf, Fabiani; T-shirt, Scopion; watch Toy Watch Photographed on location at the Royal Yacht Club
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Sharon: Swimwear, Kim Govaars for Miss Port; sunglasses, Cartier @ Extreme Eyewear Bryce: Swimwear, Craig Port Photographed on location at the tidal pool, Camps Bay
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Sharon: Bikini, Speedo; black skirt, Kim Govaars for Miss Port; gold necklace, Miyu; gold heels, Errol Arendz Photographed on location on Camps Bay beach
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Sharon: Gold top, Stefania Morland; bikini, Speedo Bryce: Swimwear, Craig Port Photographed on location on Camps Bay beach
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Sharon: Dress, Stefania Morland; shoes, Errol Arendz; sunglasses, Victoria Beckham @ Extreme Eyewear Photographed on location at the Commodore
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pict ure Interest
Taking the perfect
Don’t let your camera get the best of you. A guide on the how to, where to and why to of digital photography.
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ne of the fastest growing hobbies of the last decade has to be photography and with the advent of the digital camera and the ensuing reduction in costs as a result of the technology race between vendors it makes perfect sense. This issue we are covering an article on why people take pictures, the emotive nature of pictures and the memories that they capture. We‘ve explored what makes a good picture, the notion of the ‘best’ camera and chatted to a leading photographer on what inspires them to see what they do through the lens. While we click away behind our digital cameras and strive to take the perfect picture, there are still some perceptions and industry related jargon that simply doesn’t make sense. There are just too many cameras available on the market today for us to summarise the ins and outs of each one, so for these purposes we will look at the digital camera and for the most part the Single Lens Reflex (SLR).
What is an SLR? We are all aware of the compact digital camera, it slots nicely in the handbag or snugly in your pocket, but the lower total cost of ownership of high end cameras has led to a growth in the use of the higher-end SLR cameras. Some important things about an SLR camera is that what you see with your own eyes is what is seen through the lens. With little to no lag on picture taking you can use it for action pics and they have interchangeable lenses and image sensors.
SLR’s generally have a viewfinder that enables you to compose the perfect picture. By using the viewfinder you can set your light, composition and focus to the picture’s exact requirements.
Why change a lens? There is something quite professional about seeing someone skilfully switch between lenses to take pictures. The lens’ role comes into play in the processing and capturing of images. Its effects are best seen in the colour, clarity and contrast of the final product. Each lens has a purpose and it is important to establish what type of photography you want to take up before buying a barrage of lenses. As an example, a sports photographer requires a very different lens to that of a portrait or wildlife photographer. The beauty is that the SLR and its ability to use different lenses adds to the versatility of your photographing. It’s not essential to stick to the same brand lens as your camera. They can be very costly and it’s important to take note that there are a number of generic lenses available that are as good as the branded ones. Stick to the basics and make your decisions around your budget and needs.
versatility to take a range of pictures, but the digital camera isn’t always just a point and click. A fair amount of knowledge is required as well as time to understand the inner workings of your camera. The size of your memory card can be the deciding factor when trying to move from the posed children’s party pictures to the free flowing action shot photography we all crave to master. Make sure your memory card is large enough to hold several hundred photographs. Don’t just have one memory card because it’s easier to switch the card out quickly than delete photos or transfer them to the computer before you can start again. The first tip is to practice, practice, practice! Take as many pictures as possible and when
Easy tips for the amateur Digital technology can provide you with the flexibility and
DSLR
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over exposed
Correct exposure
under exposed
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you think you have enough start all over again. Always ensure you know what you are focusing on and then check that the subject is what the camera itself is focussed on. Later we’ll discuss what noise level is, but in essence, it’s the blur or motion around the shot you want to capture. To reduce the image noise level you need to focus properly and precisely on the subject matter you want to capture. Never ever take a picture under the premise that it will all work out after you have waved a magic photo editing software wand over it. By all means edit out the mistakes but try and ensure that the angle, capture method and mode is set optimally before you snap away. These software suites are fantastic to fix unforced errors but let the golden rule be that the picture you take be as close to natural as possible. Understand and avoid underexposure. Pictures that are underexposed are grainy and lack colour, which, as a result, severely impacts the quality of the picture. Remember to control this setting on the camera which will make sure that the lens will read the colours to the best of its ability. Faculty is as a result of the settings you have put it on. So play with these settings as often as possible and preferably in a non-pressure environment to ensure that you get it right because once you do it is a very valuable tool. Your digital camera has built in sensors that try and think for you. While this sounds great each sensor will read and process a specific range of tones or fractions of light. In direct light your camera’s sensors might not be reading the signals it needs to as effectively as you may want it to, therefore
aim to work with full light where possible, and where not possible grab your manual and read up on some tips to help setting your ISO (International Organization of Standardisation). Just as dangerous as underexposure is overexposure. It can give your pictures a harsh and sharp look as a result of providing too much colour into the equation. Overexposed pictures are often criticised for looking artificial, they sometimes make a picture look a little too washed out or create varying contrasts between dark and light. Something that is also worth remembering is that from time to time even though you have exposed the picture correctly every so often the shadows will hide certain detail in the picture. For example in a portrait where someone is wearing a hat in the sun, the face will often be in shadow. In these cases a flash can be used to ‘fill in’ the light, exposing the picture correctly. Play with angles and positions, upside down, from the top story of a building or positioned on the edge of a boat can make for fantastic shots. See your camera as an extension of your eye, so if the picture your eyes see looks better when you tilt your head to create an effect, then tilt the camera. Good photographers are not as grounded by their two feet as you may want to believe but they are able to translate that into the picture by using their body to create the perfect stage. Try experiment with settings and let go of as many automatic functions as possible. Automated functions set you up for an average picture, whereas manually adjusted settings can pave the way for a fantastic picture. When you are done taking snaps,
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Interest Autofocus So you don’t really know how to use your lens, never fear, the automatic feature of your camera includes autofocus. With between three and nine focus points, you can use these to adjust your camera to where you want to focus the picture. The number of focus points influences the accuracy of your camera and ultimately the quality of your photo.
Aspect Ratio An often misunderstood term, aspect ratio, is simply the size at which your picture is taken. It dictates at what size you can later print or blow up your picture to. If you intend to blow up a picture to poster size then play with your aspect ratio settings each camera is different so grab your manual and check where these are.
Cropping Your SLR will dynamically crop or ‘cut’ your picture to size. It does not have the same propensity to capture all image elements like the human eye does, and your camera will cut the picture to the size it sees. You can use image software tools in the production phase of your photographs to zoom in and crop to effect or simply to cut an unwanted image out of the background.
Continuous Drive
Example of a slow shutter speed
review what you have taken, analyse them, critique them and make a note of what you think your weaknesses are.
Some common mistakes Now that you know how to navigate your way around your camera, you are still only half way there. The perfect picture takes a lot more to capture than just the equipment. You need an eye for photography, but careful and watchful eyes go a long way for the less creative. When taking people pictures, there are a couple of elements to take into consideration. If you are asked to take pictures at your work function, consider the following: Watch your background – always be sure that the background against which your subjects are standing frames them. It is a common error people make and the results can be disastrous. Patterns and plants are particularly dangerous as in the
photograph they can appear to be growing out of people. Avoid the subjects that have any paraphernalia on them – people often have pens or cell phones in their pockets, they also are often caught on film with a nametag or badge on their lapel. These don’t look great on film. Too much flash – ditch the flash when an ISO setting will suffice. A flash has a very specific purpose so learn the purpose and use it for this. A much better and richer picture can be taken with proper shutter and ISO adjustments.
The instruction manual Your SLR camera comes with a large and intimidating instruction manual, you can fumble your way along taking half decent pictures without ever reading it, but their use can dramatically improve the quality and nature of the pictures you take.
A great feature for those action shots. Continuous drive allows you take a number of pictures in quick succession by focusing on the moving image. It is not a standard feature in all cameras and comes to play in more high-end units, but it is very useful to capture your show jumping diva, ballet princess in full pirouette or rugby boy diving for a try.
ISO and Image Noise ISO is the sensitivity of your camera to light. The higher the ISO setting is, the more light is let allowing for pictures to be captured in a lower light setting – for optimal exposure. The ISO works in tandem with the shutter speed, which stays open longer and gathers more light. But this means your images can blur so be sure to play with your shutter speed at the same time to reduce blur or ‘image noise’.
Image Stabilisation Got shaky hands? Image stabilisation units are now built into your camera negating your reliance on a tripod for perfect image capture and stability. Image stabilisation eliminates blur and reduces camera shake. Some lenses also come with image stabilisers, which is particularly useful on a zoom lens and zooming in can exacerbate camera shake.
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Interest Example of a fast shutter speed
Digital Cheat sheet Get to know what those funny little pictures on the top of your camera settings dial mean and what they are used for. Automatic mode - camera selects exposure settings appropriate for most subjects Manual exposure mode - user sets aperture (f-stop) and shutter speed Aperture-priority autoexposure - user controls aperture, camera sets shutter speed Shutter-priority autoexposure - user controls shutter speed, camera sets aperture Portrait scene mode - automatically chooses settings most appropriate for portraits Action scene mode - automatically chooses settings designed to capture moving subjects Landscape scene mode - chooses settings appropriate for landscape photography Macro mode - chooses settings appropriate for close-up shots
Zoom
JPG and RAW Files The JPG is the standard format in which your picture is taken – it is the most common of all formats and is read by almost 100% of devices. They are easy to attach to an email, can be uploaded to your favourite social networking site or printed. RAW pictures are used more commonly by professional photographers – they are larger, capture more detail in the image and offer a lot more creative freedom when it comes to image manipulation.
When taking pictures you can choose to use optical or digital zoom. Optical zoom allows you to get up close to your subject by using lens adjustment whereas digital zoom does the work in the camera for you. Optical lenses boast true zoom capabilities and use the zoom function to take the ‘entire’ picture. On the other hand digital zoom focuses on the centre of the frame and trims away the ‘fat’ or the outside of the image. Digital zoom can distort the quality of the picture by breaking the pixels if you zoom in too far. SLR cameras rarely have digital zoom, as you can change the lens to one that gives you zoom capability.
Photo editing suites So you want to crop out the random person in the picture of your wife at the beach, you want to get rid of red eye in your evening shots or you want to sharpen your pictures. Photo editing suites are readily available to do your bidding, but look carefully at your needs, while some are free others can put a serious dent on the budget and some just have more features than you will ever know what to do with. Some examples include: • Apple iPhoto • Picasa • IrfanView
Live View
To snap or not to snap
• Roxio PhotoSuite
The little screen on the back of your SLR camera has more than one function. Use it to compose your pictures with the “live view” so that you can take advantage of the whatyou-see-is-what-you-get. With this you can adjust settings in accordance to light, colour and distance.
Any professional photographer will tell you to never give up, don’t get flustered with the settings and the technology, rather take your time, play around and just keep snapping. Photography can be an exceptionally rewarding and challenging hobby. It will make you want to travel to far off places, allow you to find yourself in the garden for hours watching an army of ants, or in the park clicking away at children playing who aren’t even your own. The reality is that photography is a great and inspirational creative outlet for which the barrier to entry is very low. So get snap happy and start shooting away.
• Ulead PhotoImpact
Megapixels Mega means millions and a pixel is a single dot of information that makes up your photograph. Digital pictures are made up of millions of these megapixels, the more megapixels the larger the picture your camera can capture.
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• Adobe Photoshop Elements • Serif PhotoPlus • Foto Finish • Paint.NET • GIMP
Pro tips for the amateur – • Shoot from unexpected angles • Make use of appropriate lenses • Draw your eye across the frame • Get close to your subject • Pay attention to the background source www.dummies.com
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Memories Interest
capturing
Pictures speak a thousand words, but do you see what they are saying? Photographs Emma O’Brien
F
or decades photography has been seen as somewhat of a black art. Getting the right shot, the right moment and the right angle often seemed to be skills that only photographic alchemists with their fancy equipment could master. Legacy Inspires explores how new technology is bringing the art of photography into the hands of everyone and how a picture can now speak a thousand of your own words. The best place to start for any aspiring new photographer is anywhere, really. No matter what camera you have or how high your photographic ambitions reach, we suggest you just start taking pictures. A good place to start is on a holiday, a getaway or a family outing. The best memories are those that are important to you. Yes, it is important to get the lighting, aperture and timing right, but there is no reason you shouldn’t take the picture even if the timing or lighting isn’t perfect.
out all fuzzy and over-exposed, of animals so far off in the distance that you wouldn’t be able to see if it was an impala or a rhino. But I knew it was an impala and to this day I look at those pictures and smile. Those were also the days that every town, no matter how small, had a photo developing shop, and you only paid for the ones you wanted and the ones you took. You got a
free film with every roll you developed, and the developers at the local CNA always had saucy stories about some of the random films that had made their way into the development tray. When I started out, my pictures were grainy and the subjects blurred. I still have those pictures and often spend hours poring over them. They invoke laughter, tears and
A photographic journey My photographic journey started many decades ago when my father bought me my first little Kodak camera, fully kitted out with revolving detachable flash bulbs with their almost alien appearance. At the time, I thought the camera was the best thing ever. I would snap pictures of friends that came
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Interest sometimes sheer horror at the fashions, the hairstyles and the sheer bravado of an era that is now just a memory. But that really is the point of taking photographs: photographs are memories – your memories. According to Emma O’Brien, a professional British photographer now living in Johannesburg, a good photograph is one that is technically sound, that is correctly exposed and well composed and has an interesting subject. “I’m a people photographer, so I like to look at photo’s that tell a story about the people in it. A photograph that holds your attention and makes you think about what might have been happening as the photo was being taken is, I think, a good one. A photograph that springs to mind is one that South African photographer Kevin Carter took in Sudan of a small refugee child being followed by a vulture,” she explains. The aforementioned picture has become one of the most iconic pictures of wartime in Africa, and as a result Carter was awarded the Pulitzer Prize for Feature Photography for the self same photograph.
