Issue 2
L I F E S T Y L E | ISSUE 2
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Hello,
In this issue the focus is on travelling with purpose, why you travel and how you can make a difference when you do. Giving back is at the heart of what we do at VLE, we think globally but act locally. We’re all huge believers in people giving back and doing things for others. I would really encourage you to get involved the next time you travel. If you’ve seen what’s been achieved at the Eve Branson Foundation in Morocco, or by the Pride ‘n Purpose team at Ulusaba in South Africa then you’ll know what I mean. Happy reading and best wishes,
Jon Brown Managing Director, Virgin Limited Edition
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MAHALI MZURI
A DAY WITH
the
Maasai
There are many moments when guests interact
Adorned with jewellery and wearing their
with the Maasai people during a stay at Mahali
infamous red robes the welcome you receive is
Mzuri, from the aeroplane window you can
unlike any other. You’ll be greeted with singing
see local farmers grazing their herds below,
and dancing (which you’re encouraged to join
through to meeting the team (many of whom
in) and then introduced to the villagers.
are from the local area) to visiting the nearby local village and getting a flavour for life in the
The famous ‘adumu’, traditional dance of the
community.
Maasai men, then takes place and you are also invited to take part in the jumping competition.
At Mahali Mzuri guests are encouraged to learn about the area in which they are travelling in,
Take a look around one of the incredible ekangs
so whilst our rangers are experts at spotting
which are the typical oval-shaped houses made
game, they are also experts on the community
from the village’s mud and branches.
so don’t be shy when asking them questions about local life. The team work closely with the
Before departing visit the market that
local villages and schools and can tell you how
showcases beautiful hand-made crafts from
we support each other.
beaded bracelets to wooden toys, perfect take home gifts.
Immerse yourself in the Maasai village nearby to the camp for an invaluable encounter based
All proceeds for community tours go directly to
on sharing.
the local village.
Book your stay today by contacting our reservations team on: enquiries@virginlimitededition.com or call us on +44 (0) 208 600 0430
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Did you know... The language is called Maa Colourful shukas (sheets) are worn around their bodies The tribe is patriarchal and the elder men tend to make the important decisions Women jointly build each other’s homes out of mud, grass, sticks and cow dung
y u b n a c s Guestof-a-kind one- e beadwork d a m d n ha
Cows are their livelihoods – a good herd of cattle is a great sign of wealth The women wear intricate jewellery made with beads, wood, clay or bone Traditional dancing involves jumping and young men often compete to prove their masculinity and to flirt with women
A. Yellowthroated Longclaw Bird B. Yellow Billstop C. Vulture D. Lilac Breasted Roller E. Little Bee Eater F. Grey Crowned Crane
F E
D C
B A
MAHALI MZURI
A LITTLE BIRD
told us...
Kenya’s Maasai Mara is known for its
coloured lilac-breasted roller, but you might
abundance of wildlife, and in particular the
also recognise the Hornbill (or Zazu from The
big cats that can be spotted on game drives.
Lion King as they’re also referred to). There’s
However living amongst the more famous
plenty of birds of prey also, the Secretary
faces are an abundance of birdlife that are
birds are unlike any others with their long
well worth keeping a beady eye out
legs, wings and tail and who rarely
for, there’s over 500 species of birds in the Mara alone of which around 45 are different birds of prey. Bird watching in Kenya is good all year round, there’s plenty of variety due to the climate and the diverse
fly unless they really must, then there’s the Vultures who circle Kenya holds the high above waiting for any Guinness World record leftovers, and of course the for the largest bird count stunning array of Eagles. Other large birds have very with a whopping 342 distinct features such as species spotted in the Yellow Billstop - yep you 24hours! guessed it they have a bright
habitats that make it a great
yellow bill, and the magnificent
migratory route.
