SOUTHERN AFRICA TRAVEL

Amid the harshness of Namibia’s untamed beauty and the long distances one has to travel between destinations, you will need to take a breather at lodges located in
the key tourism hot spots of the country.
Journeys Namibia operates lodges that
are perfectly positioned to create an
unforgettable journey around the country,
visiting these tourism hot spots.
With a strong focus on ecotourism and
community development, each of our
lodges aims to deliver an unforgettable
experience. Whether you love camping, or
would like to stay at a premier lodge,
Journeys Namibia can cater for your dream
Namibian holiday.
On your first night in Namibia we will
introduce you to a view of the Auas
Mountains on the outskirts of the capital
city, Windhoek. Auas Safari Lodge is
nestled in the vast African savannah in the
shadow of these mountains. Less than an
hour away from Windhoek International
Airport, the lodge lies in an unspoilt
wilderness far from the fast-paced city life.
Departing from the Auas Mountains,
head up to the heart of Damaraland.

Aquila Private Game Reserve &
Spa is a 4-star family-friendly
safari destination just two hours’
drive from Cape Town. The
10 000-hectare conservancy, situated
between the Langeberg and Outeniqua
Mountains in the southern Karoo, is home
to the majestic Big 5 legends: elephant,
lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino.
Accommodation is offered in bush-style
cottages (premier, luxury or standard) built
right into the hillside with outdoor rock
showers, and modern lodge rooms with
panoramic vistas over the reserve. There
are options for two people as well as
families of four, six or eight, and the reserve
also welcomes visitors for morning or
afternoon day trips.
Guests can take a game drive on either a
traditional safari vehicle, on horseback or on
quad bike—each providing unique
personal encounters with the wildlife at the
reserve. A private safari with proudly South
African–style snacks and bubbly can also be
arranged for intimate gatherings in the veld.
The reserve has a 35-metre long
crystal-clear swimming pool with a bar
serving cocktails and ice-cold beverages
for poolside socials. There are large dining
areas and an African-style buffet restaurant
for a taste of local cuisine, as well as the
cosy cigar bar and lounge for a relaxing
evening. A library and curio shop will sate
enquiring minds.
Children are well catered for as well,
with an entertainment area (jungle gyms
and mini golf, among others) and
horseback rides.
The night-time fire pit entices guests to
a memorable gathering under the Karoo
stars, complete with a marshmallow braai
and a ‘tour’ of the Milky Way facilitated by a
star safari guide.
The Aquila Spa is the latest addition to the
world-class facilities and services on offer at
the reserve. Whether you choose the heated
indoor pool, outdoor pool, sauna, steam
room or one of the 10 treatment rooms,
you’re sure to enjoy a luxurious African
pampering and unwind after an actionpacked
day. A group or couples room will
add to the special serenity of the spa and its
creative use of natural elements.
Aquila is so much more than just an
unforgettable wildlife experience—it’s a
luxurious African adventure that will make
memories to last a lifetime.
For further information, visit
www.aquilasafari.com. To make a booking,
email res@aquilasafari.com or
telephone 0861 RESERVE (7373783).

Sense Africa announces 8-night creative tour to Eswatini
Led by Craft & Travel

Eswatini specialist tour operator Sense Africa is adding a new tour to its portfolio this year, focusing on creative, experience travel. In a new ‘Craft and Safari Tour’, participants will visit two national parks, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and Hlane Royal National Park, where they’ll embark on safari adventure to see elephants, lions and rhino. They will also attend crafts workshops run by local social enterprises (Tsandza Weaving, Gone Rural, Baobab Batik, Swazi Candles and the Shewla Community.)

A chance to spend time with the local community, visit their homes, learn their traditional skills and experience authentic Swazi culture and nature, the tour is the first time Sense Africa, who offer safari and walking tours, will be working with local crafts organisations to create an authentic travel experience where local people and animals are at the heart of the itinerary, set against a stunning natural backdrop.

The inaugural tour takes place 24th September to 3rd October 2020. Prices start at £3,450 including flights from London Heathrow, based on twin share. Single supplement £180pp.

What’s included in this guided tour:

Flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg and transfer by road to Eswatini
All accommodation
Most meals (all breakfasts and dinners and some lunches)
All entrance fees to national parks
Workshops, materials ad tutor fees
Visit to a local school
Chance to enjoy local culture (music and dance)
Eight nights on tour and two nights travel

The tour is led by Journalist, Blogger and Craft Expert Momtaz Begum-Hossain and guided by Jenny Bowen from Sense Africa.