What camera is the best? I still have my little Kodak, sadly still with a roll of film in it that I have never had developed. I also have an old Brownie that my long-deceased grandfather gave to me; it is now more than 70 years old. But my taste in cameras has evolved. I don’t have the best equipment, but what I have works for me. My cameras include a small digital camera for on the go, one on my cellphone, and a more impressive digital SLR for events, functions, holidays and family gatherings. When exploring the notion of becoming a photographic hobbyist, the first question often raised by an individual is “What camera should I get?”, which I have, through my exploration of this topic, discovered shouldn’t even really be a question. A friend of mine who is a leading news photographer recently said to me that the best camera is the one that you have with you. So unless you have buckets of cash to drop on a splendid new camera, I suggest that you make do with what you have and start snapping.
“Let photography be your journey, let it speak to your passion, and embrace it from whichever angle you choose” “The photograph in itself is very emotive because it shows a harsh reality, but also because if you put yourself in the photographer’s shoes and imagine what it must have been like to see that situation first hand, it conjures up all sorts of feelings. The fact that Kevin Carter was heavily criticised for not helping the little girl and then committed suicide shortly afterwards adds to the impact of the image. So as well as what’s in a photograph, its context within the time and place it’s taken also captures a viewer’s imagination and makes it ‘good’,” adds Emma.
“New technologies have made photography much quicker and easier. When I worked with film, I took my time before shooting because of the constraint of only 36 shots on one roll and the cost of the film as well as the developing, so I had to make sure that as many of the shots I took would be as useful as possible,” reminisces Emma. “Now I have 10 8GB memory cards that hold 310 shots each, so I can fire away without worrying. The downside of this is that I end up with a huge amount of data to go through, but I also end up taking more photos than I would have done had I
been using film, which is great for shooting documentary-style work where you need to capture as much as possible.” But beyond just the camera there are a number of software tools readily available to help you achieve the perfect picture. Emma continues, “Photoshop is wonderful. It’s great to know that I can retouch wedding and portrait photos to make them more saleable, but I think it has taken the skill out of photography a little bit. The famous line, ‘I’ll just get rid of that in Photoshop’, is not great, as I think a great deal of photographers think less about what they’re shooting, for instance what’s in the background, because they know that they can remove or retouch anything if they get it wrong. I prefer to get it right in camera and then spend as little time as possible sitting in front of a computer.” Emma warns that there are literally thousands of cameras available in the market, from the very high end that can see you out of pocket for a couple of hundred thousand, right through to the compact digital cameras that you can pop into your bag and take anywhere. So they aren’t quite my Kodak, my grandfather’s Brownie or my dad’s Instamatic – but they are infinitely more superior. The reality about the photographic technology race is that, with all of the players racing to the same finishing line, the technology in one camera is not significantly different from the technology in another. Which means it all comes down to choice, budget, requirements and personal preference. But while this is fantastic for the aspiring amateur, it is not so great for the professional. According to Emma, the biggest challenge for today’s professional photographer is the fact that digital cameras and photo editing programmes are so readily available to the masses. “This means that as a pro, you have to be one step ahead and be constantly improving your craft,” she says. “The fact that most households have a digital camera of some kind, including camera phones, means that earning a living from wedding and portrait photography can be harder because photos can be taken by anyone at any time, so you have to offer photographs that are of a much higher standard than the average Joe, which is not necessarily a bad thing.”
Where do you start and what makes an interesting subject? Again, it is all about personal choice. What you see as a work of art is not always what someone else might count as a work of art, so you really need to just get going and start taking snaps.
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Interest About Emma About Emma O’Brien O’Brien
As well as undertaking commissions, Emma spends time working on community projects that focus on the humanitarian side of photography. “Photographs have the amazing power to inform, provoke thought and inspire change. Johannesburg is a sobering place to live with the high crime rate and poverty levels, so I like to use my skills to document some of
My favourite subjects are those I find in my travels, from the Fynbos in Cape Town to the geometric rock formations in the Pilanesberg. I don’t worry about what others will see in the picture, but rather about what the picture says to me. Family pictures are also fantastic and catching the boys while they are playing on the beach and kicking up sand without the knowledge of the camera that is focused on them makes for the best moments. Remember, there is no perfect shot for the aspiring photographer. Each picture you take is perfect for that time and place; it is naturally easier for the professionals. If you see a glimmer on the tarmac you think will make an interesting subject, then take the picture. “I like photographing people, so I’m a little biased about subject matter,” says Emma. “I enjoy interacting with the people I photograph to create a connection, which means I can capture their individual personality. This can be quite a challenge if I don’t have much time or the person I’m photographing is very shy. One thing I’ve learnt as I’ve progressed in my photographic career is that people skills are incredibly important in order to get good
the person in the photo. Then look at how the photo was lit and composed. Once you have an idea of why you like certain photos, you can start to emulate the same traits in your own work,” she continues.
Where to find inspiration Photography is an art form that is open to more of us than the average canvas. While many of us don’t have the talent to be able to take our creative insights and to transform them onto a canvas, photography allows an outlet to be artistic and imaginative. It’s not about the camera or the scene. It really is about what is important to you and that which inspires you as an individual. Emma’s inspiration comes from the everyday world in which we live, “I take my inspiration for photography from the world around me and what reality fascinates me. My aim for the photographs I take is that they should reveal aspects of the real world that most people wouldn’t think about or notice. “Photography is a wonderful medium of visual communication that can encourage
the positive aspects of the city and help people where possible.” Emma is currently working on a fund-raising portrait project with Child Haven, a children’s home in Roodepoort, and a photo skills project
“There is no perfect shot for the aspiring photographer. Each picture you take is perfect for that time and place”
with some boys from St John’s Academy, which will culminate in an exhibition of their work later this year. In addition she has an exhibition coming up in December at Upstairs @ Bamboo in Melville. “I’ve been involved with several charity projects since moving to Johannesburg last year and the photos on display will comprise documentary images I’ve taken of people living on the streets of Johannesburg CBD, portraits of families with their adopted African children, images of people who live in F Block of Thembilihle informal settlement in Lenasia, and photographs from a project I did with the boys who attend St John’s College Academy (I gave them some photography lessons and then they went out with disposable cameras to take photos that reflected their lives).” The aim of the exhibition is to raise awareness and funds for the four charities she works with, namely Urban Vision, Child Haven, Love and Hope Development Camp and St John’s College Academy. “I’m really keen to use my skills as a photographer to help others, so this exhibition is the culmination of six months of doing that.” See more of Emma’s work at emmaobrien.com.
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character shots.” The beauty of digital photography for the amateur and professional alike is that you can take as many pics as you like and then delete the ones you don’t want afterwards – a far cry from ensuring that every precious slice of film is used as wisely as possible. You have to start somewhere. With new technology making it easy to use even more advanced features, you can really start experimenting with lighting, subject placement and contrasts. I often find myself lying on the floor, leaning over a ledge or perched upside down to take a picture; it is all about the perspective I see at that time and how I want to capture it. But Emma provides some solid advice for the aspiring photographer, “Find subject matter that interests you and start shooting. If you like photographing landscapes, for instance, look at how top photographers have taken photographs and ask yourself what you like about the photo and why. Is the light particularly good? What time of day was it shot? How was the image composed? “If, like me, you’re passionate about photographing people, look at what makes a good portrait. Often it will be the expression of
people to think and perhaps look at aspects of life in a different way. In my mind, to be a good photographer you have to have a sense of wonder about the world. I often go out and take photographs of things that I’m curious about; for instance, people who live on the streets of the CBD. There is quite a bit of negativity towards homelessness and I’ve tried to take portraits that reveal the ‘person’ behind the stereotype and hopefully go some way to dispelling it.” Emma is currently working on a project in an informal settlement. She aims to create a body of work that shows the reality of life there and the fact that the people who live there are just ordinary people going about their daily lives. “A person who has inspired my photography is W. Eugene Smith, who took a humanitarian approach to documentary photography, which I think is really important. If I could have a dream assignment, it would be to photograph Madonna and actually capture the person behind the tough exterior. If I could get a photo of her laughing and showing some genuine emotion, I’d be very happy,” muses Emma. The bottom line? Let photography be your journey, let it speak to your passion, and embrace it from whichever angle you choose.
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Treat yourself while we treat your kids
Legacy’s Junior Ranger programme allows parents to enrol their kids in a unique, educational and, most importantly, a fun bush experience when staying at either Kwa Maritane or Bakubung Bush Lodges. Under the supervison of trained staff, parents can rest assured that their kids will be well taken care of whilst participating in a host of educational activities, allowing the whole family a great getaway with lots of the usual Legacy “Inspiration” For more information please contact Bakunbung and Kwa Maritane Bush lodges
Tel: +27 14 552 5100 kwamaritane@legacyhotels.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 14 552 6005 bakubung@legacyhotels.co.za
pride
reaching out
to make a difference
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rime is a reality and it is the responsibility of each and every South African to do their bit in combating this problem. At Legacy we are dedicated to playing our part in the war against crime, and part of that commitment comes in the form of Legacy Pride. Launched in October 2008, Legacy Pride is an anti-crime initiative with a two-fold objective: to raise funds to assist in the fight against crime, and to bring crime into the open, raising awareness about the dangers of crime in our country. Like a pride of lions, we are stronger together than we are as individuals. What began as a gesture to honour the life of Bart Dorrestein Junior (the son of Legacy Group Chairman Bart Dorrestein Senior) and Bruno Corte (a hotelier who was instrumental in establishing South Africa’s hospitality industry) has grown into a countrywide initiative that is fast gaining momentum. The Pride now consists of eight plush toys, each represented by an animal native to the country: two lions, a giraffe, a dolphin, a cheetah, a monkey, a rhino and an elephant. Seven of the toys commemorate the needless
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loss of special people through crime, and keeps their memory alive, while the eighth and newest member of the Pride is represented by an elephant. Created to honour the partnership between Legacy and SHOUT, the elephant symbolises strength, unity and compassion and stands for every South African who has ever been affected by crime as well as all of those individuals working so hard to make a difference in our country. For everyone who has lost someone dear to their hearts through crime, the Legacy Pride stands as a beacon of hope and a memorial to those who are no longer with us. Show your support for this initiative and help in the struggle to eradicate crime by purchasing one of these soft toys. The toys, accompanied by a bookmark explaining the initiative and the significance of each animal, are available for sale at all Legacy hotels, resorts and lodges, and online from legacypride.co.za in conjunction with Netflorist, netflorist.co.za. Each toy sells for R150, and all proceeds from sales go directly to worthy causes in the fight against crime in South Africa.
Gone but not forgotten Our pride celebrates the lives of those we have lost to violent crime in South Africa. They may be gone, but they will never be forgotten. Meet the Pride Bartie the Lion - Bartie the Lion commemorates the life of Bartie Dorrestein Junior. Bruno the Lion - Bruno the Lion recognises the life and work of Bruno Corte. Leigh the Giraffe - Leigh the Giraffe lives on in memory of Leigh Matthews. Stebie the Dolphin - Stebie the Dolphin was created in loving remembrance of six-year-old Steven Siebert. Merissa the Cheetah - Merissa the Cheetah is a testament to ten-year-old Merissa Naidoo. Brett the Monkey - Brett the Monkey epitomises the larger than life character, Brett Goldin. David the Rhino - David the Rhino is a reminder of the life of David Rattray. The Shout Elephant – In memory of all victims of crime in South Africa.
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monument
Inspiring a
Nation
Embracing the spirit of togetherness that is South Africa
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ithin the heart of Sandton is the Candle of Hope, a monument inspired by Legacy Chairman and CEO Bart Dorrestein, aiming to provide a guiding light for South Africans who believe in their nation and want to stand together against crime, poverty and fear. A six-metre tall bronze monolith, the Candle of Hope aims to embrace and embellish on the notion of nation building and togetherness. It has been modelled by sculptor SallyAnn Graham on a gnarled fig tree and is surrounded with a multitude of sculpted scenes of everyday South African life as well as a number of images of former President Nelson Mandela and the impact his life has made on the lives of everyday South Africans. The sculpted images include the long walk to freedom, the election of Mandela as president, the signing of the constitution, the winning of two Rugby World Cups and
the hosting of the 2010 Soccer World CupTM, as well as scenes that include South Africans building houses and infrastructure, refining our judiciary and education, improving healthcare, agriculture and mining, and focusing on the family as the core of our society. At the top of the candle one can see a group of South Africans that circle the structure, from which a fountain emits a steady stream of water. The water collects in a well at the bottom that is designed to symbolise the tears and pain of those who have suffered and lost loved ones in the journey towards the creation of a new South Africa. The monument is also made up of a 27m-long glass wall, upon which a forest has been sandblasted. It symbolises that, while we are growing as a nation, there is still fragility among us. We need to work together to protect our frail peace.
