+ All Categories
Home > Documents > December issue 2013

December issue 2013

Date post: 31-Mar-2016
Category:
Upload: the-weekend-magazine
View: 214 times
Download: 0 times
Share this document with a friend
Description:
We say fare well to a 2013 and welcome a wonderful 2014 Christmas recipes will tantilize your taste buds in our December issue
Popular Tags:
54
Transcript
Page 1: December issue 2013
Page 2: December issue 2013

Looking for something to do this

weekend? You’ve come to the right

place! Whether you’re a weekend

warrior with a lust for adventure or a

stressed exec looking for a relaxing

lunch in the sun, you’ll find inspiration

on our pages.

What’s Happening on the Weekend®

features venues and activities in

Gauteng, as well as further afield,

providing you with everything you need

to plan your next outing. Take a look at

our special offers for a spur of the

moment indulgence, or browse through

our regular categories and add a few

new favourites to your list of frequent

haunts.

While every care & effort has been taken in

compiling accurate information the publishers ,

its assigns , employees & heirs can not be held

responsible for any omissions or errors .

Any reproduction or illustrations compiled in this

issue for further use must receive permission in

writing from the publisher’s

https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/id734342862?mt=8

Contact information :

Tell : 011 954 0791

[email protected]

www.theweekend.co.za

Page 3: December issue 2013

Event & news This month’s Recipe

Theatre & Entertainment Leisure , wellness & Dinning out

Front Cover Article’s A History lesson

Bush holiday Specials Hospitality news Special promotions Extended News

Travel Tips Abroad

Page 4: December issue 2013

Marataba Safari Lodge’s addition to the award-winning MORE portfolio launches a major new attraction in experiential game viewing and trail walking in South Africa. Located in the centre of Marakele Game Reserve in Limpopo’s historic Waterberg range, Marataba offers Big Five game viewing amidst a wealth of crystal-clear rivers, pools, waterfalls and verdant mountain terrain. The property links MORE’s circuit of 5-star game lodges east and west of the country. In the Lowveld, Lion Sands Game Reserve is unique in operating in both the Kruger National Park and Sabi Sand Wildtuin. In the North West’s Kalahari thornveld, MORE manages the upgraded Madikwe Safari Lodge in what is becoming a world renowned safari experience. Marataba Safari Lodge was recently acquired by a consortium of Dutch families in a deal worth R200m, an initiative aimed at supporting safari tourism. MORE was invited to manage this project on the basis of its leading role in experiential safari tourism in tandem with conservation and community development. MORE CEO Robert More calls the investment far-sighted, in an area of South Africa which has largely been overlooked. Marataba is perfectly placed for the tourism market in Gauteng, 250km driving distance from Johannesburg on the N1 through Bela-Bela (Warmbaths) to Thabazimbi. Hollywood’s vision of the ultimate big-game experience was defined by the Oscar-winning Out Of Africa, in which Robert Redford romanced Meryl Streep around the campfire in front of large, elegant safari tents. That setting anticipated Marataba’s unique advantages in today’s tourism market. Says Robert More: “Marataba is a great opportunity to meet the growing demand for experiential tourism. It is malaria free, breathtakingly scenic and ideally suited for today’s photographic safaris. The Lodge comprises 15 luxury tents in an exclusive 23,000 hectare reserve. It will pair well with Madikwe Safari Lodge to the west, creating the ultimate family safari circuit. . MORE’s reputation as a pace-setter for the increasing concern about wildlife conservation is shown on its www.morehotels.co.za website. Its photo galleries are packed with high-quality visuals of wildlife taken by guests and rangers on its properties, on game drives and walking trails, and from its lodges and signature treehouses. These images feature in top travel publications and in blogs and websites online, emphasising how tourism must now be geared to conservation and community development to ensure its sustainability. The demand for more trained field rangers means that MORE will relocate its training school from Lion Sands to Marataba, where there greater scope for expansion to meet the increasing demand in the safari business. Says Robert More: “It’s important to be proactive in our tourism industry. MORE does continuous research with its visitors domestically and internationally to find out what they want from their safari stays. Lion Sands and Madikwe have their own unique, world class resources which we are constantly developing. The reason we have invested in Marataba is that is in one of the country’s most spectacular game reserves, and it offers us a wealth of fabulous game tourism advantages that we will develop.”

