Retreat, Issue 2, 2009

re treat D EST I N AT I O N & L E I S U R E M AG A Z I N E

FREE

Lowveld Road Trip Gabbata: Dinokeng’s cycad heaven • Canon Cameras • A family trip to Monkey & Elephant Sanctuaries • A weekend away for two • A diamond worth R5000

the spring retreats issue YOUR GUIDE TO SA’S BEST HOLIDAY SPOTS

Retreat 2

2 Editorial

The Team

Retr ea t 2

hat a privilege to live in South Africa and to have easy access to all the beautiful holiday spots in our diverse country. Our exclusive retreat in this issue is the tranquil Gabbata in Dinokeng, just around the corner from Pretoria. Check out the competition where you can win a weekend away for two (including all meals plus activities). We also tell you more about our road trip to the Lowveld, and our stayover at two totally different establishments, a 5-star boutique hotel for the more distinguished guest and a selfcatering log cabin for a weekend on a budget. Hartbeespoort is a hub of activities and we checked in on BushBabies and the Elephant Sanctuary. I can truly recommend both as awesome experiences for adults as well as kids. Remember to enter our competition to win a trip to both sanctuaries for your family. If you travel a lot for business, have a look at our Business Traveller section and keep in mind that time to book venues for your year-end function is quickly running out. Happy reading and send me a picture and letter about your ideal “retreat” to stand in line to win great Canon cameras (p4). – Suzanne Grobler <[email protected]>

W

Inside Regulars 4 5 20 26 28 29 30

Letters 30 Industry News Winners Eco Smart Retreat Traveller’s Tales Hospitality Hints Tools for the bush

Exclusive Retreats 6

Gabbata Accommodation, Restaurant, Wedding & Function Facility

Road Trips 8

Exploring the Lowveld

Weekend Retreats 10 11 12 13

Sheppard Boutique Hotel Jock Sabie Lodge Benlize Lodge Berg & Dam Guest Lodge

Day Retreats 14 15 16 17

The Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeespoort BushBabies Monkey Sanctuary Pumulani Lodge Spa Betesda

Executive Editor Suzanne Grobler > 083-742-6370 [email protected] Business Manager George Grobler > 083-460-0402 [email protected] Advertising Suzanne Grobler > 083-742-6370 [email protected] Renier v Vuuren > 073-166-1515 [email protected] Hein Slabbert > 082-442-8607 [email protected] Anelda Strauss > 083-748-3413 [email protected] Designer & Layout Brett Wilson Contributors Suzanne Grobler Mike Joubert Thomas McKinnon Linda Pretorius Christina Rupp Barbara Hamm Neels van Wyk Accounts & Subscriptions Ronel Keet > 012-362-2732

22

8

Published by

Activities 22 Advertorial: Safeguard value and grow your money with diamonds

Food & Wine

SMARTPUBLISHING

24 Oak smoked trout

MASS MEDIA SPECIALISTS

Lifestyle

Distributed by

25 Ruacanà Safari and Game Industry African lamps

Win!

smart

A weekend away + activities for two sponsored by Gabbata 15 A family trip to: The Elephant Sanctuary + BushBabies 22 A diamond worth R5000!

distribution

7

re treat D EST I N AT I O N & L E I S U R E M AG A Z I N E

All photo and video equipment used by Retreat is sponsored by:

Business Traveller

Copyright © 2009. All rights reserved. No material, text or photo graphs may be reproduced, copied or in any other way transmitted without the written consent of the publisher. Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the publisher or of the editor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their respective owners. Retreat shall not be liable for any errors or for any actions in reliance thereon. All prices were correct at time of going to print.

18 Centurion Business Hotel

082 627 6701

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

(Piet)

As designers, manufacturers and wholesalers of exclusive jewelry, furniture, ar
facts and curios, we have a diverse range of products available at wholesale prices. Our designer products include tanzanite- and diamond jewelry, precious and semi-precious stones from all over Africa, unique hand cra
ed lamps, leather furniture, breathtaking sculptures and animal trophies.

For uniquely African products visit our showroom at 7 Birt St, Raedene, or phone us on 011-485-1254.

4 Letters D e a r Retr ea t W in n i ng Ha ppy Snap & L ett e r

Dear Retreat, I’m not one for the bush, or so I thought… After a hectic few months we were invited to spend a long weekend on a farm near the Kruger Park. Over-worked and not having a lot of time to get away through the year we grabbed the chance with both hands and decided to go for three nights. My serious turning point was the second evening around the campfire. I could only stare into the inviting flames – complete and utmost peace. No sirens or cars racing from work to home. Only silence and the fire crackling and warming even the coldest of hearts. Back in Pretoria I found myself staring into the braaivleis fire. If I listen real closely I can actually hear the hyena calling on a Thursday evening. Thana

Hi Suzanne, I had just left Elephant Sands Lodge about 60 km from Nata (Botswana), and was on my way to collect clients in Livingstone in Zambia, when I noticed a white vehicle standing in the middle of the tar road. The driver’s door was open and a man was walking down the road, camera in hand. I then noticed a big elephant bull standing just off the road, it seemed to be drinking from a puddle of water. I arrived next to the white car, and called to the driver to return to his vehicle, as he could be in great danger. It was at this point the bull started to get very uneasy, trumpeting and was about to charge. The driver, a tourist from Germany, said “It’s only an elephant”. He got into his vehicle and drove off in a huff. This is a picture of the elephant bull. Chris

Hi there Retreat, This is a photo of the best retreat we ever had. It is located just outside Dullstroom on a gravel road. What makes it so special? Well we as family went through two years of various trials and hardships and finally we went for a break, a holiday at this peaceful retreat on the side of a small mountain with a stunning view. There was no electricity, and we had one gas bottle for a gas stove. Every night the temperature dropped below zero and it was extremely cold. A bonfire was Hi Suzanne, the only thing that kept us warm before This photo was taken at Cintsa near retiring to our beds wearing as many as East London in March this year. It’s a three jackets at a time. Early morning you small but amazing place. get up to boil water that you kept in a pot Derick (since you don’t get running water until 12 am) and then you walk down to the dam side for some sun on your back while fishing for trout. This certainly was a challenging experience, but through Hi Cobus, it all we got some rest Congratulations on from this busy world we winning the first of six live in, to spend some Canon PowerShot A470 quality time together cameras (sponsored by and appreciate what we Canon) with your Happy Snap and Letter Combo. have in life. Suzanne Cobus Lotz

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

5 Titbits I n d u s t r y News

They are here he SCouts, interactive tourist info kiosks, will soon be in Sandton. The information kiosks will be spread throughout the area and will offer information about restaurants and hotels as well as provide users with an emergency service that will see Sandton Central Emergency send out armed guards to the kiosk a distress call is made from. The kiosks will feature an easy-to-use digital interface and regular remote updates designed to help tourists and locals explore the streets of the upmarket district.

T

Real-me hotel Bookings in SA amba Gashle Tourism have launched an online accommodation bookings search engine, hambahotelbookings.co.za, that not only helps you find accommodation but instantly confirms room availability and rates as well. The service will allow South Africans access to over 90 000 hotels globally, but is easy to navigate as it allows for search filtering according to country, city, hotel names and even room types. It also allows for comparison of room rates.

H

Victorinox turns 125 he makers of the world renowned Swiss Army Knife have reached the ripe old age of 125 this year. Having come a long way since Karl Elsener first opened a cutlery shop in Ibach, Switzerland, to supply area butcher shops with high-quality knives and cleavers, the company is still the exclusive supplier of knives to the neutral Swiss army and are highly regarded for their kitchen cutlery.