Grey Crowned Crane with a crown of stiff
Some of the bird sightings that guests witness
golden feathers.
on game drives at Mahali Mzuri are real ‘pinch
So next time you’re on safari be sure to look
yourself’ moments, not only can you spot one
out for more than just the Big 5, you’ll be
of Kenya’s national birds, the stunning multi-
amazed at what you see!
mahalimzauri.virgin.com
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ULUSABA
Pride n ‘ PURPOSE Ulusaba’s charitable arm focuses on sustainable initiatives that support disadvantaged communities living adjacent to the Sabi Sand Reserve. With the help of many committed and generous
Why do you love your job?
volunteers and donors, David Khoza and Amanda
David: Making a difference to the lives of people
Hattingh, Pride ‘n Purpose’s only full-time employees,
in the local communities is important and gives
have made a huge impact on 40,000 people’s lives,
me a sense of purpose. I care about their
across 7 communities near Ulusaba. When they’re
development and well-being and it’s truly
not flat out working you can find David getting stuck
amazing to see the progress they’ve made
into a game of football and Amanda painting, or
over the 9 years that I’ve been with the team.
exploring new places around the world.
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People are most effectively helped if they are empowered to help themselves.
Amanda: I love that it’s tangible; we work directly with locals and support them and in turn future generations. There are so many good people who will change entire communities if they’re given the opportunity – and that’s where Pride ‘n Purpose comes in.
Why do so many guests want to volunteer with Pride ‘n Purpose when they visit? David: When guests visit Ulusaba they see and hear first-hand about the meaningful impact Pride ‘n Purpose has on the community. Guests feel an emotional connection and want to be a part of it.
If a genie could grant you 3 ‘social impact’ wishes, what would they be?
Amanda: I think guests love the volunteering
David: My 3 wishes would fit with our key areas of
authentic. They have the opportunity to get involved
work; 1) access to clean water for everyone 2) support
with the Shangaan way of life and connect with
for local entrepreneurs and 3) education at all levels.
genuine people.
Amanda: I would ask for a sustainable future for
experience because we keep things simple and
financial stability 3) equal opportunities for children
What feedback do you get after a Community Tour?
including a safe home and a quality education.
David: Guests are often blown away by the positive
everyone in South Africa through 1) good health 2)
impact our projects have had and are eager to stay
What is your favourite memory from your time at Pride ‘n Purpose? David: A day that stands out for me was when
updated about what’s going on after they leave Ulusaba – so they’re always happy to find out about our newsletter which they can sign up to.
everyone gathered at Mahlahluvana Primary School
Amanda: We receive a variety of responses, but the
where we had just installed a Fun Pump. Suddenly
most common one is that people are touched by what
there was a sense of excitement in the air as the clean
they’ve seen and experienced. They love meeting the
water flowed out of the well, it had worked! Having
locals and leave with memories that last a lifetime.
clean water for the community has made such a difference. Amanda: I have so many, so I’ll go with the most recent one! We ran a sewing training workshop at the Tshemba Hosi Centre for people with special needs, where Ulusaba bed sheets were repurposed into dressing gowns. The aim was to support them with generating an income and it was amazing to watch the students build in confidence with their new skill. A very generous donation from an Ulusaba guest meant the project became long-term and we built a proper facility for the workshop – so in between sewing I also picked up a
n w o l b n e t f o Guests are e v i t i s o p e h t away by d a h e v a h s t c e j o r p r u o t impac
thing or two about construction!
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CLIFF
Lodge
Ulusaba means “place of little fear”. That’s because the koppie where Rock Lodge sits provided the ancient Shangaan warriors with the perfect lookout point. Located just a short walk away from the Main House at Rock Lodge, Cliff Lodge which is perched high within the rocks features two
magnificent suites offering guests the ultimate safari escape. It’s perfect for families, friends or an occasion where you might just like the place to yourselves. With some of the best views in the Sabi Sand, Cliff Lodge provides a unique and exceptional experience - so grab a pair of binoculars and see what you can spot!
ULUSABA
What’s included • Two outdoor pools • Your own gym • I ndoor and outdoor private dining • Private vehicle for game drives • Your very own chef!
Book now To book email enquiries@virginlimitededition.co.za or visit ulusaba.virgin.com
? u o y Do Our latest campaign aims to showcase the impact guests can have on the community they travel to and the difference it can make to the lives of those that live there, as well as how it enriches the life of the person travelling.