www.morehotels.co.za

Page 5: December issue 2013
Page 6: December issue 2013
Page 7: December issue 2013
Page 8: December issue 2013
Page 9: December issue 2013

DoubleTree by Hilton Opens its First Hotel in South Africa

Owned and operated by Upper Eastside Hotel (Pty) Ltd under a franchise

license agreement, the newly renovated, upscale full-service property is

located in Cape Town‟s upcoming district of Woodstock, a dynamic area which

is home to an abundance of fashionable art galleries, boutiques, music bars

and trendy restaurants. The hotel becomes the fifth Hilton Worldwide hotel in

South Africa and the third DoubleTree by Hilton hotel in Africa.

Rudi Jagersbacher, president, Hilton Worldwide, Middle East & Africa said: “

Opening is a significant milestone for Hilton Worldwide as we underline our

commitment to tourism development in South Africa and broaden visitor choice

by bringing our third brand and our fifth hotel to this growing market. Cape

Town, in particular, is an award winning city of adventure, gastronomy and

cultural attractions and currently one of the most popular destination resorts in

Africa.”

Accommodation ranges from executive rooms and suites to luxury, two-storey

duplex loft rooms located on the penthouse floor with panoramic views of the

city‟s most popular landmarks. With both business and leisure guests in mind,

DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside offers a wide range of

amenities, including nine meeting rooms, a 350 -capacity function room and

24-hour fitness and business centres. Discerning guests can also enjoy

Liberty‟s Restaurant with its seasonal á la Carte fusion-style menu created by

executive chef Simon Kemp. Kemp is renowned for his professional creativity

and attention to detail. Guests and locals who wish to unwind can visit the

eStreet Bar and Lounge, which is open for cocktails and drinks every evening

until 1 a.m., with live entertainment on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

John Greenleaf, global head, DoubleTree by Hilton said: “I am delighted we

are making our debut in South Africa in such an inspiring location and with a

property that will both impress and delight. The newly upgraded DoubleTree

by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside offers superb facilities in a city that will

help to extend our commitment to welcome the world‟s travellers to key

destinations.”

Guests of DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town - Upper Eastside will enjoy the

characteristic features of more than 330 DoubleTree by Hilton locations in 28

countries around the world including a warm welcome for every guest at

check-in with the brand's legendary chocolate chip cookie, an array of upscale

amenities and guest services, rewards from the Hilton HHonors guest loyalty

program, and a unique and committed culture of care. Gold and Diamond

HHonors members will also receive complimentary breakfast and high speed

Wi-Fi access.

Positioned at the southern tip of Africa, Cape Town is one of the most popular

tourist destinations for travellers to the Continent. Known as the „Mother City‟,

Cape Town is a celebrated winemaking region and boasts world famous

landmarks such as Table Mountain and Cape Point. The city is also a primary

MICE destinations playing host to numerous festivals and events including

high profile conventions such as the World Economic Forum in May 2013 and

the Design Capital Exhibition in 2014. Leisure travellers will note the

prestigious 2012 World Travel honour awarded to the city as Africa‟s Leading

Beach Destination.

For more information or to book a stay at DoubleTree by Hilton Cape Town -

Upper Eastside, visit www.doubletree.com, call +27 021 4040570 or contact

their preferred travel agent.

Page 10: December issue 2013
Page 11: December issue 2013

12 Days of Christmas Specials

12 December— 15% off all hand reared birds

13 December— Fishy Friday: Fish Specials & 20% off all fish

14 December— 20% off all snakes & spiders

15 December— 20% off all Ringnecks Hand Reared & Mature

16 December— Holiday fun for the kids. Great prizes to be won

17 December— Clearance of 2nd hand fish tanks & bird cages

18 December— Reduced prices throughout the store up to 30%

19 December— Spend R500 or more & get a free gift

20 December—Fishy Friday: Fish Specials & 20% off all fish

21 December—20% off all snakes & spiders

22 December—20% off all Ringnecks Hand Reared & Mature

23 December— 15% off all hand reared birds

24 December— Spit braai & mince pies, winners announced

See in store for gift ideas & other Christmas Specials.

Other stores in the centre running specials

47 Main Reef Road, Princess, Roodepoort

011 767 0902/3/4

Open until 6pm weekdays 17th—23rd December

Open 7 days a week from 8am, only closed Christmas Day

Buy a raffle ticket & stand a chance to win a baby Ringneck special, a complete

reptile setup & many other prizes

Greatly reduced prices on selected cages throughout

December

Page 12: December issue 2013

A family holiday to Mauritius?