A gorgeous array of lighting, best seen at night, is designed to reflect the brightness of South Africa’s future, radiating for generations to come. But the symbolism doesn’t stop there. The roots of the forest are firmly planted in seeds of granite that have been replicated on the leaves of the trees, representing growth and stability. A host of inspiring quotes and inscriptions can also be found throughout the forest. The words talk of caution, forgiveness and inspiration. The monument is designed to serve as a reminder to all South Africans that we have come a long way in developing our nation; yet there is still a long way to go. It provides a place to mourn for those lost and to rejoice for the progress we have made. The Candle of Hope’s goal is to evoke a spirit of togetherness, family, trust and a value system we can believe in. The Candle of Hope is a celebration of all that is South Africa and all that is South African. Quotes around the trees include: “Be afraid of nothing, together we have the power, wisdom and strength to make and achieve greatness in our time.” “South Africa belongs to all of us.” “Our people are our greatest asset.” “We love South Africa, love its people, we are family, let’s look after each other.” “Growth lies not in the discussion, but in the action which follows.” “You and I have the right to be here, and the responsibility to make a difference.”
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sculpt
the changing
texture of art Do you prefer an oil painting or a mosaic? Art is becoming more about choice than structure
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he face of art is changing; something does not have to be a two-dimensional work on a canvas to be considered art. But what are local artists turning to in their tool kits and what makes a work of art just that? Legacy Inspires talks to a host of local artists about the use of different media when creating, conceptualising and producing works of art. According to Jennifer Kopping, well-known
artist and art lecturer, the use of mixed media in art is definitely gaining traction. She says it is driving the notion among art appreciators that art itself can be anything and that an artist can express themselves in a variety of ways, not just in two-dimensional forms. “I was originally trained as a fine artist, a very traditional form of training. During this time I focused on landscapes and nudes as my subject matter. But in the 80’s I started exploring post-modernism and as a result
discovered the diverse ways in which one can express yourself,” says Kopping. “The beauty of South Africa is that artists are exposed to so many different forms of media, from crafts, weaving and painting to sketching and even metal working. “With my move from the traditional to the more post-modern, I was exposed to a far more creative output with which I could start experimenting. I make use of a lot of material and embroidery, and each material has its
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own baggage or story to tell, with a different heritage and a means by which you need to work with it. I find it gives you visual clues to direct and assist with the path you want to take with your art,” adds Kopping. Kopping’s work tells a story. She works with mythological creatures to tell the story of people’s pasts and taps into universal symbolism and the collective consciousness. She says the use of mixed media provides her the ability to create works that are tactile and that engage the onlooker, offering her a more direct link with her audience and her artistic narrative. “I am currently exploring a new project, tapping into the virtual reality world and experimenting with mass media, tweets and blogs. It’s a journey of how we can connect and engage with people in new ways and working with mixed media enables me to combine technology with craft to tell the story of how we as a society have everything at our fingertips and everything is so accessible to us,” she explains. Another artist who has shaken the local art world with his creations is Mbongeni Buthelezi. His larger-than-life works are made entirely out of plastic. Armed with an iron and a hairdryer, Buthelezi takes the everyday trash people leave lying on the streets and turns it into magnificent works of art. “My work predominantly makes use of plastics,” says Buthelezi. “It has always been my belief that a successful work of art is not about expensive materials; it is about how different ideas are formulated together to make sense out of it.” Some of Buthelezi’s works are massive, something he attributes to his youth, as he was constantly criticised for making his art too big at school. With mixed media and the element of plastic the sky is the limit for him and his works show this. Take a walk through the road entrance of the new DAVINCI Hotel and you will see one of his works all around you, emulating passersby on a busy street. The movement is breathtaking and the imagery haunting. “Plastic gives me a lot of freedom and there are simply no limits to what I can do,” he says. “You must also remember that I don’t have any point of reference for my work, which also gives me the freedom to develop it as I go along. I believe that no other artist has experimented with or experienced this medium as extensively as I have; therefore I have had to learn as
Aidon Westcott Peter Mammes
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Jennifer Kopping much as I possibly could as I went along. And in so doing, my work evolves.” Buthelezi is currently making a significant impact in the international art scene and international visitors are snapping up his pieces as fast as he can make them. His studio is a colourful display of thousands upon thousands of rolls of a variety of types and colours of plastic, as well as piles of discarded pieces we would consider trash, yet which he sees as valuable parts of his next creation. We also managed to catch up with Peter Mammes, an artist who says that through his works he tries to explore that which most would consider bizarre or absurd. His use of different mediums and surfaces results in gorgeous three-dimensional pieces that represent a host of clashing messages in a single piece. “I am trying to get away from traditional mediums by using different surfaces and textures, and in turn create something that is truly my own technique and style,” says Mammes. “But it has been a challenge, as I have had difficulty getting it into traditional galleries. A lot of people only want to see what they know.”
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“There is no limit on a 3D surface; it is all in your mind. I wouldn’t say it is more free than using a 2D surface; it depends on what you are doing and what you are conceptualising,” he says. “It can be a cheap trick when people use mixed media so you need to review each piece carefully. The reason I did it was honestly because I wanted to do my own thing, create my own style and I felt that it was my niche.” Mammes says being unique is difficult. It means that there is no one doing what you are doing and that can put people off. He started his career as an architect and, when he tired of working with 2D drawings he evolved his style to translate his 2D images into three dimensions. He then began to incorporate wood into his pieces. According to Mammers, “I love that which is absurd and bizarre. We have a perception of what is normal or everyday, but if you take away what we consider normal, it really isn’t. It is all subjective, and I have all these thoughts that need to get out of my head and I use my art to do just that. “I would say that the problem with most young artists is that they only look at what is popular, and they also neglect the basics like
Peter Mammes
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sculpt Aidon Westcott
drawing skills,” advises Mammes. “Look at the reprints of Darwin’s books, for example. He drew every creature and plant in there himself – people used to be able to draw what they saw.” Mammes will be exhibiting his works in April at the Johannesburg Art Gallery. In addition, he is also starting to explore working in 2D again, but is not limiting himself to one form. Another artist that grabbed our attention was Aidon Westcott and his use of antiques and packaging in his work. His distinct signature also includes the use of fish as a subject and he explores antique shops up and down the coastline to collect pieces for his next work of art. “I love making my collages; it allows me to work quite quickly,” says Westcott. “It is not just a white canvas so it allows me to conceptualise quite speedily. Part of the process is going out and collecting the pieces as opposed to just staring at a canvas to start the process. This gives me a lot of freedom and serendipity plays a large role in what I do, as I am not stuck to the traditional boundaries that inhibit a lot of artists.” According to Westcott, a lot of artists
struggle with getting their concepts down. He feels he is able to work intuitively by playing with the pieces he collects and mixing and matching them along the way. “I have a lot of fun with my work. I go up and down the coastline to collect the pieces and I am always surprised at what people throw out. I recollect people’s lost or discarded memories – everything from invoices to letters and old photographs – and put them together with new interpretations for what they mean,” says Westcott. “I think it is important for an artist to explore all the avenues available to them and there are so many one can explore. Look at Picasso, for example. He started collages and the bug bit and the medium spread. Art isn’t just a canvas, it can be taking everyday items or something old that used to represent one specific thing that, after you are done with it, takes on a totally new angle. It is right here around us all the time, so I encourage all young artists to explore new mediums, especially when they feel they are stagnating. It can go a long way towards aiding the creative process.” One of the most delightful elements in
Westcott’s works includes the use of old packaging, “The printing of these was so thorough and so much thought went into them, where everything today is so mass produced! They took time to make things and paid attention to detail, which is probably why I also love using old handwritten letters. It is the personal touches that matter and that take you into a whole new world that is not your own.” Looking at the glorious works of the artists we spoke to gives us great confidence that South African art and artists are paving their own way and are making an impact on the global art scene. While they still face challenges in a world that for a long time has been governed and influenced by academics, people are starting to acknowledge that an artwork need not be an oil painting, and that art truly is in the eye of the beholder. Should you wish to purchase any of the aforementioned artists works be sure to visit Art Afrique at the Legacy Corner Mall on Nelson Mandela Square, Corner of Maude and 5th Street Sandton. Alternatively contact +27 11 292 7113 or visit artafrique.co.za
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DĂŠcor
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Designing DĂŠcor
elegance and style
The result of bringing the worlds of architecture and design under one roof
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hat would you get if you merged architecture and design? What would you experience when these two disciplines meet? Va-Room, of course! Legacy Inspires talks to the founders of Va-Room about how their dynamic designs and interiors are inspiring the lives of those around them.
Unlike the vast majority of interior design houses, Va-Room offers a unique combination of design and architectural knowledge. The end result is an artful integration of colour, texture, space, lighting and design, something which is fast setting this team of two apart from their local counterparts. Founded and co-owned by Terry-Lee Bryson and Vanessa Preston, the company
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Décor specialises in interior architectural design, which includes working with interior space planning and design, detailing and specification documents. “It is not a new approach to work with both design and architecture, but it isn’t one that is found everywhere and it is certainly not one that every customer buys into,” says TerryLee. “Being a design house, you have to be able to change your signature to meet the needs of the client at any given time. I can’t say we really fit into any box and we work across a variety of projects and themes.” The Va-Room team’s portfolio includes private residences, hotels, spas, restaurants and lounges. Satisfied clients include Karkloof Spa, Dante Wellness & Skin Rejuvenation, Matis and the Karavia Hotel, as well as the Maxim, Maximillien and the soon to be unveiled Michelangelo Spa. “Our policy is simply to design for the client and to keep them happy – we don’t have a specific stamp we try and impose on our customers all the time. We don’t have a specific look or style that we adhere to; each project we work on is custom designed to meet the exact brief from a specific client,” adds Terry-Lee. The team recently completed the design and interior of the Maximillien Restaurant in the Legacy Corner Mall in the heart
otherwise dull and lifeless spaces. We often find that people are drawn to places where extra attention has been paid to the lighting as it creates an aura of relaxation.” She adds that while Va-Room has always been keen on playing with and experimenting with lighting, a number of designers and design houses out there are doing the same. With the correct lighting, designers can create moods and looks within a space that can’t be achieved simply with finishings and furnishings. According to her, you can trick the brain into believing that elements of a room are floating, simply by getting your lighting right. Terry-Lee continues, “Designers need to be careful when they approach a project. One can be tempted to rush in and start overdesigning. We are careful with the spaces in which we work – we don’t want to overcomplicate the space with a jumbled design, but that said we love to work with difficult spaces as they present a real challenge for us. Our real signature is working with difficult spaces. These days it feels like just about every project we get starts off as an awkward and revolting space, and it is our job to get the look, feel and geometry right. When we do, the rewards are fantastic! Especially when the client is ecstatic with what we have done.”
“Our policy is simply to design for the client and to keep them happy” of Sandton, as well as its sibling, the Maxim Whiskey and Cigar Lounge. The designs take on a heady look that speaks of opulence, bygone times and plush comfortable furnishings. “The look and feel of both of these spaces is quite classic and we worked a fair amount on incorporating the lighting as an element of the design. The Maximillien and Maxim were both really challenging, as the roof pitches made it difficult to work on both of these projects and we had to draw on all our creativity,” she says. “Fortunately, Legacy was one of those dream clients. They wanted to get involved and they have an understanding of what it takes to turn a space from average into fabulous. Bart Dorrestein also got involved in the final decisions, and that made quite a difference to the project.” Speaking about the elements of design that the team most likes to work with, Terry-Lee comments, “We love working with lighting. It gives you so much more freedom. It creates comfortable spaces and puts energy into
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When asked what the challenges are facing designers today, Terry-Lee muses that is isn’t finding the clients, but rather getting clients to trust and buy into the vision that Va-Room brings to the table. She says the team loves to push the boundaries and often will go right beyond the boundaries, which can be unnerving for a client if they are more conservative in their approach to style and design. “We don’t just copy and reference from other designs; we like to bring a fresh perspective to the table. But clients aren’t always as open as we would like them to be,” says Terry-Lee. “It can be quite tough when a client’s brief is rigid. It makes it difficult to lead them off the road that is familiar and onto one that is possibly a bit more edgy. I think one of the biggest challenges facing designers is getting the fear factor out of people when it comes to their understanding of design. One could say it is the same level of fear a person who is leaving a job has to face: it is not necessarily the fear of leaving the job
maximillien
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Décor
maximillien
itself, but more the fear of change. “If we are talking about challenges then there is one particular experience I will never forget. We were asked to refurbish the old Sheraton Hotel in Lumbumbashi in the Democratic Republic of the Congo. It is
says Terry-Lee. When quizzed on what materials the team enjoys working with, Terry-Lee begins to gush about textures and tonal elements. She says textures can make or break a design or simply take it to an all-new level.
