Retreat, Issue 5

re treatDESTINATION & LE ISURE MAGAZINE

YOUR GUIDE TO SA’S BEST HOLIDAY SPOTS Retreat 5

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Top SA Retreats issue

Great breakawaysOUR TOP 12 DESTINATIONS

WinACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITIES IN THE GARDEN ROUTE ANDWATERBERG | CANON CAMERAS | BOOKS

Discover THE GARDEN ROUTE

EditorRenier van Vuuren

AdvertisingRenier van Vuuren > [email protected] Claassen > [email protected]

Design and layout Brett WilsonEsta van NiekerkOtto Ueckermann

Contributors Mike Joubert [MJ]Johan Keyter [JK]Hanleigh Daniels [HD]Christo Myburgh [CM]Marlien van der Westhuizen [MW]Renier van Vuuren [RV]

Accounts and subscriptionsRonel Keet > 012-362-2732

DistributionRenier van Vuuren > [email protected]

Print media managerSuzanne [email protected]

Business manager George [email protected]

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Copyright © 2010. 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 theeditor. We recognise all trademarks and logos as the sole property of their respective owners. Retreat shall not be liable for anyerrors or for any actions in reliance thereon. All prices were correct at time of going to print.

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Features6 Getting to know the Garden Route25 Big Trek GPS ROUND-UP26 Getting there,safely...27 The sexy all-new Volvo S6029 Fun, fun, fun in the sun this summer

Top SA Retreats13 The Farm Inn14 Silver Streams16 Maramba River Lodge16 Bateleur Tented Safari Lodge17 Thula Meetse17 Sebe Sebe18 Kwaggas Pride18 Nabana Lodge19 Moholoholo20 Weesgerus21 Heia Safari Ranch22 Sabie River Camp

In this issue we feature something for everyone. We explore the Garden Route towns of George, Knysna,

Mosselbay, Plettenberg Bay and Oudtshoorn; visiting museums, beaches, lighthouses, caves, routes and muchmore.

We also recap on some of the Top SA Retreats we havefeatured over the past year, giving you the opportunity tomake informed decisions based on our personal experiences. Also, don’t miss out on the great prizes weare giving away in this issue: 5 star accommodation witha shark dive experience included on the Garden Route, ora weekend away at the exclusive Silver Streams lodge inModimolle.


Located in the city but themed to create a true African edge. We are sure to makeyou feel right at home with the friendliest staff and the best service; we promise that wewill make you visit again.Yellow Stone Lodge is legendary for their delicious food service with a smile and thatunique home away from home warm feeling.

Tel: (+27) 015-297-6846 / 1127 l Email: [email protected]

RETREAT 5 2 www.retreatmag.co.za

EDITORIAL: RETREAT 5

Tel/fax 012-362-2732www.smartpublishing.co.za

In this picture I am tandem paragliding at Wilderness beach on the Garden Route. Running downa hill with limited runway, gliding out to sea, returning just covering tree tops and landing on thebeach is quite the experience. I would recommend this to anyone.

Please let me know what you like about Retreat and what you would like to see more of in2011. Renier van Vuuren <[email protected]>

Inside

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“Retreat”Happy Snap& LetterCompetition

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

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

Winning Happy Snap & Letter


LETTERS: DEAR RETREAT

The Editor,

Retreat is a great mag and nogal for free. It contains so muchuseful information at your fingertips for quick break-aways.Keep it up!

This picture is from a recent trip to Zanzibar. The name‘ZANZIBAR’ sounds and is exotic. We always wanted to gothere and eventually did. This on-the-spur-of-the-momentbreakaway never disappointed from beginning to end. Zanzibar is a fantastic laid-back part of our beautiful continentwith friendly, helpful people everywhere.

This please-photograph-me setting presented itself earlyone morning and it was very hard to say no. This hand-madeboat (catamaran) was parked on the beach early morningduring low tide on the eastern coast of Zanzibar (in the WarmMozambican current). In the background, the plot beacons(little stumps sticking out of the water) are clearly visible. Thelocals each have a small plot where they plant their seaweedfor overseas perfume markets. For at least three to four hourseach morning, the village women plant the seaweed. The plotsextends to almost 1 kilometre into the sea at low tide. Byabout 9am the water starts pushing up covering the wholearea and this fairy tale landscape disappears, only to re-emerge at low tide the next day. It was a fascinating breakaway adventure and a wonderful retreat.

Melvyn Naidoo

Dear Retreat,

On a recent trip to the Pilansberg we came acrosstwo bull elephants about to cross the road. Keeping a safe distance we waited and watched,but the Range Rover behind us passed andstopped in the path of the oncoming elephants.The photo tells the story; but we watched as theelephant ran his trunk up and down the vehicle,just hoping that the elephant would not flip theRange Rover. While this seemed awfully excitingto the occupants, it was a potentially dangeroussituation and should serve as a warning to alltourists that animals in the wild need their space,and incidents like this can very easily lead totragic circumstances.What should have been a treat turned into a retreat.

Frikkie Oosthuizen

Hi Melvyn. Thank you for entering thisbeautiful picture, illustrating yourideal Retreat moment.

Congratulations on winning theCanon PowerShot A470.

Renier

RETREAT 5 5www.retreatmag.co.za

Dear Editor,

While walking through theDrakensberg a friend of minedecided to leap off a rock. Icaught him in mid-air andafter viewing the photographI realised the amazingscenery behind him. What abeautiful country we live in.

Craig KirkpatrickHi Retreat,

I workwith orphans and vulnerable children, and oneday we took them out to Gold Reef city.Theywere very happy, they saw something thatthey’ve never seen before. They even thoughtthat they were not around SA anymore. It wasgreatly appreciated by everyone and it reallywarms our hearts to see their smiling faces. Sothis picture is always in mind and I smile everytime when look at it.

Precious Ndlovu

Hi Retreat,

Why do holidaymakers from Gauteng want to rush down to the Cape? There is so much to see just by detouring slightlyoff the N1, especially in the Karoo.

On a recent trip we took a comfortable, relaxing 3 days to do the journey and really enjoyed being slightly off thebeaten track. Here is just one of the memories, this spotless church in Hanover, Karoo.Try it, it’s worth it!

Bill Duncombe

LETTERS: DEAR RETREAT

Getting�to�know�

the�Garden�Route

shark. White Shark Africa operates a cage diving company inMossel Bay and takes visitors out in a 11.5 metre motor catamaran custom built for shark cage diving which can holdeighteen people per trip and six divers at a time in the diving cage.

For those inclined to enjoy slightly safer activities, the Garden Route Casino in Mossel Bay will cater to all your gaming needs. With 412 slot machines, 16 gaming tablesand an all new Texas Hold’em Poker table, the Garden RouteCasino Hotel & Spa offers world class luxury combined withGarden Route hospitality.

The peaceful seaside city of George serves as the administrative and commercial hub of the Garden Route.

This gives the city, situated about halfway between CapeTown and Port Elizabeth, a central feel while encapsulatingthe amazing fauna and flora found in this unique part of theworld.

Visitors will find a ton of interesting curio shops and oldschool deli’s in the city. Incidentally, George is also the sixtholdest town in South Africa, and those with an eye for Edwardian architecture can visit the King Edward VII libraryfor a close-up appreciation of this beautiful old building.

Those wishing to enjoy a more intimate relaxing

Mosselbay (with its current 150 000 inhabitants), is likethe rest of the towns on the Garden Route, is studded

with history. The town is particularly important because itmarked the first meeting place between European explorersand natives of Southern Africa, in this case, the Khoi San.

On the 3rd of February 1488 Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias arrived in the bay, proving that it was possible to sail around the southern tip of Africa. Here hemet the nomadic Khoi San people in a peaceful encounter,with both parties willing to trade goods.

Subsequent explorers used the bay as a halfway station inthe days before the Cape colony had been founded. A prominent milkwood tree served as a primitive post officeafter Pedro de Ataide used it in 1500 to leave an importantletter in a shoe under the tree. From then on letters wouldbe left in a shoe beneath the tree to be picked up by laterships. The ancient tree is still standing today and has beendeclared a national monument, although you are unlikely tofind 500-year old letters from Portuguese ship captainsstuffed in shoes there these days. The tree does boast a postbox shaped as a shoe though, recalling its old courier roots.

Cage diving adventures are becoming an increasingly popular adventure holiday choice for those who want to experience the thrill of staring into the eyes of a great white

Mossel�Bay

George

The famous Garden Route in the Western Cape is heralded as one of the most beau�ful and scenictourist des�na�ons on the planet. The area also plays host to a huge number of fauna and flora withnearly 300 species of birds living in the wetlands that dot this tranquil landscape.