T

Africa’s largest kite fesval he Cape Town International Kite Festival will be held on October 10 & 11 over the skies of Muizenberg. Kiters from across the world will converge to support Cape Mental Health, the non-profit organisers of the festival which falls over World Mental Health Day. Creations on display will include dragons and scuba divers. Who knows, we may even see a few Great Whites flying higher than usual off the Cape coast. There is a fee of R10 for adults and R5 for children to watch from prime locations. For more info email [email protected].

T

“Retreat” Happy Snap & Letter Competition

6x prizes of R1499 each

Win a Canon PowerShot A470 every issue for the next 5 issues of Retreat magazine (3–7) by sending us your picture and letter combo with the theme “Retreat”. Only the best combo will win! All the entries will go into the draw for the grand prize (a Canon EOS 450D) which will be announced in Retreat 8. Happy snapping!

Send your “Retreat” Happy Snap & Letter combo to the Editor at [email protected] (Please ensure your pics do not exceed 2MB). Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

Grand prize of R9999

Sponsored by:

Competition runs from Retreat 2–8. Competition open to SA Residents only.

6 Exclusive Retreats

Di no ke ng

Gabbata Accommodation, Restaurant, Wedding & Function Facility

Serenity in cycad heaven Gabbata lies just 10 km from the Zambezi off-ramp in Pretoria, in the midst of one of the largest collecons of cycads in South Africa. It is situated on the edge of Dinokeng, and your host, Hennie de Wet, is one for treang his customers.

part from the green lawns and dozens of cycads, the first thing you notice is the beautiful thatched buildings built from natural stone found in the area. All the furniture and doors are made from sleeper wood with its rich, dark textures.

A

Ret r ea t 2

Conferences and teambuilding events Gabbata conference facility offers climate controlled conference rooms for up to 250 delegates from only R300 per person. This includes tea/coffee on arrival, refreshments during the morning, a light lunch, afternoon tea, mints, bottled water and cordial during the day. The facility is wheelchair friendly and is a business centre with

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

wi-fi, photocopier and fax on hand. Onsite team building is available in the form of wild golf as well as boma, bar and braai facilities for smaller groups. Weddings Gabbata is a fantastic wedding venue for up to 180 guests, although they also cater for smaller weddings. Included in the wedding package is the rock chapel with its sleeper benches, welcoming drinks and snacks, the reception venue, a three-course meal, plus the bridal suite. Hennie and his team understand that the planning of your special day can be daunting, and they will assist brides with a list of preferred suppliers and custom-made packages.

7 Exclusive Retreats

Di no ke ng

Accommodation Accommodation is available in the form of 16 rooms with ensuite bathrooms featuring TVs, tea and coffee facilities, as well as laundry facilities. The bridal suite is a spacious room with plenty of mirrors (perfect for the bride-to-be and entourage), jet bath and balcony overlooking the garden. Gabbata is a bed and breakfast facility, and rooms are available from R700 (two persons sharing) or R480 per person. Tea Garden & Restaurant The Tea Garden is the ideal place to meet your friends or take your mother for a nice cup of java or rooibos tea.

Their confectionery is supplied by Elsa van der Watt, a famous baker in the area. Retreat can definitely recommend treating your taste buds to her delicious orange cake. Gabbata’s restaurant offers fantastic themed Sunday lunches that vary from Greek and Italian to a true South African potjie. Have a look on their website or call them to find out what’s happening next Sunday. Child-friendly Sunday lunches are ofcourse a family affair, so bring your kids to enjoy the animal farm and aviary, koi pond, green lawns with wild golf and swimming pool.

Gabbata’s Activities The lush garden is the ideal place for unwinding, or do your travel planning from here, since Gabbata also hosts an information office for the Dinokeng area. Activities in the area include visits to a Zulu Tribal Village, cultural tours, game drives, visits to a wildlife park, animal sanctuary and zoo, lion feeding, visits to the old Cullinan mine plus panning for diamonds, horse riding, shabeen tours, boat and sundowner cruises, micro light flights, hot air ballooning and more. Contact Gabbata on 012-808-9911, 071-407-7190 or [email protected] for more info. www.gabbata.co.za

A weekend away + activities for two sponsored by

GABBATA Itinerary Friday: Dinner + sleep-over at Gabbata Saturday: Breakfast, visit to Cullinan, lunch at Cullinan Premier Hotel, dinner + sleep-over at Gabbata Sunday: Breakfast, visit to a wildlife park + picnic, departure from Gabbata

Ret r ea t 2

How to enter Send your name, surname, suburb and age with “Gabbata” in the subject line to [email protected]

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

Competition closing date: 31 October 2009

8 Road Trips

Low vel d

Exploring the Lowveld Retreat packed our bags, got onto the N4, and headed on a road trip from Gauteng to the Lowveld. We travelled through Nelspruit, White River, Sabie and Graskop, to bring you all the best natural aracons in the area. elspruit was our first destination as we spent the night at Sheppard Boutique Hotel (review on p10). The friendly folks at the hotel suggested that we head to the Lowveld National Botanical Gardens, and what a fantastic outing it was! The Botanical Gardens are Nelspruit’s main tourist attraction and its rocky river landscape is easily accessible through well-kept wooden pathways. The Gardens are the natural meeting point for the Crocodile and Nels Rivers. Over millenia the Crocodile River has carved various potholes into the solid rock gorge. Even if you don’t have time to walk through the Gardens themselves, do have lunch at the Kuzuni Restaurant situated at the Botanical Gardens. They easily serve the best seafood platter we’ve ever had. You can contact them on 013-757-0907.

Nelspruit

N

n White River itself there is not much too see, but drive through town and you will get to Caster Bridge Farm Lifestyle Centre. It is a charming rustic environment with grassy lawns, wooden benches and dozens of arts and craft shops. Most of the shop owners produce their own goods and have a workshop right there, so you can watch the goldsmith making jewelry, the blade-cutter sharpening his knives or the pottery lady making her pots. It also features an abundance of curio and antique shops as well as a Barnyard Theatre. The highlight of the shopping centre is definitely the Motor Museum where you can see, among scores of other vintage cars, the famous Model T Ford. Definitely a must-do for carand history-lovers.

White River

I

he next day we headed to Sabie and booked into Jock Sabie Lodge (review on p11), where we spent the night. Sabie is waterfall-country and we visited two beautiful falls. The first was Lone Creek Falls (far right) which is about 9 km out of Sabie on a tarred road. Lone Creek is a national monument and, like most of the natural sites in this article, you are charged a nominal fee to enter the area. Braai and toilet facilities are available, and it is a real treat to look at the 68 m waterfall, surrounded by indigenous forest. Another waterfall in the area is the HorseShoe Falls (right). Although not very high, it is a beautiful waterfall set in the forest with pools you can swim in. It is a popular trout fishing destination and a lovely spot for a picnic. Other waterfalls worth your attention are the Bridal Veil Falls and the Forest Falls.

Sabie

Ret r ea t 2

T

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

9 Road Trips

Lowvel d

wo other spots in the Sabie area of Mpumalanga that are not be missed are the Mac Mac Falls (top left) and Mac Mac Pools (top right). The waterfall was named after Scottish gold miners who lived in the area in the 19th century. The fall used to be a single stream, but in an attempt to get to the gold-rich reef over which the waterfall flowed, the miners blasted the rocks with dynamite and this resulted in the twin streams of the 65 m waterfall. The rocky ravine is lush with green vegetation and with sunlight sparkling in the clear pool below, it is no wonder that this spot is one of the most photographed in the area. The Mac Mac pools (about 3 km from the Falls) are basically large rock basins filled with cool, clear water. It is a lovely location for a picnic and to refresh yourself with a quick swim.