“We don’t just copy and reference from other designs; we like to bring a fresh perspective to the table” an old copper-mining town and when we got there, the hotel was falling down and riddled with rats. “The building was dark and dingy and creepy, to say it was derelict would be an understatement. It was shocking! But we turned it around by bringing in light, elements of green and transforming the space we had to work with into one that was open and light. It really challenged our architectural prowess as well as our knowledge of design,”
In addition, the combination of colours with textured materials is very important to the team, as they feel that it can significantly enhance a design. Terry-Lee continues, “If I look at what we are doing now as opposed to what we were doing in the past, I can unequivocally say that our designs are definitely getting lighter. We are starting to work more extensively with lighter woods and then experiment with lighting to bring out the flow, colours and
richness of the effects we are looking for. It is an art, really, and can make a significant difference to the overall picture.” Another challenge Terry-Lee says the ladies from Va-Room often find themselves facing is meeting budgets, “We often find ourselves wanting to do so much and have to bring ourselves back and limit ourselves because of budget constraints. Materials and furnishings in South Africa are also incredibly expensive and there are very few blank cheque book clients. So we have to plan, monitor and track what we do. The result is that, while we battle to meet budgets, we always do, while ensuring that we don’t take any shortcuts in the process.” Being an architectural design company also means that the team works with clients and builders to ensure that designs are correctly constructed and implemented. As a result, Va-Room doesn’t just present onedimensional views of proposed designs. They give clients full presentation boards of proposed finishes, giving customers a visual
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Décor Reception area of Spa De La Veille
Karkloof spa
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and tactile representation of what is being proposed and how it will all work together. “We never just leap into a design unarmed. We do an enormous amount of research before we even kick off the project,” says Terry-Lee. “This includes understanding what materials we will need and which suppliers we will be working with. At the end of the day all of this is to ensure that we meet the exact brief from the client.” “This further translates into a close working relationship with the client throughout the process. It’s a case of ensuring that their aesthetic and practical needs are met, while giving them the breathtaking design they deserve.” Looking at some of the trends in the current design industry, Terry-Lee says there seems to be a return to the look and feel of the 70’s, yet with a twist. She says she has noticed a lot of organic bubble designs creeping into new design, bringing a whole new feel to what can be construed as a retro art form. When asked what advice Va-Room would give to young designers trying to crack it in the industry, Terry-Lee says, “Designers need more knowledge of architecture. It will make them that little bit more confident when they walk into a meeting. When you have experience in both architecture and design, you are also able to see and conceptualise better, working with the spaces around you to ensure that the design becomes an all-embracing part of the
structure with a cohesive look and feel.” Va-Room has already started on its next project, designing and working on a number of new spas in the Legacy Group – including the soon-to-belaunched Michelangelo Spa. “We love working with Legacy; it really has been a great experience to date. Bart is always pushing our boundaries and making us look at unique ways in which to execute our designs,” Terry-Lee remarks over the relationship. “While they have their own safety zones they like to stick to, they definitely push the boundaries more than others. We have had a very positive response from our work with the group, and it has been a fantastic opportunity for us. I think they can see our dedication, especially when trying to get the ceilings to work in Maximillien and some days only leaving well after three in the morning, and they appreciate it because they themselves are always working and always striving to do things better than everyone else,” she says. When asked about what the future aspirations of Va-Room are, Terry-Lee doesn’t hesitate, “We would love to do a hotel. From top to bottom, being involved from the original drawings right through to the final product – and it would be even better if it was a Legacy hotel.” varoom.co.za
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wine
Cape
A little slice of France in the Take a tour through the Boschendal Wine Estate
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o journey to South Africa is complete without a trip to the Cape winelands, and with that a trip to one of the original farms in the area, Boschendal in the Franschhoek Valley. Situated in one of the most picturesque valleys within the winelands, the farm recently celebrated more than 300 years of winemaking and is considered a national treasure of South Africa. The name Boschendal can be translated as “wood and dale�, an apt name given the gorgeous surrounds of the valley in which it is situated.
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wine A heritage of winemaking The original farm was granted to the French Huguenot Jean le Long in 1685, and was later bought by fellow Hugenot Abraham de Villiers in 1715, who bought the adjacent farm from a Nicolas de Lanoy and combined them into what we today know as the Boschendal Wine Estate. Steeped in history, stories abound about where the original manor house was built. However, the existing homestead was officially rebuilt in 1812 by Jean’s youngest son Paul de Villiers and his wife Anna Susanna Louw, bearing their inscription on the front gable to this day. The year 1812 was also the height of the family’s prosperity and the size and imposing nature of the manor house is testimony to this. One of the largest original houses in the area from the era, the manor house has a gorgeous front gable that represents both the baroque and neo-classical styles of that period in time in the Cape. Its H-shaped design and signature pomegranate tree in the east courtyard form a nostalgic backdrop to its slew of original wooden shutters. Visitors to the house will be able to walk through its great halls and take in the magnificent yellowwood and teak screen that divides the reception area from the rooms behind it. In addition, the ceiling and floorboards are made of yellowwood and the interior doors have yellowwood panels set into teak frames. Yellowwood was seen as a mark of stature and opulence, as it was one of the most difficult woods to come by and indeed one of the most expensive. The bedrooms lead one from the other, creating a veritable maze throughout the house as you amble through a slice of well-preserved South African history, framed by a sumptuous air of affluence from a bygone era. The stunning farm kitchen is a perfect example of designs of the time and provides direct access to the loft. The manor house is a must-see and is one of the few houses in the Cape that has experienced a full restoration. In 1976, restorers uncovered a number of painted friezes on the walls throughout the house. The paintings are estimated to be more than 200 years old and it is guessed that they were the works of travelling artists or even slaves living in and passing through the area.
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wine The vineyards But no wine farm is complete without its vineyards and Boschendal’s vineyards fall under the experienced and passionate watch of a team of expert viticulturists who employ dynamic biological farming practices nurturing the land for sustainable quality into the future. Optimal sites are identified and planted with the best varieties according to the ancient soil profiles and aspects of the individual vineyards. In this way, Boschendal is assured the best grapes from both the estate vineyards and those of our growers for the most desirable expressions and quality to make world-class wines. The 254ha of Boschendal vineyards are situated over a 6km stretch that spans the slopes of the Groot Drakenstein Mountain, ambling up to the Dwars River and encompassing the slopes of the Simonsberg Mountain, they truly are a sight to behold. According to the farmers, the annual rainfall varies between 1,000mm – 1,250mm, of which most is in the period June to September. The sheer size and position of the farm have enabled its owners and resident winemakers to experiment with a number of grape varieties, which has resulted in a wide range of wines in its cellars. Boschendal’s winemakers and farmhands painstakingly identify the most appropriate location for each varietal, with a large portion of the land being dedicated to the planting of
A history of the area It is believed that the earliest inhabitants in the valley where Boschendal is situated lived there over 700 000 years ago, which has been confirmed by the discovery of artefacts from the early, middle and late Stone Ages. Uncovered in the mountain slopes and the river plains, these have provided a patchwork map for historians trying to piece together the past. It is believed that for tens of thousands of years the Cape was inhabited by small bands of hunter-gatherers, who mainly took sustenance from hunting game, fishing and foraging for plant foods. The original Boschendal title deed indicates that the estate dates back as far as 1685, making it one of the very first wine farms in the valley. But this is where it gets sketchy, as it is believed that the first recorded owner, Jean le Long, himself a Huguenot, probably arrived with the first main influx of Hugenots that actually settled in the Cape from 1688 onwards. History then dictates that in 1715, the
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Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc grapes. In recent years a number of new plantings have also been explored, and include noble red varietals – with the likes of Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Shiraz – putting Boschendal in an enviable position where it intends to become one of South Africa’s top red wine producers. Grapes taken from the Boschendal vines reach their optimal maturity at 22°–24° Balling, a variance in ripeness that has helped to ensure that the peak period of the grape intake is while it is in the cellar, in addition to which it also guarantees that blocks can be selected by the viticulturist and winemakers to produce varied styles of grape. Winemaking is an art. One’s success lies in your understanding of location, grape and weather patterns. With its range of slopes and altitudes coupled with the nature and pattern of the plantings of the vines, Boschendal enjoys a distinct advantage amongst its counterparts in the area, as it creates varying degrees of sugar and acidity that develop in the grapes providing for wellbalanced wines. Other factors influencing the quality of wines produced include the cool growing conditions in the Boschendal vineyards, allowing for the production of fine-bodied wines filled with ripe fruit flavours. Each wine is intrinsically different yet each portrays the inherent characteristics of the Boschendal terroir.
Boschendal farm was bought by Abraham de Villiers, who also purchased a then unnamed piece of land that had been granted to a Nicolas de Lanoy. It has been confirmed that the De Villiers family were part of a group of 250 Protestant Huguenot refugees who fled France as a result of religious persecution. Originally from the well-known wine province Champagne in the north of France, the De Villiers family had, prior to their exodus to the Netherlands lived for a while in La Rochelle, on the west coast. Shortly after arriving in the Netherlands the family was recruited by the Dutch East India Company, eager to tap into their wine-farming experience with sights set on winemaking in the Cape region. The family left their European motherland and headed for the Cape with the company on the ship Zion, and are documented to have arrived in May of 1689. Abraham and his brother Jacques were quick to go into business together and in 1717 Jacques bought the extended farm, which remained with the family until 1879. A mere eight years later, the world-renowned
mining magnate, Cecil John Rhodes, bought Boschendal, as part of an acquisition of over 20 farms in the Drakenstein Valley, in order to establish Rhodes Fruit Farms. After his death in 1902, the De Beers mining company remained committed to the management of the farms for a further 40 years before its sale to Sir Abe Bailey and later, to a syndicate. In 1969 the Anglo-American Corporation then took over the farms with the vision to reinvest in and redevelop wine farming, introducing only the highest quality plant material. The old Boschendal complex was then restored by architect Gawie Fagan and his wife Gwen, who brought it back to its former glory, reminiscent of the heady days of Hugenots and their passion for the vine.
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wine The people behind the wines Behind each good wine is a good winemaker, and the Boschendal team is no different, made up of a team of two young and energetic winemakers. It is jested at the farm that what they lack in wrinkles and grey hair, they make up for in talent, enthusiasm and an unwavering commitment to producing the very best wines in the world. Lizelle Gerber is the feisty winemaker who produces the Cap Classique bubblies as well as the portfolio of white wines, along with Thinus Kruger who is the talent behind
Boschendal’s red wines. With extensive experience over several harvests, they have tremendous insight and knowledge of the Cape wine country between them with a particular grasp for Boschendal’s signature style. The team believes that the making of wine is not only a science but also a time-honoured art that requires creative minds and a careful hand. What transpires from this idyllic apex of nature and talent is a range of multi-award winning wines recognised with respect both at home in South Africa and in over 50 countries where you will find Boschendal wines.
Taphuis Wine Tasting Centre All wines on offer are available to taste and purchase at the estate. Tasting takes place at the Taphuis Wine Tasting Centre. The centre can be found near the Le Rhone Manor House, just a short distance from the winery. The centre offers a heady olfactory sensation and wine tasting can be done inside or outside the building. Wine tours can be scheduled in advance or on arrival, however, it is suggested you book to ensure you can be walked through the process by the staff on duty, who have been trained to teach even the non-connoisseur what to look for in the wines. Tours of the vineyards occur from November to April and cellar tours from May to October which take place twice daily, at 10.30a.m. and 11.30a.m.
A trip to the cellar If you are fortunate to get to Boschendal, you must take a trip to the cellar. While the new cellar remains part of the original cellar that was built for the Le Rhone Manor House in 1975, significant improvements and advancements have been made. Winemakers ensure that the cellar is central to the research and development required to produce cutting-edge wines, and the use of the latest technologies and only the best resources ensure that the Boschendal team is able to produce wines of the finest quality which reflect its unique terroir and its French heritage. Considerable investment into the cellar has resulted in unique features including suspended fermentation tanks that allow for self-draining. This unusual design also offers the team an uncluttered working space and the wine press is situated directly under the tanks into which the pommace is released. The temperature of each tank is individually controlled and with the use of new technology can be pre-programmed, which permits the fermentation of a number of different varietals at their own unique fermentation temperatures all at once. Temperature in the barrel maturation cellar is also important and the room has a humidity control that safeguards the liquid gold stored exclusively in French oak caskets. With its four separate compartments, the maturation cellar also enables winemakers to work in microclimates specifically needed for the honing and tweaking of different wine varieties. The recently upgraded white wine and sparkling wine cellar also boasts specialised temperature controls designed specifically with the maturation of the Boschendal Cap Classiques in mind, making certain that they mature at their optimum temperatures prior to dégorgement. Once vinified the Boschendal wines are then bottled and labelled in a brand-new facility that sports only the latest in imported equipment. From beginning to end the wine production process is continually monitored and inspected. Its qualified quality controller is the watchdog guarding the estate’s coveted IS09002 status. While Boschendal makes use of the latest in innovative technology, it also sticks to its roots and ensures at all times that the craft and skill of the cellar master come first and foremost, adding impetus to a vision that acknowledges that the making of wine is not only an exacting science but a timehonoured art that requires creative minds and careful nurturing.
