STANDING OUT: FEBRUARY 2023

STANDING OUT.

CONTENTS

04 Foreword: Nick Gaertner

06 Featured Property: Highly desirable location

08 Featured Property: Charming family home

10 Art: Simon Berndt

SOUTHERN SUBURBS

18 Area Overview

20 Interiors: 7 Tips to declutter your home

22 Properties for Sale

28 Gardening: Best mobile apps for gardeners

ATLANTIC SEABOARD

32 Area Overview

34 Future Home: 6 Things to consider when looking at installing a gas geyser

36 Properties for Sale

CITY BOWL

44 Area Overview

46 Food & Wine: 8 Sushi restaurants you must try this year

48 Properties for Sale

53 Properties for Rent

SOUTH PENINSULA

56 Area Overview

58 Lifestyle: 18 years (and counting) of camping experience of ‘epic’ proportions

62 Properties for Sale

NATIONAL AREAS

68 Vale de Vie Evergreen

72 Properties for Sale

74 Interior Design: How to optimise your home office for optimum productivity

78 Travel: How to make the perfect travel coffee

80 Finance: It’s not all doom and gloom – a brief economic outlook for 2023

88 Legal: What to know before investing in a rental income property

January has started frantically as always, and the excitement of the holidays and New Year seem long gone.

The festive season is generally subdued in transaction volumes, and it proved to be much the same this year from mid-December to mid-January. This being noted, the low transaction volumes over the festive season have been predominately due to limited new stock coming to the market over the last few months rather than a lack of buyers and renters. Inquiries from people looking for property are exceptionally high, and when an accurately priced property comes to the market, it is snapped up quickly. This is very good news for those who are looking to soon put their properties on the market either for rental or for sale.

Within Knight Frank, there is a lot on the go internally as we look towards new ways to grow our team, build on our services and customer relationships, and improve on the internal offering to agents and those working at Knight Frank. We have new and exciting plans that have been put in place and I feel that 2023 is going to be an excellent year for both Knight Frank and the property market in Cape Town.

NICK GAERTNER

Director & Chief Operations Officer Knight Frank South Africa

Highly desirable location

The epitome of style in the heart of the village

This elegant family home has a certain hard-to-define ‘je ne sais quoi’… A true ‘spirit of place’ thanks to its seamless indoor-outdoor living design. Situated on the highly-desirable  Palmboom Road it features views of the mountain and is within an easy walk to the village restaurants and coffee shops

The interior is characterised by open-plan living grounded with designer ‘Oggi” engineered flooring, and a wood-burning fireplace. The modern kitchen has high-end finishes and a gas/ electric stove.

The home is ideal for a family as well as a remote working with two en-suite bedrooms on the second floor (both with under-carpet heating and Juliet balconies looking out over the mountain) as well as a study with a skylight. The guest bedroom is also en-suite with doors leading to the outside and a separate guest toilet.

The outdoor entertainment area features the sound of water from the fountain with Iceberg Roses and Cypress trees in a wellestablished landscaped courtyard garden.

There is also a double garage with direct access to the house and top security throughout.

R11,450,000

Charming family home

This characterful home in sought-after Wynberg Upper has beautifully maintained original features, plus modern additions and renovations to suit today’s lifestyle.

The family home has spacious, functional living spaces featuring an open-plan living area inclusive of a lounge, dining area and kitchen. The kitchen is fully fitted while the lounge has a lovely, functional fireplace. The house has a classic character and ambience thanks to its wooden floors, high ceilings and sash windows. The main bedroom has an en-suite bathroom, while one of the other two bedrooms has a fireplace.

The property features an established garden with a pool, a onebedroom flatlet with a loft bedroom, a kitchenette and a dining area with French doors that lead to a covered patio. There is also a laundry with sinks and taps as well as plumbing for a washing machine and lots of packing space. The extensive property also has secure off-street parking for up to four cars.

R3,850,000

SIMON BERNDT

Simon Berndt (of One Horse Town Illustration Studio) is a talented Cape Town-based illustrator and designer. He’s been widely published all over the world and has various big clients in the USA and Europe.

We caught up with him to chat about his aesthetic, why music has a big impact on his work and what he does to switch off.

Firstly, describe your design style to us. When I think about my work, I would describe the style as drawing on a lot of older inspiration, a classic style with more modern execution, even though everything I do these days is digital. Much of the stuff I do ––because it’s getting screen printed –– is inspired by older handmade printing techniques. I often work with pretty limited color palettes to reflect that and just based on the fact the work is screen printed, that feeds into that as well. My work varies, but first and foremost I would say I’m a poster artist, which feeds into the other work I do. A lot of the work I do is very much inspired by the 60s and 70s kind of psychedelia and psychedelic art with the patterns I use and color choices.

Of course, for a lot of the poster stuff I do, the brief will inevitably lead into the stylistic approach I take, so it can be quite varied, it’s definitely a truer reflection of my overall style but it can be manipulated to fit different briefs and clients – whether it’s gig posters, or more like product or packaging orientated.

Where do you draw the line between illustration and art? Is there even such a line?

There’s more of a line between art and commercial art. A lot of the stuff I do is for commercial purposes. Then I’d probably even draw a line between art and poster art - so commercial art can be quite varied because you can get illustrations that are definitely ‘art art.’ As I said, my stuff is either commercial art or poster art for the most part, which I’m doing as an illustrator. Here the influence of graphic design comes in, because you’re often dealing with the relationship between illustration and typography, which is also a big part of my work.