Sabie

T

od’s Window is the scenic viewpoint in the Graskop area and for good reason. From the 700 m high cliffs you can see up to 4 km on a clear day. On a cloudy day you literally stand above the cloud banks and you can understand how it looked like the edge of the world to the bushman Xi, in the South African cult film The Gods Must Be Crazy. If you are up for a steep walk, hike up to the rain forest area. We were totally out of breath when we reached the top, but the breathtaking view and a misty indigenous forest landscape made it all worth while.

Graskop

G

ourke’s Luck Potholes (left) is a splendid day outing and highly educational in geography and history. The Voortrekkers camped in the area next to the river in 1844. A party went exploring on horseback to find a clearing in the river for the oxwagens to cross. When they however did not return, the Voortrekkers believed they had been killed and named the river Treur (grief). They turned their wagons around and left. The party on horseback arrived back at camp, seeing the wagons had left and caught up with them. The Voortrekkers were so relieved to see them they called the second river Blyde (joy). The Treur and Blyde Rivers meet at Bourke’s Luck and have over eons carved out the cylindrical whirlpools and potholes. The area is accessible through wooden pathways and bridges connecting the canyon. This is definitely a sight you do not want to miss.

Graskop

Ret r ea t 2

B

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

10 Weekend Retreats Low vel d

Mpumalanga GPS S25° 29.8 E30° 59.6 ’ ’

Sheppard Boutique Hotel

Lowveld Luxury How o
en have you driven through or flown into Nelspruit on your way to the Kruger, not even stopping to take in the beauful surroundings? The 5-star Sheppard Bouque Hotel, situated on the hill overlooking the Nelspruit valley, is an exquisite way to spoil yourself. Here every guest is treated like a VIP, and it is no wonder that Sheppard Bouque Hotel was nominated for the 2009 World Luxury Hotel Awards. pon entering the picturesque grounds with its well-kept gardens at Sheppard Boutique, you immediately feel welcome. General Manager, Coba RöhmWilsenach, receives you into the tastefully decorated dining area, providing refreshment by means of juice, coffee, tea, freshly baked scones and muffins. When you walk into your comfortable room with ensuite bathroom, strikingly decorated in dark wood and white linen, you know that you have entered in the lap of luxury.

U

Accommodation and facilities Sheppard Boutique has 17 ensuite rooms, private dining as well as a formal dining room for larger groups. Meals can also be served on the patio overlooking the valley, affectionately known to the staff as “seefar”. They offer a superb selection of dishes to be complimented by fine South African wines, and neck and shoulder massages (on request). Tables at the restaurant can be booked for dinners and children are also welcome at the establishment. Weddings and conferences For a function with a difference, Sheppard Boutique is the perfect intimate and private venue. They can Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . c o . z a

cater for small weddings of up to 50 guests, and up to 25 delegates (cinema style). The staff are well-known for their creativity and personal service. A good example of this is a recent private function where the energetic team treated their international guests to an African evening serving potjiekos, mampoer, pap and sheba. Activities and bookings Sheppard Boutique Hotel can organise a range of activities and tailormade trips to the Kruger (on request). Special rates apply for Retreat readers: from R905 per person (plus R175 for second person sharing) and includes breakfast (valid until 30 November 2009). Contact them on 013-752-3394 or [email protected] or visit www.sheppardboutique.co.za.

11 Weekend Retreats Low vel d

Jock Sabie Lodge

Sanctuary in Sabie

With its quiet and serene atmosphere, scenic locaon and colonial style buildings, one can understand why Jock Sabie Lodge has been in high demand with local as well as internaonal travellers for over 50 years. ocated in the centre of Sabie in the heart of the Lowveld, Jock Sabie Lodge offers a breathtaking view of the Drakensberg Mountains and it’s the ideal destination for exploring the surrounding Lowveld.

L

Accommodation The Lodge offers a wide variety of accommodation options that will suit couples, families, bikers, backpackers or school groups. For couples looking for a

weekend breakaway, Jock Sabie offers ten hotel suites equipped with DStv, airconditioning, a bar fridge, linen and towels. There are also four self-catering log cabins comprising of two bedrooms, an open plan kitchen, one bathroom, lounge and a deck with a braai. Bigger self-catering family units sleeping up to eight people are available for larger groups, while school and sports groups will be interested in the youth hostel with communal bathrooms. For the budget traveller the lodge offers bungalows and one bedroom eco log cabins. All of the accommodation has a bed and breakfast option available. Activities The Lowveld area is well known for a wide variety of activities catering for both the young and old. Onsite facilities include a large swimming pool, trampolines, a life-size chess board, volleyball and a games room with pool tables, dartboard and table tennis. Activities that can be arranged from the lodge include sight-seeing, hiking, trout

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

fishing, golf, abseiling, quad biking, mountain biking, water rafting and a whole lot more. Conference Facilities The conference facilities consist of two conference rooms equipped with an overhead projector, screens, TV, VCR and white boards. The main conference room can seat 25 delegates boardroom style or 60 cinema style, while the smaller conference room seats 15 delegates boardroom style or 30 cinema style. Restaurant While self-catering is one of the options available, there is an onsite restaurant. The restaurant serves buffet dinning, indoors or on a deck, overlooking the swimming pool and Drakensberg Mountains. Reservations Booking in advance is essential as the lodge accommodates plenty of tour groups. Accommodation rates are from R380 per day per person sharing with breakfast included for standard rooms and R880 for complete self-catering log cabin sleeping four per day. There is a special 10% discount for Retreat readers; All you have to do is phone 013-764-2178 or email [email protected] and quote “Retreat road trip”. For more information on Jock Sabie lodge visit www.jock.co.za or view their Facebook group, Jock Sabie Lodge.

12 Weekend Retreats Ha r tie s

North West GPS

RE

S25° 47.2 E27° 52.3 62’ 27’

AT TRE

Benlize Lodge

Dam(n), what a view! Drive along the well-kept stone and cement path that meanders up the Witwatersrand mountain range, through the natural bush with its abundance of aloe, you have no idea of the wondrous sight that awaits you at the summit... verlooking Pecanwood, the Jack Nicklaus Golf Course and Hartbeespoort dam, Benlize Lodge is the ideal retreat, less than one hour’s drive from Pretoria and Johannesburg.

O

Self-catering The four thatched cottages, with their beautiful slate floors and walls built from natural stone found in the mountain, are self-catering, fully equipped, and each has its own private patio and braai area overlooking the dam. There is one two-sleeper, two foursleepers and an eight-sleeper unit, which makes it ideal for a group of friends, a family reunion or a business teambuilding or year-end function. Another two-sleeper ensuite unit is also available, great for kids. The large thatched lapa can accommodate up to twenty people and is the perfect location for a bit of bush brainstorming without any distractions. Ideal retreat Benlize is just the right place to recharge your batteries. As you wake up to the fresh breeze, enjoy coffee over-

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

looking the spectacular view, you might want to play a quick game of tennis, before preparing your own favourite breakfast. Later in the day you can lounge around in the pool, reading a magazine under the large trees. On returning to your cottage, you can start a fire for a braai, sip on a glass of wine, and play a boardgame with your friends before retiring to the fireplace inside your cottage (available in two of the units). Affordability At only R300 per person per night, staying at Benlize Lodge is a steal. We give it the thumbs up for its affordability, natural beauty, comfortable units and its proximity to Gauteng. The surrounding Harties area is also a hub of activities offering watersports, adventure, culture and animal interaction activities (see our Day Retreats section on p14–15 for more on the Bush Babies and Elephant Sanctuary). To book your stay at Benlize, contact Bennie on 082-338-3977 or email [email protected].