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wine Taking some time out If you do get the chance to pay the farm a visit, and you have ambled through the old manor house, had the opportunity to visit the vineyards and the cellars and want to spend some time relaxing or grab a bite to eat, you will be happy to know that you don’t need to leave the estate to do so. Take advantage of the culinary delights on offer at The Restaurant or Le Café, alternatively enjoy a more relaxed gastronomic experience with Le Pique Nique. The Restaurant Crossing the magnificent front lawns you will find The Restaurant, which combines the same style and theme of the manor house, but with a touch of modernity thrown into the mix. The Restaurant can be found in the original cellar of the Boschendal Manor House, and its chefs prepare taste extravaganzas of delectable Cape–French buffet luncheons, every day of the week. On arrival you will be treated to a glass of sherry or sparkling wine, amongst a signature display of local Proteas that are picked on the farm. Yellowwood tables line the floors and create the centrepiece for a variety of mouthwatering dishes including velvet-smooth soups, home-made pâtés, crisp salads, sliced rare beef and baked ham, all of which form a prelude to a traditional roast served with golden potatoes and fresh vegetables. Finish off your meal with a selection of wellripened cheese, delicious preserves and a variety of puddings and cream confections, all part of a six-course feast accompanied by only the finest Boschendal wines. Le Pique Nique If you want to spend your time at the estate outdoors, then we suggest you treat yourself to a Boschendal picnic. Taking its inspiration from its French heritage, the picnics can be taken by the pine forest under the shadows of the Simonsberg Mountain, where tables with
large umbrellas are strategically placed for ultimate privacy and quiet. Wicker picnic baskets are prepared upon request and are filled with baguettes, homemade pâtés, cold meats, salads, cheese and biscuits. Once you have tucked in you can head back to the gazebo for your selection of desserts and coffees. It is best not to forget the wine list, you are on a wine estate after all. Le Café For a less formal retreat you can head to Le Café, situated in the original slave quarters of Filander, Karlien and Kandas. The café offers light lunches and countrystyle teas best enjoyed with scones or its famous home-made lemonade, not to forget its traditional Bobotie. A gorgeous log fire makes the café the ideal setting for cold wintry days. If you manage to make your way to the estate in summer, be sure to take your meals outside under the ancient oak trees. Le Café is open for brunches, light lunches, teas and coffees throughout the day. Aside from the wine operations under custodians DGB, the Boschendal property offers an exclusive refined country lifestyle to a privileged few with select limited development. The utmost respect to the natural prevailing environment is priority in this endeavour. In fact, it has in recent years made huge strides in extremely challenging and costly alien clearing projects to restore the estate to its natural biodiversity. Boschendal Wine Estate is a unique experience, tapping into the original heritage of the French Hugenots who brought winemaking to South African shores, coupled with the award-winning techniques of modernday local wines. It is historic, informative and absolutely magnificent; a trip to the Cape winelands is not complete without a visit to the Boschendal estate. Details: boschendal.com
The wines But with a wine estate comes one very important addition, its wines, and the Boschendal “favourites” are icons in South Africa, offering terrific quality at great value. The premium 1685 collection pays tribute to the remarkable journey through history to the vibrant richly textured and intense wines presented in its unique voluptuous bottle. The exclusive limited edition Cecil John Reserve range expresses the provenance that makes the Cape one of the finest and most diverse wine growing regions of the world. Clarity of fruit, complexity and pedigree distinguish this definitive range worthy of bearing the name of Boschendal’s patriarch. The two recently reintroduced Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines liberate the spirit and energy of Boschendal, each in their own way. Boschendal Grande Cuvee is an enigmatic Pinot Noir and Chardonnay Cuvée that generously reveals extended lees maturation for opulent yet graceful drinking, whilst Boschendal La Grande Pavillion Rosé is playful and enticing with its attractive salmon pink sparkle and delicious crushed red berry flavours.
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Pavillion Range The Pavillion Blanc 2008 The Pavillion Rose 2009 The Pavillion Shiraz The Pavillion Cabernet Sauvignon 2008 The Pavillion Shiraz Rosé 2008 Local Favourites Blanc de Blanc 2009 Le Bouquet 2010 Lanoy Cabernet Sauvignon Merlot 2009 Blanc De Noir 2010 Chenin Blanc 2010 1685 Range 1685 Sauv Blanc 2009 1685 Chardonnay 2009 1685 Shiraz 2008 1685 Shiraz Cabernet 2008 1685 Chardonnay Pinot Noir 2009 Reserve Range Cabernet Sauvignon 2003 Grande Reserve NV Reserve Collection Shiraz NV Reserve Sauvignon Blanc NV Cecil John Reserve Range Cecil John Reserve Sauv Blanc 2007 Cecil John Reserve Shiraz 2006 Methôde Cap Classique Boschendal Le Grande Pavillion – Brut Rosé Boschendal Grande – Cuvee Brut
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Luxury Hotels on the V & A Waterfront The Commodore Hotel from R1145 per person sharing The PortsWood Hotel from R1025 per person sharing Legacy’s Cape Town hotels - The Commodore and The PortsWood - offer guests true luxury overlooking the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with views of Table Mountain, Robben Island and the Atlantic Ocean to complement the stylish living, quality and service which Legacy hotels and Resorts is renowned for. Conditions: This special is only applicable to SA residence. Rates include VAT, accommodation and breakfast. Excludes tourism levy. Terms & Conditions Apply
The PortsWood Hotel Tel: +27 21 418 3281 portswood@legacyhotels.co.za
Central Reservations 0800 HOTELS
The Commodore Hotel Tel: +27 21 415 1000 commodore@legacyhotels.co.za
indulge
DAVINCI spa
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wit h a Twist ... Shaken ... Stirred or
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he African summer is upon us, and what better way to shake off the dust of a long day in the African heat than a cocktail? We explore some of the season’s favourite cocktails and how they are best enjoyed.
Pomegranate & Watermelon Martini Nothing says summer quite like watermelon. Combine it with pomegranate, throw it together with a Martini and you have the perfect accompaniment to a poolside lunch. Take cold watermelon liqueur, shake it up with Smirnoff Black Vodka, fresh lime juice, pomegranate syrup and cranberry juice.
Purple Plum Cosmopolitan
Seduction of your senses is what this cocktail promises. Take a dash of Smirnoff Black Vodka and shake up with triple sec, fresh lime juice, cherryplum infusion and cranberry juice. Finish with a twist of orange zest. A classic with a difference!
Vanilla Pine Breeze Aptly known as the thirst quencher, this cocktail can be drunk any time of the day and at any occasion. Combine Smirnoff Black Vodka, triple sec, Blue Curacao and vanilla syrup, and top off with pineapple juice and orange juice. Serve in a tall glass over cubed ice. Bound to leave you ordering more!
Violet Reign
The royal flush of cocktails, this beauty will not only embrace the palate but is easy on the eye as well. Made from combining the flavours of Tanqueray Gin, pomegranate syrup, pineapple puree and Blue Curacao, this cocktail is served in a tall glass over cubed ice and topped with orange juice, providing a gorgeous clash of colours and flavours. If you want to enjoy these cocktails in the company of friends, pop down to visit the cocktail alchemists at Maximillien restaurant and Maxim Cigar and Whisky Lounge in Legacy Corner; Corner 5th & Maude Street, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton. Maximillien +27 (0)78 804 2091, Maxim +27(0)11 784 3316
Berry Bramble Need that extra zing? Then you need a Berry Bramble. Blend fresh forest berries with a hint of lemon, stir it over crushed ice with a dash of Tanqueray Gin and top off with a lacing of crème de cassis. This cocktail is bound to tickle and delight the taste buds.
Mango Groove Cooler A taste of the tropics, the Mango Groove Cooler is a delight made up of fresh sun-ripened mangos shaken up with fresh limes, a generous splash of Tanqueray Gin and just a hint of caramel. It’s served in a tall glass over cubed ice. A delicious alchemy of sweet and sour.
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Photograph by Anthony Friend
Taste
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Taste
Ship Ahoy
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All aboard for a Capetonian taste experience with Rob Creaser
hey say that chefs leave their mark not only on their food, but also on their people and kitchen. In this issue Legacy Inspires speaks to Rob Creaser, head chef at the Clipper Restaurant at the Commodore Hotel in Cape Town, about food, footie and the Navy. Rob is one of those easy-to-chat-to people who constantly look for the positive side of life, with a cutting humour, passion for his team and an almost irrational love for his football team Chelsea. He also runs the Clipper like a well-oiled machine. Born in England, Rob moved to Cape Town
roles and learning under well-known chefs throughout the UK about fine dining. Before returning to SA he found himself in Woking where he worked at two and a number of banqueting facilities. But Cape Town was never far from his mind. Rob was eager to return to South Africa, seeing the UK as a great food university. “I really got my first big break when I came back to Cape Town and started at the Mount Nelson, where I worked under the watchful eye of Garth Stroebel. He taught me everything he knew about hotel dining and guest palates, and this is where I got my first taste of hotel cheffing. I was hooked,” says Rob.
“Every single time a guest comes to me and tells me that I have just served them one of the best meals in their life, that is my best experience” with his family at a young age. After going through the motions of school at Wynberg Boys’ High School and causing mayhem as a child, he decided to join up and do his national service. “I wasn’t one of those chaps that decided to run off at the first chance and avoid national service. In those days if you did, you were never allowed back into the country and I love Cape Town too much to entertain the thought of not returning to it,” reminisces Rob. “So when I got the call-up I decided to follow the footsteps and advice of my stepfather and joined the Navy. He told me flatly that basics would bugger me up, but after basics I should sign up to be a chef. His reasoning was simple – I would never go hungry and everyone would like me. It was here where my love affair with food began,” he adds. After finishing his national service and completing his two-year chef’s training, Rob found himself back in England where he joined British American Tobacco as a chef. His first experience in the UK was cooking at the Epsom Derby and, after a career of six years abroad, he found himself cooking as a Sous Chef among other
Rob’s career after leaving the Mount Nelson really started to gain traction. He joined the Victoria Junction Hotel, where he started as Sous Chef and then got promoted to Head Chef. But craving more and eager to gain more experience, Rob eventually left and headed to the African bushveld where he took up the position of Executive Chef at Londolozi Private Game Reserve in the Sabi Sands. When the contract came to an end, Rob opted to take a year off and once again explored the tastes of new cultures, which saw him travelling through Asia. He added an arsenal of new flavours and colours to his already well-versed cooking book. “I was just about to pack in South Africa again and head for the Caribbean when the opportunity to fill the role of Executive Chef at The Commodore came up. Now those who know me know I have an irrational love for Cape Town, so the decision was an easy one for me, even though it took me seven years of living in England to realise it.” Perhaps it wasn’t just the allure of Cape Town that bagged the job for Rob, but also the nautical theme of the Clipper Restaurant. Guests visiting the restaurant have mused that the room and the setting look and feel like a ship, perhaps conjuring up memories of where
Rob first started his career, in the Navy. “The Commodore is fantastic and I love it. The team is brilliant and exceptionally passionate. As a high-energy, passionate person myself, I like to think that some of my energy wears off on my team. Yes, I am a bit eccentric, but I think it is healthy – there is a lot of laughter in our kitchen and we have good times together.” When asked what his best cheffing experience has been, Rob humbly says, “Every single time a guest comes to me and tells me that I have just served them one of the best meals in their life, that is my best experience. There is no one event that stands out, but rather every comment that a guest has to say to honour what we serve from our kitchens.” Worst disasters? “Again, I can’t say it is just one thing that stands out and burns a hole in my memory, but rather something like the logistics and semantics of working at a place like Londolozi. It’s difficult when you are so far from everything and so secluded in the bush that orders can take days or weeks, and when something is broken you have to live without it or make a plan, as it just doesn’t get fixed instantly. “Oh but hang on, there is one huge disaster that stands out in my very early years as a chef, a cooking disaster that is. I once put salt into the custard instead of sugar at a major event. Not a pleasant memory,” Rob says. As a man who likes to be in control, Rob says the worst thing that can happen to any chef is when things start getting out of control in the kitchen. Kitchens are frenetic and Rob likes to run his kitchens with the same passion with which he approaches life. He is a firm believer that it is easier for happy and enthusiastic people to approach challenges. His recipe for a happy team is to work as hard as he expects his people to, often clocking double shifts and moving tables around himself if the need arises. Talking about the style of food at the Clipper, Rob says, “I try to perfect food by using the freshest ingredients and keeping it simple. The menu is varied with influences from Asia and Africa. I try and create ideas that are new and different; there are few things more rewarding than when you try a new dish and everything just works!”