Yes, at 5* Heritage Villas!

LOTS OF FUN FOR YOUR KIDS

Children are privileged guests at Heritage Resorts and as such, they receive special attention. The “Timomo &

Friends” children's clubs have been designed to provide an unforgettable holiday experience for your kids.

Welcome to the lively, unique and colourful world of Heritage kids clubs on the Domaine de Bel Ombre, which

were created around the Timomo character. This endemic bird lives in the nearby Black River Gorges

National Park and conveys the identity of a rainbow nation renowned for its legendary sense of hospitality.

For kids as from 2 years old

HERITAGE THE VILLAS ENJOY YOUR NEXT FAMILY HOLIDAY IN A 5* VILLA ON THE TROPICAL

ISLAND OF MAURITIUS

Are you dreaming of an unforgettable family holiday?

You need to try Heritage The Villas in the exclusive setting of the Domaine de Bel Ombre on the South Coast

of Mauritius: 25° degrees minimum, spectacular views, fantastic children‟s facilities, two 5* luxury hotels with a

1 km white sandy beach, four refreshing swimming pools, two kid‟s clubs for children (for ages 2 to 11),

exciting activities for teenagers, a huge choice of outdoor and water sports and 11 excellent restaurants and

bars, unlimited green fees on an award-winning 18-hole golf course and a Nikki Beach-style C Beach Club.

The „sea, sand & sun experience‟ par excellence of the island and so much more…

Free: access to both hotels, C Beach Club, kids' clubs, teens' club, golf…

Book now and get 17% discount as from 2 kids.

www.heritageresorts.mu

[email protected]

Page 13: December issue 2013

HERITAGE THE VILLAS

You want the privacy of your own villa, the service of a

five star hotel, a beautiful view over 2500 hectares of

unspoilt nature…

Look no more; discover Heritage the Villas on the unique

Domaine de Bel Ombre.

Enjoy the view ... and experience the essence of

legendary Mauritian hospitality!

Your villa for an intimate holiday

Immerse yourself in this intimate world of luxury in the refined

setting of your villa coupled with 5 * service: daily cleaning,

golf cart to move around, concierge, private chef, babysitting,

butler service, airport transfers by helicopter and many more

services. Here the words simplicity, courtesy and discretion

are synonymous with hospitality. You want to travel as a

group of friends, family or as a couple, then the choice is

yours with 2, 3 or 4 air-conditioned bedrooms with en-suite

Bath or shower rooms. The infinity pool, large veranda, state

of the art communications, barbecue area, gazebo and

landscaped tropical gardens are all there to give you the

comfort of a luxurious home away from home. The villas are

fully furnished and equipped and offer free internet access

and satellite TV channels.

Tailor-make your ideal holiday at the Domaine de Bel

Ombre

The Domaine de Bel Ombre is a destination within a

destination, a unique concept in Mauritius. All your holiday

wishes will be granted in just one place, so just tailor make

your ideal holiday. As residents of Heritage The Villas you

have unlimited access to two luxury hotels and all its

services: Heritage Awali Golf & Spa Resort and Heritage Le

Telfair Golf & Spa Resort. Relax at the two luxurious Seven

Colours spas, dine in our 12 restaurants, have a cocktail in

one of our bars, exercise at the fitness centers, send your

kids at the kids and teens clubs for some peace. The offer

does not stop there; great nautical activities are available at

the C Beach Club and for the adventurous type numerous

nature activities at the Frédérica Nature Reserve, home to

endemic flora and fauna. Kite surf enthusiasts can enjoy one

of the best kite surf spot of the island and if wanting to

perfect your skills then a kite surfing school is also available.

If a Golf fanatic or even a beginner then you will be in heaven

with privileged access to the Heritage Golf Club, an 18-hole

championship golf course stretching over 100 hectares with

unlimited free green fees. The Château de Bel Ombre, a

colonial style mansion house built in the late 19th century is

the heart of the Domaine; the idyllic setting for breakfast and

also the villas‟ reception center where you will be greeted

upon arrival . . .