13 Weekend Retreats Ha r tie s

Berg & Dam Guest Lodge

In the heart of Hares If you are looking for an overnight place in the Hartbeespoort area, look no further than Berg & Dam Guest Lodge which is conveniently situated in the main street. alking distance from amenities such as the Snake park, Harties tunnel and restaurants, Berg & Dam is a true landmark in the area, and also the oldest guest house in Schoemansville (established in the 1800s). The lodge has a 3-star grading and is also AArecommended as a bed and breakfast with dinner on request establishment. The airconditioned units (standard or family size) are semi-selfcatering being equipped with a bar-fridge, microwave, coffee/tea facility and washing-up area. At R350–R450 per person per night, it is ideal for business travellers. And if you are in the mood for a romantic breakaway, Berg & Dam’s honeymoon suite sports a huge jet bath – perfect for relaxation and sipping champers with your better half. Should you be a larger group, looking for something more affordable, the folks at Berg & Dam will accommodate you in Villa Magalies (next door). It is a complete self-catering 16-sleeper with a communal kitchen. For more info contact your hosts, Jaco and Liza, on 012-253-0891, 082-901-4815 or email [email protected].

W

90 Scott Street, Schoemansville Hartbeespoort

From R350 pppn

Bed & Breakfast with Dinner on Request Tel: 012-253-0891 | Cell: 082-901-4815 | Email: [email protected]

www.bergdam.co.za Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

14 Day Retreats

Ha r tie s

North West GPS

S25° 43.1 E27° 48.5 1’ 4’

The Elephant Sanctuary Hartbeespoort

Enchanng Ellies Feeding, touching, riding and walking with elephants is the ulmate African experience. Best of all, it’s right on Gauteng’s doorstep, in Hartbeespoort. frican elephants are magnificent creatures. They are the largest land mammals on earth and their average lifespan in the wild is 70 years. With a brain weighing 4.5–5.5 kg, they are also extremely intelligent. Elephants communicate by touch, taste, smell, body posture and vocalising, some of these sounds are infrasonic (too low for human hearing ability), and can travel for over a kilometer. This is a mere snippet of the facts you will be taught at the Elephant Sanctuary. The knowlegable guides and handlers explain in tremendous detail every aspect of the elephant’s anatomy, family interaction, breeding and communication. You are also introduced to the ellies who reside at the Elephant Sanctuary. The four you will meet are: the two ladies, Mosadi and Khumba, and two boys (or “hooligans” as they are lovingly referred to), Jabu and Mvusu.

A

Fantastic family outing Three daily tours are offered to visitors from R375 per adult and R195 per child. During these tours, guests get to touch, feed and walk Ret r ea t 2

with the elephants – trunk in hand. This is a brilliant family outing, suitable for all ages and school groups. Lunches and elephant-back riding are offered as an optional extra (kids from eight years of age are allowed). Conferencing and overnight facilities Why not spoil your delegates or staff with an inmitible experience at the Elephant Sanctuary? The overnight programme runs from 16:00 to 10.00 the next morning. It includes welcome drinks, observing the elephants being stabled for the night, sundowners on the mountain deck, and a four course dinner by lamp and candlelight in the boma. The next morning’s activities are brushdown, feeding, walking with the ellies at 7.00, and breakfast on the deck. Accommodation is offered by means of a ten-bed Indo-African lodge which shares a wall with the elephant stables, as well as in the bush lodge. Overnight rates are from R1495 per person sharing. To book your tour, contact Allett on 012-258-0423/0332 or email [email protected]. w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

15 Day Retreats

Har tie s

BushBabies Monkey Sanctuary

Monkey business BushBabies is a sanctuary for all exoc primates who are donated or rescued from the pet trade or research facilies. The monkeys are brought to Hartbeespoort to roam freely in a natural and wild environment. he enclosure is 5 ha in size and it currently houses 65 monkeys from seven different species. Guests to BushBabies walk through the indigenous forest on elevated wooden walkways. The experienced guides point out the monkeys as they jump and frolic along the trees or playfully romp about, chasing each other with chattering glee.

T

Bonnie One of the monkeys in the sanctuary, Bonnie, a capuchin monkey, was brought to BushBabies by a family from Pretoria who kept her as a pet. Monkeys are wild

Bonnie

creatures and their behaviour in a domestic situation can be unpredictable. When Bonnie arrived at BushBabies, she was wearing a nappy, hat and dress. It has taken some time for Bonnie to adapt to her new environment and although she has joined the capuchin group in the sanctuary, she still craves human attention. Tours BushBabies are open seven days a week and tours start from 8.30 in the morning. The guided tours are typically 60–90 minutes in length, and it includes an informative walk leading to

spectacular viewpoints, ideal for monkey watching. Other wildlife in the sanctuary include duiker, meerkat, green pigeon and bushbaby. Rates for adults are from R195 and R95 for kids. BushBabies also offer school tours and corporate outings (bookings essential for larger groups). After your bush experience, you can relax in BushBabies’ fully licensed coffee bar with a refreshing beer, cappuccino or light snack. Contact Thabo to make your booking on 012-258-9908/9 or 084-384-5000 or email [email protected]. www.monkeysanctuary.co.za

A family trip (two adults and two kids under 12 years) to BushBabies and the Elephant Sanctuary:

You will be hosted by an experienced guides who will take you through the elephant and monkey experiences. The programmes are conducted on foot and guests are advised to wear closed walking shoes and casual clothing. Remember to bring your camera.

How to enter Send your name, surname, suburb and age with “Sanctuary” in the subject line to [email protected] Competition closing date: 31 October 2009

Ret r ea t 2

w w w.r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

16 Day Retreats

Di no ke ng

Gauteng

Pumulani Lodge

A feast to the senses

GPS

S25° 39.9 E28° 17.3236’ 98’

Just off Zambezi drive in Pretoria lies Pumulani Lodge, a place where you can literally “be at rest” (translaon from Ndebele). Whether you’re looking for a wedding or conferencing venue, accommodaon or just Sunday lunch, Pumulani’s huge trees, verdant green gardens and charming old farm house dang from the 1950s, will immediately make you feel at home. part from the scenic garden and main house, Pumulani Lodge has a picturesque chapel, surrounded by bamboo and filled with natural light. It features a magnificent wooden cross and brass bell for stunning pictures. There are seven different reception or conference venues available with a variety of packages that can be tailormade to your requirements. Security is provided by means of various cameras on the property, while wi-fi, projectors and other standard conference equipment are on hand. Accommodation for up to 38 guests are available on a bed-andbreakfast basis.

A

Sunday lunches Retreat was treated to a Sunday lunch at Pumulani Lodge, deliciously prepared by the

Ret r ea t 2

chef, Jeanetta Mahlangu (right). Jeanetta has been at Pumulani for 17 years and she humbly describes her scrumptious food as “lekker boerekos”. For starters we had a biltong and avo salad served with balsamic reduction. The main course consisted of leg of lamb, roasted in olive oil, garlic and rosemary, served with filled, smoked chicken roll, rice, green beans wrapped in bacon and sweetened carrots. Dessert was delectable chocolate mousse with cream, garnished with strawberry. Sunday buffet lunches cost R85 for adults and R45 for kids. Bookings are essential, contact Rose on 012-808-0719/1426 or [email protected]. Also visit their website: www.pumulanilodge.co.za.

w w w.r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

17 Day Retreats

Ga ut e ng

Spa Betesda

All the relaxing you need, and more

Conferencing Venue What better way to conference than in an environment of healing and relaxation. Spa Betesda offers a conference venue, seating up to 50 people cinema style or 26 boardroom style, ideally suited for some serious business. After a hard day’s work delegates can rejuvenate with revitalising spa treatments (book in advance). You can get a half day conference package (including lunch) from R230 per person. Group discounts for treatments (more than eight people) are also available.