“Experience travel is the best way to really get to know a country. The handicrafts of Eswatini are inspired by the stunning natural surroundings and play an important role in celebrating the nation’s culture and creative flair so it’s going to be a real privilege for all participants to spend time with them and learn about their lives while picking up some new craft skills. All participants will make items they can keep and take home and will make memories that will last a life time – the wildlife here is on every doorstep so you’re never far from seeing animals in their natural habitat,” said Momtaz.

“There is something special about Eswatini; you can walk amongst wildlife and get up close and personal with individual species and truly experience the culture which is woven into every day life. The Swazis are passionate about their heritage and identity which is exhibited in their arts and crafts. Eswatini gives visitors the opportunity to experience genuine Africa, off the beaten track and away from the more touristy locations,” says Jenny, who is a qualified Swazi guide.

For further details, full itinerary and additional images contact:

Momtaz: contact@momtazbh.co.uk, 07931 511 782

Jenny: info@senseafrica.co.uk, 01275 877172

About Momtaz

An award-winning journalist, blogger and crafts expert, Momtaz is passionate about celebrating arts and crafts from around the world and supporting independent maker/designers. Her craft themed tours give you a chance to explore your creative side while experiencing culture and nature.

www.craftandtravel.com

About Sense Africa

Sense Africa is an established, award-winning and trusted supplier of professional, tailor-made safaris and adventures. Sense Africa has a passion for nature and conservation, providing environmentally sound and ecologically friendly experienced. Jenny Bowen, Director of Sense Africa, is a professional ecologist and this ethos is woven into Sense Africa.

www.senseafrica.co.uk

It’s almost time for Africa’s biggest décor, design and lifestyle exhibition to kick off, with the first instalment, Decorex Durban, taking place at the Durban Exhibition Centre from 19-22 March 2020. This prestigious showcase of the latest products and trends from top designers, décor professionals and industry experts is always hotly anticipated – and the 2020 instalment will be even bigger and better than before!

The overarching theme for Decorex Africa 2020 is ‘Lifestyle by Design’, an embracive approach that allows you to design your life the way you want it to be. Lifestyle by Design is about freedom, reclaiming your time and doing things you like. This is essentially illustrated through design and looking to future trends when curating your own personal space.

According to Decorex Africa’s Creative Director Anita Bloom, who coined this year’s theme: “Design is the essence of life and speaks to our collective search for the things that bring us essential happiness. Through our constantly changing lifestyles and the urge to create sanctuaries in our home spaces, we find those moments of calm and empowerment, as well as optimism and luxury. Beauty needs space to flourish, and Decorex presents a canvas onto which exquisite design is curated, celebrated and experienced.”

Visitors will find this year’s theme illustrated by a wide range of fabulous installations that talk to the latest trends. These include:

• Insta-Interiors – a brand-new feature showcasing the latest décor trends to hit the African shores, including New Nordic, Contemporary Organic, Afro/Tribal meets European Mix, Modern Chinoiserie and the Neon trend
• 2020 Trends Installation – another brand-new feature showcasing Decorex Creative Director Anita Bloom’s top ten trends for the year in situ
• Instudio Trend Theatre (a free-flow forum where leading design influencers, manufacturers and décor professionals share their insights)
• Gourmet Cooking Theatre built by Natal Kitchens (where local cooking talents cook up a storm)
• Gourmet with Love (a showcase of the best in kitchenware)
• Kitchen Design Project (local kitchen designers create themed kitchens)
• Trend Kitchen by Cosentino (where living areas melt into the working areas of the kitchen)
• #withlovefromDecorex featuring Mobelli Furniture + Living (a selection of gorgeous contemporary furniture chosen by the Decorex team)
• Mobelli Furniture + Living Trend House – Urban Living by Design (including a home space that reflects the Durban lifestyle)
• Bathroom by Design (introducing trends from some of Durban’s top bathroom suppliers)
• Designer Spotlight – Frans Alexander Interiors (highlighting inspiration from one of Durban’s leading interior design and decor companies)
• Designer Pavilion (a dynamic installation featuring local designers’ interpretation of the theme ‘Lifestyle by Design’)
• Fabric Trend Bar (the latest in decorative fabrics and trimmings for the corporate, hospitality and residential décor market)
• Outdoor Living Collab (the latest in garden equipment, technology and landscaping)
• Appliance feature by Tafelberg (the finest appliances and home technology from Tafelberg)
• Apartment project (a collaboration with one of South Africa’s top furniture and décor suppliers along with two interior designers styling two apartments)• Lighting by Design (a collaboration with one of South Africa’s top lighting suppliers)