Ten nature reserves help protect the ecology of the area while unique marine reserves safeguardcoral reefs, seals, dolphins and the endangered southern right whale, which uses secluded bays inthe area as nursing grounds for their young. The Garden Route is without a doubt a touristsdream, so Retreat decided to trek through the most popular spots on this majestic route.

RETREAT 5 7

GETTING TO KNOW THE GARDEN ROUTE

www.retreatmag.co.za

experience can go exploring via the Outeniqua Country HopRoute. This beautiful route takes visitors down the endlesslysnaking R404 as they explore the strawberry and herb farmsin the area, go on cheese tasting or candle making coursesor enjoy the dairy farms, horse riding and mountain biking.

The area also caters to both the amateur and pro golferwith its beautiful expansive golf estates such as the OubaaiGolf Estate and the famous Fancourt.

Anyone who has visited the town before can attest to thebeautiful and abundant wealth of flowers that the area isknown for. The red George lily (Cyrtanthus elatus), which isonly found in the Southern Cape, can be found here, even featuring on the George municipal logo.

Another wonderful town to visit on your way through theGarden Route is Oudtshoorn. Steeped in just as much

history as George, this scenic town has become the heart ofthe Klein Karoo.

Oudtshoorn became known as the ostrich farming capitalof the world after commercial farming started during the late1880’s, signalling the emergence of an entire new industry. At the time the fashion demand for ostrich feathers across Europe was great, with the Oudtshoorn district quickly distinguished itself as the prime source for the sought afterfeathers. Ostrich feathers was actually such a valuable commodity that it ranked as South Africa’s fourth largest export during the first decade of the 20th century, toppedonly by gold, diamonds and wool.

This huge demand allowed ostrich farmers to construct gorgeous sandstone mansions as their homesteads, of whichmany are still standing today. One of the most impressive ofthese is the Ostrich palace “Welgeluk”, built during thefeather boom of 1910. The homestead is now a NationalMonument and provides great insight into the architectureand affluence of a long forgotten period.

In addition the the area’s remarkable ostrich legacy, thetown is also well known as the location of the spectacular

Cango Caves, known worldwide for its majestic rock formations. The caves are situated only 29 km from thetown, so there’s really no excuse to miss out on visiting theonly show cave in Africa if you haven’t already. Tours throughthe caves are conducted every day of the year except on Christmas and tours are available every hour on the hourfrom 09:00 to 16:00 daily.

If you decide to head to the area early in April you can alsocatch the KKNK festival (Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees),taking place in the town. This colourful attraction alwaysturns into the highlight of the year for many show goers, sotiming your trip to coincide with it may not be such a badidea.

The Cango Wildlife Ranch is the destination of choice whenvisiting Oudtshoorn, if you’re in the mood for an encountercloser to the wild side. The ranch is the oldest and largestcheetah contact centre in the world and visitors can experience intimate encounters with cheetah, tiger cubs andeven slithering reptiles. Visitors can also enjoy the uniquecrocodile cage dives, available to visitors 12 years and older,where you’ll be able to get up close and personal with thegiant Nile crocodile.

Knysna is one of the best-known jewels of the gardenroute, featuring lush indigenous forests, rare wildlife,

fantastic lagoons and some of the most stunning sceneryyou’re likely to come across in your travels.

The town of Knysna was first established in 1882 and is averitable paradise town. Classified as a protected marine reserve the Knysna lagoon is a wonderful place to visit on itsown, sporting beautiful vistas, over 200 species of fish andthe elusive and extraordinary sea horses it’s famous for.

Knysna is also well known for its forests, with many aSouth African high school student learning of its mysteriesand adventures through Dalene Matthee’s Circles in a Forest(Kringe in die bos).

Today only three elephants are reported to still be roaming

Knysna



Oudtshoorn

the forests, with the Knysna Elephant Park planning to bringback elephants to the area, usually former orphans rescuedfrom culling operations in the Kruger National Park.

The forest is also touted as the largest complex of closed-canopy forest in Southern Africa, making it a truly unique experience to visit. The area’s rich Fynbos vegetation contributes more than 8000 plant species to the GardenRoute’s already rich collection.

If you’re in the mood for a relaxing cruise, the Knysna Paddle Cruiser offers visitors a unique aquatic dining experience on the tranquil waters of the Knysna Lagoon. The first Paddle Cruiser to be built in the country, it is alsothe last one operating today, making the experience thatmuch more precious as well as historic. The Paddle Cruiseroffers delicious meals enjoyed at lunch time or in the eveningwhere visitors can enjoy some Knysna delicacies such as locally brewed beer, fresh fish and Knysna oysters as well assome Mediterranean treats. The Paddle Cruiser has beenrated as a 4-star restaurant by the SA Tourism GradingCouncil, the only floating restaurant in the country to havereceived this honour.

Plettenberg Bay, nicknamed Plett, is another town worthvisiting on the Garden Route tour. The town sports a

population of around 30 000 people, still comfortably qualifying as a quiet coastal retreat. The town is mostly builtaround a steep slope heading down towards the sea, meaning great views abound, no matter where in Plett youmight find yourself.

One of the most unique attractions of the Plett area is theMonkeyland Primate Sanctuary. This amazing reserve is theworld’s only multi-species, free roaming primate sanctuaryand offers visitors unique up close and personal interactionswith these animals in their natural habitat. The centre currently houses 15 different species of primates includingrare species such as the ringtail lemur, spectacle langur andblack and golden howler monkeys.

Plettenberg�Bay

The Birds of Eden sanctuary also forms part of Monkeylandand is the world’s largest free-flight bird aviary. In short, aton of magical animal experiences await visitors to the area.

For a more traditional African safari experience, visitorscan head to the Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, the biggestgame reserve in the Southern Cape covering more than2200 hectares. The reserve is situated just 12 km from thetown and with its superb accommodation facilities it makesthe perfect stop for a day visit or extended stay.

The reserve is home to four of the big five namely buffalo,lion, leopard and rhino, and hosts more than 30 otherspecies including giraffe, hippo, crocodiles as well as a largevariety of antelope and bird species. Fynbos, grasslands andindigenous forests lends a rich collection of flora to the reserve as well. Visitors can embark on a two hour gamedrive or opt to meet nature face-to-face on a guided horseback safari.

If going out onto the water is more your style, Ocean Blueis an excellent whale and dolphin watching tour operator located in Plettenberg Bay. What differentiates Ocean Bluefrom some other operators is that it is a licensed SABBWWApermit holder meaning it can approach whales from 50 metres instead of the normal 300 metre limit. If thewhales decide to move closer they also do not need to pulltheir boats back, meaning guests can experience some ofthe most intimate whale watching experiences available inthe world.

In the winter visitors can expect to see southern right aswell as humpback whales while the summer months will seebottlenose, common and the rare humpback dolphins frolicking in the offshore waters.

All-in-all, Plettenberg Bay, just like the rest of the townson the Garden Route makes for a rewarding and enjoyable holiday experience, no matter where you come from or whatyou’re looking for, the sheer variety of attractions in thearea is astounding. [JK]





This resort is located near the Hartenbos River, close to the lagoon and walking distance to Hartenbos and the beach.Just 9 km to Mossel Bay and 30 km to George Airport.

• Grass covered caravan sites with electricity points• Neat ablution block with wash up facilities • Fully equipped 1 and 2 bedroom self-catering chalets • Fully equipped Luxury Self-catering Safari tents• Wedding and function facilities • Sparkling swimming pool• Lapa • Hall with big screen • Wheelchair friendly

An ideal location to explore the garden route.

[email protected]

Protea Hotel Outeniqua, a popular limited services establishment,is nestled amidst the vibrant shops, restaurants and museums ofhistoric George, just minutes away from the lush indigenous forests,majestic mountains and sparkling coastlines for which the GardenRoute is renowned.

Accommodation comprises 50 luxurious en-suite and well- appointedrooms with air-conditioning, satellite TV and other mod-cons.

Make the Protea Hotel Outeniqua your base to explore and discover a world of outdoor activities including the famous greensof the George Golf Course.