Commercial art is also often a piece of communication that’s been ‘designed’ – whether it’s a poster or a magazine cover or an ad. That’s where the lines are kind of drawn when it comes to art and illustration. But what I love so much about poster art, what’s drawn me to it throughout my career, is that it marries all those disciplines together, it’s a piece of communication, it’s a piece of art, especially when it’s getting hand printed and screen printed and all the incredible processes and quality of screen printing that exists now, you really do end up with something that very tactile and can perform and function as a piece of communication but also easily be framed and put up on a wall and be a really striking piece of artwork.

A lot of the work I do is very much inspired by the 60s and 70s kind of psychedelia and psychedelic art with the patterns I use and color choices.

You’ve said before that music has a big influence on your work. Is this still the case?

Very much so. There was a period with my work when I started as an illustrator and I was working in a small studio that we created, myself and two other guys, that’s where the name ‘One horse Town’ first originated and why I still work under that moniker and not under my name. Both those guys immigrated to the UK and I was faced with a bit of a crossroads with my work, which up until that point had largely been in the advertising sector. I made quite a concerted and mindful decision at that point to pivot and see what I can do in terms of breaking into that kind of music side of things with my art and that was also around the time I got involved with Psych-night. Psych Night eventually became EndlessDaze Fest and through that, I created an opportunity for myself to do more poster work and start doing more work in the vein and style that I wanted to pursue and push.

That really gave me a great launch pad. And then when we started bringing down international brands and we started doing the festival, it really put my poster art and my music-orientated art on an international stage. So through social media and working with those kinds of bands and promoters, I was able to reach a much bigger market with my poster work, which opened up the kind of stuff I’m doing today, which is almost exclusively international, mostly in the US and in Europe.

Music has always been a part of my life - even though I’ve never picked up an instrument- in some way or another, so for me to find a way to be involved in music, through my work was always an ambition of mine and a way to have a sense of contributing to something in the way I’m really passionate about without actually being a musician.

What are you currently working on?

I’m working on quite a bit of music stuff –– a couple of festivals, there’s a festival in Austin, called the Ripple Fest, which is a new festival that’s come on the scene. I’m also working on a comedy festival in Canada on which I’ve worked for quite a long time now, doing their main poster stuff. I’m also slowly developing another poster concept for Deep Purple again, working with them on a concept that’s been in the pipeline for a while, it’s quite a complex concept which is really cool.

How do you switch off from work and the admin hustle of running a ‘freelance’ business?

Working for myself this (switching off) has become rather important to me and balance within my lifestyle is something I really value. I work super hard to make sure that I have space to do the numerous hobbies and activities that I really enjoy: I love to cook, that is something I enjoy doing after a busy day of work. I’ll just pop on a podcast or some music and spend some time in the kitchen, it’s a great way to disconnect. I do believe it’s really important for me to have activities where I’m mindfully engaged in being creative, but a step away from my work and something I can completely put myself into and switch off. I’ve been doing Kung Fu for almost 20 years, I do that twice a week and then I have gotten into yoga in the past few years, which I do once a week. Because my work is desk-bound (and at home) I also feel that it is important to be involved in things that has some sense of community around it, which make yoga and Kung Fu very important.

See more of Simon’s work here: www.shop.1horsetown.co.za

SOUTHERN SUBURBS

Tokai

Bergvliet

Newlands

Claremont

Constantia

Rondebosch

Bishopscourt

Wynberg Upper

Harfield Village

Meadowridge

Observatory

Kenilworth

Plumstead

Rosebank

Pinelands

Mowbray

Southern Suburbs

The leafy Southern Suburbs of Cape Town are something of a green lung to the Mother City. Comprising the verdant neighbourhoods of Bergvliet, Bishopscourt, Claremont, Harfield Village, Constantia, Kenilworth, Mowbray, Newlands, Observatory, Rondebosch, Rosebank, Salt River, Tokai and Wynberg it offers a range of lifestyle options to suit the needs of all types of homeowners. Properties range from stylish apartments and charming semi-detached houses to large homes and grand estates with stunning gardens, many with unique views of Table Mountain. The area is well-known for its prestigious schools as well as the beautiful University of Cape Town.

Top Attractions & Activities

Golf

Hiking

Shopping

Top Schools

Wine Tasting Tours

Coffee Shops and Eateries

Award-winning Restaurants

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

7 Tips to declutter your home

‘Decluttering’ is a trendy term that is much bandied about over recent years. We touched on some aspects of it in the September issue’s article on Home Staging but even if you are not looking at selling your home, going through a process of decluttering can go a long way to regenerating spaces.

It can be a daunting task, but it’s an essential step to creating a more organised, peaceful living space. Here are some tips to help you get started:

Start small

Ghannel that mantra of ‘a journey of a thousand steps starts with…’ Don’t try to tackle your entire house at once. Start with one room or corner of a room and work your way up.

Set a timer

Give yourself a specific time (such as 30 minutes) on a Saturday morning to declutter. This will help you stay focused and not get overwhelmed. You can always extend this to weekdays or for longer periods.