An all sensory experience need not be far away. Located in Waverley, Pretoria, Spa Betesda is close enough for an uncomplicated visit, yet it feels far enough to escape the city’s rush.

hether you’re looking for a quiet, comfortable and sophisticated conference venue, or just want to escape for a day of relaxation, Spa Betesda has a lot to offer. Having been rated as one of www.healthspas.co.za’s Top 20 health spas, no matter what age or what occasion, Betesda has the fitting package available for you. The authentic African theme and sensational view add a natural and earthly feel to the exclusive experience on offer at Betesda. With almost 20 unique spa packages available you’re ensured that your individual needs are gently taken care of, while personalised packages leave no wishes unfulfilled.

W

Floatation Bath In the floatation room the mood is set by gentle candlelight. The water of the floatation bath contains a high concentration of salts and minerals, that not only nourishes your skin and activates the circulatory system but will have you feeling light and carefree. Your worries seem to simply sink away. Travelling Therapist A busy schedule is when every minute counts. So what if Betesda Spa came to you? How does a quick, 15 minute Hand and Foot or Neck, Back and Shoulder massage sound between lunch and the next meeting? Turn your office into your personal oasis of well-being and enjoy all the benefits of a spa without setting a foot outside. For further information contact Spa Betesda on 012-332-1327, 084-555-1661 or email [email protected]. You can also have a look at www.spabetesda.co.za, and while you’re online, enter their SMS competition to win exciting spa treatments. Retr ea t 2

w w w. r et r e a tm ag . c o . z a

18 Business Traveller Ga ut e ng

More than the usual business Centurion Business Hotel As a travelling business person, do you expect more than just the average accommodaon usually dished out on the road? Then step into the comfort of Centurion Business Hotel.

enturion, situated just south of Pretoria and close to Midrand and Johannesburg, can be the perfect stay over for travellers doing business in Gauteng. It is here in the quiet suburb of Wierda Park where the Centurion Business Hotel recently opened its doors.

C

VIP service This boutique hotel is not your average run of the mill business accommodation. Apart from a bit of peace and quiet at the end of a busy work day, they literally offer anything that business people might require. First on this list is a special concierge service, since, as member of the Vida Exclusiva group, the CBH can deliver on whatever request a guest might have. This is the first of many details which makes one realise that you’re not just dealing with your average hotel here. “The hotel is small enough to feel personal, but big enough to cater to any guest’s needs,” says owner and host AJ Smith. And we tend to agree. With only five rooms available a premium is placed on quality, not quantity. In keeping with the business theme, all rooms are aptly named after an important stock market. So for example in the Dow Jones you’ll find a neatly draped queen size bed, ensuite bathroom, wi-fi, airconditioning, a beautiful flat screen LCD TV with DStv, all ofcourse tastefully decorated according to a modern theme. Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

19 Business Traveller Ga ut e ng

Restaurant and conference facility They say an army marches on its stomach, certainly the same applies for any business person. As can be expected the dining experience at Slice restaurant is a very exclusive affair. All the dishes carry the signature of Slice’s executive chef, Neels van Wyk, and it is especially his oak smoked trout served with sushi rice and roasted vegetables that is building up quite a following (see p24). Unlike many hotels’ restaurants it is open for the public only via reservation. After the dining experience one can relax

next to the swimming pool, or enjoy a quiet read in the foyer complete with modern fireplace. When it is back to business, guests can book the executive boardroom for meetings. This 10 person boardroom facility comes equipped with everything that a discerning business person could wish for, such as a data projector, TV and video facilities, a laptop, whiteboard and wi-fi. The CBH can also on request provide the appropriate catering, secretarial services, waiters as well as copying and printing of documents.

Services The CBH can help you reserve chauffeur driven luxury cars to and from your meetings, and can also assist in planning quick breakaways directly from the hotel. A foreign exchange service and sameday dry cleaning is also on offer. As a boutique hotel the Centurion Business Hotel truly has a lot to offer any business person that expects more than an average hotel experience. For bookings call Susann Myburgh (co-owner) on 082-369-2011 or visit www.centurionbusinesshotel.co.za.

Rolling green fields, flat-topped koppies, abundant game and unrivaled skyscapes combine to make Zuikerkop an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re just visiting for a weekend, holding an important conference or tying the knot with your nearest and dearest, Zuikerkop is the perfect antidote to the stresses of day to day life – an oasis of calm.

Zuikerkop Game Lodge is located between Ficksburg and Ladybrand, just outside of Clocolan in the Eastern Free State. | Conferences | Weddings | Weekends |

All you need to do is relax – whether you are taking in the marvelous views with sundowners on the deck, settling down in front of a roaring fire or getting ready for a mouthwatering meal, we will cater to your every wish here at Zuikerkop.

083-389-0587 [email protected] www.zuikerkop.co.za

20 Winners

Retr ea t 1 C o m p eti tions

A relaxing weekend away for two at Sebe Sebe Lodge courtesy of

SEBE SEBE LODGE

Winners of the 2 Mom and her little Fairy Treatments courtesy of

- Melissa Coetzee (Wingate Park) - Irma Badenhorst (Pretoria)

- Micki du Plessis (Donkerhoek)

Laser therapy sessions to 10 lucky readers courtesy of

A mixed case of Withington wines

- Robert Long (Houghton)

- Jenny Mitchell - Patricia Machill - Elize van Onselen - Riëtha Oosthuizen - Maria Wiermans - Sarie de Beer - Chantelle Wendelstadt - Charlene Weiss - Gugu Nkuna - Jenitha John

4x4 Chris Cosne is an accredited 4x4 and overland guide with more than 15 years experience. Dzombo Photographic Safaris offer tailormade self-drive packages to Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, Mozambique, Malawi, Tanzania and Kenya. To view but some of the packages visit www.dzombophotographicsafaris.com

Contact Chris Cosne Tel: +27 82 775 5679 Email: [email protected] www.dzombophotographicsafaris.com

SEBE SEBE LODGE

22 Activities

I nve s tme nts

“Place of Peace and Tranquility”

Advertorial

Sebe Sebe Lodge lies on the banks of the Limpopo River, near Lephalale on the Botswana border. • Perfect for weekend breakaways • Overnight spot enroute to Botswana • Conference and function venue

Now is the time!

Safeguard value and grow your money with diamonds Diamonds provide an ideal opportunity for an excellent investment. So says Danie van Niekerk from Praus, a dealer of legal, cerfied, polished diamonds and other precious stones. hanks to the worldwide recession the cost of diamonds is the same as in 2004/5. People that invest in diamonds can in the course of two or three years expect a very good return on investment. There are few, if any, other investments that are so sure of a high return over the above mentioned period. Diamonds offer the most compact way to secure riches. They do not lose value like currency, do not devalue under inflation, and are not dependent on legislation to keep their value. There is also no property tax on diamonds. The value of diamonds keeps growing because they are scarce, difficult to mine and because they are so durable. In addition, diamonds are easy to transport and to keep safe. For the best transactions though you need some help, whether you want to buy a diamond for a loved one or as an investment. Praus has a substantial stock of polished diamonds as well as a wide network of diamond polishers to provide any diamond you might want, with delivery to your doorstep and prices that will make your eyes sparkle. Praus is currently busy with negotiations to list investment diamonds on an international electronic diamond bourse on behalf of clients. All diamonds are put in groups according to features such as colour, cut, clarity and carat. You are able to view the current offer for each specific group on the Internet, and if you feel the price is right, sell it at the appropriate time. If you are in the market for diamonds, talk to Danie van Niekerk of Praus on 0861-GEMSTONE or 078-695-0087. You can also email [email protected] or visit www.praus.co.za.