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Taste “I also love to work with fish, not just because we have access to an abundance of fresh fish where we are, but also because it is so versatile. You can marry a variety of flavours with fish and because my personal style is very global, it matches that perfectly. “One has to constantly stay abreast of the latest trends in the industry and the Internet is a great way to tap into the ideas of the world’s top foodies. It is also a good way to keep track of what people are eating and why. I have developed a personal interest in the molecular gastronomy trend, and I’m gaining a lot of insight from food greats like Heston Blumenthal. I have many of his books, and they are a great inspiration to me.” And for the man who likes to keep on the
Samoosas
3 cups of brown lentils (soaked overnight, drained) 4 onions, chopped 1 tsp garlic 2 tsp turmeric 1 tsp curry powder 1 tsp garam masala 1 tin tomato cocktail (200ml) 2 cups water 2 tsp corn flour Samoosa or phyllo pastry 2 tbsp oil Salt and pepper to taste Place a pot on moderate heat and allow the onions to sweat off for 1 minute, then add the garlic. Once translucent, add the drained lentils and spices and cook for a further 2 minutes. Add the tomato cocktail and mix through, then add the water. Put a lid on the pot and cook until the lentils are tender and the liquid has reduced and absorbed. Remove the mixture from the pot and allow to cool. Once the mixture has cooled down, cut the pastry into 8 6cm-wide strips. Mix the corn flour with a little water to form a paste. Place a heaped teaspoon full of the lentil mixture at the bottom of a pastry strip, and turn the pastry over diagonally to form a pocket with the mixture inside. Repeat the process of folding, moving up the pastry strip to form a samoosa. Seal the pastry with a little of the corn flour paste by brushing some of the paste on the inside of the pastry when you make the final fold. Deep-fry the samoosas in oil.
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move with an inexhaustible energy, he likes to spend his time at home relaxing, watching TV (football I am sure), or going for a ride on his mountain bike through the picturesque Cape Town. “Working in a kitchen can be exhausting and it takes a lot out of you, so when you get away from it all, you really want to relax and just chill.” For those of you planning a trip to Cape Town in the near future, do yourself a favour, head to the Clipper and ask to meet Rob. You will love his passion, his humour and his enthusiastic outlook on life. Whatever you do, don’t mention it if his team, Chelsea, performs badly, as you may not come out of it unscathed. Fanatic as he is, though, Rob doesn’t see that happening.
Grilled ostrich
4 x 220g ostrich fillet portions 2 bananas 50g fresh coriander Oil Salt and pepper to taste Grill the ostrich (I recommend it medium rare for best results – time varies according
Chakalaka sauce
1 onion, chopped 1 green pepper, chopped 4 tomatoes, chopped 2 tsp garlic, chopped 1 small chilli, chopped 2 tins tomato cocktail (2 x 200ml) 1 tbsp tomato puree Salt and pepper to taste
The lighter side of Rob Creaser What is your favourite food? That would have to be crispy bacon What is your favourite takeaway food? Thai Favourite alcoholic accompaniment to food? Definitely liqueurs, because you can include them into the dessert itself If you could live anywhere in the world where would it be? Cape Town, of course Ideal holiday destination? Would have to be the Phi Phi Islands – no cars and great diving What are your hobbies? Mountain biking around Cape Town and football
to preference). Chop the coriander and cut the bananas in half, lengthwise. Rub with the coriander and grill for 1 minute. Place the samoosas on the plate, cut the ostrich to show the rich colours, then spoon some chakalaka sauce over it. Place the grilled banana on top. Garnish with a sprig of coriander and drizzle with a little coriander oil.
Slowly braise the onions in a little bit of oil until they become translucent. Take care that they don’t burn. Add the garlic, green pepper and chilli and cook for a further two minutes. Add the tomato and cook slowly, then add the tomato cocktail and puree. Reduce the mixture to a thick consistency. Add salt and pepper to taste.
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A dream Drive
come true The F1-inspired McLaren MP4-12C
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Drive
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id you ever dream of being a race car driver as a child, of speeding around the track at top speed to the cheers of the crowd? Now you can finally live that dream, thanks to the McLaren MP4-12C, the first-ever highperformance sports car from the world’s most successful racing team. Inspired by F1 and designed to meet 21st century driving demands, the McLaren MP412C offers the thrill of the track with the safety and comfort of a luxury car. The sleek, supersexy lines and low-slung undercarriage are sure to turn more than a few heads, and the roar of the monster 3.8-litre twin turbo V8 engine is music to the ears. Top speed sits somewhere around 320km/h, to which the sports car enthusiast may well say, “so what”? The maximum speed is nothing to write home about, but what sets the McLaren apart is its precision handling. The acceleration on the MP4-12C will leave you breathless as it zooms from 0–200km/h in less than 10 seconds, and the precision braking, taking you from 200km/h to a standstill in less than five seconds, is liable to give the unwary a serious case of whiplash. The MP4-12C takes the spirit of Formula 1 and superior engineering from the track and puts it in the hands of the consumer. Built on a revolutionary carbon-fibre chassis – the Carbon MonoCell – the underlying architecture of the car is both super-lightweight and amazingly strong and delivers superior handling, ride comfort and performance along with safety, economy and practicality. The chassis allows for a narrower overall structure, delivering a more compact car that is easier to manoeuvre on the road and offers a rewarding driving experience. With what McLaren claims is the highest specific power output in its class as well as extraordinary power-to-weight and torque-to-weight ratio, the car is certainly a speed demon and takes tight corners like a dream. Along with the Proactive Chassis Control (PCC) system, which offers exceptional handling and ride ability, this technology delivers a unique combination of performance, practicality and efficiency. A seven-speed Seamless Shift dual-clutch gearbox and active aerodynamics to aid cooling, grip, handling and road holding round out the picture of a machine built for business. The low CO2 emissions and high power output puts the MP4-12C in the enviable position of delivering the highest horsepower-
to-CO2 ratio of any car on the market today, something which, in an increasingly green world, is becoming an important selling point. Bespoke design of every single part and component, from the engine right down to the tailor-made switches and buttons, makes this car pure McLaren, reflecting the company’s philosophy as well as its position as a leader in technology and performance. The MP412C is a high-performance sports car with some serious racing genes. The McLaren MP4-12C will go on sale through a dedicated worldwide retailer network early in 2011. Visit mclaren.com for more information.
Specs Powertrain: Engine:
3.8 litre V8
Layout:
Mid-engine rear-wheel drive
Compression ratio: Valvetrain:
9.0:1
32 valve, DOHC, fixed VVT
Fuel/induction:
Port injection, turbocharged, electronic throttle
Redline RPM: Power:
8 500 435kW at 7 000rpm
Peak torque:
600Nm at 3 000–6 500rpm
Transmission:
7-speed McLaren Seamless Shift dual-clutch gearbox
Body: Wheelbase
2 670mm
Length
4 509mm
Width
1 908mm
Height Dry weight
1 199mm Less than 1 300kg
Performance: 0 – 200 km/h:
Less than 10 seconds
200 – 0 km/h:
Less than 5 seconds
Maximum speed:
Over 320km/h
CO2:
Below 300g/km
Chassis: Material:
One-piece carbon-fibre MonoCell
Suspension:
McLaren PCC, z-bar for extra heave stiffness
Damping modes:
Normal / Sport / Track
Stability control modes:
Winter/Normal/ Sport / Track
Front brakes
Ventilated iron discs; 370mm, 4-piston calipers
Rear brakes
Ventilated iron discs, 350mm, 4-piston calipers
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Fly
in st yle
Take to the skies
The Hawker 900XP sets a new standard for luxury private jets
W
hether you travel for business or for pleasure, nothing makes the journey pass quicker than a flight in a super-luxurious private jet such as the Hawker 900XP. With a six foot high, six foot wide cabin with plenty of space for relaxing, preparing a presentation or entertaining clients, the Hawker 900XP ensures maximum comfort for all, no matter how long the trip. In fact, Business Jet Traveller Magazine rates the cabin seats “the best of any aircraft”. The large and versatile cabin can be configured to an eight-seat or six-seat arrangement and the fully equipped galley has a microwave, a coffee maker, an ice drawer and more, for any refreshments you may require on your journey. Heated and pressurised in-cabin stowage allows you to keep your golf clubs or skis in tip-top condition, or can be opened up to use as extra space for business presentations during the flight. The cabin of the plane can even be customised by Hawker Beechcraft’s exclusive team of craftsmen and designers to create a personalised interior from their wide range of quality finishes and details. Exterior paintwork can also be customised to create your perfect aircraft. The pilot has not been forgotten, as there is an easy-to-reach engine and system switches for maximum safety and a hightech, responsive flight deck that keeps critical data close at hand. Enhanced map overlays simplify routine tasks, and powerful weather mapping, high wing loading and an integrated maintenance diagnostic system
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keep the Hawker 900XP soaring smoothly in all conditions. The Hawker 900XP has a maximum cruising speed of 826km/h at its maximum cruising altitude of 40 000ft, and with a maximum range of 5 378km, the jet is perfect for any business or leisure trip. With a supreme combination of advanced aerodynamics, pure power and deluxe, customisable design, the Hawker 900XP is the ultimate in luxury private jets. Available from National Airways Corporation for a retail price of $15 714 000 (R107,5-million). nac.co.za
Specs Engines:
Honeywell TFE 731-50R
Power rating:
20.73kN
Wingspan:
16.56m
Cabin dimensions:
6.5m x 1.83m x 1.75m
Max baggage weight:
179kg
Max cruise speed:
861km/h
Range (4 passengers) 5 219km Max operating altitude 40 000ft Takeoff field length
1 513m
Landing field length
808m
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SPORT 28
SPORT 34
SPORT HT 34
SPORT 38
SPORT HT 38
SPORT 43
SPORT HT 43
DEEP BLUE 46
Balance
Relax your lifestyle Latest addition to Michelangelo Hotel will leave guests exhilarated
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t is not easy to set your hotel apart from the thousands of competitors, but when you are the Michelangelo Hotel on Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, it is hard to find additions to your already fabulous repertoire to inspire and delight guests. With this in mind, guests to the Michelangelo – a Leading Hotel of the World – will be able to take in the relaxing elements of its lavishly designed Legacy Balance Spa and Gymnasium from April 2011. While patrons are already privy to decadent luxury by way of a gorgeous indoor swimming area and gym, the new spa will raise the bar for
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visitors and local Sandton residents looking for a place to relax and unwind. According to Adele Chown, spa Operations Manager for Legacy Balance, “The theme and style of the new spa will blend in perfectly with that of the hotel and will take the tone of an opulent, romantic Italian getaway in line with the Renaissance feel of the Michelangelo at present.” The two-storey spa will be located on the outer recesses of the hotel in the gardens adjacent to the lavish indoor swimming pool, and will boast a total of four treatment suites, two manicure stations and two pedicure stations, as well as pause
areas where a variety of light meals can be enjoyed between treatments. “There is very little that sets one spa apart from another, so what we aim to focus on and improve is service excellence, quality of treatments, variety of treatments and a keen understanding of what the people in the area are looking for,” states Chown. She continues, “It is essential to know your clients, know what they want and expect. There is no point in opening a beach walk spa in Sandton where the ladies are discerning and want to be pampered with the very best of the best, not just by way of treatments but products too, you will
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Balance specifically meet the demands and needs of each location and setting,” says Chown. The new Michelangelo Spa promises to deliver on just that. Apart from its treatment rooms – of which two have a collapsible divider that converts them into couple treatment rooms – and the gorgeous upstairs relaxation area, guests can enjoy the hydro pool or wash away the troubles of the day in a magnificent outdoor shower. Other new additions will include a sauna, steam room and male and female changing facilities with lockers.
from Sorisa which focuses on facial and body treatments and seems to be the most popular and most sought-after treatments in the market.” The machines include the Sorisa Skin Light multi-functional unit, which is used for dermo-micro-abrasion and a number of addon facial treatments; and the Sorisa Dermo Heat Radio Frequency machine, which is designed to assist with toning, firming and lifting the body and the face. “You can have all the machines in the world and the best internationally trained
“Beauty and health are not just about what is on the outside of the body, it is extremely important to focus on and look at the inner body as well” Spa treatments are evolving to include a number of multi-functional treatment machines that have been designed to assist in healing, revitalising and beautifying. Chown says, “The type of machines you choose are very important additions to your spa treatment menu. We have settled on two machines for the Michelangelo Spa
therapists, but unless the environment and space you create matches the tone you are hoping to achieve it will be lost,” adds Chown. To create a beautiful environment, Legacy Balance has selected the lauded local interior design firm Va-Room to assist with the design and layout of the spa. The company has a number of industry-
not get very far in this area if you offer an inferior product to your clients.” But it’s not easy knowing what your customers want, so Chown says the Legacy Balance team is constantly doing research to gain an understanding of what they need to provide. In addition she says it is critical for a spa owner to stay on top of global trends and to use these as a yardstick to constantly improve your offerings. “Essentially you can have the best of everything, but true uniqueness comes in the form of your treatment menu. It is with this that we pay detailed attention to each spa in the Legacy Group’s portfolio and tailor it to
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Balance leading spas under its belt and the designers specialise in both interior and architectural design. The Michelangelo Spa’s product lineup is also impressive and Chown and her team have selected only the best for their customers. Within the facial range, products include award-winning items from Babor and Dermalogica, and manicure and pedicure products include Spalicious and a range of stunning colours out of the OPI range. In addition, only the best Lillian Terry oils will be used for ultimate relaxation. “Beauty and health is not just about what is on the outside of the body, it is extremely important to focus on and look at the inner body as well. It is because of this that the Legacy Balance experience is one where our spas work hand in glove with our gyms. For instance, we suggest to clients that if they are booked in for a rejuvenating massage, they hop onto the powerplate for 20 minutes to get the blood flowing and circulating optimally. By the time the therapist works on them,
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they can get to and effectively relieve all the problem areas.” It is not only hotel guests that have access to the gymnasium and the spa. Outside customers can take out gym contracts or arrange a workout and those who want to visit the spa can simply book and appointment or pop in for a day of pampering. The option of a gym contract is particularly popular with busy executives in the Sandton area, who want to stay in shape but prefer the seclusion and pace of the Legacy gyms as opposed to the hustle and bustle of the more popular gymnasiums in the area. “It’s about privacy, intimacy, pace, personal attention and offerings,” says Chown. She continues, “We believe the addition of the gyms and the proximity of these to the spas really set us apart from others, and we encourage our guests and clients to make use of both. There is no set age group either. I always remind people that the sooner you start looking after yourself the better your physical and emotional health in the long run.”