Use the ‘one in, one out’ rule

When you bring something new into your home, get rid of something old. This will help keep your possessions in check and prevent clutter from building up.

Get rid of duplicates

Do you have multiple items that serve the same purpose? Get rid of the extra and keep only what you need.

Be ruthless

To be brutally honest, this should probably be point number one. When deciding what to keep and what to get rid of, ask yourself, ‘Do I really need this?’ and… ‘Will I use it in the next six months?’ If the answer is no, it’s time to let it go.

Organize what you keep

Once you’ve decluttered, take the time to organize what you’ve kept. This will make it easier to find what you need and keep your space clutter-free in the future.

Keep it up

This is kind of like an eating or exercise plan –see it as a lifestyle change rather than a one-off. Decluttering is an ongoing process. Set aside time each month to go through your possessions and get rid of anything you no longer need.

By following these tips, you can declutter your home and create a more organized, peaceful living space. Remember, the key is to start small and stay consistent.

Happy decluttering!

DIRECTORS CHOICE

Rondebosch

This characterful Art Deco block is conveniently located close to all aspects of Rondebosch. The apartments are set around an attractive central courtyard filled with greenery.

R2,550,000

Constantia Upper

Located on one of the most sought-after roads in Constantia Bel Ombre, this incredible home is luxuriously styled and is complimented by the elevated position, ensuring total privacy.

R34,000,000

Claremont Upper

Spacious home perfect for the modern family. High ceilings, chandeliers and generous-sized rooms create an easy to live in relaxed feel.

R7,750,000

Spacious family home featuring high ceilings, original wooden strip floors, sash and bay windows, French doors, shutters, chandeliers and fireplaces.

R4,850,000

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This corner house, bordering 2 quiet cul-de-sacs, has old-world charm. A much-loved family home with established garden and trees.

Rondebosch

Grosvenor Square, set in a beautiful garden and most conveniently located to the hub of Rondebosch, is an exceptionally well-managed and maintained sectional title complex for residents 50+ years of age.

R1,395,000

Claremont

The Beaumont, an exceptionally well-managed and maintained complex, is perfectly located to all that Claremont has to offer. This, coupled with the excellent security, makes it an extremely popular choice.

R1,300,000

BEST MOBILE APPS FOR GARDENERS

Whether you’re a seasoned Cape Town gardening pro who knows what will grow most efficiently when and where, or a beginner just starting out with your first home garden, veggie patch, or apartment-balcony mini garden, there are a variety of mobile phone apps that can help you get the most out of your experience and even regenerate your excitement for gardening.

Read on to get some insight on the best mobile phone apps for gardeners:

Garden Answers

This neat app allows you to take a picture of a plant and get instant information about it, including its name and care instructions. You can also use the app to search for plants by name or by specific characteristics, such as flower color or light requirements.

PlantSnap

This app uses image recognition technology to identify plants and flowers and provides information on the plant’s name, family, and characteristics. It also allows you to create a virtual garden of your own and track the plants you’ve identified.

Garden Compass

This easy-to-use app provides information on pests and diseases that may be affecting your plants, as well as suggestions for treatment. You can also use the app to search for information on specific plants or pests.

My Garden

With this app you are able to create a virtual garden and plan your planting schedule, keep track of watering and fertilizing schedules, and save notes and photos of your plants.

Garden Tracker

Great for keeping track of your gardening progress, this app includes tracking for planting and harvesting dates, plant care, and weather conditions. It also provides tips and advice on gardening techniques and plant care.

Sprout It

This app is an excellent resource for starting a vegetable garden, with information on how to grow over 100 vegetables. The app also includes a calendar that shows you when to plant and harvest each vegetable, as well as tips on how to care for your garden.

Overall, these apps are a great way to get the most out of your gardening experience. Whether you’re looking for information on specific plants or need help planning your garden, there’s an app out there that can help you achieve your goals.

ATLANTIC SEABOARD

Bakoven Fresnaye

Sea Point

Llandudno

Bantry Bay

Camps Bay

Green Point

Three Anchor Bay

Atlantic Seaboard

As the name suggests, the mighty Atlantic Ocean (and its beautiful beaches) is the mainstay of the area from the V&A Waterfront to Hout Bay, with Green Point, Three Anchor Bay, Mouille Point, Sea Point, Fresnaye, Bantry Bay, Clifton, Camps Bay, Bakoven and Llandudno spread out in between. The area offers a range of outdoor and adventure activities as well as an abundance of restaurants, niché eateries and bistros, coffee and retail shops.

Top Attractions & Activities

Beaches

Scenic Drives

Robben Island

Theatre on the Bay

Sea Point Promenade

Bars, Cafés and Eateries

Green Point Urban Park

Camps Bay African Crafts Market

Beach Sports, Water Sports and Paragliding

6 Things to consider when looking at installing a gas geyser

With increased rolling power outages, gas geysers are becoming a popular choice for many households looking for an efficient and costeffective way to heat water. However, before installing a gas geyser in your home, there are several important factors to consider.

SAFETY

Gas appliances, including gas geysers, can be dangerous if not installed and used properly. It is important to ensure that the gas geyser is installed by a certified and experienced professional and that all necessary safety precautions are taken. This includes proper ventilation, as well as regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that the gas geyser is operating safely and efficiently.