So whether it’s meeting the locals or buying local, learning to salsa in Cuba or snorkel in the Caribbean, practising yoga in India or spotting wild dogs on safari, mountain trekking, making friends with our team, trying a new cuisine or volunteering in the nearby community – travel with purpose! From June to September we’re shining a spotlight on
How do you enter? Follow @virginlimitededition on social media, upload your epic travel pictures and use the hashtag #VLEtravels
travelling with purpose, and one lucky winner will enjoy the ultimate #VLEtravels WITH PURPOSE experience, a 3-night stay at Ulusaba private game reserve in South Africa and get to immerse themselves in the local community with our friends at Pride ‘n Purpose. The winning photo will be chosen by Sir Richard Branson!
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SON BUNYOLA
Aboard! ALL
Beyond the gates of Son Bunyola is an island waiting to be discovered. Take a trip on the old-fashioned slow train
people watching. Take a wander around
from Palma which winds through orange
and marvel at the architecture, local art
orchards and up over the mountains,
galleries and the fascinating history – did
stopping briefly at Bunyola (close to the
you know it owes its wealth to the valley’s
estate), before reaching Sóller. The wooden
abundance of citrus groves? Then hop on
train is decorated with art by Miro, and both
the little tram down to Port de Sóller and
Palma and Sóller stations feature mini art
soak up the sea views. Once an old fishing
museums with works by Picasso and Miro –
harbour, the bay is the perfect place to eat
certainly not your average train station!
fresh seafood, or to take a boat trip to one of the neighbouring bays.
When you arrive at Sóller Old Town head to one of the small cafes in the main square for a refreshing drink and a spot of
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sonbunyola.virgin.com
The wooden train is decorated with art by Miro - certainly not your average train!
If wine tasting is more your thing, then it’s all aboard the Mallorca Wine Express! This gourmet wine train runs on Mondays and Thursdays through some of Mallorca’s finest and oldest vineyards, weaving its way through the beautiful countryside of the Bodega Jose L. Ferrer vineyard in Binissalem, which has been run by the Ferrer family since 1931.
TASTE One of the best things about going on holiday, is trying local delicacies, and while Spain and its islands are renowned for Paella and Tapas, Mallorca also has its own distinct cuisine.
SON BUNYOLA
Mallorquin food is varied, colourful and full of flavour but more importantly it can only be found on the island! Our Head Chef, Samy de la Pena has shared some of his favourite traditional dishes which are all served at Son Bunyola.
Pa amb oli
Sobrassada
This literally translates to bread and
A cured spicy sausage made of
oil, and it’s simply delicious served
minced pork, paprika and other spices.
with a spread of tomatoes, a drizzle
It is often served with crispy bread as
of olive oil and a sprinkling of flaked
a snack or used in cooking to add a bit
sea salt. It makes a great snack
more flavour.
accompanied by cheese and cold meats too.
Coca de trampò
Ensaïmada
Similar to a pizza or vegetable tartlet,
This sugar-dusted delicacy is a bit
but without the cheese, it features
like a croissant. It’s been proudly
tomatoes, red and green peppers,
produced on the island since the 17th
onions and served on a puff pastry
century – want to live like a local?
base – perfect with salad for lunch.
Start your morning off with a coffee and one of these!
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THE
’ d l o G R d ‘e
It’s been 5 years since Kasbah Tamadot joined forces with the Tiwizi Association to sponsor the set-up and maintenance of a saffron farm in the Atlas Mountains which is now a roaring success.
KASBAH TAMADOT
The Tiwizi Association was created to help the local Berber community in Asni through a range of projects from offering alphabet courses to running the saffron scheme to provide an income for families. Without the incredibly hard work the locals do on the farm we wouldn’t be able to offer our guests a taste of local saffron! With temperatures soaring in summer and cooling down in the winter season Morocco is the perfect climate for growing saffron crocuses - making it one of the world’s largest producers of the ‘Red Gold’. Saffron is known as this because it’s the most expensive and delicate spice in the world. Harvesting begins in September and lasts until early November. Harvesters are up at the crack of dawn to pick as many purple saffron crocuses as possible before the three crimson stigmas at the centre of the flower are exposed to too much sunlight, which affects the quality of the spice.