“The Decorex Durban programme presents a range of new, exciting installations that engage with global trends within an African context,” explains Sian Cullingworth, portfolio director at Reed Exhibitions. “Top designers, manufacturers and suppliers will share their take on current trends, interpreting what Lifestyle by Design is all about.”

After this stimulating array of #inspo and solutions that will allow you to design your home the way you want it to be, you can recharge at the many cafés, bars and restaurants on site – the Wine + Bubbly Bar, Illy’s Coffee Bar, the Neon Gin Jungle, The Urban Beerhouse, The Tribe Restaurant and The Art Café. Expect locally sourced ingredients, internationally acclaimed wines, local craft beers and so much more! In addition, there’ll be a market at the event on Friday, 20 March 2020.

As ever, Decorex Durban will provide a powerhouse of inspiration for the interior design, décor and architectural industries and is hosting a special trade-focused day on Friday, 20 March 2020. Members of the profession will receive complimentary trade access to the show if they register online ahead of the event. Trade professionals who do not pre-register online will be able to purchase trade access tickets at the gate at a reduced rate.

For more information visit www.decorex.co.za

TICKET PRICES

Adults – R95

Students/Pensioners – R85

Kids U12 – R20

Trade/Exhibitor – R85

TRADE FOCUSED DAYS

Friday, 20 March 2020

MARKET

Friday, 20 March 2020

TIMES

Fri – 10am-8pm

Thu, Sat & Sun – 10am-6pm

Thank you for considering the City of uMhlathuze as your playground for your event. We welcome the opportunity to make your good memories and awaiting to fulfil your imaginable expectations through our offerings. The sizzles City has a lot at your disposal to make your event a success and to give you an experience you have been longing for. The City of uMhlathuze is situated in the northern beautiful coast of KwaZulu-Natal in the heart of Zululand. You can either fly in direct from O R Tambo International Airport. Our road, rail and through water infrastructure gives access to our city makes our accessibility more than easier for your needs.

We boast with high standard facilities and venues including hotel establishments that will put you at ease when your stage your event. From sports facilities to hidden gems, water sport equipment to fishing spots and many other inland facilities and venues, you will be spoiled for choice.

The City of uMhlathuze is blessed with a magnificent natural environment, and the daily lifestyle enjoyed by residents of the City and its surrounds, is the envy of
people both nationally and internationally.

We are blessed with a wonderful climate. Our summers are sizzling hot and our winters are
mild (some might say ‘warm’ in comparison with other places). Our sea temperatures, too, seldom require the use of wetsuits, while our endless stretches of coastline, Blue Flag beach, bay and inland waters mean we have almost year-round access to the most wonderful water sports and leisure events.

We enjoy swimming, angling, boating, body boarding, sailing, canoeing, spearfishing, kite boarding, paddling and many more water-based activities. Added to that are whale- and dolphin-watching and deep-sea fishing (we are one of the finest marlin meccas
in the country).

But we have much more to offer than sun, surf, flat water areas and a landscape that lends itself to adventure tourism. Being as we are in the heart of the Zulu kingdom, we
have an abundance of places of historic and cultural
importance in our brag book. And if we are more inclined to explore other avenues
of nature, we pack our binoculars and cameras and head off to do some birding or take a trip to a number of game parks within an hour’s drive. We pride ourselves for being the mother to the Thula Thula Game Reserve where you can have a conversation with Elephants and many other special wild life creatures.

Add to those royal heritage excursions, visits to significant struggle sites and a package that includes our ever-growing township tours, which already have grabbed the imagination of passengers from visiting cruise liners. And, far from being a hindrance to tourism, our massive industries are in themselves attractions as ‘industrial tourism’ lures students to see some of the biggest operations of their kind in the world.

Added to advantage is the high level of hygiene, cleanliness and our drive to be friends with our natural environment including our clean air status.