SIZE

Gas geysers come in a range of sizes, and it is important to select the right size for your household’s needs. A geyser that is too small may not be able to meet the hot water demands of your household, while a geyser that is too large may be inefficient and expensive to operate.

COST

Gas geysers can be more cost-effective than electric water heaters, but the initial cost of installation can be high. It is important to consider the upfront costs and ongoing costs of operating the gas geyser when making your decision.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Gas geysers are generally more energy efficient than electric water heaters, but not all gas geysers are created equal. Look for a gas geyser with a high energy efficiency rating, as this will help to reduce your energy costs over time.

VENTILATION

Gas geysers must be properly vented to ensure that they operate safely and efficiently. Make sure the installation location has proper ventilation and the exhaust pipe is venting outside of the house.

GAS SUPPLY

Gas geysers require a steady supply of natural gas or propane. Make sure that your home has a gas line installed and that it is easily accessible for the installation of the gas geyser.

By considering these factors, you can ensure that you select the right gas geyser for your home, and that it is installed and used safely and efficiently.

DIRECTORS CHOICE

Sea Point

R3,350,000

Green Point

Located on the eight floor, this 82 sqm apartment offers beautiful views towards the V&A Waterfront, ocean and harbour. The living / dining area leads to an open balcony from where to enjoy these lovely views.

R3,195,000

Three Anchor Bay

A beautifully modernized studio apartment high up in a sought-after beachfront block with glorious sea views from the open balcony.

R2,950,000

Green Point

R2,550,000

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This centrally located sixth-floor apartment in the hub of trendy Green Point is within close proximity to the V&A Waterfront, restaurants and the central business district.

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Mouille Point

A light and spacious, north-facing apartment with large garage in Good Hope Park retirement complex. There are gorgeous sea views from the lounge/dining room and enclosed balcony.

R2,450,000

Own this rare to come by parking bay on the rooftop of San Michele in Clifton and always have a guaranteed parking spot!

R1,500,000

Mouille Point

Enjoy a safe, secure and comfortable retirement lifestyle with the Promenade and Green Point Urban Park on your doorstep. 24 hour manned security and 24-hr medical staff on premises.

R695,000

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Clifton

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Looking to rent your property?

CITY BOWL

Bo-Kaap Gardens

Higgovale

City Centre

Vredehoek

Woodstock

Oranjezicht

Zonnebloem

De Waterkant

Tamboerskloof

City Bowl

The City Bowl is a veritable melting pot of interests, cultures and property types with residences catering to everyone from students to young execs and families. The likes of Vredehoek, Oranjezicht, Higgovale, Gardens, Tamboerskloof, Bo-Kaap, De Waterkant, Foreshore, Woodstock, the City Bowl District (CBD), Zonnebloem, District Six, Devil’s Peak Estate, University Estate and Walmer Estate each have their own unique character. The area is also an entertainment hub, featuring coffee shops, eateries, bars, nightclubs, retail and boutique stores as well as galleries to keep the senses engaged.

Top Attractions & Activities

Hiking

Bo-Kaap Markets

City tours

Helicopter flips

V&A Waterfront

Outdoor adventures

Bars, cafés and clubs

Galleries & museums

Award-winning restaurants

8 Sushi restaurants you must try this year

Our eclectic city is home to a wide variety of excellent sushi restaurants. Whether you’re a sushi connoisseur or a first-time sushi eater, there’s something for everyone in Cape Town. While it is a highly subjective subject (and impossible to list the ‘best’) here is a curated list of some of our favourites:

Sushi Box (Long Street)

Sushi Box is a casual and affordable sushi restaurant located in Long Street. The restaurant offers a wide range of sushi options, including classics and bespoke menu items. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it the ideal spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Sushi Yama (Green Point)

Sushi Yama is a popular sushi restaurant located in Green Point. The menu features a wide variety of sushi options, including classic maki rolls, sashimi, and tempura, as well as some more unusual options like the “Yama Roll” and the “Cape Town Roll.” The restaurant also offers a great selection of sake to complement your meal. The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it the perfect spot for a quick lunch or a casual dinner.

Haru Sushi & Sake (Sea Point)

Haru Sushi & Sake is a popular spot for tourists and locals alike. The restaurant offers a wide range of sushi options, including traditional maki rolls and sashimi, as well as more unique options like the ‘Haru Roll’ and the ‘Cape Town Roll.’ The atmosphere is cosy and intimate, making it the perfect spot for a special occasion or romantic dinner.

Sake Sushi (CBD)

Sake Sushi is a stylish and modern restaurant located in the heart of the CBD. The sushi menu is extensive and features classic maki rolls, sashimi, and tempura, as well as some more unusual options like the ‘Sake Roll’ and the ‘Cape Roll.’ The restaurant also offers a great selection of sake to complement your meal.

Wasabi Sushi (Green Point)

Wasabi Sushi is a stylish and modern sushi restaurant located in Green Point. The menu features a broad range of sushi options and the atmosphere is warm and intimate.

Sake at the Roundhouse (Camps Bay)

Located at the internationally-acclaimed Roundhouse in Camps Bay, this sushi restaurant offers a beautiful ocean view and a menu that features traditional sushi and sashimi as well as a number of innovative rolls.