...the smallest amount of saffron can add so much flavour to an entire recipe, plus it has the added health benefits of being an antioxidant too! Popular with chefs globally, saffron has
Saffron harvest process
1
Pick the saffron crocuses (to get 1 gram
a unique flavour and aroma. Kasbah Tamadot’s very own Head Chef Yassine Khalal, who was chosen to represent
of saffron requires 200 saffron crocuses!)
Morocco at the Embassy Chef Challenge
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in Washington this year (and came 2nd!), Carefully remove the three tiny crimson
creates a saffron tasting menu each
stigmas at the centre
year which has become a firm favourite
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amongst guests. He says that “the
Dry the stigmas (drying for 20 minutes
will produce a sweet flavour, whilst
smallest amount of saffron can add so
anything longer will create a more intense
much flavour to an entire recipe, plus it
flavour)
has the added health benefits of being
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an antioxidant too!” Leave as is, or crush into a fine powder
depending on the dish you are preparing
Last harvest an incredible 3kg of saffron was collected and together with the local community we hope to collect even
more this year. Guests staying at Kasbah Tamadot during these months are always welcome to participate in the harvest and enjoy the fruits of their labour with the saffron tasting menu.
kasbahtamadot.virgin.com
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the
THE VALLEYS & VILLAGES OF
A tlas Mountains
After exploring the souks, trade the hustle and bustle of Marrakech for the tranquil valleys and villages hidden within the High Atlas Mountains. Some of the most scenic and spectacular treks
just the locals and the occasional animals pottering
lie in the areas surrounding Kasbah Tamadot.
around (horses, cows and chickens to name a
Uncover the traditional Berber villages scattered
few). Although the paths are narrow and slightly
throughout the Imlil Valley and immerse yourself
challenging at times, the local guides are always
amongst the giggling children as they play, and
on hand to help, it’s easy to forget but they live
locals greeting you “Salam”. The community is
in these villages and know the paths like the back
tight knit with hospitality at its core, so it’s no
of their hands. Along the way you’ll pass rivers,
surprise that their strong sense of culture shines
eucalyptus and olive groves and climb through
through as you wander past their homes or stop
forests of junipers and oaks.
off for a cup of Moroccan mint tea or two. Toubkal, the highest mountain in the country,
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The best and most practical way to experience the
stands at 4,167 metres tall and can be seen
wonderfully pure lifestyle of a Berber is by foot –
from many of the Berber villages. Sometimes
you won’t find any vehicles off the beaten paths,
the mountains can remain snow-capped all year
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KASBAH TAMADOT
Berber tea recipe You’ll need: • 1 ½ tbsp loose green tea • B oiling water • Sugar (to taste) • 4 sprigs of mint (or sage, rosemary, bay or thyme for a different flavour) Special Equipment: • Teapot with a spout (traditionally a medium sized metal one is used) • 4 - 6 Moroccan tea glasses
long so chances are you’ll get a glimpse of the snowy mountain tops of Toubkal from a distance. For the best seat in the house, end your trek with lunch on one of the rooftops in Armed, the highest and largest village in the Imlil Valley. A Berber family will be more than happy to welcome you into their home for a traditional lunch of tasty tagine scooped up by the moreish Moroccan homemade bread, Khobz - they’re known for cooking up a storm! The Berber community make you feel at home and
Method: 1. B oil 500ml of water (enough to fill the pot 1½ times) 2. A dd the tea to the pot and pour 1 cup of water into the pot. Leave for 30 seconds and pour off the liquid into a glass and keep it (this cup is the aroma of the tea and should be a golden color). Do not mix the tea at this stage. 3. A dd a second glass of water to the pot and mix the tea. Pour off the water and discard (this dirty water is the tannins and impurities from the tea).
are proud of the villages they have built and preserved. So, if you decide to join a trek during your stay at Kasbah Tamadot, expect much more
4. P ut the first cup back into the pot and fill the pot with water. Now bring the tea to the boil and simmer for 2 minutes. Remove from the heat, add your chosen herbs and sugar to taste and leave for 5 minutes.
than stunning views and fresh mountain air trekking in the Atlas Mountains is a true cultural experience.