123 York street, GeorgeTel: +27 (44) 8744488 | Fax: +27 (44) 8744428email: [email protected]



TOP SA RETREATS


The�Farm�Inn�•�Silver�Streams�•�Maramba�•�Bateleur�•�Thula�Meetse�•�Sebe�Sebe��

Kwaggas�Pride�•�Nabana�Lodge�•�Moholoholo�•�Weesgerus�•�Heia�Safari�Ranch�•�Sabie�River�Camp��

As the year draws to a close it’s a pleasure to look back at all the wonderful des�na�ons Retreat has visited the past year. And in caseyou’re s�ll looking for some last minute accommoda�on this fes�ve period or New Year, you might want to check out Retreat’s Top Des�na�ons of the Year.

From cosy roman�c hotspots with a spouse or loved-one, to idealfamily breakaways with the kids and Venter trailer in tow, you’ll findsomething here to suit your holiday needs. So fill up the tank, check thetyre pressure and see you soon at one of these fine des�na�ons.

Top�12�Retreatsre treatDESTINATION & LE ISURE MAGAZINE

pork, lamb) or should we move directlyto the puddings? As expected the beefroast was delicious, but we especiallytook a liking to the Springbok venison,the mouthwatering lamb casserole andthe magnificent mussels.

During the week the Tugela a-la-carterestaurant is open, known for its fantasticAfrican cuisine and it has also recentlybeen awarded a Platinum Diners ClubWine list Award.

Game drivesAfter this feast Retreat climbed aboardfor a game drive round the 72 ha estate.Despite the fact that a number of estatesnow surround the farm you still get afeeling of being in the bush. We quicklyspotted giraffe, springbok and gazelle,but the main attraction is of course thebig cats. The Farm Inn is one of only ahandful of places where you can see notonly cheetah and leopard, but also bothworld famous white lions and whitetigers.

Accommodation, wedding & conferencesThe Farm Inn’s strong African theme isalso present in their 84 bedrooms withthatched roofs and stone walls. These arenot only popular with internationaltourists but also with visitors looking for a

The Farm Inn has been an institutionin Pretoria for more than 25 years.Retreat went for a long overduevisit.

Long before golf estates and shoppingcentres dotted up in the area, The

Farm Inn lodge was a landmark out on Lynnwood Drive in Pretoria East. For 25years it has provided quite the uniquevisit, for where else would you be able tosee cheetahs, white lion and tigers justafter you’ve been treated to a superbbuffet?

Amazing buffetRetreat’s visit to The Farm Inn took placeon a mild Sunday afternoon and we arrived just before the buffet opened. Anumber of people were already there,quietly relaxing on the green lawns, sipping drinks and generally making themost of the serene gardens. When theLetaba room opened for lunch we weresurprised at the sheer size of the buffet.According to the executive chef at TheFarm Inn, Ferdie Uitenweerde, guests aretreated to 35 main dishes and 15 puddings, with plans to expand this in future.

The amount of food makes it difficult todecide where to start – the fish plate orthe cheese plate? Maybe the roasts (beef,

TOP SA RETREATS

The Farm InnOffice: (+27) 12-809-0266

[email protected]

The�Farm�Innbreak-away from the city, but withoutdriving too far.

Conferences at The Farm Inn are alsopopular due to its convenient location, 12conference rooms and a number of corporate conferencing options. With twoBomas available to cater to quests andwith lion roaring in the background, whatbetter way is there to end a wonderfulday?

The Farm Inn is also firmly establishedin the wedding industry for a long timeand with a choice of 13 different venuesand two charming chapels, excellentSouth African cuisine and a central location, it’s easy to see why it’s an in-demand venue.

ConclusionThe Farm Inn offers a truly amazingAfrican experience in the east of Pretoria.Whether you come visit for the buffet on aSunday, a game drive with the opportunityto see white lions and tigers, or the wonderful accommodation and a-la-carte restaurant, The Farm Inn will leave yousatisfied and wanting more. [MJ]


Pretoria


TOP SA RETREATS

Silver Streams, situated only about 10 km outside Modimolle

(Nylstroom) and about an hour and ahalf from Pretoria, has managed tocombine high class design without losing the African touch of its surrounds. The architecture, best described by Executive Manager JP Joubert as “Modern African”, is complimented by the fact that all unitsoverlook the small dam providing notonly a relaxing view but also a lovelysetting for a perfect bushveld sunset.

When we arrived at Silver Streams,the Retreat team was greeted by thefull complement of staff, bidding us welcome with lovely cocktails. This setthe tone for the rest of our stay wherewe were treated to first class service,high end accommodation and superbdining.

Wild Olive RestaurantWe turned up just in time for sundowners in the swimming pool onthe patio deck overlooking SilverStream’s dam.

Experiencing a serene bushveld sunset remains a privileged experienceand we were soon beckoned to whatwould turn out to be a cuisine treat atthe Wild Olive restaurant. The well-

appointed chefs at Silver Streamsspoiled us to a delicious display of fusion cooking in what is known in theWild Olive as an “Experience Meal”. Thisis a five course meal served with different wines to complement eachcourse. Each of the courses was accompanied by the chef describingwhat flavours to look out for in the dishand expanding on the choice of wine.

This was indeed a treat for thepalette. One of the starters for examplewas delightful baby peppers stuffed withcream cheese and smoked pork’s neckcomplimented by a fantastic home-made sweet chili sauce. It sounds richand it is, but the dish is accompanied by asparagus in a honey and balsamic vinegar reduction and a mouthful of theCape Tranquility Pinotage/Shiraz blend,rendering it just perfect. Some of theother mouthwatering courses included abeer and butternut soup as well as butterflied prawns served with CapeHake gently fried in Italian herbs andlemon butter, completed with an oliveand sundried tomato risotto.

The Wild Olive is open to the publicfor dinner, while the restaurant can also accommodate visitors during the daytime for either breakfast, lunch or arelaxing high tea experience.

AccommodationWith 17 suites able to sleep 34 peopleper night, the lodge is spacious enoughwithout losing intimacy. Retreat waspleasantly surprised by the interiors ofthe air-conditioned suites we spent theevening in. Modernly decorated withoutbeing garish, it contains all the mod-cons which made for fantastic stay – infact we wished we could have stayedlonger since we did not have enoughtime to relax in the spa bath (ideal forunwinding after indulging at the WildOlive) or enjoying the gas fireplace,heated towel rails, flat screen TV andother fine furnishings. We woke up themorning not even realising the day isdawning thanks to the double thick curtains and after a quiet coffee on thepatio overlooking the dam, we took our fly-fishing gear to try our luck on thebass that roam the dam. Lady Lucksmiled more on the bass than on ourwhimsical wishes, so we retreated foranother coffee and a relaxing outdoorshower just before a welcome breakfaston the main patio.

We can say that Silver Streams is oneof the highest class venues Retreat hasever experienced and it’s difficult tochoose which we enjoyed more – themodern accommodation or the dining at

ModimolleSilver�Streams


TOP SA RETREATS

tasting, can be arranged, while dining atthe Wild Olive restaurant can be a welcome closure to a day’s worth of intense conferencing. Companies requiring larger facilities can look at thelarger Waterberg Convention Centre(www.waterbergconventioncentre.co.za)which belongs to the same group as Silver Streams. It can accommodate upto 120 people and is situated in Modimolle.

ConclusionRetreat’s stay at Silver Streams was anexperience provided by not only topclass modern accommodation but also wonderful staff and an excellent diningexperience at the Wild Olive. It all fusedperfectly to result in one of our most enjoyable stays yet. We also think theyoffer good value for money at R1400per couple per night (R700 pp sharingor R800 pppn single), including dinner(but not the Experience Meal) andbreakfast. [MJ]

Silver Streams’ Wild Olive restaurant.Let’s just say they complement eachother in a big way.

Other activitiesOther activities to partake in includegame drives (giraffe, eland, zebras,gazelle, etc), canoeing, informal cookingclasses, walking trails and spa treatments. Silver Streams is also located close to Shingwedzi cheetah andwild dog sanctuary and the ThabaKwenya crocodile farm, while two 18hole golf courses should keep golfershappy.

Apart from being a luxurious weekendbreakaway, Silver Streams also servesas an amazing wedding venue, beingable to cater for small weddings or upto 150 people. There is no set wedding package, with the lodge rather willing towork with the couple for a more individual approach to the big day.

Conference facilities are also availablewith packages catering for businessesusing Silver Streams as a day venue orthose looking to book delegates in forthe night. The venue can host from 17to 30 people with morning tea andsnacks, light lunch and of course afternoon tea provided. Additional activities, such as game drives or wine

Silver StreamsOffice: (+27) 14-717-9835

[email protected]


TOP SA RETREATS

While it is true that you can only really experience thebush if your lodgings are a tent, this doesn’t mean that

you have to rough it. Nestled on the foothills of the Waterberg Mountains in the Limpopo Province, BateleurTented Safari Lodge that offers an authentic bushveld experience, but with all the creature comforts of home.