Sushi Avenue (CBD)

This popular sushi spot in the heart of Cape Town offers a wide variety of sushi options, as well as an extensive selection of sake and wine. The restaurant also has a great outdoor seating area that’s perfect for people-watching.

Sushi on the Rocks (Hout Bay)

This sushi spot offers a unique dining experience, with sushi made to order and served on a conveyor belt. The restaurant also has a great selection of sake and wine to pair with your meal.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner, a casual lunch, or a special occasion, a sushi restaurant in Cape Town is perfect for you.

DIRECTORS CHOICE

City Centre

This luxurious, secure and wonderfully private penthouse covers an area of 315 sqm (internal and external). It is the only unit on the fourth floor of the building (35 on Rose) and overlooks the historic Bo-Kaap.

R14,995,000

City Centre

Designed by Robert Silke, this exceptional penthouse pays homage to the glamorous Art Deco heritage of Mutual Heights. It is the only apartment on the top floor of the building and features floor-to-ceiling windows.

R12,000,000

City Centre

A sound investment, this apartment is sold VAT inclusive with no transfer duties payable. In addition, certain tax benefits apply as the building falls within the Urban Development Zone of the city.

R3,795,000

De

On the fringe of De Waterkant lies this modern apartment that still retains the old-world charm of the historical city and the sound of a booming noon gun.

R4,950,000

This bright and sunny top-floor apartment is the ideal starter home for young professionals offering scenic views from its big enclosed balcony.

R2,700,000

Situated in a modern building with easy access to main city routes, the apartment offers comfortable indoor and outdoor living.

R3,450,000

Oranjezicht

Lock-up and go city living cannot be more convenient with this large 81sqm open-plan apartment. Besides numerous coffee shops and restaurants, the popular Gardens Centre is on your doorstep.

R1,850,000

Zonnebloem 3 1

R15,300 pm

VIEW

SOUTH PENINSULA

Hout Bay

Noordhoek

Sunnydale

Fish Hoek

Kalk Bay

Muizenburg

Glencairn

Simons Town

Cape Point

Scarborough

Misty Cliffs

Kommetjie

South Peninsula

The South Peninsula has a unique country feel about it, as though it is made up of small seaside villages rather than suburbs. From Hout Bay via the iconic Chapman’s Peak to Noordhoek, Kommetjie, Scarborough, Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Clovelly, Glencairn, St James, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg each has its own unique character and feel. While many of the local residents work in the CBD or other business districts, their lives in their ‘home towns’ often revolve around outdoor activities in the abundant mountains and ocean.

Top Attractions & Activities

Hiking

Sailing

Fishing Markets

Clay Café

Wine Tasting

Art Galleries

Bars, Cafés and Eateries

Kayaking, Paddling and Rowing

18 years (and counting) of camping experience of ‘epic’ proportions

Hannele Steyn, Mike Nixon and John Gale are The Last Lions of the Absa Cape Epic, so named because they are the only members of the Amabubesi – for ‘pride of lions’ in Zulu – Finisher Club to have completed every edition, thus far, of the race.

The Last Lions award was launched to celebrate their achievement and will award the Last Lion trophy to the last rider among them who is still in the event.

What sets Gale apart, is that he’s camped at every race thus far and doesn’t plan to stop. For him, it is all part of the bigger experience. And, ‘what an experience the Absa Cape Epic is,’ he says.

The pride has dwindled over the past few years, but the three remaining Last Lions are going strong and all three are sharpening their claws ahead of what promises to be one of the most gruelling Absa Cape Epics ever.

Now, Steyn and Nixon might argue, but John Gale is perhaps the most excited of the trio. Or maybe excitement is not the right word. ‘Curiously eager’ might be more accurate:

“Aside from it being a fixed part of my annual calendar, there is a certain curiosity too,” explains the Chartered Accountant who almost missed the 2005 event, but managed to get in through a last minute substitution. “It is so unlikely that you could ride eight days and nothing goes wrong. The goes for any rider on any given year,” he says. “The unlikelihood of you (or your partner) not getting sick, not breaking the bike, not crashing… Every time you step up to the start line you roll the dice and every time you do it again, it just becomes less and less likely. So I’m just curious on what is going to happen.”

It may seem a deeply philosophical statement for a rider who has crossed the finish line 18 times, but then those 18 entries into The Book of Legend have not come easy. John has seen it all — broken bikes, crashes, illness ––through it all it has always been about the overall experience for him. We picked his brain for some insights, these are his words:

What sets Gale apart, is that he’s camped at every race thus far and doesn’t plan to stop.

ON WHAT BRINGS HIM BACK YEAR AFTER YEAR

I’m a keen cyclist, so that’s not a difficult sell. I mean, it’s an absolutely amazing event on every level - the route is unbelievable and different every time. That being said, it is a huge undertaking and a monstrous commitment — a sixmonth commitment. I’ve I missed one I’m not sure if I’d be able to come back after, so I have to keep going.

That notion goes all the way back to the first event for me. When we did that first one we had absolutely no idea what we were in for. We’d done To Hell and Back, which is 60 kays a day, but the Absa Cape Epic was just on another level. It was such an army-level ordeal to survive (that first one) that when it came around the next time I strongly felt that: ‘Would you ever be able to get back to this if you stopped doing it?’ so initially, that was kind of it and I just kept going. Now, on top of that I’m just curious as to what is going to happen over the eight days…”

ON WHAT IT TAKES TO FINISH

I’ve had some problems, I had hepatitis the one year, the second year I had bad ITB problems. I’ve broken a frame halfway through a stage, but this type of stuff is happening to everyone. That is the Epic and you’re just lucky if what happens is at a level where you can nurse it to the finish. What you need is an absence of bad luck.