Enquire at kasbahtamadot.virgin.com or email
5. P our 1 cup of tea from a height and pour it back into the pot; repeat 3 times to mix the tea. 6. P our and enjoy!
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We believe the best way for you to experience authentic South African cuisine is to source local produce
While South Africa is known for its natural landscapes and wildlife, its winelands are just as famous and the Western Cape province has become a gourmet destination for global travellers. We are a world of flying foodies and unlike
After all that exploring refuel like a true
the usual priorities when it comes to choosing
foodie in Miko. We believe the best way
the next holiday most of us now travel
for you to experience authentic South
somewhere with a culinary journey in mind
African cuisine is to source local produce,
— to get a taste of the country, quite literally,
which is why both our restaurants serve
rather than just to go sightseeing.
fresh dishes using produce from nearby suppliers. Not only does this support local
Nowhere is this truer than in Franschhoek
businesses but it also reduces transportation
which is dubbed the ‘gastronomic capital’
‘food miles’ and helps us to work towards
and wine heartland of South Africa. For those
our green goals.
looking to discover the area in true foodie style jump on the famous Wine Tram - this hop-on, hop-off service combines breathtaking scenery, fine wines (naturally) and
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world-class food. Mont Rochelle is a stop on
To book a stay at Mont Rochelle visit
one of the routes, so jump on another route
montrochelle.virgin.com or email
to sample even more of the area’s vineyards.
enquiries@virginlimitededition.co.za
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MONT ROCHELLE
EAT DRINK SLEEP
! t a e p Re
MONT ROCHELLE
winelands &
WILDLIFE
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MONT ROCHELLE
Combining a trip to family friendly Franschhoek in the winelands with a roaringly good safari in the Sabi Sand or the Maasai Mara is a winning African combination. It’s not all in the name when it comes to the winelands, although it’s famous for its vineyards Franschhoek is great for families and there’s plenty of activities at Mont Rochelle to keep the Little Corkers (that’s the kids) busy! Whilst the adults are winetasting the children can try a variety of delicious grape juices, get competitive with our range of giant lawn games around the grounds such as chess or croquet, or join in on a scavenger hunt that’ll end in a family picnic. Go wild on safari in the Sabi Sand at Ulusaba or on the plains of the Maasai Mara at Mahali Mzuri. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big 5 on twice daily game drives, you don’t need to go far to see some unforgettable sights. All the drama that only nature can provide is on your doorstop at both camps, so take a front row seat to the most spectacular safari. During the grape Harvest period (usually between January – March) we encourage all our guests to help us out by picking grapes and stomping with our expert wine stompers.
Complimentary massage Receive a complimentary 30 minute massage in the wilderness and a half board upgrade at Mont Rochelle when you stay before 21st December 2019.
To enquire visit www.virginlimitededition.com
g n i p m o t s t e ! g s t r e p x e r u with o
or email enquiries@virginlimitededition.co.za
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NECKER ISLAND
watersports OR
WELLNESS?
That’s a decision you don’t need to make on Necker Island, there’s plenty of time to do both! With an expert team of watersports instructors, and a pavilion full of all the latest toys, you can learn to kite surf (Richard’s favourite sport which he encourages everyone to do during a stay), take the Hobie cat out for spin or head out on a paddle board trip around the island. Explore the reefs beneath the sea with a snorkel and fins or dive a little deeper with a scuba diving course.
If you don’t have sea legs, or just prefer looking out at the ocean rather than taking the plunge there’s plenty to keep you busy on the island itself. Think rooftop yoga classes surrounded by blue vistas, a spot of tennis with our resident pro, sweat it out in the gym, or follow a number of walking trails around the islands coast. As if being on Necker wasn’t relaxing enough, take some time out from it all in the beautiful Samudra Spa. neckerisland.virgin.com
FANCY GIVING IT A TRY? Take the island Exclusively or join us during one of our famous Celebration Weeks where you can book an individual room (new dates just announced). To book speak to our team by emailing enquiries@virginlimitededition.com
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NECKER ISLAND
Wild
TIMES From the moment you step foot on the island you’ll spot a stunning array of wildlife, from the flamingos and scarlet ibis flying overhead to the giant tortoises wandering around.