Besides being a clean city, we are also ensuring that we run a clean government affairs and now enjoying the fifth consecutive clean audits.

Welcome to the fast growing city in KwaZulu-Natal. The City of uMhlathuze is eagerly waiting to make your event a unforgettable experience.

VIBRANT TOWNSHIP TOURISM
WORLD CLASS ACCOMMODATION FACILITIES
WILDLIFE
CRUISES
ZULU CULTURE

Visit www.umhlathuze.org.za

The highlight of the year for almost every South African not being on duty somewhere is the annual year-end holidays – not only the excitement of the new year, but also spending time with loved ones and visiting exhilarating destinations.

Mitsubishi Motors would like you to make it there – and back – safely, by yet again offering a FREE safety check for all Mitsubishi vehicles:

• Free 28-point safety assessment
• The complete Mitsubishi Motors product range included
• In time for the start of the December holidays

“Mitsubishi owners don’t need to spend a large part of their annual bonus to have their vehicles checked for any kind of hidden wear and tear that might cause a breakdown or mechanical malfunction,” says Nic Campbell, General Manager of Mitsubishi Motors South Africa (MMSA).

All Mitsubishi vehicles are covered by excellent warranties and service plans, but possible maintenance issues that would have been covered at its next service, might be lurking under the skin if the vehicle “skips” the scheduled visit to the workshop because of the holiday trip.

“Although we have 54 dealerships with workshops all over South Africa, including the neighbouring countries Namibia, Botswana and Swaziland, many Mitsubishi owners might travel longer distances than originally planned, extending the distance before the next service. Our free safety check will give owners additional peace of mind that everything is up to standard,” says Campbell.

The safety check is carried out free of charge by trained technicians who will inspect all safety-critical components.

All major safety components will be inspected including the drive train & power train parts to ensure mechanical parts are operating according to Mitsubishi Standards.

“The 28-point safety check includes a diagnostic scan of all electrical components & circuits for any possible issues that might cause a problem or leave you stranded on the side of the road,” says Campbell. “All this to provide you with peace of mind motoring knowing that mechanically & electronically your vehicle will be reliable.

Book your FREE safety check at your nearest dealer or on the Mitsubishi Motors website (www.mitsubishi-motors.co.za) under the heading “Book A Service”.

Tintswalo Atlantic has introduced a brand-new lunch experience which is available to non-resident guests on Wednesdays. The Tintswalo Atlantic Where else in the World Wednesday Lunch (WWW Lunch) may be booked in advance and is subject to availability, to a limited number of guests only. Since its relaunch in October 2019, Tintswalo Atlantic is focusing on its resident guests to provide an exclusive lodge-experience for 24 guests. The WWW lunch is therefore the only opportunity for visitors who are not staying over in the hotel, to enjoy a meal at the iconic property. Diners may expect wholesome and fresh, seasonal cuisine and honest, uncomplicated seaside fare served in one of Cape Town’s most unique locations. The cuisine is complimented with a wine list that includes some of South Africa’s best vintages, including top quality local wines from Hout Bay, Constantia and Cape Point wineries. Destined to be one of the most sought-after culinary encounters in Cape Town, the 4-course Tintswalo WWW lunch experience is available every Wednesday at R960 per person.

Reservations: Tel 021 201 0025 or email reception@atlantic.tintswalo.com

Wednesday lunch at Tintswalo Atlantic is a relaxed, unhurried affair which starts with a complimentary welcome drink on the deck where guests may enjoy the magnificent setting and intoxicating sea views. Head Chef Thando Jaxa will be ready at the barbeque station to kickstart the lunch with a traditional South African braai experience. Delicious bites from the grill may include Glazed Lamb Satay with Tzatziki; a Haloumi, Basil and Zucchini Skewer with Roasted Red Pepper & Almond Puree; and Mussel and Crostini Pot served with lemon wedges and herb parmesan.

Next to follow will be a Tapas Platter that will include Seared Tuna with Sesame, Honey & Soy Dressing and Mange Tout & Sweet Corn Salsa, and a Garlic & Thyme Chicken Thigh served with Brown Lentil Cassoulet, Grilled Oyster Mushrooms and Grain Mustard Jus. Vegetarian options include Herb Polenta with Glazed Beetroot, Parsnip & Parsley Mousse and Buttered Edamame.