ON THE EVOLUTION OF THE RACE

That first epic we knew nothing. NOTHING. There was a contingent from overseas who’d done the TransRockies and the Trans Alps and they knew everything. They would finish the ride, service their bikes, wash their kit and then be in the mess tent the following morning in clean, dry kit. We tried that a few times and rode in wet bibs…So that, it goes without saying, has evolved. Also the equipment is just so much nicer. When it comes to the route, I suspect it is harder today, but that is how I experience it anyway. For me it is all about the experience.

The early days we had far more district road – there was that on stage of 140 kays into Bredasdorp – to name but one, into a block headwind. We don’t have much of that in the modern event. It gets more technical every year, and there area more and more trails being built all the time and they do try to make it exciting. But that type of riding is highly fatiguing and hard on the body.

ON ‘RACING VS RIDING’

From my own personal perspective, as you get older you get a little less adrenalised by the excitement and less brave. I have a much lower interest in falling now — it just no longer seems like a good idea and I’m not riding for the podium, you know when you’re riding for the podium, coming third is nothing, you might as well go home. For me, I just want to get home. However, deep down the truth is that everyone is racing at the Epic. They are racing whoever is next to them or ahead of them on the leaderboard and the whole thing pulls you into that mode. I mean, it is just such a professional, world-championship type of thing that you kind of get caught up in that, it’s definitely not a social ride where you’re stopping for a beer or a coffee halfway. Every rider at the race is super focussed, there is no-one there who dusted the bike off the previous night, by the time people get to the start they have put in so much time and effort that you are not there for sh!ts and giggles.

ON THE 2023 EVENT

I’m super excited! I’m riding with Philip Ferreira again (we rode together in 2021). The experience is incredible, the privilege of being taken through the Western Cape on such a spectacular route just can’t be overstated and the work that goes into that is staggering.

ON CAMPING (AGAIN!)

If you don’t camp why are you even at the race? When you are camping you are immersed in the experience. I feel that when you go and stay in a B&B then you’re getting only half of it, so I don’t understand leaving the race village because that is such a big part of the vibe! I’ve gotten rather good at picking tents over the years, so I can’t wait.

If you don’t camp why are you even at the race? When you are camping you are immersed in the experience.

DIRECTORS CHOICE

Hout Bay Heights

Set high on the Karbonkelberg Mountain in Hout Bay Heights, this property features gorgeous panoramic sea and mountain views.

R3,199,000

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Hout Bay Heights

Great opportunity to buy one of the last plots with a spectacular view of the bay and Chapman’s Peak. The building plans have already been approved by Council and building works commenced on the 626sqm stand.

R1,650,000

VACANT LAND 626M²

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NATIONAL AREAS

Val de Vie Evergreen

Val de Vie Evergreen is regarded as South Africa’s safest retirement village.

Situated in the heart of Val de Vie Estate it was won multiple local and international awards for Best Leisure Development. The retirement village has an established community and draws inspiration from its magnificent surroundings, recreating the open-door, secure living of yesteryear.

With Phase 1 and 2 long sold out, Phase 3 is selling fast. Referred to as ‘The Sugarbush’ it consists of 60 new homes, bringing the village to a total of 197 freestanding homes.

R4,600,000

Set in the beautiful “Valley of Life”, in the Val de Vie Estate, close to the nearby towns of Paarl and Franschhoek.

Awarded the Best Leisure Development in the World.

The Retirement Evergreen Lifestyle Village is located in the heart of Val de Vie Estate and an easy walk to restaurants, laundry service, hair salon, deli, gym, pool and much more.

Be the first to occupy your suite. This spacious 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom is situated on the first floor of the apartment building on a corner. Situated close to the Clubhouse, restaurants, laundry, pharmacy and

R2,445,000

Showhouses are available for viewing. Prices range from R4 400 000 and there are still 23 units available for immediate occupancy.

The development of Phase 4 has started and the foundations are currently being laid and brickwork has commenced. Once complete it will add a further 90 freestanding homes to the village.

Phase 4 includes the construction of a luxury apartment block featuring 52 one and two-bedroom suites priced from R1,85 million and ranging from 44m2 - 66m2 in size.

As this luxury suite is sold off-plan you can still select your colour palette. To help you make the right choice we have a show unit built to scale to walk you through.

R2,045,000

Your best years are yet to be. Enquire today to retire in South Africa’s safest retirement village.

gym.

Paarl | Simondium

This well-established, fully-functional citrus and table grape farm is in close proximity to Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch. The farm features a lifestyle homestead and offers an abundance of supporting buildings which include offices, numerous sheds, a pump station and a packing shed.

R80,000,000

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Blouberg | Bloubergrant

Ideally set in a desirable complex a few blocks away from the beachfront, this block is a short and convenient walk to local shops, restaurants, cafes and the beach.

R1,400,000

Maitland

Located in a desirable and quiet street in Maitland, this modern apartment is a great opportunity for investors or first-time buyers.