The lodge provides nine Hemingway-style tents, boastingfully equipped ensuite bathrooms as well as airconditioning.Each tent is furnished with a double bed, rattan furniture anda bar fridge. Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in theLapa dining area, less than 100 metre from to the wateringhole where an assortment of animals, like wildebeest andsable, come to quench their thirst.

There are also a variety of activities to partake in at thelodge, including Sundowner Pontoon cruises on the PalalaRiver in the glow of the majestic bushveld sunset.

Other activities offered are night drives, Big Five gamedrives, game tracking and rhino tracking as well as casual fishing. Keen-eyed sharp-shooters will be able to make theirway to the clay pigeon shooting range, in the cool hours ofthe morning in order to ‘hunt’ down the orange disks withtheir 12 gauge shotgun.

Bateleur Tented Safari LodgeOffice: 014-763-4064

[email protected]

LephalaleBateleur

Maramba River LodgeOffice: (+26) 0213 324189

(+26) 0976 [email protected]

Victoria�FallsMaramba�Lodge

Maramba River Lodge offers a magnificent setting for gettingclose to nature whilst indulging in comfort. Set on the

banks of the Maramba River in the Mosi-Oa-Tunya NationalPark, ideally located, just 4 km from the Victoria Falls, MarambaRiver Lodge provides a most attractive all-year-round base in ashaded woodland setting. The Lodge is situated on a bluff overlooking the Maramba River. They are often visited by theresident wildlife with elephant wandering through the groundsat certain times of the year.

Six luxury safari tents provide all the comforts of a lodgewithout sacrificing the pleasures of a camping experience.All the rustic, thatched chalets have creative mukwa andwrought iron fittings, ensuite tiled bathrooms, mosquito proofing with treated nets, ceiling fans, internal safe, and viewsover the Maramba river or floodlit waterhole.

Maramba Riverside Restaurant and Bar is situated in a stunning spot, with tiled and wooden decking right on the river.

Refresh yourself in the naturally designed rock pool overlooking the river after visiting the Victoria Falls, game parkor Livingstone, the adventure capital of Africa.

For a range of local and regional activities their desk ismanned from 07:00 am to 07:00 pm by a highly qualified andexperienced member of staff who can answer all enquiries.

Sebe Sebe is situated about 70 km northwest of Lephalale.Awaiting you are some of those African moments that

rekindles your local roots. Embrace the fact that the journeythere helps in setting the scene with the beautiful landscapeand surrounds preparing you for a warm reception at thelodge.

The exquisite décor compliments the character of SebeSebe and you will immediately feel home. Visitors can settleon the large deck looking directly out onto the Limpopo Riverand across into Botswana or have a drink in the adjoiningcosy pub, complete with large screen satellite TV.

Alternatively listen to the sounds of nature around the river,including many bird species. Adventurous guests can explorefurther on foot, mountain bicycle or open game drive vehicle.

Sebe Sebe is not an “all bells and whistles” commercial resort, just bushveld at its very best with food and amenitiesto match. If you just want to get away from it all and get backin touch with nature, yourself, some good friends, or a romantic partner, Sebe Sebe is a great place to go. You will bereminded just how fortunate we are to live on a continentwhere we can find great surprises like this, where you leastexpect them.

Sebe�Sebe

Sebe Sebe LodgeOffice: 012-804-8866

083-456-6940 [email protected]: -23.3924, 27.3866

Thula Meetse Mountain Lodge is a well-established and centrally situated lodge, located only an hour and a half’s

drive from Pretoria and a two and a half hour drive from Johannesburg. The lodge is located in the beautiful malaria-free Waterberg mountain range and offers visitors some ofthe most scenic views available. With only ten luxurychalets, accommodating for two to four guests, visitors canbe assured of a secluded and relaxing stay.

A swimming pool and restaurant are available for coolingoff and enjoying some good meals, while private braai areasmake for the perfect afternoon relaxation.

A licensed bar, spacious park and DStv at the lodge willadd to wonderful stay and ensure you don’t miss the weekend’s big game.

Beautiful scenery in the surrounding area makes it perfect for a summertime getaway with tranquil streams,lush vegetation and a 19 metre waterfall present on theproperty. The area is also a dream come true for the avidbird watcher, with over 40 different species calling the areahome.

Thula�Meetse

Thula MeetseMystical Mountain LodgeOffice: 011-230-1903Lodge: 082-857-8018

[email protected] / [email protected]


TOP SA RETREATS

Mookgopong Lephalale

With the beautiful Kruger Park situated right around the corner and nestled in the midst of tropical banana farms,

Nabana Lodge makes for a perfect destination to get awayfrom the hustle and bustle of city life.

Offering visitors a scenic and peaceful stay with a range ofcomfortable rooms and beautiful vistas, Nabana Lodge is theperfect base camp for exploring the sights and sounds of theKruger and its surrounding area. A pool table and fully licensed bar provides added entertainment while a swimmingpool will help you get rid of that summer heat.

Beautiful gardens and a children’s play area will also keepthe young ones busy. Nabana also brags with a top classrestaurant thanks to renowned and internationally trainedchef, Paul Shepheard, taking the reins of the Lodge’s appetising menu. The restaurant caters for fine dining but ifyou’re in the mood for something a bit more traditional, a pubmenu is also available to choose from.

Nabana has eight double rooms, each with its own on-suitebathroom, basic DStv and wonderful scenery thanks to thelodge’s prominent positioning looking down over the escarpment.

The lodge also doesn’t believe in peak and off peak rates,so you’ll be paying the same for your Nabana experience no matter what time of the year you decide to go.

Nabana LodgeOffice: 013-737-6954

083-268-5395 [email protected]


TOP SA RETREATS

Situated in the Kwaggasdrift Conservancy, half an hour’s drivefrom Pretoria, Kwaggas Pride offers visitors a scenic safari

experience. Whether you prefer straight up relaxing, going ongame drives or taking part in some hunting, Kwaggas Pride hasall areas covered. With luxurious ensuite rooms outfitted with acomfortable patio overlooking the swimming pool and volleyballcourt, all your homely comforts will be taken care of instantly.

Facilities available at the camp include a swimming pool, braaiarea, laundry facilities and internet access, while an outdoor lapa and bush kitchen will make preparing meals underthe African night sky a memorable experience.

Professionally conducted game drives are available and visitors can hope to see a host of wildlife on the premises including rhino, giraffe, eland, bush buck, blue wildebeest andmany more. Photographic courses are also available at the campfor those budding photographers hoping to snap a spectacular wildlife image. There is a camping site available ifyou’d prefer roughing it, while hunting safaris conducted by professional hunter are offered as well.

Other activities in the surrounding area include the Cullinan Golf Course, hot air ballooning as well as historic sitesto visit such as the Voortrekker Monument and Botanical Gardens.

Kwaggas�Pride

[email protected] www.kwaggaspride.co.za

Marelie van Rooyen 082-674-5020 / 012-567-1086Maritha Prinsloo 082-490-4082Jocelyn du Bruyn 082-351-6263

Kwaggas PrideOffice:

Nabana�LodgeDinokeng Hazyview

Bookings: 072-191-2024 / 084-511-3000email: [email protected]

Bookings: 015-795-5236 / 082-907-5984Fax: 015-795-5333email: [email protected]

Bookings: 015-795-5236 / 082-907-5984Fax: 015-795-5333email: [email protected]: www.moholoholo.co.za

Wildlife from all over the country are sent to the Moholoholoendangered species centre, located about 30 km outside

Hoedspruit, in order to be rehabilitated and eventually re-released into the wild. There is a whole host of animals currently being cared for at the centre including lions, cheetahs,wild dogs, rhino, hyena as well as a number of bird species.

Visitors can go on daily tours of the Rehab Centre, which wasestablished in 1992, in order to see and learn about all theamazing animal inhabitants of this wildlife refuge. All of theseabandoned, injured and poisoned wildlife recuperate under thewatchful gaze of wildlife enthusiast and conservationist, BrianJones, they will also get to meet one of the centre’s most peculiar inhabitants – a honey badger that can teach HarryHoudini a thing or two about the art of escapology.

The centre is also focused on breeding, with successful breeding programs for Crowned Eagle and Serval, among others, having been conducted in the past. Visitors will alsolearn about the importance and delicacy of the African ecosystem, with a special focus being placed on the interconnected nature of the natural world.