Who would think paradise would be within such easy reach!

www.heritageresorts.mu

[email protected]

Page 14: December issue 2013

The King Protea (Protea cynaroides) is the

national flower of South Africa. It is only one of

around 2000 species of the Protea family, an

astonishingly diverse array of plants, also known

as sugarbushes. They can range from ground-

creeping shrubs to trees 35m tall, but all have

leathery leaves and thistle-like flowers from tiny

red blooms to great furry pink and black globes.

Botanist Carl Linnaeus named the family in 1735

after the Greek god, Proteus, known for his ability

to change his appearance at will.

Although they are closely linked to South Africa,

proteas do grow wild outside the country - there

is one species found on Mt Kenya and another in

Madagascar. Those in Africa all belong to the

Proteoideae branch of the family. There are 14

genera and over 330 species in South Africa and

92 percent are within the fynbos belt of the Cape

Floral Kingdom.

There is another related branch, the

Grevilleoideae, commonly found in South-West

Australia with small colonies in eastern Asia and

South America that date back over 300 million

years to the era before the breakup of the super-

continent, Gondwanaland.

The colonies in the Cape and South-

West Australia have proved particularly

interesting to botanists. Two of the

world's five defined bio-diversity

hotspots, these areas - and the proteas

in particular - are evolving new species

at a rate about three times faster than

normal. A study led by London's Kew

Gardens is attempting to understand

why. South African Kirstenbosch

Botanical Gardens have been involved

in a major project to map the

geographical spread of proteas across

South Africa.

These days, there are also proteas in

parks and gardens around the globe

and proteas are being grown and

propagated commercially by

organizations such as the International

Protea Association. To grow your own,

you can order them from Fine Bush

People. But there is still nothing to beat

seeing them in the wild on Table

Mountain or in the Cedarbergs.

Proteas – South Africa's shape-shifting national flower

Page 15: December issue 2013
Page 16: December issue 2013

Buffalo Ridge Safari lodge

011 234-6500 [email protected] www.buffaloridgesafari.com

Impodimo Lodge

018 350 9400 [email protected] www.impodimo.com

Jaci’s Lodges

083 700 2071 [email protected] www.madikwe.com

Madikwe Hills

018 350 9200 [email protected] www.seasonsinafrica.com

Madikwe Safari Lodge

011 880 9992 [email protected] www.madikwesafarilodge.co.za

Makanyane Lodge

014 778 9600 [email protected] www.makanyane.com

Mosetlha Bush Camp

011 444 9345 [email protected] www.thebushcamp.com

Motswiri Private Safari Lodge

086 124 3441 [email protected] www.motswiri.com

Rhulani Safari Lodge

[email protected] www.rhulani.com

Tau Game Lodge

011 314 4350 [email protected] www.taugamelodge.co.za

Thakadu River Camp

011 676-3123 [email protected] www.thakadu.ahagroup.co.za

The Bush House

076 694 0505 [email protected] www.bushhouse.co.za

Tuningi Safari lodge

011 781 5384 [email protected] www.tuningi.com

Page 17: December issue 2013

Tambuti Lodge :

0764895865 [email protected] www.tambutilodge.com

Golden Leopard Resorts :

0145551000 [email protected] www.goldenleopardresorts.co.za

Sun City Resort :

0145571000 [email protected] www.suninternational.com

Bakubung bush Lodge :

014 552 6000 [email protected] www.bakubung.co.za

Ivory Tree :

011 781 1661 [email protected] www.ivorytreegamelodge.com

Pilanesberg Private Lodge :

082 854 5603 [email protected] www.pilanesbergprivatelodge.com

Sheperds Tree :

014 551 3910 [email protected] www.shepherdstree.co.za

Buffalo Thorn lodge :

082 229 1158 [email protected] www.buffalothornlodge.co.za

Black Rhino Lodge :

011 516 4367 [email protected] www.blackrhinogamelodge.com

Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge :

014 552 5100 [email protected] www.kwamaritane.co.za

Tshukudu Bush Lodge :

014 552 6255 [email protected] www.tshukudu.co.za

Page 18: December issue 2013
Page 19: December issue 2013
Page 20: December issue 2013
Page 21: December issue 2013
Page 22: December issue 2013

Makanyane Safari Lodge was designed by a

team of award winning architects to effortlessly

blend with the surrounding bush. The relaxed

yet luxurious interiors complement the design

perfectly, tastefully enhancing the atmosphere

of comfort in this idyllic environment.