R825,000

Milnerton | Brooklyn

Investment opportunity - a selection of apartments to choose from in a new block of 28 units ideally located in the heart of Brooklyn, Cape Town.

R715,000

INTERIOR DESIGN

How to optimise your home office for optimum productivity

To decorate a home office for efficient work conditions, consider the following tips:

1. Choose a dedicated space

Many modern homes are being designed with a dedicated office space (or nook) but if you live in a slightly more traditional home and are not looking to remodel, set aside a specific room or area of your home for your office, to separate it from your personal life. Much has been written about how important this physical ‘division’ is for your work/ life balance.

2. Good lighting

Make sure that your office has plenty of natural light and/or good artificial lighting. Avoid harsh lighting or light sources that cause glare. The type of light needed in a home office depends on the individual’s personal preferences and the specific tasks they will be performing in the space. Generally, it is recommended to have a mix of different types of lighting, such as task lighting for specific work areas, ambient lighting for overall illumination, and accent lighting for decoration or to highlight certain features. Additionally, it can be beneficial to have dimmable lights or different colored bulbs to adjust the light levels and atmosphere as needed.

3. Good posture

Make sure your desk and chair are at a comfortable height, and that your monitor is at eye level. This will help you maintain good posture and reduce the risk of strain or injury. Here the balance between form and function is crucial - match your decorating style to a chair that is comfortable as you are going to be spending many hours in it.

4. Organise your space

Keep your office organised and decluttered. Use shelves, drawers, and other storage options to keep your office essentials within easy reach.

5. Personalise your space

Add personal touches to your office, such as plants, photos, or artwork, to make the space feel more comfortable and inspiring. A cluttered office equates to a cluttered mind.

5. Add plants or nature elements

Bring in plants, flowers, or natural elements to add life to the space and help you relax and focus. Not only do plants create a more natural ambiance, but as we’ve said before (and studies have proven) that plants –– both indoors and out –– bring fresh air and ‘health’ to your home and garden and can aid in reducing your carbon footprint. Plants can go as far as purifying air, according to this study published by NASA in 2019.

6. Incorporate ergonomic features

If you will spend a lot of time in your office, consider incorporating ergonomic features like an adjustable keyboard tray, a footrest, a standing desk or a monitor arm to help reduce strain on your body.

7. Keep it quiet

Consider soundproofing your office, or using white noise or background music to help reduce noise distractions.

“Plants not only take in carbon dioxide and return oxygen, but they are exceptionally good at capturing harmful toxins from the air,”

How to make the perfect travel coffee

Whether you’re out on an overnight camping trip, hiking to the top of Devil’s Peak for a dawn brew or simply very particular about your coffee even when staying in an Airbnb, we know that for many coffee is as much a ritual as functional caffeine fuel for the body.

If you’re the adventure type, getting the right gear and coffee grinds to those remote adventure spots (and then brewing a proper cuppa) takes some doing. Those who have been doing it for years – who take it seriously – have got it dialled close to art. Read on to learn more about their gear.

STORAGE

Your coffee ritual should not be a mission. There should not be any rummaging around to find the grind and then looking for the Moka Pot, only to realise you misplaced your mug after the last cup. Store all your coffee-making paraphernalia conveniently, neatly, and safely in a Front Runner Wolf Pack Pro with Storage Box Foam Dividers. The Wolf Pack Pro is water and dust-proof, which means your grind will stay fresh; while the foam storage dividers provide extra protection for fragile items such as glass French Presses and ceramic mugs for if you’re travelling to somewhere slightly less rustic.

MOBILE HEAT

Leaving home before dawn for a sunrise cuppa on one of Cape Town’s famous peaks? The Jetboil Flash Cooking System is your go-to. Jetboil is a trusted name when it comes to adventure cooking gear. Their Flash Boil Personal Cooking System is optimized for efficiency and will boil in 100 seconds, making it the fastest Jetboil ever. Weighing just 371g this compact cooker is ideal for a Moka Pot brew.

FIRE

Having the option of a quick brew on a gas cooker – such as the Jetboil, or a bigger system if you’re in camp – is great, but there is something special about slower brew done over an open fire. Front Runner’s

BBQ/Fire Pit’s raised design keeps the fire safely off the ground while providing efficient heat, while the grill offers a solid surface for your camp kettle. Once done the grill folds down and fits perfectly within the Wolf Pack Pro for easy transportation.

INSTANT WORKING SURFACE

You need a solid workspace to prep and brew your coffee, whether in camp or on a quick pitstop midroad trip. Front Runner’s Dropdown Tail Gate Table mounts to the rear swing door of a range of vehicles and trailers. It stores out of the way and quickly offers a sturdy countertop on which to unleash your inner bush barista. Aside from the black powdercoated steel table top it also features a wooden extendable work surface.

COFFEE FLASK

If you are more of a pre-mixed coffee person and like to enjoy it on the go, a good flask is a must-have. Look for a double-walled flask that features a rugged and corrosive-resistant stainless steel construction which remains cool to the touch but will keep your coffee steaming hot for many hours. Then, add a good travel mug to complete your kit - the Yeti Rambler® 20 oz Travel Mug is perfectly sized for most vehicle cupholders and the easy flip-open lid allows for smooth sipping.

and gloom – a brief economic outlook for 2023

The domestic energy crisis may yet yield an acceleration in private power generation and provision, cementing a longer-term security that has not existed for almost two decades. In addition, this would lay the foundation for additional investment and productivity gains.

writes Marie Antelme, an economist with Coronation Fund Managers through who the team at Silvertree Risk and Wealth Management often invest parts of their clients’ portfolios.