For those who want to get a bit more involved, a volunteerprogram exists whereby volunteers can stay at the camp for between 1 to 12 weeks, learning about wildlife as well as theAfrican bush and taking care of the centre’s amazing animal residents.

Moholoholo

MoholoholoOffice: 015-795-5236

[email protected]

Bookings: 082-907-5983 email: [email protected]

Mountain View

Ya Mati wedding & conference

Endangered species centre

Forest Camp


TOP SA RETREATS

Hoedspruit

WeesgerusOffice:

WeesgerusIf you’re still searching for the perfect venue that will offer

your family an assortment of activities to keep them entertained during the holidays, then the Weesgerus HolidayResort should definitely be on the top of your list. Located 3km outside Modimolle (formerly known as Nylstroom), this 58hectare resort is enclosed by lush bushveld vegetation including Vaalbos, Boekenhout and over 35 tree species.

The resort boasts a number of accommodation options tosuit your needs and pocket with caravan stands, 2/4/6-bedchalets, guest rooms as well as an exclusive 8-sleeper guesthouse available. There are self-catering options, butcatering for groups, braais or potjiekos can be arranged.Guest can also make their way to the licensed restaurant onthe premises, which offers mouthwatering meals as well aslight pub lunches at the Lapa.

Weesgerus boasts a total of three conference facilities thatare equipped with air-conditioning, flipcharts, overhead projectors, TV and video and a wireless microphone. The Waterberg conference room offers seating for 50 delegates,whilst the more intimate Nyl caters to 25 delegates, whilethese two facilities can also be combined. The last facility onoffer is the Rooibok Hall that can seat up to 350 people forconferences, but also doubles as a wedding reception venueoffering seating for up to 250 guests with a dance floor.

Guests will appreciate the toasty comfort of the heated swimming pools, whilst a whole host of other activities includinga putt-putt golf course, volleyball, tennis, jukskei as well asfishing (catch and release) in the dam are also available.

014-718-7100014-715-2047bespreek1@weesgerus.co.zawww.weesgerus.co.za


TOP SA RETREATS

Modimolle

Tel: (014)-718-7100Fax: (014)[email protected]: S24º - 40.792" E28º - 23.145"

Activities | AccommodationCamping | Conference


TOP SA RETREATS

Heia Safari Ranch offers its guests a unique African Bushveldexperience complimented by Lake Heritage and the hand-

built Franz Richter Dam Wall, which is the largest hand-buildstone dam on the African continent.

Situated only thirty minutes outside either Pretoria or Johannesburg, Heia Safari Ranch can accommodate guests infifty, two-bedroomed thatched bungalows. Each of these isequipped with a telephone, satellite television as well as a teaand coffee station. The ensuite bathrooms offer both bath andshower facilities, whilst heaters assists in keeping the cold atbay.

The Conference complex can accommodate up to 120 delegates and consists of three main conference rooms andfour breakaway rooms. Each room can be arranged in a variety of seating configurations and all the rooms areequipped with modern AV equipment, including Wi-Fi connectivity.

The restaurant serves buffet meals as well as an a la cartemenu. A snack menu is available throughout the day. Guestscan go for a relaxing canoe ride on Lake Heritage or try theirhand at “catch and release” fishing from the shore. A popularactivity is bird photography, with a favourite spot being a treein the middle of the dam that transforms into a living Christmas tree when the egrets and sacred ibis roost for thenight. Energetic guests can try the “Vlok and Fordyce” runningtrail, which winds its way around the property, offering notonly exercise but splendid natural vistas as well.

Heia�Safari�Ranch

[email protected]

[email protected]

Heia Safari RanchOffice:

Muldersdrift

Sabie River CampOffice:

Sabie�River�Camp

Situated right outside town of Sabie, this camp provides visitors with stunning vistas of the Drakensberg escarp-

ment, while they partake in various fun activities on the banksof the Sabie River.

Guests can be accommodated within one of the camp’s 15permanent steel reinforced canvas tents that sleep betweenfour and six per unit. Every tent boasts an attached bathroom complete with toilet and shower. The facilities are self-catering,but guests are provided with towels, as well as kitchen utensilsthe likes of cutlery and pans. Larger groups can make use ofthe boma camp with a sleeping capacity of 80 for which catering is also available. For campers who prefer to employtheir own tents, the camp features 100 camping spots thathave all been fitted with power and there is also room for 64caravans, each with its own outlet. Comfortable ablution facilities are also offered for each camping and caravan spot,with showers, baths as well as vanity tables for the ladies’ bathrooms.

For weddings and conferences there is a hardwood desk complete with bar and swimming pool which overlooks theriver offering seating for up to 120 people.

Keen fishermen can try their hand at catching the elusiverainbow trout at the camp or can head up river to the nearbytrout farm. If fishing is not for you, then you can play the scenic 18 holes of golf at the Sabie Country Club for the bargain price of R80. Other activities on offer include bungee jumping, horse riding as well as quad biking.

013-764-3282082-806-3939info@sabierivercamp.co.zawww.sabierivercamp.co.za


TOP SA RETREATS

Sabie

Accommodation | Camping Conference | Activities

Tel: (013) 764 3282Cell: 082 806 3939 [email protected]


TOP SA RETREATS

www.projectedpose.co.za

Wedding photography package from R 7,500:

• Wedding album, 300 mm x 300 mm photo book (30p)• CD with all the photos from your wedding (± 200 photos)• Slide show of 2-3 minutes• Travel excluded

Tel (012) 362 2732 Fax (012) 362 2732 www.projectedpose.co.za

Wedding , Corporate and Function Photography | Design Studio | Album Design

• Add taxes of ± R3 000 pp• Visit London for an

unfor gettable experience,where traditional attractionswill amaze and astound you

• Add taxes of ± R3 000 pp• Visit the Italian coastline, Greece,

Crete & Turkey• Departure June & July 2011 • Flights, a 7 night cruise including all meals,

activities & entertainment on board, portcharges & gratuities

• Add taxes of ± R2 700 pp• Valid 01 Apr - 30 Sep 2011• 10 Nights at the 3 star Sunset Beach

resort, return transfers & flights• Complimentary 1 hour Thai massage

& 1 Dinner

Mediterranean Cruise with flights from R11 800 pp

Easter Holiday special – limited space from R10 300 pp

10 Nights Phuket from R5 358 pp

Direct London Flights from only R4 400 pp

• Add taxes of ± R1700 pp• 6 Nights at a 4 star hotel in

Mauritius inclusive of breakfast,dinner & flights

• Achieve corporate travel objectives• Decrease company travel cost• Innovative travel planning solutions• Excellent service levels• Negotiated corporate rates • Customized travel management

reports

Tel: 012 348 4745

Cell: 082 888 2026

e-mail: [email protected]

Travel Initiative

Terms & Conditions All packages & flights are subject to availability, rates arequoted per person and were accommodation is includedit is based on 2 adults sharing, rates are subject tochange due to airfare increases, currency exchange, fluctuations and any unforeseen circumstances, withoutprior notice. The above rates are based on the cheapestdeparture rates & subject to availability. Valid to SouthAfrican passport holders only. Standard Travel Initiative terms and conditions apply.

Corporate Travel Management Services

Before you take the big trek down to the coast this holiday, check out these hot new GPS units.

Garmin nüvi 1410

The Garmin nüvi 1410 isone of the latest GPS

solutions from Garmin. Although general navigationworked well, we weren’t tooimpressed with the touch-screen on this model, beingglitchy a number of times.Additional features fared better however and these include ecoRoute functionalitywhich calculates the mostfuel efficient routes, as wellas a trip log function to trackwhere you’ve been. Bluetooth technology and a built-in microphone and speaker alsomakes an appearance forconvenient hands-free calling.

As an optional extra userscan purchase the GTM 25traffic receiver which enablesthe device to receive livetraffic updates through FMradio waves as you drive. The1410 retails for R3000

Navigon 40 Premium

The Navigon 40 Premiumwas hands down the best

GPS device from Navigon wetested this year. This 4.3" device sports the updatedOne Click Menu while andPoint of Interest (POI) interface also impressed, withinteractive POI’s strewnacross the display, showingthe names and addresses ofPOI’s with the tap of a finger.The device is also equippedwith Bluetooth technology forhands-free calling, supportingup to two phones and storingphonebook entries on the device itself. We were alsosuitably informed of the trafficsituation with live updatesprovided to the GPS via aRDS-TMC FM radio system. Nosubscriptions or registrationsare needed, and the trafficsystem worked well. The Navigon 40 Premium retailsfor a recommended R2199.