The lodge consists of a beautiful main building

and eight stunning suites, which lie hidden in

the lush forest, offering spectacular views over

the tranquil Marico River. Situated on 1,800

hectares of private ground within the 75,000

hectare Madikwe Game Reserve, the lodge

has accommodation for a maximum of sixteen

guests, ensuring that each guest has privacy

and individual attention.

Activities at Makanyane revolve around

relaxing your body and mind and experiencing

the rich details of your surroundings.

Relax by lounging at our secluded swimming

pool, strip away the stress of city living with a

massage or aromatherapy on your private

deck or in our bush spa, unwind by exercising

in our gym, or simply catch up on your quiet

time by selecting a book from our library and

settling down in our den or on one of the

outside decks to read.

To experience the vibrant bush life around

you, allow yourself to be led through

Madikwe's 75,000 hectare environment, either

on foot or in an open vehicle.

Watch the wildlife, oblivious to your presence,

from one of our bush hides overlooking a

waterhole or facing plains that stretch to the

horizon. You could even sleep out under the

stars while nocturnal life continues around

your secure, elevated deck.

Makanyane has a number of hides where

guests may relax and watch animals and birds

going about their lives.

One hide has a breathtaking view across a

wide expanse of savannah, the sweeping view

of the grasslands is encircled by distant hills.

Enjoy a quiet drink while watching elephants

stride through herds of waterbuck, zebra and

impala grazing quietly under the vast African

sky. You may even see lion or cheetah moving

through the grass, their vigilant stare searching

for their next meal.

Another hide overlooks a secluded waterhole

where elephants and other animals come

down to quench their thirst and wallow in the

cool mud. Alternatively, lounge by the lodge's

swimming pool, high above a stream-fed

waterhole and wait for the animals and birds to

come down to the water.

Tel: (+27) 14 778 9600 Fax: (+27) 14 778 9611

E-mail: [email protected]

www.makanyane.com

Page 23: December issue 2013
Page 24: December issue 2013

If you've ever been to one of those all-you-can-eat

steak houses, then I'm sure you're very familiar with

those giant vats of dessert they put out on the dessert

bar - usually some sort of chocolate and whipped

cream cake, a pan of strawberry shortcake with

yellow sponge cake, whipped cream and

strawberries, and of course, banana cream pudding. I

think all kids love being served a great big dollop of

creamy pudding with whipped cream, bananas and

those little wafer cookies. For that matter, adults love

it, too.

Caramelized bananas and apples were one of the few

desserts available in restaurants in China - they came

to the table piping hot and super sticky, so you had to

eat them fast before the caramel hardened. One of

the other desserts we sometimes ordered was just a

simple fried bread, dipped in nothing more than

sweetened condensed milk. Delicious.

Melt the butter in a non-stick skillet over medium

heat. Place the bananas in the butter in a single layer

and sprinkle with the brown sugar. Cook bananas for

4 minutes on each side. Add the bourbon to the

skillet and cook for about a minute to cook off the

alcohol, swirling the pan around.

Meanwhile, combine the ricotta, honey, cream and

nutmeg in a bowl until smooth and creamy and set

aside.

Set out two martini glasses or individual glass trifle

dishes. Spoon half of the ricotta mixture into the

bottom of each glass. Top with half of the crushed

cookies. Add half of the bananas. Add another

layer with the rest of the ricotta mixture, the crushed

cookies and the bananas. Drizzle with any

remaining caramelized bourbon liquid in the skillet,

or with a teaspoon of honey. Sprinkle the

crystallized ginger on top.

Ingredients

2 tablespoons unsalted butter

2 ripe bananas, peeled and

sliced into 1-inch thick slices

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons good-quality

Bourbon

1/2 cup part-skim ricotta

(homemade or store-bought)

2 tablespoons honey

1 tablespoon light cream or fat-

free half 'n' half

1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg

1/4 cup crumbled cookies (wafer

cookies, graham crackers, lady

fingers, etc)

pinch of crystallized ginger

Page 25: December issue 2013
Page 26: December issue 2013

Apple season is in full swing, and while I don't have an

apple orchard close by to go pick my very own apples I fully

intend to take advantage of them while they're in

season. Most people tend to reserve apples for dishes of

the sweet nature, I tend to like to combine the tastes of

sweet and savory. So when I saw this recipe in the October

issue of Food Network Magazine it immediately jumped out

and grabbed my attention.