According to Antelme, despite current constraints, legislation passed late last year offers some hope. Read on to find out more of what she forecasts for the coming year:

It’s not all doom

Gazetted changes to the Electricity Regulation Act (4 of 2006) provide for the exemption from applying for an electricity generation license for all facilities, irrespective of capacity, and the licensing threshold has been abolished.

New generation investment registrations at the National Energy Regulator of South Africa have risen meaningfully. We expect economy-wide non-Eskom energy availability to improve in the second half of 2023 [H2-23] as some early self-generation projects reach completion. This won’t improve loadshedding but should shelter some of the productive areas of the economy from its effects. Eskom’s Energy Availability Factor should benefit from the return of Koeberg to service in H2-23, but overall, we expect the system to remain highly constrained.

Transport infrastructure and efficiencies are an ongoing concern, as Transnet’s network of rail and port apparatus is still exposed to flood damage, sabotage, poor maintenance and, at times, inadequate planning. A long-term framework for private participation in various aspects of the organisation has not been properly formulated, significantly dragging on the entity’s plans to allow private participation in some aspects of its freight operations.

Positively, available data point to areas of ongoing resilience in the domestic economy. Agriculture and broader service sector normalisation offered strong support to growth in the third quarter of 2022 (Q3-22) and the outlook for both remains positive in 2023, supported by favourable farming conditions and a recovery in tourism.

We expect growth of about 1% in 2023, and for inflation to moderate to an average of about 5% in 2023 from almost 7% in 2022. Despite weaker growth and moderating inflation, we expect the central bank to remain conservative, wary of maintaining real interest rates at levels too low to contain price pressures and expect one more hike at the opening meeting of the new year. A repo rate of 7.5% would see forward looking real policy rates of about 2.5% – moderately restrictive, providing room to ease in the event of weaker growth.

The next political hurdle will be the national election in 2024. It remains to be seen whether the President will take the opportunity presented by his party presidential victory at the end of 2022 to configure his Cabinet with capable ministers appointed to key portfolios. Delivering a more economically aligned political strategy should improve growth and may improve ANC election prospects. Failure to do so will undoubtedly create a more challenging political and economic landscape for this report next year.

Website: www.silvertreegroup.co.za

Tax revenues have held up well into year-end, indicating solid income growth and profitability.

What to know before investing in a rental income property

And while the benefits of buying a rental property are many, there are risks and considerations that need to be taken into account before diving in.

Below we outline a few things to keep in mind before investing in a rental property.

What are the upfront costs?

As the name suggests, your upfront costs need to be covered before you can start looking at renting out the property. These include bond costs, transfer costs, attorneys’ fees and bank initiation fees. It is important that you budget for these costs before putting in an offer.

What are the ongoing costs?

Once you’ve bought the property, there are a few ongoing costs that need to be budgeted for. These include things like levies, rates and taxes, insurance and maintenance. Another necessary expense is income tax on the rental received. It is essential to note you can deduct the other costs referred to above and the interest you pay on your bond from the income. On that note, before buying a rental property, we suggest you seek estate planning advice. A good tax consultant will help you purchase the property in the most tax-efficient way (e.g. put into a company instead of your personal name, or in your spouse’s name instead of your own name etc.). Please feel free to reach out to Ulrik Strandvik, who is a tax specialist, for assistance in this regard.

Buying a rental property and becoming a landlord is an exciting venture. Not only does it hold the potential to bring in extra income, but for many people, investing in a rental property is their first big step into the property game.

What rent will I receive?

Although it is ideal for the rent to cover the levies and rates and taxes while still providing a decent income, in some cases, this is simply not possible. Deciding on the monthly rental cost will depend on factors such as location, amenities, and supply and demand. Buying a property that meets most of these needs will likely provide a higher rental income.

Can I afford to have a vacant property?

As is the case with many rental properties, there will likely be a time period when the property does not have any tenants. As the owner, you need to make sure that you have the funds to cover the bond installment (if any) and the ongoing costs in this case.

Do I know the legalities?

There are a few legalities to consider before investing in a rental property, including the ownership legalities and the laws that surround the tenants’ rights. It is important that you understand these legalities before putting in an offer on a property. As such, we advise that you take the following steps before you sign the lease:

1. Do your due diligence on the tenant. Ask them for bank statements, credit and reference checks. A professional and competent rental agent (like Knight Frank) has the resources and experience to assist with this process.

2. Ensure the lease agreement is drafted well and covers all eventualities and regulatory issues. We recommend employing the services of a rental agent or asking an attorney to draft and/or review the agreement.

3. Negotiate at least two months’ deposit to cover unexpected eventualities.

Do I want to be a landlord?

This may seem like an unnecessary point to mention here but it is a critical point to consider. Being a landlord takes hard work and dedication beyond simply purchasing the property. As a landlord, you need to ensure that you understand all of your responsibilities, including maintaining the property and making sure that the right tenants are chosen. Therefore consider engaging a rental agent that can assist with the complexities.