GPS: Stand-alone unit orSmartphone?

With a number of smartphones now

sporting onboard GPS, doyou really want to drop a fewgrand on a stand-alone GPS?There are pros and cons toconsider for each option.

When using GPS functionalities on your smartphone, you have to remember that for one it’sgoing to be taxing on the battery life and secondly, thedata charges when downloading maps mightstart getting uncomfortable, depending on how often you

use it. Some makes’ localmaps are not that good,while others provide you witha limited usage license.

With a stand-alone in-carunit there is no battery worries and additionalcharges are an optional affair.These devices have also been specifically designed for

navigation so they will oftensport much more advancedfeatures in addition to generally having larger andclearer touch-screens. At theoffice we prefer made-for- purpose GPS units, while smartphones are reserved forin-case-of-emergency moments. [JK]

TomTom GO 1000

TomTom has been out andabout this year releasing

several new products ontothe hotly contested in-carGPS market. The company’slatest offering, the GO 1000LIVE, introduces a string ofnew functionalities.

One of the most flauntednew features on the device isits capacitive Fluid Touchscreen. With this new technology drivers can pinchto zoom in and out of mapsor scroll through menus withthe tips of their fingers. Anew Easy Click magneticmount takes the chore out ofdocking as the GPS now simply glides into place. TomTom LIVE services arealso available with the deviceincluding speed camerawarnings, local search withGoogle, weather forecastsand most importantly livetraffic updates. It retails forR3999 with one year freeLIVE services included.

BIG TREK GPS ROUND-UPNokia Ovi maps

We all like to know wherewe’re going, but not

everyone can afford to buyan additional device in theform of an in-car GPS. Luckily users of Nokia smartphones can gain accessto a free navigation servicestraight from their phone inthe form of Nokia Ovi maps.The surprisingly effective Ovimaps can be used almost likean in-car GPS, giving youturn-by-turn voice and visualguidance supported in over75 countries. This includeslane assistance, speed limit warnings and real-time trafficinformation. Nokia Ovi mapsis pre-installed on new Nokiasmartphones.

25Courtesy of www.techsmart.co.zaRETREAT 5

Kids in the back Secondly, if you have any infants oryoung children travelling with you, thesafest place they can be is in a childsafety seat in the back. Research datahave shown that child safety seats reduce the risk of death in car crashsby 71% for infants and 54% for toddlers aged one to four. Also remember that passengers in the backseat should by law wear a safety belt.

Plan aheadGetting lost is very seldom a fun experience, and even though there aresome excellent GPS devices available,no technology is fool-proof. Therefore,in addition to your GPS, we suggest always taking an up-to-date roadmapwith you, just in case. Always ensureyou know what route you’re going totake, simply telling the GPS to take youdown to Richards Bay may have some

unforeseen consequences. The devicemight decide to take the “shortestroute”, which in South Africa might verypossibly be a game trail in the middleof nowhere. Therefore, always checkthat you know where you’re going.

Take a breakGetting an adequate amount of rest isalso very important when going on extended drives. It’s recommended thatdrivers stop to rest at least every 200kilometres or after two hours of driving.Also please take care to stop at a fillingstation or other roadside establishment,since stopping at the side of the roadcan be dangerous. While your drivingskills might be good, it does not necessarily ring true for other road- users – thus drive with anticipation ofwhat other drivers on the road mightdo. Most importantly, enjoy your holiday. [JK]

Ge�ng there,safely...


ROAD SAFETY

Xanadu Guest Villa &White Shark Africa

Silver Stream Lodge

Win two nights 5 star accommodationfor one couple at Xanadu Villa in Wilderness, Western Cape and a freeshark dive experience with White SharkAfrica in Mossel Bay.

Win two nights stay for two people at SilverStream lodge in Modimolle. Prize includes breakfast, dinner and a game drive.

How to enterSend your name, surname, suburb and age with“Modimolle” in the subject line to [email protected]*

* Competition closing date: 28 February 2011

Since the December holiday season isupon us, it’s good to remember that

it’s not necessarily arriving in time thatmatters, but rather arriving alive. Hereare some valuable road safety tips.

Buckle upFirst off, the most important roadsafety rule in the book is to alwaysbuckle up before setting off. ManySouth Africans have been a bit slow toadopt this rule of thumb, but increasedpolice presence is slowly changing this.

How to enterSend your name, surname, suburband age with “Xanadu” in the subjectline to [email protected]*

Volvo has always been a safe bet asfar as cars are concerned. With a

reputation of being safe, reliable, and elegant but not over-the-top in thestyle department, the cars have gaineda bit of an “old man’s” car reputation.The Swedish manufacturer is aiming tobring an end to this though with itssleek new line of vehicles and its“Naughty Volvo” campaign.

DesignThe all-new Volvo S60 ushers in a welcome change from the previous iteration, with sweeping new lines, a revised roofline and attractive new LEDlights creating a much more visually appealing vehicle. The design also emphasises the low slung powerfulstance one likes to associate with highperformance sedans.

The all-new Volvo S60 brags withmuch sportier looks, reminiscent of thenew Volvo C30 hatch, while offeringmore rounded and casual exterior design. This sporty feel really works forthe car as one glance simply makes youwant to get in and drive, drive, drive.

PerformanceVolvo has put a lot of time into makingsure the all-new Volvo S60 is not only asafe and good looking car, but also themost dynamic model the company haspresented to date. Buyers have achoice between two chassis, a sports ora comfort- orientated setup, so you cantruly make the Volvo S60 work for you.

Prospective buyers also have a myriad of options at their disposalwhen it comes to derivatives in theform of two petrol and two diesel versions with a further four derivativesplanned to be introduced at a laterstage.

At the top of the petrol ladder is thepowerful T6, equipped with a 3.0 litre in-line six-cylinder engine sporting 224kW and 440 Nm of torque available forsome apex hugging performance. Following in its dust will be the 2.0T developing 149 kW with 300 Nm oftorque. Leading the diesel stable is the

2.4 litre D5 which produces a hefty 151kW and a maximum torque of 420 Nm.

These will be followed by the introduction of the 2.0 litre T5 as wellas the frugal 1.6 litre T4 and T3 models. A pair of diesels will also bejoining the party in the form of the 2.0litre D3 and the very economic 1.6Drive.

During a recently launch event heldin Pretoria we had the opportunity toget a close up look at three of the newmodels, the T6, D5 and 2.0T as well astaking the 2.0T out for a spin.

We’re happy to say that the all-newVolvo S60 performed admirably.Granted we didn’t get to spend anawful lot of time in the car, but wemanaged to slip the rest of the convoyon the way back to the venue to sneakily take the Volvo S60 on a little gander of our own.

Straight line performance was impressive, and it’s clear that Volvo hascaptured a bit of the magic that seemsto keep modern sedans roaring forever.We didn’t encounter any problemsthrough the bends either as the VolvoS60 swiftly responded to the slightestinput from the wheel, not once evengetting an inkling that the car was outof its comfort zone.

This is thanks to a slew of electronicrefinement systems found on the car,with Volvo claiming it as the first sedanto be outfitted with Advanced Stability Control. Equipped as it is with an advanced roll angle sensor, the systemcan identify any skidding tendenciesearly on to allow the Dynamic Stabilityand Traction Control (DSTC) system totake over when it detects a problem. Tohelp drivers from losing their preciousnew investment on the side of the roadthe Volvo S60’s inner wheel is brakedduring cornering at the same time aspower is transmitted to the outerwheel, enabling wannabe racers to takethat corner more tightly without worrying too much about understeer.

SafetyAlthough Volvo has paid a lot of

attention to the car’s performance, thatdoesn’t mean it isn’t one of the safestcars on the road at the moment, sinceit is. Sporting advanced safety featuressuch as a pedestrian-sensing brakingsystem, blind-spot assist, lane departure warning, a full complementof airbags, ABS and EBD and the radar- assisted braking system first introducedin the Volvo XC60 SUV, you’ll feel saferin the all-new Volvo S60 than if you hadChuck Norris as a bodyguard.

InteriorAs soon as one gets into the Volvo S60you’re met with a feeling of quality andrefinement. In everything from the general layout to the stitching on theseats, it’s clear that Volvo put a lot of effort into creating a posh interior environment which drivers aren’t likelyto tire of.

The console features large, cleardials and gauges with the centre console slightly tilted to the driver’sside for extra visibility. The three spokesteering wheel is covered in leatherwith satellite controls for audio functionality on the fly while handsomeleather coverings also adorn the gearknob and upholstery. Electronic ClimateControl also helped to keep us cool and comfortable in the sweltering SouthAfrican heat.