Sprinkle the pork tenderloin with pumpkin pie spice, salt

and freshly ground black pepper.

Pour the olive oil in a large, oven safe skillet, and place

over medium-high heat. Place the pork in the pan and cook

each side for 2 minutes a piece, including the ends. This

should form a nice crust on the outside of the meat.

Meanwhile, cut the apples in half and remove the seeds

and cores. Cut 1/2 a tablespoon of butter into quarters and

place a piece in the center of each apple. Sprinkle half of

the onion over the apples then top with a pinch of

salt. Place the apples in teh skillet, around the pork, cut

side up and transfer the skillet to the oven. Roast for about

25 minutes, until a meat thermometer registers 145.

In a large saucepan combine 1 cup of water, 1/2 cup apple

cider, the remaining onion, a pinch of salt and quinoa. Stir

to combine. Cover, bring the mixture to a boil then reduce

the heat and cook according to package instructions, about

10-12 minutes. Add the parsley and stir to combine.

Once the pork is cooked through, transfer to a cutting board

along with the apples and allow to rest. Return the skillet to

medium-high heat and add the apple cider vinegar, apple

cider, and 1/4 cup water. Bring the mixture to a simmer,

stirring occasionally allowing to cook for 2 minutes. Add the

remaining tablespoon of butter and stir to combine.

To serve-slice the pork. Spoon the quinoa on the center of

the plate, top with 2-3 slices of pork, and spoon the sauce

over the meat and quinoa. Place the apple on the side of

the plate. Serve and enjoy

Ingredients:

1 (1-1 1/4 pound) pork

tenderloin

1/4 Tsp pumpkin pie spice

Salt

Freshly ground black pepper

1 Tbsp olive oil

2 Baking apples

1 1/2 Tbsp unsalted butter

1 Small sweet onion, finely

chopped

1 Cup quinoa

1 Tbsp fresh parsley, finely

chopped

1/4 Cup apple cider, pluse more

for quinoa

1 Tbsp apple cider vinegar

Pumpkin Spice Pork Tenderloin with Roasted Apples

Page 27: December issue 2013
Page 28: December issue 2013

Cream Cheese Frosting

1/2 cup butter, softened

1 (8-oz.) package cream cheese, softened

1 (16-oz.) package powdered sugar

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

Line 3 (9-inch) round cake pans with wax paper; lightly

grease and flour wax paper. Set pans aside. Stir

together first 4 ingredients. Beat eggs and next 4

ingredients at medium speed with an electric mixer

until smooth. Add flour mixture, beating at low speed

until blended. Fold in carrot and next 3 ingredients.

Pour batter into prepared cake pans. Bake at 350° for

25 to 30 minutes or until a wooden pick inserted in

center comes out clean.

During the last 5 minutes of baking, begin making

glaze. Bring first 5 ingredients to a boil in a large

Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Boil, stirring often,

4 minutes. Remove from heat, and stir in vanilla.

Drizzle Buttermilk Glaze evenly over layers; cool in

pans on wire racks 15 minutes. Remove from pans,

and cool completely on wire racks.

To make the frosting, beat butter and cream cheese at

medium speed with an electric mixer until creamy.

Gradually add powdered sugar, beating at low speed

until blended; stir in vanilla. Spread frosting between

layers and on top and sides of cake.

Cake

2 cups flour

2 tsp baking soda

1/2 tsp salt

2 tsp cinnamon

3 eggs

2 cups sugar

3/4 cup vegetable oil

3/4 cup buttermilk

2 tsp vanilla

2 cups grated carrot

1 (8-ounce) can crushed pineapple, drained

1 (3 1/2-ounce) can flaked coconut

1 cup pecans or walnuts, chopped

Buttermilk Glaze

1 cup sugar

1 1/2 tsp baking soda

1/2 cup buttermilk

1/2 cup butter or margarine

1 Tbsp light corn syrup

1 tsp vanilla extract

Carrot Cake with Cream Cheese Frosting

Page 29: December issue 2013
Page 30: December issue 2013

2 cloves of garlic

50 g unsalted butter

50 g plain flour

500 ml semi-skimmed milk

500 g fresh or frozen broccoli

75 g mature cheddar cheese

1 kg fresh or frozen cauliflower

2 slices of ciabatta or stale bread

2 sprigs of fresh thyme

25 g flaked almonds

olive oil

Preheat the oven to 180°C/350°F/gas 4. Peel and finely slice the garlic and put it into a

medium pan on a medium heat with the butter. When the butter has melted, stir in the flour

for a minute to make a paste, then gradually add the milk, whisking as you go, until lovely and

smooth. Add the broccoli (cut up first, if using fresh) and simmer for around 20 minutes, or

until the broccoli is cooked through and starts to break down, then mash or blitz with a stick

blender (adding an extra splash of milk to loosen, if using fresh broccoli). Grate in half the