“The world in which spas operate is very different. They are no longer in remote jungles or far-out places, they are becoming a necessity and a point of selection for a four and five-star hotel these days. In the past a client would base a booking on the presence of a business centre in a hotel; these days it is more based on whether or not you have a spa.” While the spa promises to exceed the expectations of Sandtonites, it also offers a few more features that are sure to pique interest in its offerings. Its location is ideal, as it is conveniently located just off the Nelson Mandela Square, so if you want to pop in to do a quick shop and end it off with a treatment, you can. Another plus for the Michelangelo Spa will be that its operating hours will remain flexible and cater directly for client requirements, specifically intended to meet the needs of busy travellers and business people. “I can’t wait for the opening. I think this spa is going to set trends in the industry from day one,” ends Chown.
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The apple briefcase
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The sexiest briefcase in town re you techno savvy? Does your world revolve around calendars, schedules and being constantly connected? Then you are the right candidate for this issue’s Apple Briefcase, a sneak peek at what Apple has on offer and why we find the sexiest technology brand available today – Apple – simply inspiring. apple.com
NEW! MacBook Air If slim is the new sexy, then the new MacBook Air takes the catwalk this year. This device takes the notion of cloud computing to an all-new level, getting rid of heavy and unwieldy hard disks and optical drives. The Air is designed to take advantage of Internet services and makes use of solid-state flash storage. Available in 11-inch and 13-inch models, the Air weighs about 1kg, and provides a unique crossover between an iPad and MacBook. Available from R8 999.
NEW! ipod nano
It’s Here! iPhone 4
This nifty little device has been reinvented and now comes with a multi-touch interface and a built-in clip for instant wearability. With the new touch-screen interface you can navigate through your music collections by tapping or swiping the display. It is light, sexy and boasts Genius Mixes, Shake to Shuffle, and the ability to edit playlists on the fly as well as an FM radio. Apple’s biggest reinvention to date, the nano is a must-have accessory for the businessman or hip teen on the go. Available in 8GB and 16GB. From R1 559 to R1 999.
The long-awaited new edition of the iPhone, the iPhone 4, is finally in South Africa and has proven to be well worth the wait. Now featuring FaceTime technology for video calling and Apple’s new Retina Display, users can enjoy clearer text, images and videos. The new camera is far superior to the old with 5 megapixels, LED flash and HD video recording to capture those special moments. With a new operating system, more than 100 new features and a beautiful design, this little beauty has geeks and socialites aflutter. Available on contract.
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Style
It’s Here! iPad It is all the rage the world over, but we had to wait for it here in South Africa. Said to be revolutionising the way in which people engage with technology, the iPad is considered to be the ultimate tool for browsing the web, reading and sending emails, enjoying photos, watching videos, listening to music, playing games, reading e-books and much more. With a multitouch display users can interact with applications on the fly. Weighing in at only 0.7kg and only 1.3cm thick, the iPad creates an intimacy between user and device never seen before.
NEW! iPod Shuffle The new and improved iPod shuffle is officially the world’s smallest iPod and now offers clickable ‘ring’ buttons, VoiceOver Technology for easy navigation, and an all-aluminium enclosure with built-in clip. With five gorgeous colours to select from you can now take advantage of its 50% more battery life and over 15 hours of music in style. With 2GB of storage at only R499, can you afford to be without one?
NEW! Apple iLife The latest version of iLife now comes with major upgrades to iPhoto, iMovie and GarageBand, giving you new ways in which to create and share photos, movies and music. A new look provides the perfect platform for a host of beefed up features that allow the user to edit videos on demand and rip tunes in no time. There are also full-screen modes for Faces, Places and Events. iLife adds a new dimension to staying digitally connected. Single-license version for R499.
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One planet one future The gentle giants of Uganda
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unlight filters down through the dense tree canopy above, sparkling off dewdampened leaves and moss-covered boulders. The humid air wraps itself around tree trunks and ferns, while in the distance a waterfall tumbles into a crystal-clear pool. Insects hum, birds call across the distance. Welcome to the rainforests of Uganda, a slice of paradise on earth and one of the most threatened habitats in the world. This is the home of the peaceful and majestic mountain gorilla, a species on the brink of extinction. Deforestation, war, poaching and human encroachment on their natural territory have reduced the worldwide mountain gorilla population dramatically. This sparse population is spread out through central East Africa in the Virunga Range – an extinct volcanic region along the borders of Uganda, Rwanda and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) – and the Bwindi rainforest in Uganda. Where these magnificent creatures once roamed free, they are now few and far between, and seeing them in their natural environment is something not many will have the privilege of experiencing.
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Gorilla conservation There are just two parks in Uganda – the Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park – where visitors can experience close-up encounters with these gentle giants. Mgahinga covers 72km2 in the extreme south-west corner of Uganda on the slopes of the Virunga Mountains, bordering the DRC and Rwanda. Bwindi is located in south-western Uganda, covering around 517km2 of extremely dense rainforest. The park has been proclaimed a World Heritage Site. These parks work to preserve what few mountain gorillas remain and educate people about these animals and their habitats. Nature conservationists in Uganda also work to change misperceptions around the creatures that have become ingrained in society thanks to movies such as King Kong, which portrayed gorillas as aggressive and dangerous animals. When films like these were first produced, gorillas were a misunderstood species and little research had been done around them. As a result, conservation efforts were lacking. Today, however, thanks to the researchers and scientists who have dedicated their lives to studying gorillas, we now have a very different picture of these creatures. Gorillas only display acts of aggression when protecting their young, or in the case of male great silverbacks, their family units and territory. Gorilla families prefer to move as
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bwindi forest
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A close encounter The mountain gorilla lives high up in the mountains in secluded areas of dense bush. Getting to see these gorillas is no easy task, but it’s a highly rewarding experience, a oncein-a-lifetime opportunity to see these creatures in the wild before they disappear for good.
dark moving shadows in the bushes. While the gorillas are “human friendly”, the actual time you get to spend with them will be carefully and strictly monitored for many reasons, including disease and infection control and to prevent the gorillas from becoming too familiar with humans. For the same reason, humans are not permitted to touch the animals. The gorillas will go on with their business and usually pay little attention to you, even though they’re aware of your presence.
Making the dream a reality A close encounter with mountain gorillas is
“Seeing them in their natural environment is something not many will have the privilege of experiencing” The gorillas you’ll experience face to face within one of the national parks are accustomed to humans, which is why you’re able to get so close. However in the wild these elusive creatures can be difficult to spot, often involving many hours of tracking and searching, and are commonly visible at first as
an amazing experience and assists in the future conservation of gorillas, but it is not for everyone. You have to be over 15 years old and cannot be sick or have infectious diseases, as gorillas are susceptible to human diseases. Arranging a trip like this takes months of
planning to ensure your safety and the safety of the gorillas. Permits play an important role in the conservation of the gentle giants and are required for any trip involving gorilla tracking. They can take up to four months to arrange. Personal fitness is another important aspect to be considered, as you will need to climb many steep slopes to reach the gorillas in the high mountains of Uganda. It is also vitally important to get the right gear for rainforest hiking, including gloves and long pants. Tracking can be done at any time of the year, although the rainy season from March to May makes the paths and rough terrain more difficult to navigate.
Gorillas in the Mist The name Uganda still carries with it unpleasant connotations from the years of political unrest that plagued the country. However, since the overthrow of Obote in 1985 the country has enjoyed more than two decades of social and economic recovery, making it once more an appealing tourist destination. Thanks to the political reform, tourism is booming and Uganda has become world renowned for gorilla tourism. The popularity
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Passport of Bwindi in particular can be attributable in large part to the now famous Dian Fossey, affectionately known as ‘the gorilla woman’. Fossey was an American researcher who devoted over 18 years of her life to the study and preservation of the mountain gorilla, and her work ensured that the world sat up and took notice. Her book was translated into the blockbuster film Gorillas in the Mist, spreading the knowledge of these gentle giants around the world. Fossey was murdered in 1985 in her room up in the mountains with her beloved gorillas and to date the mystery of her death has never been solved. In 1996, the Uganda Wildlife Service and Dr Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka took over
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from Fossey’s legacy and founded the gorilla clinic, a simple one-roomed wooden structure in the remote Buhoma village overlooking the Bwindi Impenetrable National Park. The team of veterinarians at the clinic are dedicated towards ensuring that no human-borne illnesses cross to the gorilla population, making certain the animals are kept healthy.
Preserving a dwindling species Conservation efforts continue to this day, but numbers have continued to fall as the natural habitat of the mountain gorilla becomes smaller and smaller, and only very recently,
the number has begun to rise once more. The need for more agricultural land continues to rise thanks to rapid growth of the human population and each year the protected area boundaries are pressing closer to the gorillas. This problem is compounded by the biological nature of the gorilla. Females do not reach sexual maturity until their tenth year and reproduce only once every four to eight years, while males are not sexually active until they are 15. Only 50% of gorilla young survive their first year. As a result of their dwindling gene pool, mountain gorillas are faced with the common genetic problems that result from inbreeding. Through tourism, conservationists are working with the locals to create economic incentives for preserving mountain gorillas and their habitat. Bwindi’s gorilla tourism programme has been in operation for more than 10 years and has managed to attract thousands of visitors to Uganda. Gorilla tourism has now become the primary income generator for the entire national park system. However, only when governments and local communities together see the forest as an asset, will there be real hope for the longterm preservation of mountain gorillas. On top of other threats, poaching remains a problem for the species as young gorillas fetch a high price in the illegal trade market. Poachers will
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passport usually try to capture the young alive, often killing several adults in the process. This is a brutal reminder that, despite an international effort, the remaining mountain gorillas may still face extinction at the hands of humans.
Friend a gorilla The Mgahinga and Bwindi Impenetrable Forest Conservation Trust ensures the conservation of the few remaining mountain
gorillas. Established in 1994 under the Uganda Trust Act, the trust has a mandate to provide long-term funding for the conservation of the biodiversity and ecosystem of Mgahinga Gorilla National Park and Bwindi Impenetrable National Park in south-western Uganda. Be a part of the struggle to preserve mountain gorillas with Friend a Gorilla. This interactive website lets you pick your ‘gorilla friends’ and befriend them by making a
Did you know?
donation to the fund. It also allows corporate sponsors to adopt a gorilla, all in aid of raising funds to continue conservation work for this critically endangered species. Visit friendagorilla.org to meet some gorilla friends and do your part in keeping this unique species alive for future generations.
Uganda Fact Box • Uganda is known as the Pearl of Africa • The average altitude of Uganda is 1 100m above sea level
• Gorillas live in tightly knit social units
• The total land area is 236 580m2
• A silverback is a mature adult male gorilla
• The country is a cultural melting pot,
• A silverback can weigh up to 270kg • On average, an adult male gorilla eats up to 25kg of food a day • The average weight of an adult female gorilla is 90kg • Every evening, each gorilla makes a bed of leaves to sleep on for the night • Gorillas never mate for leisure • The name ‘gorilla’ is derived from the Greek word ‘gorillai’, meaning hairy women
with more than 30 indigenous languages belonging to five distinct linguistic groups • The dry seasons run from June to October and December to February, while the rainy season runs from March to May • Uganda is a unique mix of terrain, with
• Only 10 countries worldwide host naturally occurring gorilla populations
savannah meeting jungle, and many lakes
• The Latin name for mountain gorillas is ‘Gorilla Gorilla Berengei
and rivers. The country supports a large
• Mountain gorillas are only found in three countries – Uganda, Rwanda, and DRC
biodiversity from lions to chimpanzees,
• Mountain Gorillas are a critically endangered species, with a worldwide population of 720
gorillas, hippos, crocodiles, antelope and
• Over half the world’s gorilla population is in Bwindi Impenetrable Forest in Uganda • Mountain gorillas are not known to survive outside their natural habitat
more than 1 000 bird species • If you want to track gorillas, it is worth
• Like humans, mountain gorillas have fingerprints
looking at two separate locations to
• The DNA of gorillas is 98%–99% identical to that of a human
experience two different families in varying
• Gorillas consider ants a delicacy
habitats
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love
escape
Romancing the one you Dimming the lights on the most romantic spots for Valentine’s Day
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omantic getaways come in many different forms, but they’re all about sharing intimate moments with the special person in your life. From candle-lit dinners and bush picnics to uptown luxury and bushveld retreats, we take a tour of some of the most romantic spots to whisk your loved one off to this Valentine’s Day. If you are looking to head to the urban jungle or a breakaway under African skies, there is something for everyone.