ConclusionIn the brief time we got to spend driving and experiencing the all-newVolvo S60, the car definitely impressed.It’s clear that Volvo is moving in a newdirection, appealing to the sportier or“naughty” side of its cars as opposed toits traditional leanings. The Volvo S60seems to be the perfect contender foran everyday car and as a comfortable holiday cruiser. [JK]

Contact CMH Pretoria east to book atest drive.

Volvo S60 hands-on

The sexy all-new Volvo S60

[email protected]


DRIVE: REVIEW


FOOD | BOOKS

Ingredients4 Kassler chops (1 per person)Any good dry white wine

Method1. Poach the kassler chops in the wine

(the wine must just cover the chops)over very low heat for 30-40 minutes. Remove chops from thewine and set aside, discard the wine.(This can be done a day or two in advance.)

2. Grill for 4 minutes on an open fire or on the stove top using a griddle pan,until grill marks show on both sides.

Ingredients for the sauce1 can of mango slices and the juice1 can of pitted black cherriesA dash of Worcestershire & Soya sauce1 teaspoon sesame oil

1 clove crushed garlic1 handful of freshly chopped corianderleaves (optional)

Method1. In a saucepan, heat the mango juice

and boil a over low heat for approximately 20 minutes until thejuice has reduced by half and has asyrupy consistency.

2. Add the soya sauce, Worcestershire sauce, Sesame oil, garlic and coriander leaves.

3. Drain the can of black cherries and add to the syrup.

4. Lastly add the mango and stir through.

5. Arrange the chops on creamy mashand spoon over the syrup and fruit.Garnish with more fresh Corianderleaves.

Quick�and�easydish�perfect�forChristmas�Day!

When André first made this delightful kassler dish, he literallythrew the dish together with ingredients available in the pantry.It is now his signature dish which hemade for King Juan Carlos of Spainon his recent visit to South Africa.

The Masque of Africa is more thana beautifully written travel novel;

it is an attempt to understand the religions in Africa. The narrative follows VS Naipaul as he journeysthrough the unknown territories ofUganda, Ghana, Nigeria, the IvoryCoast, Gabon and South Africa. ForNaipaul, who won a Nobel Prize forliterature in 2001, travelling insearch of religion becomes an intellectual journey. And although heis highly sceptical in his search,there are moments when he allowshimself to be filled with wonder ashe looks upon the majestic places of

worship. It is especially in these moments that the true brilliance of the author shines through. He speaks to believersof Islam, Christianity and traditional African beliefs to examine the position of religion in Africa and how these beliefs helped to shape and hamper the continent. This love-hate relationship is an ongoing theme in the novel. Andthroughout the novel one thing becomes clearer and clearer;African religion is a melting pot of ideas, beliefs and people.In order to fully appreciate its complexity you need to submerge yourself into Naipaul’s ambitious novel. R190 [MW]

Mount Everest is one of the toughestclimbs in the world. Not a guess, just

a well known fact. Another well knownmountain climbing fact is that youth does

not matter but experience determines everything.With this in mind, a young and inexperienced Bear Grylls,

just two years after breaking his back in a freefall parachuting accident, climbed to the summit of Mount Everest.

The book takes us on an emotional and entertaining journey from the recurring dreams of the parachuting accident in Africa, to the climb of Mount Everest. Bear recallsevents spurred on by the diary he kept on the climb for thesummit and the title of youngest Briton to conquer Everest.

On the read you will choke up at the sad memories, laughat the good times and be utterly amazed at the end. Thebook follows Bear as he fights off illness, still present backpain from the accident, face harsh weather conditions, fatigue and dehydration. The book will force respect for themonster which is Everest and will make people think thriceabout taking the tough climb for granted. R95.

Bear Grylls is today a well known survivalist and adventurer and can be followed on his crazy trips to Antarctica, Amazon and Africa where he puts himself againstnature on DStv’s Discovery Channel in the show UltimateSurvival with Bear Grylls. [CM]

Facing up by Bear Grylls, Pan MacMillian (2001)

Book give-awaySend your name, surname, suburb and age with either “Masque” or “Bear” inthe subject line to [email protected] closing date: 28 February 2011

Retreat has two copies of each titleto give away to lucky readers.

The Masque of Africa: Glimpses of African Beliefby VS Naipaul, Pan MacMillian (2010)

Grilled kassler chops with a mangoand black cherry sauceRecipe: André Duif

Fun, fun, fun in the sun this summerThere is an old idiom that statesthat, “You can’t have too much of agood thing.” This certainly ringstrue for a lot of things within theSouth African context such as biltong, beating the All Blacks andthat hallowed local tradition knownas the braai.

But for others too much of a goodthing can literally be quite bad for

you, such as lengthy exposure to thehot South African sun. Overexposure tothe sun, especially, during the summertime, can lead to a selection of adverseeffects, ranging from bad sunburnthrough to skin cancer.

Dangers of overexposure to the sunSunburn is the most common dangerand causes the skin to turn red, painfuland sometimes even swollen. In severecases sunburn also causes blisters andthe afflicted person may get a fever. Exposure to the brightness of the sunmay also set off migraines andheadaches, which may last for around aday.

Constant exposure to the sun over along period may also cause undesirablechanges in the skin such as

degeneration. In this case a person’sskin will over time become thick, wrinkled and leathery or to phrase it another way, they look older.

According to the Cancer Associationof South Africa (CANSA), skin cancer isthe most common cancer in SA, withour country unfortunate to have one ofthe highest rates of skin cancer in theworld. Luckily most cases are not lifethreatening and can be prevented if youstay safe in the sun.

“80% of sun-induced skin damage occurs before the age of 18 and onlymanifests later in life,” says CANSA. Soit is important that parents follow anumber of guidelines to ensure thatchildren don’t suffer any of the above-mentioned effects after too much fun inthe hot African sun.

Tips for parents Limit the time that children spend in thesun, especially between 10:00 and15:00, when the sun’s rays are at itsmost harmful.

Ensure that the children wear a hator cap as well as loose-fitting clotheswhich are made of tightly-woven fabric that is cool. If you have sunglasses, make sure that these have

lenses (UV400) which will provide efficient UV protection.

Sunscreen must be applied to protect children and adults from thesun’s UV rays. It is important to remember that there isn’t a sunscreen out there which provides acomplete block and the Sun Protection Factor (SPF) is simply anindication of the amount of protectionthat the sunscreen offers. If one nor-mally starts to get sunburn after fiveminutes of exposure to the sun, thena sunscreen with an SPF of 15 willprotect your skin for 15 times aslong, depending also on the time ofday and weather conditions. Thismeans that you’re more likely to getsunburnt after around an hour and 15minutes in the sun. [HD]


SUN SAFETY

T-Bone Specials every Wednesday and Friday

Free local beer or glass of wine

Every Sunday Buffet 12h00 - 15h00

OPEN FROM 8H00 MONDAY-SUNDAY

FREE LOCAL BEER/GLASS OF WINE WITH AMEAL IF YOU BRING THIS ADVERT!

FREE LOCAL BEER/GLASS OF WINE WITHA MEAL IF YOU BRING

THIS ADVERT!

Kimiad Golf Course, 123 Wekker street, Moreleta Park Open for functions Functions enquiries contact: Cherize – 084 500 6092 Org – 078 683 2021

Jacques: 083 380 7021

Hennig: 083 573 4949

Org: 078 683 2021

[email protected]

www.diebos.co.za

When it comes to hiking the most

essential accessory is ofcourse the backpackand with BackPacker’s Boulder75L you can notgo wrong.

The backpackis made from Duracore 1000Nand is treated withwater repellent andUV protective coatings. It has fiveexternal pouches, a Velcro closure mappouch and mesh pockets,with two separate compartments inside whichcan be combined via a zipperfor one big compartment. Onthe top and bottom it has additional straps for attachinga sleeping mat or bag.