T

• Numerous game species and other wildlife • Home to abundant bird species • Wide range of activities: game viewing, night drives,
ishing, mountain biking, bush walks, hunting can be arranged in the vicinity.

A diamond worth R5000! Readers of Retreat Magazine get 10% discount on bookings until 31 October 2009

Simply SMS the answer to the following question: “In what weight are diamonds measured?” to 34635 before 30 October 2009 to be eligible to win this fabulous prize sponsored by Praus.

Contact Sebe Sebe Lodge +27-14-763-3825 +27-83-456-6940

www.sebesebelodge.co.za

Terms & Conditions available at www.praus.co.za

Retr ea t 2

23 Activities

I nve s tm e nts

Diamond Guide A diamond’s beauty, scarcity, and price are dependent on an interacon of the “5 C’s”: Colour A diamond with no colour has a higher value. Cut A well cut diamond is one that reflects the maximum light that enters it. The brilliance of a diamond is heavily dependent on its cut. Clarity The amount of internal imperfections found in a diamond determines its clarity. Carat weight A diamond’s weight is measured in carats. The larger the diamond the higher the price per carat. Certification Every polished diamond must have a laboratory certificate to certify its authenticity and qualities.

Welcome to a personalised experience, set on the banks of the Maramba River in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, Zambia. Ideally located just 4km from the Victoria Falls, Maramba River Lodge provides a most attractive all-year-round base in a shaded woodland setting. The Lodge is situated in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park on a bluff overlooking the Maramba River. We are often visited by the resident wildlife with elephant wandering through the grounds at certain times of the year.

Clarity F

Flawless: No internal or external flaws. Extremely rare.

IF

Internally Flawless: no internal flaws, but some surface flaws. Very rare.

VVS1VVS2

Very Very Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions very difficult to detect under 10x magnification by a trained gemmologist.

Colour

Very Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions seen only with difficulty under 10x magnification.

VS1VS2

I1-I2I3

Asscher

Oval

Marquees

Emerald

Exceptional White

F

Rare White +

G

Rare White

H

White

I

Slightly Tinted White

K

Tinted White

L

Included (three grades). Inclusions visible under 10x magnification AS WELL AS to the human eye. We do not recommend buying diamonds in any of these grades.

Round

Exceptional White +

E

J

Slightly Included (two grades). Minute inclusions more easily detected under 10x magnification.

SI1SI2

D

M/O

Tinted Colour 1

P/R

Tinted Colour 2

S/U

Tinted Colour 3

V/Z

Tinted Colour 4

Cushion

Tel: (+26) 0213 324189 Pear

Triangular

Cell: (+26) 0976 587511 Fax: (+26) 0213 323130

Radiant

Princess

Heart

Email: [email protected] www.maramba-zambia.com

www. r etr ea tmag. c o .z a

24 Food & Wine

Rec i p e

Oak smoked trout with Sushi rice, avocado, fresh rocket, parmesan pastry, roasted vegetables, lemon, tomato, basil, chili and extra virgin olive oil dressing. Serves 2. Cooking Tip: For a healthier option, leave the pastry and substitute with parmesan shavings.

Rice 125ml uncooked Sushi rice 250ml water Teaspoon of salt Vinegar mixture 1 teaspoon of sugar and 1 teaspoon of rice vinegar Method - Rinse rice under cold running water, until the water runs clear. - Soak rice for 15 minutes in cold water. - Place rice, water and salt in a saucepan and bring to boil over medium heat. - Cover the saucepan with a tight fitting lid; reduce heat and simmer, until water has been absorbed. - Dissolve sugar and vinegar, over a low heat, stirring constantly. - Remove from heat and allow to cool. - Mix into rice. Pastry 50 g cake flour 30 g unsalted butter 20 g fresh Parmesan 1 egg yolk

Method - Combine olive oil and lemon. - Cut Rosa tomatoes in quarters. - Slice the chili and basil finely. - Add all the ingredients to a pan and heat up slightly, just before serving. Trout 2 smoked trout fillets, 200g each Salt and pepper to taste

Method - Combine butter and flour in a food processor until it resembles a crumb-like texture. - Add the parmesan and egg yolk. Mix together until it forms dough. - Wrap in cling film, put in the deep freeze for 10 minutes. - Lightly flour the work surface and roll out the dough, until it is 1.5 mm thick. - Bake in a 180° C oven until golden brown. Roasted vegetables 60 g butternut 40 g red onion 60 g baby marrow 40 g red pepper 2 garlic cloves 1 rosemary sprig

Method - Remove skin before cooking. - Season trout with salt and pepper. - Heat oil in pan, fry presentation side first, for approximately 2 minutes until slightly golden brown. - Turn fillet over and flash fry for 30 seconds. - This must be done just before serving.

Finishing and presentation - Cut avocado into wedges. - Drizzle rocket with olive oil. - Spread a thin layer of sweet chili sauce on top of the rice, followed by another layer of mayonnaise. - Place avocado wedges on top of rice. - Add rocket and parmesan pastry.

Method - Cut vegetables into bite size pieces, drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar, season with salt and pepper. - Place whole garlic cloves and rosemary sprig with vegetables. - Roast in a 180° C oven until slightly caramelized - Remove garlic and rosemary before serving. Ret r ea t 2

Dressing 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice 6 Rosa tomatoes 1 small red chili 3 fresh Basil leaves Freshly ground pepper and salt to taste

Neels van Wyk is the Execuve Chef at Slice Restaurant at the Centurion Business Hotel

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

25 Lifestyle D ec o r

Ruacanà Safari and Game Industry

A special kind of lamp

Phalaborwa

Olifants River Lodge and Safaris A stone’s throw away from the Phalaborwa gate to the Kruger Na
onal Park.

If you are looking for lamps with a uniquely African flavour then Ruacanà Safari and Game Industry should be your first port of call. One of the company’s speciales is the design and manufacturing of an exclusive range of African lamps. heir lamps are made using different types of antelope horns, including kudu, gemsbok, springbok and impala, with some extra spice provided by brass, wood, engraved bone, ostrich egg shells and porcupine quills. The ranges on offer include hall lamps, table lamps, chandeliers, floor lamps and bedside lamps. Tony Giannini, the owner of Ruacanà Safari and Game Industry, has been designing these unique lamps for over 20 years, and you can be sure that you won’t find similar looking lamps anywhere. When we visited his showroom in Raedene, Johannesburg, he pointed out a floor lamp with four intertwined kudu horns. He mentioned that they had to go through at least a 100 different horns to find four kudu horns that matched perfectly. Although the horns they use are imported from Namibia, the lamps are all handmade locally. The manufacturing process is not only time consuming, as every lamp is crafted by hand, but a skilled labour force is required as the horns used can be cracked very easily. Besides finding a big market in the US, Ruacanà has also been exporting these to places as far a field as Germany, Italy and Holland. Resellers and wholesalers are welcome to call Ruacanà Safari and Game Industry on 011-485-1254. Their showroom keeps stock of all the myriad articles on sale, including, precious and semi-precious stones, antelope horn furniture, African sculptures, animal skins and trophies, and exclusive jewelry.