A multi-sensory experience, guests will be seated on the sprawling wooden deck to inhale the fresh sea breeze at the shoreline. In cooler weather the elegant dining room with its open kitchen enables diners to enjoy an interactive dining experience.  Main course options include freshly caught Atlantic Yellow Tail with Carrot & Ginger, Chimichurri Gnocchi and Sautéed Fennel; Parmesan & Thyme Crusted Beef Fillet with Potato Fondant, Burnt Baby Onions, Asparagus Spears and Coffee Jus; or Harissa Cous Cous with King Oyster Mushroom, Peas, Garlic Pak Choi, Confit Baby Tomatoes and Herb Beurre Blanc.

Lunch ends on another high note with Traditional Malva Pudding with Malva Sauce and Vanilla Ice Cream. This is followed by tea/coffee and friandise of Banoffee Bites or Hazelnut Truffles, before departing guests have the opportunity to participate in a special Tintswalo Atlantic farewell custom that was started by the owners of Tintswalo, the Corbett/Goosen family. Tintswalo is a magical place and so guests are invited to make their own, personal wish by casting a smooth pebble into the ocean, leaving only good thoughts and memories behind, and taking this special memory away with them.

@Tintswalolodges @FiveStarPRZA

#TintswaloAtlantic

#TintswaloRising

#CapeTown

#WWWLunch

#WhereElseInTheWorld

Africa has some of the best beaches in the world. Tourists will be flocking to them soon as those in the southern hemisphere take summer holidays and those from the north look for ways to escape their winter.

So where are Africa’s top beaches?

In drawing up the list I have taken both an objective as well as subjective approach.

For the objective assessment I have used the ratings of the Blue Flag awards as well as my own research. South Africa is the first country outside Europe as well as the first African country to implement the Blue Flag scheme. It currently has 39 fully complied beaches with another 30 in the process of complying.

For my subjective list I have drawn on my own experience and knowledge as well as experiences of friends and family.

The top performers

Africa has some wonderful beaches. A serious traveller or beachgoer should certainly visit at least one of them once in a lifetime. The list below is not in order of preference, but offers would be travellers different opportunities and experiences.

Most of South Africa’s Blue Flag beaches are in the Western Cape followed by KwaZulu-Natal and then the Eastern Cape. Blue Flag award beaches have to comply with 33 criteria including safety, cleanliness, environmental management and water quality. The award can be revoked if a beach does not comply.

The longest running Blue Flag beaches in South Africa and a must visit are Grotto Beach in the Western Cape, Humewood Beach in the Eastern Cape, and Ramsgate and Marina beaches KwaZulu-Natal.

From a more subjective standpoint I would recommend Tofo Beach at Inhambane in Mozambique. This is an 8 km stretch of beach that also offers diving and great sea life. Added benefits are facilities for rest and relaxation – as well as excellent prawns.

Namibia also offers tourists beautiful beaches. One of my favourites is the Skeleton Coast. It offers space and great marine life as well as ship wrecks. Crowded beach won’t be a problem. There might in fact be nobody around depending on when you visit.

Another country that offers wonderful beach experiences is Kenya. The beach I propose is Shela Beach in Lamu. It is also a UNESCO Heritage Site and is generally accepted as the country’s top beach.

I also have to include Angola. This is the new kid on the block and I propose Mussulo Bay peninsula. This is for the adventure traveller, offering wonderful beach as well fishing.

And then the islands

One of my ultimate favourites is Tanzania. I must admit I love Zanzibar. It offers great diving, snorkelling and swimming. This is a little piece of heaven on earth. Enjoying the locally produced gin is a treat as well.

If we move to Madagascar, my choice is Sainte-Marie Island. It offers beautiful sandy beaches with palm trees. Once again, diving and great sea life are on offer as well as good food.

It would unfair if I didn’t include Malawi. My choice falls on Likoma Island, which is part of Lake Malawi. This is one of Africa’s jewels. Clear clean water, great for swimming, diving or snorkelling, and friendly communities.

And then there is the Seychelles’s Anse Source d’Argent, La Digue. It is regarded as one of the world’s greatest beaches, truly something out of this world.

I could add more beaches in the west and north of the continent. But this list at least provides a taste of what Africa can offer. Hopefully the Blue Flag award scheme will be implemented in other African countries so that the continent can get its lion’s share of beachgoers, one of the biggest generators of revenue globally.