When filling the pack itseemed it would never get fullas more and more bulky itemsdisappeared into its almostnever ending belly. The additional bottom straps camein handy to secure a sleeping

mat and on thetop the sleeping bag.All cookinggear, food,and tent

equipmentwent intothe mainbag, as theGPS, waterbottles and variety ofother essentials fitsnugly into

the externalpouches and

bags.The foam in allthe shoulder straps and waistbelts made for a very comfortable carry. On thelower part of the backpack isa detachable lower-back support cushion which camein quite handy as it waspulled off and used for a cushion on the hard rocks.[CM]Price: R999 on special Call Back Packers on 012-803-5121

Professional skateboarder, Puddy

Zwennis, made an epicjourney most skateboarderscan only dream of. Supportedby his team, Puddy skatedfrom Johannesburg down toCape Town to raise money for charity. His gruelling journeystarted at the SOS Children’sVillage in Ennerdale, Johannesburg, and ended allthe way down at the SOSChildren’s Village in ThorntonCape Town where he wasgreeted by his cheering familyand a group of very excitedkids. He travelled a staggering

Back Packers Boulder 75L

Ska�ngfor charity

1871 km in total to raisemoney for SOS Children’s Village. When asked what inspired him to do this, Puddysaid that after living acharmed life, he realised itwas his time to return thefavour. Giving hope to children who do not have theopportunities he had, he isthanking God in his own special way. And if you missedhim this year, never fear, hemight be doing somethingsimilar next year. For more information on this talentedyoung man, visitwww.skateforchange.co.za.Here you will also be able tofind out where Puddy and histeam will be hanging aroundnext so you can go show yoursupport! The public can donate R10 by SMSing“Puddy” to 38665.[MW]


TITBITS | PRODUCT REVIEWS

Competition winners

Winners of The Elephant Whisperer books Nthanyeleni Netshlavha (The Orchards) Nic Tjirkalli (Broadacres)

Winners of the halfday spa voucher atMangwanani River ValleyBelinda Barnard (Boksburg)Poloka Rashope (Omonde)Alex van der Neut (Edenvale)

Winners of South Africa by Road books Frances Merkeln (Centurion) Jan Bodnar (South Hills)


RETREAT GUIDE: ACCOMMODATION

AccommodationChoose from hundredsof B&B’s, GuesthousesLodges & Hotels.

ActivitiesDiscover new thingsto do. From canoeingto hot air balloon rides.

HuntingExperience the thrillof hunting variousspecies of animal.

RestaurantsLook up the local pubsand restaurants beforeyou get there.

Lephalale Community Tourism Association (CTA) | +27-14-763-1041 & 076-238-0342 l [email protected]

your online guide to the waterbergwww.lephalale.co.za

Situated in the lush green bush of one of South Africa’s prime hunting grounds, the three lodges Zinyathi,

Kolobe and Mafula form part of the greater Zinyathi Game Farm, comprising and area in excess of 2750 ha.

The various activities available at Zinyathi ensure that the visitor will always be occupied regardless of weather

conditions. This unique facility is only 360 km from Gauteng.

This ranch issituated in thesummer rainfall area. ZinyathiLodge provides full catering but alsoallows for self catering. A swimmingpool enables our guests to wash offthe day’s dust and sweat whilewatching the water birds.

Should you get tired at Zinyathi, you are tired with life

Tel: 014 766 0272Cell: 082 607 0202E-mail: [email protected]: www.zingelani.co.za

Kolobe

MafulaZinyathiThe ideal lodge for corporate breakaways as well as weddings andother functions. With five swimming pools built around thebar for speedy services, an indoorjacuzzi facing the game feedingarea and a real bushveld lapa, youreally don’t need more.

This camp is ideal for the not so faint hearted. It accommodates twelve guests in four

rooms, two with en-suite facilities

and the remaining two rooms share

an adjoining bathroom. This is a

solar powered camp.

www.zingelani.co.za

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a estled beside the Letaba River with its diverseriverine vegeta�on and ample wildlife, Fairview Hotelboasts various types of accommoda�on includinghotel style units, suites and self catering chalets. Inaddi�on Fairview Hotel also offers various conferencefacili�es for up to 800 delegates and wedding facili�es, while the à la carte restaurant, tapas andwine deck, par-3 golf course and two swimming poolstake care of the entertainment.

{x i|ÄÄtzxg- A T F A I R V I E W -

Conference Centre and Golf Estate

Fairview Hotel - Conference Centre & Golf EstateMobile: +27 (0)82 900 5166 • Fax: +27 (0)86 696 6950

reserva�[email protected] www.fairviewtzaneen.co.za

GPS Coordinates: S23° 49.165’ E030° 10.193’

Cell: +26 097-743-7270and +26 097-785-7873

Contact persons: Vernon, Alistair or Roz

Email: [email protected]

Our Lodge is situatedat the lower-end and

start of the magnificentMpata gorge, which runsfor almost 20 km before it opens out intowide sand channels andsmall islands, all part ofthe lower Zambezi National Park, all premierTigerfish areas.

King Fisher Lodgelower Zambezi

We have fourboats fullyequipped for conven�onal andfly fishing (two fishermen perboat).

30 km downstreamfrom our Lodge is thestart of the CahoraBassa dam anotherprime Tigerfish area,we are at the centre ofit all!

Accommoda�on includes four thatchedcomfortable en suitechalets overlooking the river.


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Contact us today 079-515-8493 | [email protected] | [email protected]

Smart Ideasconceptual isat ion design innovat ion

A division of Smart Publishing

* Includes design and print. Excludes VAT.

Loose or bagged inserts can be done in Retreat magazine from R290 / 1000.

Are you looking for a new logo, business cards or website? We specialise in design (print and web) for small to medium sized businesses.

Indaba Special 2011 includes:• Rollerbanner R2400* • Folders R11 800 (per 1000)*• Flyers R2500 (per 5000)*• Business cards R1200 (per 1000)*

R17 900*

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The Zambezi Swing

Gorge Swing

Abseil

Whoopie Slide

Rap Jump High Wire

Victoria Falls – Zambia

Retreat readers can save 10% bybooking directly.www.thezambeziswing.com

Tel: +260 213 321188 | Email: [email protected]: 082 440 5051 | Email: [email protected]

Croc Valley Camp South Luangwa, Mfuwe, Zambia

Tel: +260 216 246074 | Cell: +260 977 175172

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.crocvalley.com

Experience the REAL Africa

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A Conference with a difference…

For further information and bookings, please contact Johan Wiegand on 082-498-6314, or e-mail us at

[email protected]. We strive to accommodate your every requirement.

We’d like to introduce you to Oppi Stoep Conference Function

Venue and Guest House. The tranquil Oppi Stoep (on the

Terrace) is ideally situated in the heart of Centurion, halfway

between Pretoria and Johannesburg, in a peaceful and relaxed

environment.

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For more info call Bennie on 082-338-3977

Four thatched cottages nestled on top of

a hill with breathtaking views overlooking

Pecanwood, the Jack Nicklaus Golf

Course and Hartbeespoort dam. Each

cottage is fully equipped for self- catering with its own

private patio and braai area with views over the dam. Other

facilities include a lapa accommodating up to 20 people, ideal for

small indabas and birthdays, a swimming pool and tennis court.

Awarded “Retreat’s Thumbs Up” for affordability, natural beauty

and comfortable units. Special rate; R300 pppn.




Advertise in the Retreat Guide section and reach a100 000 readers from R800 (excl VAT).

Contact: Renier van Vuuren 082 555 6866 [email protected]

Shirley Mathews (Guesthouse Managers)Mobile no: 071-870-6162 Fax no: 086-504-6175Email: [email protected]: www.sablehouse.co.za

Sable House Country Retreat is set in

beautiful, tranquil surroundings onthe banks of the Roodeplaat dam.

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The Caring Touch of Hospitality

The Caring Touch of Transport

Nestled in a misty green valley amid the dramatic mountains ofMpumalanga, the historic town of Sabie is an ideal base fromwhich to explore one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations.

In operation since 1975, the Arcadia Hotel is a “frontrunner” among hotels in Pretoria. Our friendly, caringtouch of hospitality has remained the hallmark of thehotel’s operations over the years, earning many a satis-fied return guest time and again.The hotel offers 139 comfortable, en-suite guest bedrooms with all modern amenities.

A value added service from your favourite hotel in Pretoria for airport transfers, Sightseeing toursand city transport. A service brought to you by ArcadiaHotel as a BEE initiative and rendering a “one stopshop” experience at affordable prices.

Tel: +27 (0)13-764 - 2178 l www.jock.co.za

Tel: +27 (0)12-326-9311 l www.arcadiahotel.co.za

Tel: +27 (0)12-326-9311 l www.arcadiatours.co.za

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

All you need to do is relax – whetheryou are taking the marvelous viewswith sundowners on the deck, settlingdown in front of a roaring fire or getting ready for a mouthwateringmeal, we will cater to your every wishhere at Zuikerkop.

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

Weekends | Weddings | Conferences

Cell: 083 389 [email protected] • www.zuikerkop.co.za

Documents

Retreat, Issue 5