T

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r et r e a tm a g . c o . z a

When pulling into Olifants River Lodge and Safaris a
er a long day’s drive, you are immediately drawn to the calming effect of the Olifants River. It meanders lazily past the green banks of the lodge, allowing an excellent unspoiled view of the Greater Kruger Naonal Park on the opposite side. It is not long before you hear the unmistakable grunts and snorts of hippos upriver. ORLS offers game drives, boat cruises and guided hikes through Big 5 territory.

Reserva
ons 082-889-4797 (Leon) 082-889-4845 (Brenda) email: [email protected]

www.backyard-vaca
ons.net

26 Titbits E c o S m ar t Who said minimal environmental impact has to mean minimal thrill? In this issue we bring you news about extreme stuff that will get the adrenaline surging – in an eco-friendly way and city dwellers are finding clever ways to turn city living into green(er) living. By Linda Pretorius Travel by sea ake the guys from Carbon Neutral Expeditions (http://tinyurl.com/chj6jw), these three British adventurers set out on a carbon neutral journey from the UK to Greenland in April, hoping to be the first team to reach the polar ice cap and cross over Greenland in a minimal impact way. Unfortunately their good intentions were crashed about a month after their departure. Caught in massive storm, their sail yacht capsized several times. They were rescued about 700 km off the coast of Ireland by – ironically – an oil tanker. But it’s the thought that counts, right?

T

Travel by land ther green adrenaline junkies get kicks from racing around a track – on zero-emission superbikes. This June the first ever zero-emission bike Grand Prix was hosted on the Isle of Man. Twenty-three teams from across the globe entered, and each has came up with innovative ideas on how to drive the fastest, greenest laps ever on a motor bike. Read more at http://ttxgp.com/index.php.

O

Travel by air aking solar power to new heights got a whole new meaning recently. In April Eric Raymond started an eight-country journey by crossing the Swiss Alps solo in the Sunseeker II solar plane. The plane sports high-tech solar panels incorporated in the wing structure, four lithium polymer batteries to store the generated electricity and several other specially engineered features to support solar flight. Read more at http://www.solarflight.com/index.htm

T

Travel by bike hen the going gets tough, the tough get going. That’s what happened in London mid-June, when thousands of commuters were left stranded because of a railroad strike that paralysed London’s Tube. But by swopping one Tube for another, Londoners quickly put a green spin on the whole thing. The London Cycling Campaign organised what they called “Bike Tubes” (www.biketube.org.uk) around the city, encouraging people to cycle to their destinations. People slightly unsure of negotiating city traffic on a two-wheeler could join groups of riders chaperoned by skilled riders. Must have been quite a sight.

W

27 Titbits E c o S m ar t Helmet-hair? ll geared to cycle to work, but worried about arriving all sweaty, and sporting the latest in helmet-hair? No prob, say the guys from Penny Farthings. The Green Pod is a bike shed/change room that’s about as big as a single parking bay. It offers a shower, change room, and parking space for 10 bikes. It seems to be green all-round: solar-heated water, timed showers, a greywater recycling system, and an electronic locking system that can run off the solar panels on the roof. Check it out at www.pushbikeparking.com.

A

Hybrid cops ven the police are turning to the green extreme – in New York, at least. That city’s mayor recently announced that the New York Police Department added 40 hybrid patrol cars to their fleet. Apparently the fuel efficiency of the new hybrids is almost double that of the patrol cars currently used. Whether it really will be so efficient during high speed chases remains to be seen. But it’s at least a move in the right direction: New York wants to cut carbon emissions from municipal buildings and operations by 30% by 2017.

E

Need a desnaon?

re treat D EST I N AT I O N & L E I S U R E M AG A Z I N E

Power to the Vatican ccording to a recent report the Vatican is to embark on a multi-million dollar project to install the biggest solar power plant in Europe. It’s estimated that the almost 740 acres of solar panels will generate around 110 MW of electricity by the time it goes online in 2014. This will be enough to power almost 40 000 Italian homes. With the Vatican only having about 900 residents, solar power derived from this project will present a major export opportunity for the small country.

A

Solar-powered bins everal big US cities have started deploying BigBelly rubbish bins in parks, streets and at big social events. Made from recyclable materials it looks just like an ordinary “trash can”, but is fitted with solar panels to power a compacting system. When full, sensors activate crushers to compact the content to a fifth of its original volume. Compacting means more rubbish in one bin, but without using more space at landfill sites. More at www.bigbellysolar.com.

S

Solar for cellphones t seems eco-conscious mobile phones are becoming popular. Earlier this year Samsung unveiled its Blue Earth phone at the Mobile World Congress in Barcelona. Apart from being made from recycled plastic water bottles, it also boasts a small solar panel at the back. And now AU (KDDI) and Sharp are following suit with launching a phone with a solar panel built into its fliptop. Although you’ll have to leave your phone lying in the sun for quite a few hours to get enough juice for really long conversations, the technology would come in quite handy for making emergency calls from the bundus – provided you have a signal of course ;).

I

With 100 000 magazines distributed bi-monthly, Retreat magazine can help make your establishment the des
na
on. Renier 012-362-2732 | 073-166-1515 [email protected] Suzanne 012-362-2732 | 083-742-6370 [email protected]

SMARTPUBLISHING MASS MEDIA SPECIALISTS

Retr ea t 2

Did you know? Smart Publishing now has three FREE to public magazines in our stable...

28 Reader’s Column

Retreat Traveller’s Tales Share your humourous, peculiar or inspirational Traveller’s Tale with us by emailing 400 words to [email protected].

Bing the bullet

TechSmart magazine Technology Lifestyle

100 000 Copies

Retreat magazine Travel/Leisure/Hospitality

100 000 Copies

ProAgri magazine Agricultural Technology

60 000 Copies For real value for money and actual return on your adversing investment, talk to us first. Pretoria Anelda 012-362-2732 | 083-748-3413 | [email protected] Hein 012-362-2732 | 082-442-8607 | [email protected] Bloemfontein Stefan 051-446-0789 | 082-381-7563 | [email protected] Eurika 051-446-0846 | 082-327-2393 | [email protected]

SMARTPUBLISHING MASS MEDIA SPECIALISTS

As South Africans living in England, geng married back home made the most sense. Most brides know it can be a stressful me. Having to make your way to Heathrow on the bus, during the only boiling day of the English summer, while hanging on to a not-so-small wedding dress, does not exactly make for a stress free environment. eople who know me could have predicted disaster as soon as we missed our first bus (my fault), gone to the wrong terminal (my fault again) and were told my dress had to stay on my lap for the duration of the flight. Suffice it to say, I was a little grumpy and sort of took it out on my poor fiancé. He did not take too kindly to this and was less than happy with me. Having failed at an attempt to apologise, we remained at odds. From then onward, I would charge ahead as we made our way through the terminal, determined to do everything on my own. Not flying direct, it was at the security check in Paris that I finally lost sight of my fiancé, having tried until then to at least keep him in the corner of my eye. I decided to wait at the boarding gate. But as more and more passengers boarded, I became increasingly anxious. In a small and shaky voice I asked the check-in cleck of Air France what I was to do. I could do nothing but wait, he replied, as I have already gone through the check-in point. Has he gotten lost? Has he decided not to marry me any more? What am I going to do without him?! What a picture I must have made, pacing the boarding gate, wedding dress in hand, fighting back the tears. When he was the last passenger outstanding, the situation appealed to the French sense of romance and as they decided to help me search for him, we spotted him high tailing it towards the boarding gate. What was the hold up? My fiancé bought a keyring made of a huge bullet at a curio shop just the week before. Having this in his luggage, you can imagine the security officer’s surprise at seeing this “weaponry” on his x-ray monitors. Having to give up his precious keyring to the rather chuffed-looking security officer, and narrowly escaping a body search, my fiancé was all smiles as he passed the boarding gates. Relief flooded over me. All thoughts of fighting were far from my mind, but I still mumbled half-heartedly to the flight attendant that I am in a good mind to cancel the wedding. The flight attendant gave him a stern look and said in her pretty French accent “Oh sir, you almost got a divorce before you even got married”. – Nicoline Heart

P

Retr ea t 2

29 Hospitality Hints

B a r ba r a Ha mm

Barbara Hamm, MD of BABASA (The Guest Accommodaon Associaon of South Africa), gives us some insight into the B&B industry in SA.