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If breathtaking views and ultimate privacy is what you are after, then you are looking for a place like Kuzuko. Situated in the heart of the Addo Elephant National Park in the glorious bushveld of the Sunday’s River region in the Eastern Cape, Kuzuko is a rare find. Its romantic setting is steeped in history and visitors can walk through an African tapestry of San cave paintings, enjoy a game drive under the canopy of a million stars or take a walk through the flora-rich park. With only 24 chalets, Kuzuko offers ultimate privacy packed with five-star amenities and stunning views of the Karoo plains and Winterberg mountains. Situated in a private concession to the north of the malaria-free Addo National Park, home to a small population of endangered Black Rhino. The park expands from the Woody Cape Nature Reserve to the Sunday’s River Mouth, and including St Croix Island and Bird Island, the park is an important environmental treasure. Addo is also home to Africa’s Big 7 (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo, leopard, whale and Great White Shark), all in their natural habitat. If you want a unique bush experience that combines a multitude of vistas, scenery and landscapes, then Addo and Kuzuko are the romantic’s dream destination. kuzukolodge.co.za
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Escape
Commodore
If you are looking for a romantic destination close to the cosmopolitan V&A Waterfront in Cape Town, consider the stylish Commodore Hotel. With 236 rooms, superb dining facilities and excellent service, the Commodore provides patrons a break from the busy streets of the Mother City. For couples looking for adventure – including rock climbing, surfing, shark-cage diving, sandboarding and yachting – Cape Town provides the perfect destination. The area is rich in history and the surrounding valleys offer some of the best wining and dining experiences in the world. If you want to get away to Cape Town, we suggest you book your stay at the Commodore. thecommodore.co.za
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escape
Tshukudu
Photograph Sam Norval
What better place to get away from it all than the gorgeous Tshukudu Bush Lodge. Nestled in the rocky outcrops of the Pilanesberg National Park, Tshukudu is an ideal breakaway for the true romantic. With its nine exclusive cottages, rock plunge pool, private dining, magnificent views and Big-5 game viewing, it offers an indulgent breakaway for the couple looking to slip away from the big city lights. Less than a two hour drive from Johannesburg, the lodge offers a wealth of biodiversity and beautifully lush African bushveld. Situated in the malaria-free North West, the reserve is considered a bird watcher’s paradise. As one of the largest volcanic complexes in the world, the Pilanesberg Game Reserve is a must-see for local and international travellers alike. tshukudu.co.za
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Escape
Cupola Suite
Crowning Sandton is a penthouse like no other. The Cupola Suite, a domed structure atop the Michelangelo Towers, stands proud high above the Sandton skyline. It is almost entirely encased in glass, offering breathtaking 360-degree views of the surrounding area. Its three floors provide guests a taste of everything, with beautifully furnished rooms, a magnificent dining room with private kitchen and plush lounge, a private gym and outdoor infinity swimming pool. Take a shower while overlooking the lights of Sandton or share a spa bath while your private chef cooks a romantic dinner, or simply sit back and relax on your own private pool deck. If you want to dazzle the love of your life, the Cupola is the place to be – offering the ultimate setting for that life-changing proposal. michelangelotowers.co.za
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escape
Michelangelo Hotel
If you want a taste of Italy in the heart of Sandton, the Michelangelo Hotel is where you need to be. Inspired by Renaissance Italy, the hotel takes its inspiration from the romantic cities of Venice and Florence. Plush finishes, rich tones and magnificent works of art create the backdrop for the perfect romantic breakaway. Taking its place among the Leading Hotels of the World, the Michelangelo provides five-star accommodation, amenities, service and catering. Dine in the luxurious Piccolo Mondo restaurant, enjoy cocktails or after-dinner drinks in the Il Ritrovo cocktail lounge or have dinner in the comfort of your suite. Whatever you decide, romance will be the order of the day. If you want to stay a little longer, the Michelangelo Spa is a great place to treat the one you love with world-class facilities and internationally trained therapists. The Michelangelo remains one of the most popular places to stay in Sandton. michelangelo.co.za
DAVINCI
Named after the great Leonardo da Vinci himself, the DAVINCI embodies the spirit of unquenchable curiosity, innovation and creativity. Its superlative architecture and dramatic designs – using only black and white – ensure that this dazzling hotel is seen as a work of art. It is situated on Nelson Mandela Square in the popular Sandton CBD. Enjoy a quiet dinner on the DAVINCI Pool Deck, a light lunch after a day of pampering at the DAVINCI Spa, or take in the opulence of the Maximillien restaurant. End off the evening at the exclusive Maxim Whisky and Cigar Lounge. With its 166 en-suite hotel rooms and 54 luxury apartment suites inspired by the designs of interior genius Stephen Falcke, the DAVINCI is urban romance personified, offering a hideaway in the middle of Sandton. thedavinci.co.za
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Legacy Luxury in the heart of the Pilanesberg. Bakubung & Kwa Maritane from R1600 per person sharing Tshukudu from R3830 per person sharing (Fully inclusive) Enjoy the bush in the lap of luxury at one of Legacy’s premier bush lodges in the heart of the Pilanesberg National Park. Situated within comfortable reach of Johannesburg and Pretoria, Bakubung, Kwa Maritane and Tshukudu Bush Lodges provide a great leisure getaway for the whole family as well as the ideal setting for business retreats of all sizes. Our lodges offer luxury accommodation, sumptuous meals, “Big Five” game drives and extraordinary standards of service. We look forward to hosting you on your next visit to the Pilanesberg! Conditions: This special is only applicable to SA residence. Terms & Conditions Apply
Tel: +27 14 552 5100 kwamaritane@legacyhotels.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 14 552 6255 tshukudu@legacyhotels.co.za
Tel: +27 (0) 14 552 6005 bakubung@legacyhotels.co.za
Outdoors
Calling all Rangers to be Have your kids ever fancied themselves as the next Livingstone or even Darwin? Are your jam jars bug receptacles housing small microcosms of wildlife? Then maybe they need some time in the bush and explore if they have what it takes to be a game ranger.
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s people around the world are trying to reduce their carbon footprint, we as adults and parents need to ensure that the youth of today tune into nature and learn to understand and respect it. Legacy Inspires sets out to find some programmes geared towards the youth and aimed at creating awareness around nature. These programmes convey the importance of
with our inner child. Firstly, we had to come to terms with the logistics and the goal of the programme that is currently hosted by a Junior Ranger Co-ordinator and the Field Guides of each lodge. After our first induction we went back to our rooms knowing that what we needed to achieve was “an appreciation of nature,
“The activities are a blast and range from understanding the role of a ranger, the culture and the history of the park itself, as well as using all five senses on a hike and reporting on these in your book.” conservation and ultimately help kids to build a Legacy of conservation and environmental awareness. The Junior Rangers programme hosted by the Bakubung and Kwa Maritane Bush Lodges in the Pilanesberg fits the bill perfectly. To get into the programme, we shaved 20cm off our height and got in touch
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conservation, natural resources and the Pilanesberg National Park.” We could do this; we had age on our side, after all! But that aside, the programme is ideally suited to children between the ages of 6 and 12 and is aimed at those who want to get involved, want to experience nature first
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Outdoors
hand and who aren’t afraid of leaving the urban jungle or the technology that binds them to city life behind. Each child, including us big children, was given an activity book and a schedule of events that we needed to take part in to become a junior ranger. Feeling like a Girl Guide or a Brownie all over again, chasing that elusive Junior Ranger Certificate, we dived right in. Our first goal was to attend two ranger programmes either at the Kwa Maritane or Bakubung Legacy Bush Lodges. These are scheduled by each of the lodges and are run on a demand basis, particularly over school holidays and in-season holiday times. Our second goal was to complete a series of activities in our ranger activity book. The activities are divided up by difficulty and are matched to the aspiring rangers’ ages. We, however, were told we needed to do them all! How difficult could it be? The activities are a blast and range from understanding the role of the Junior Ranger Coordinator and an experienced Field Guide, the culture and the history of the park itself, as well as using all five senses on a hike and reporting on these in your book. My favourite was definitely ‘being a wildlife detective’, where we were required to join a group of overly eager youngsters on a walk with a ranger. On the walk we needed to identify clues left
behind by animals – from a chewed leaf to a feather and animal droppings. I can honestly say the future is in good hands: the youngsters on the walk far outdid us geriatrics in spotting and identifying interesting signs left behind by the wildlife. Other activities included making a sound map to identify from where an animal sound was coming from, navigating to and from interesting places using map exploration skills, and drawing pictures of animals or plants. We were then required to identify and draw three common trees in the reserve and had to go through a series of spotting techniques in order to identify a bird we had seen along the way. While I was sceptical at first, wondering if the programme wasn’t just another way to hive off the kids over the holidays, the end result was fabulous. The Field Guides and staff at the lodges are definitely geared for the programme and have all the time in the world for the kids’ questions (including the not-so-small ones). Each activity is well organised and well set up. Kids don’t take home merely what they already know but are exposed to a host of challenging activities and tasks that are designed to stretch their imaginations and leave a lasting impact on them.
Some of the key themes we picked out of the programme included: preservation of the ecosystem by all junior rangers, who are required to stand up as a ‘protectors’ of plants and wildlife; a strong emphasis on environmental education and taking what you have learnt back home with you to your friends and family; and last but not least, responsible recreation, where kids are encouraged to have fun at Legacy Lodges but not to neglect to follow the rules, ensuring safety at all times and taking care of our natural heritage. Some of the lessons I learnt? Grownups don’t speak as quietly as kids do in the bush (we were tripped up on that a couple of times), kids have a better propensity to listen when they are interested in what they are being exposed to, there is far more to the bush than any encyclopaedia can ever teach you and perhaps I should join the gym when I get home! The walks really showed how unfit I was. So if you have a budding ranger at home, consider enrolling them in the Junior Ranger Programme. It is fun and informative, and allows your kids to tap into their intellect as well as their creativity, all while teaching them valuable lessons about the beautiful African bush.
Enrol your child today
If you wish to enrol your budding ranger in the Legacy Junior Ranger program, be sure to ask for details at Lodge reception on your next visit, or enquire when making your next reservation. Contact Kwa Maritane on +27(0)14 552 5100 or visit kwamaritane. co.za or Bakubung on +27 (0)14 552 6000 or visit bakubung.co.za.
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Back chat Lighten the load
T
he hospitality industry always has its fair share of strange requests. From outlandish wishes posed to the concierge, impossible tasks set for guest relations and over-the-top meals required from the chef, there are stories that are amusing and some that are downright unbelievable.
Strangest requests From the odd to the impossible, a guest asked his US travel agent to help organise the details of his proposal to his girlfriend while on a trip to Africa. He wanted a ribbon to be placed around the neck of a fullygrown male lion that was to be paraded up to his future wife as he popped the question. Needless to say, the request was denied. One guest forwarded the dimensions of his car to the hotel. Apparently, his precious vehicle is 4850mm x 4810mm x 1875mm; he just wanted to make sure it would fit in the parking bays and not get damaged. Sometimes guests can show their romantic side. A hotel reported that a guest wanted to book the spa for the whole evening, starting at 2:20am. The reason? He wanted to propose to his girlfriend and it was the time they originally met! Naturally the hotel and spa operations obliged – how can you turn down such a gesture? Some more random requests often aren’t always entirely that bizarre, we have been asked to help do shopping on behalf of guests, or arrange a lift for children to a local hotspot and a chaperone to ensure they don’t get into trouble. We have also been asked to change the evening’s cuisine for a special group of guests, stock only specific brands of water, and help with organising a host of very specific arrangements. The mark of a good hotel is one that treats each of these with professionalism, and discretion. Our guests are after all our most important assets.
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Strangest things left in a hotel Toddler Superman cardboard cut-out Wooden leg Glass eye Wok Keys to a Ferrari Entire luggage World Cup final tickets False teeth Tickets to connecting flight Horse saddle
ten great travel quotes “Too often travel, instead of broadening the mind, merely lengthens the conversations.” – Elizabeth Drew “You got to be careful if you don’t know where you’re going, because you might not get there.” – Yogi Berra “The worst thing about being a tourist is having other tourists recognize you as a tourist.” – Russell Baker “When preparing to travel, lay out all your clothes and all your money. Then take half the clothes and twice the money.” – Unknown “Kilometres are shorter than miles. Save gas, take your next trip in kilometres.” – George Carlin
Unusual items stolen from hotel rooms Coffee table Flat-screen TV Room-service trolley Painting Curtains Room number Goose-down duvet Dinner service Fresh flowers
“The saying, ‘Getting there is half the fun’ became obsolete with the advent of commercial airlines.” – Henry J. Tillman “Everywhere I go I find a poet has been there before me.” – Sigmund Freud “I may not have gone where I intended to go, but I think I have ended up where I intended to be.” – Douglas Adams “All travel has its advantages. If the passenger visits better countries, he may learn to improve his own. And if fortune carries him to worse, he may learn to enjoy it.” – Samuel Johnson “There are no foreign lands. It is the traveller only who is foreign.” – Robert Louis Stevenson
Got some funnies to share from a guest’s point of view? Maybe you saw one of your fellow visitors make an absurd request. Email us on legacy@medianova.co.za
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