It’s been a busy year for the wildlife team who have been working hard on several projects. First is the flamingo breeding programme which has already been a huge success, earlier this year there were 54 new chicks and 28 parents sitting on eggs waiting for them to hatch so we’re excited to see the next generation of Necker Island neighbours. The island now has over 70 Scarlet and White ibis, up 190% since they were reintroduced back in 2010, which is a fantastic conservation story. Richard Branson developed a passion for trying to help preserve an endangered species of Madagascan lemur, and it’s great to see the recent arrival of 9 baby lemurs who joined the Necker family, including a set of twins! Guests are always welcome to help the animal caretakers feed the lemurs during feeding times. Other animals you might come across on Necker Island include giant tortoises, Anegada rock and stout iguanas,
Don’t miss out!
macaws, parrots, cockatoo, geckos and many more!
neckerisland.virgin.com
One of the most spectacular sights to take flight over the island…sometimes with their friends the flamingos in tow too.
PHOTO: MATTHIAS RUBY
see is the flock of ibis
Did you know...
the iguanas can grow up to over 6ft long, so it’s unlikely you’ll miss them!
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T H E LO D G E
VERBIER
a Year-Round Gem One of the great year-round destinations, the Swiss Alps isn’t just for skiing – it’s for hiking, biking, paragliding and swimming, eating, drinking, foraging and cheese making. There’s so much more to Verbier than
What’s on
snow (although it is pretty special in the
18 July - 3 August Verbier Music Festival
winter too). When the snow melts away the mountains reveal a host of footpaths and trails, flowers in bloom and cows
31 July - 1 August Swiss Day fireworks concert 11 August Family Festival
grazing the lush pastures with bells
15 - 18 August e-Bike festival
clanging around their necks. Soaking up
15 - 25 August International Showjumping
the picturesque views from the top of
6 - 8 September Bike Festival
the mountain whilst looking down on the chocolate box towns and villages below is
21 - 22 September Raclette party in Le Châble
quite exhilarating. Outside of the winter season the region
Don’t miss
turns into an activity’s playground with a
Vignerons which returns after 20 years this
whole host of events to take part in, from
summer for 6 weeks in July & August in the Swiss
yoga to yodelling, music festivals and
town of Vevey, on Lake Geneva. The festival only
equestrian events.
takes place 5 times every century to celebrate
The long-anticipated Fête des
local winemakers from Lavaux and Chablais. This summer marks the 12th event since 1797 - a rare opportunity not to be missed!
Book a stay in Summer or Winter at thelodge.virgin.com
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Calling all
FOODIES Dining alfresco with blue skies, crisp alpine air, pictureperfect views and delicious food and wine, is almost an everyday occurrence at The Lodge, and you’re guaranteed an unforgettable culinary experience during any stay. The chefs often head out first thing in
herbs cut from the garden and freshly
the morning to forage for local produce
whipped goat’s cheese from the local
and then spend the day cooking up
cheesemaker, Laiterie de Verbier – just
a feast for the senses. You might find
down in the Valais. There’s also an
them firing up the BBQ on the sunny
extensive selection of wines to choose
terrace or preparing the freshest
from too, both local and international.
(and tastiest!) local seasonal dishes
So after a busy day on the mountains
in the kitchen – think salads with
take a seat and tuck in!