How to start a “Bed and Breakfast” – B&B Feasibility Study is one of the first steps that you should be considering if you want to go into the B&B business. You can complete this yourself should you be in the micro end of the B&B industry. However for those of you contemplating a small or medium sized establishment it is always advisable to have the services of the professional in your corner. In this respect you are less likely to leave out important facts and figures and receive a realistic evaluation.

A

What should the Feasibility Study include? Honest evaluation of 'SWOT' exercise: This will give you a good indication of some feasible success, after all you want to make a reasonable profit. Is the business viable and will it be sustainable? SWOT is “Strengths vs Weaknesses” and “Opportunities vs Threats”

The most affordable, comprehensive way to manage your Hotel, Guest House, Golf Estate, Restaurant and Spa..

Who are your competitors? Any business within a 5 km range which offers accommodation as their core business (and added benefits such as you will be offering), including hotels. Business Plan: An essentail tool for acquiring investment financial capital or loan capital as well as for running the establishment. The Banks want to know if you will be able to pay them back within the period that you have agreed to. Expected expenditure: Should include the property, premises and building structures; contents, perishables and non-perishables, everything from a teaspoon to an elephant; staff (human resources), all costs and fees when employing staff to run your establishment; marketing and public relations; costs related to marketing your establishment to potential clients; registration fees and costs which include legal payments for the property. Expected income: Revenue streams from all the establishment’s income streams e.g. ‘sold’ bed nights (reservations and booking paid); added benefits of: additional meals, conference facility, day spa or small curio shop, etc. Legal requirements: What legal requirements do you as a business within a residential area need to comply to? Marketing Plan: This is part of the business plan and is essential for advertising your business to the industry as well as clients. Familiarise yourself with the Tourism and Hospitality Industry. Seek membership to an organisation. Do you have burning questions which you need answered? Send them to Barbara at [email protected].

_^_^p^Ò=qÜÉ=_ÉÇ=~åÇ=_êÉ~âÑ~ëí=^ëëçÅá~íáçå=çÑ=pçìíÜ ^ÑêáÅ~=áë=êÉÖáëíÉêÉÇ=~ë=~=pÉÅíáçå=ON=åçåJéêçÑáí=`çãé~åóK få=OMMS=_^_^p^=ÅÜ~åÖÉÇ=Ñêçã=qÜÉ=_ÉÇ=~åÇ=_êÉ~âÑ~ëí ^ëëçÅá~íáçå=çÑ=pçìíÜ=^ÑêáÅ~=íç=qÜÉ=dìÉëí=^ÅÅçããçÇ~íáçå ^ëëçÅá~íáçåK=qÜáë=ÅÜ~åÖÉ=Éå~ÄäÉÇ=_^_^p^=íç=áåÅçêéçê~íÉ ~ää=~ÅÅçããçÇ~íáçå=Éëí~ÄäáëÜãÉåíë=áå=pçìíÜ=^ÑêáÅ~K ïïïKÄ~Ä~ë~KÅçKò~ Ret r ea t 2

Whether you are managing a small operaon or a larger establishment, our system will make managing your property a dream. With its easy to use features, it caters for all your Reservaons, Front Office, Guest History, Housekeeping, Point of Sales, Golf and Spa Management. Footprint Africa Business Soluons (FABS) provides integrated business soluons that encompass the enre spectrum of IT services and span over 6000 soluons from across the world. By focusing on long-term ventures with its partners, FABS has been able to fully understand the business value from informaon-related technologies.

Contact Details Tel: +27-11-781-7649 Fax: +27-11-781-7650 Email: [email protected]

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

30 Tools for the bush

Pr o d u c t r ev i ews

Track Down GPS unit he Track Down GPS unit can be vitally important to trace or inform family members in case of an emergency situation. It is a small GPS device that can be carried on person, and is equipped with a SIM card so it is able to make emergency calls and send out tracking signals. If the

T

panic button is pressed it immediately sends out its current GPS coordinates to two preset cell numbers. The unit will also dial one of the cell numbers provided, so that direct communication can be established. The GPS coordinates can be used to find the person in emergency via Google Earth or regular in-car GPS units. Other features of the Track Down unit include: A programmable Live Time tracking that sends messages to a preset

number informing them of the latitude and longitude (and speed) every three or five minutes. Geo Fencing enabling you to set area parameters, so that if the unit moves out of the designated set area it will again text the cellphone of the possible problem. The unit has a once-off cost and no monthly service charges. It is available from Track Down SA on 082-344-3974 (Keith) or www.trackdown.co.za.

plains. The Canon’s lens zooms and focuses in near silence thanks to Canon’s Ultrasonic Motor (USM) technology. The SX1 gives the photographer great confidence to take photos with high magnification as Canon’s optical stabiliser keeps the whole picture very still. We really like that fact that you can also use the Canon as a full manual zoom and focus camera, so you can get exactly the shot you want. On the downside we were not too impressed with the Canon’s flip-open display, that is just too flimsy and the fact that the flash doesn’t pop up automatically, like in Canon SLRs, but overall

the SX1 sets the bar very high for the new generation of compact cameras. Its RRP is R7499, for more info email Canon SA on [email protected].

Canon PowerShot SX1 IS anon has just given its PowerShot compact camera range a serious shot of adrenalin, straight to the heart, with the new 10 megapixel PowerShot SX1 IS, which replaces the PowerShot S5 IS. The SX1 is the very first Canon compact to include a 10 megapixel CMOS sensor, 4 frames per second continuous shooting, full HD video and Canon’s new DIGIC 4 processor. The SX1 has a 28 mm lens with 20x optical zoom, so you can take photos in a variety of conditions, from action shots at the cricket, to capturing wildebeest sweeping majestically across the African

C

TomTom White Pearl adgets for fashionistas is a trend with no end in sight. That’s because the designer patterns and cutesy interfaces of special edition devices make them great gifts and set them apart from the caboodle. TomTom’s White Pearl GPS is no exception. As far as GPS devices go the White Pearl has a rather petite 3.5" touch-screen. The display is bright and more than large enough to operate and navigate with. It also features what TomTom calls a pearlescent finish, giving the casing an attractive pearl like lustre effect, hence the name. Throw in the matching draw string bag and you have a very cute ensemble. The White Pearl isn’t all about show though as it comes with some very innovative features beyond TomTom’s reliable navigation software. Quite cleverly it features a “Help Me!” function which will pinpoint your location, give directions to the nearest police station or hospital, and even the number of the nearest emergency services. On the lighter side it also offer some uniquely female focused points-of-interest categories like “Shop ’til you drop” and “Places to be seen”. The best bit about the unit is its price, only R1999. Get it from Cape Union Mart or Foshini stores.

G

Ret r ea t 2

w w w. r etr ea tm a g . co . z a

Oasis Tanning Co are leaders in the field of Exo
c Tanning including a variety of game skins. We also produce upholstery and bovine leathers. Visit our Factory Curio shop on the premises. Tel: +27-11-416-2270/88 Email: [email protected]

www.oasistanning.co.za

Ps 23.