T H E LO D G E
BBQ Beer Can Chicken Looking for an easy BBQ dish? Chef Adam shares his BBQ beer can chicken recipe, a simple but delicious way of grilling that ensures the meat is bursting with juicy flavour. Ingredients X
1 can of Ginger Beer
X
1 whole chicken
For the marinade:
Method
1 2 3 4
F irstly, prepare your BBQ so it’s 180°C with the lid on (you can also use an oven) T ake the chicken and using a small knife, remove the wishbone, this makes carving the bird easier later
X
7 0g brown sugar
X
3 5g maple syrup
X
10g smoked paprika
X
7 g salt
X
5 g chilli flakes
X
5 g ground coriander
when cooking! If you want, you can put a sprig of thyme
X
1 0g sesame oil
(or another herb like rosemary or sage) in the beer can
X
10g water
C ombine all the marinade ingredients in a bowl and then rub onto the chicken skin O pen the can of ginger beer and pour out a quarter of the can into a glass (this is for you to enjoy while the chicken cooks!) - you don’t want the can full, or even worse un-opened, otherwise it will overflow or explode
5 6 7
P lace the chicken standing up over the can and put on the BBQ for 1 hour. The juices from the chicken should be clear, and not pink, when cut with a knife. D on’t worry if the skin is slightly charred! It still tastes great! R emove the chicken carefully using tongs as the beer can will be hot. Move onto a tray to rest, then serve and enjoy!
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With education key in fuelling people and ideas to
We make the most of the sunshine (at the
make a social and economic impact worldwide,
properties that are in warmer climates) and use it to
Pride ‘n Purpose works to provide a quality
provide us with most of our energy. We’ve installed
and safe education through teacher training
solar panels at Mahali Mzuri and Kasbah Tamadot which
programmes. Their work has resulted in the
heat the outdoor swimming pools, and after just one year
building and successful running of 12 pre-
we saw an incredible 40% reduction in oil consumption.
schools that benefit over 500 children.
Along with the existing solar panels, and many other energy saving activities in place on Necker Island, the recent addition of wind turbines have been installed with the aim to run the island off renewable power alone.
Kasbah Tamadot, Mahali Mzuri, Ulusaba, Mont Rochelle and Necker Island are all members of Pack for a Purpose, which encourages travellers to help those living in poverty by packing useful supplies for local community projects. If you plan to travel to one of these properties, don’t forget to check the website to see what’s needed and spare some space in your suitcase to make a big impact where you visit. www.packforapurpose.org
Kasbah Tamadot has been a main source of employment for the local communities, who make up 98% of our team, and we’re lucky enough to have had most of them on board since opening, and figures suggest that each individual employed at the hotel supports up to 10 others in their extended family! Pride ‘n Purpose (our charitable arm at Ulusaba) work hard to ensure reliable water supplies are available to the local communities – to date they’ve drilled 4 boreholes, and installed 2 ‘FunPumps’, 2 solar powered water pumps and 29 water storage tanks! Don’t miss the article on Pride ‘n Purpose on page 11.
SUSTAINABILITY
Whilst all properties have swapped plastic for paper straws and removed the use of single-use plastic water bottles, they have also introduced some initiatives that have led to amazing achievements. Most recently The Lodge and Ulusaba were awarded the maximum 3 stars in the ‘Food Made Good’ ratings, and Kasbah Tamadot and Mont Rochelle both received 2 stars. The awards recognise responsible sourcing that creates a positive impact on the society and environment.
the move towards
SUSTAINABLE LUXURY Contrary to popular belief, luxury doesn’t have to come at the expense of sustainability, and at Virgin Limited Edition our teams are working hard to make sure one doesn’t compromise the other. We place the community at the heart of all our properties so making a lasting impact on our colleagues and the environment that we work in is fundamental to us. We are introducing initiatives across all our properties that align with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The 17 global goals aim to bring countries together to improve the likes of health and education, tackle inequality and climate change and enhance economic growth globally by 2030, and businesses play a key role in helping to achieve these goals. We already have a huge number of initiatives in place, and as our MD Jon Brown explains “Sustainable travel is a part of our culture. We believe in making a Betty Maitai, one of our Field Guides at Mahali Mzuri is paving the way for females in the industry. As our only female guide, we are proud of her role in encouraging diversity in the profession and breaking gender stereotypes.
difference and going the extra mile to deliver something better, fresher and more memorable.” We’re making even more of an effort to support the 17 global SDGs and here’s what we’ve been up to so far…
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South Africa Sales & Reservations T: 0800 056 343 (toll-free) T: + 27 (0) 11 325 4405 E: enquiries@ulusaba.virgin.com
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