Cheddar and season to perfection.

Arrange the cauliflower in an appropriately sized baking dish (cut into florets first, if using

fresh), pour over the broccoli white sauce and grate over the remaining Cheddar. Blitz the

bread into breadcrumbs in a food processor, then pulse in the thyme leaves and almonds.

Toss with a lug of oil and a pinch of salt and pepper, then scatter evenly over the cauliflower

cheese. Bake for

1 hour, or until golden and cooked through, then enjoy!

The best cauliflower & broccoli cheese

Recipe courtesy of jamie oliver

Page 31: December issue 2013
Page 32: December issue 2013

Ingredients

1 packet Woolworths Red Velvet

Mini Swiss Rolls

250 g creamed cottage cheese

100 ml condensed milk

1 drop red food coloring

250 ml cream

a squeeze of lemon juice

100 g white chocolate

1 punnet ( 250 g)fresh

raspberries

Mix the cream cheese, food coloring and

condensed milk very lightly. Add the

squeeze of lemon juice and mix. In

another bowl, whip the cream until it

forms stiff peaks. ( you can sweeten the

cream, but I find it too sweet then ) Cut

the swiss rolls in thin rings and start

layering your trifle. Take 6 small glasses,

about 200 ml each and put a layer of

cake at the bottom, then a spoon full of

the cream cheese and then a little cream.

Top with raspberries and repeat the

layers one more time. Use a sharp knife

or vegetable peeler and make chocolate

shavings for decoration. Finish off your

trifles with raspberries and white

chocolate shavings.

Red Velvet Trifles for the jolly season!

Recipe Courtesy of "Easy Cooking from Nina's Kitchen

Page 33: December issue 2013
Page 34: December issue 2013

Craving the sand of sun-drenched Caribbean

beaches between your toes? It’s easier, and

closer, than you think...

A mere 40 minutes north of Pretoria, Bela-Bela is

home to Aruba, a resort of unrivalled island-style

indulgence and carefree living.

The warm heart of Africa beats an island rhythm

as you enjoy the fantastic water park, adventure

golf, the pampering of the day spa, restaurants

and the kids club.

Whether you are a resident of the exclusive

housing estate, a conference delegate, day

visitor or a holiday guest, at Aruba your

Caribbean fantasies come true.

The jewel in the Aruba crown is the Water Park.

This theme park will be the largest water park to

be built in South Africa, with the longest and

most exciting slides to ever come to our shores.

These rides will cater for toddlers, kids,

teenagers, adults, thrill seekers and the

energetic elderly. A number of visits will be

required to appreciate the complete water park.

There will be various resturants and bars to cater

to your every culinary need, or for those less

energetic, to relax on the numerous

entertainment decks and enjoy a cocktail while

watching all the excitement

www.aruba-sa.com

Page 35: December issue 2013

1. Bananas help overcome depression due high levels of tryptophan,

which is converted into serotonin -- the happy-mood brain

neurotransmitter

2. Eat two bananas before a strenuous workout to pack an energy punch

and sustain your blood sugar

3. Protect against muscle cramps during workouts and night time leg

cramps by eating a banana

4. Counteract calcium loss during urination and build strong bones by

supplementing with a banana

5. Improve your mood and reduce PMS symptoms by eating a banana,

which regulates blood sugar and produces stress-relieving relaxation

6. Bananas reduce swelling, protect against type II diabetes, aid weight

loss, strengthen the nervous system, and help with the production of

white blood cells, all due to high levels of vitamin B-6

7. Strengthen your blood and relieve anemia with the added iron from

bananas

8. High in potassium and low in salt, bananas are officially recognized by

the FDA as being able to lower blood pressure, and protect against heart

attack and stroke

Eating bananas aids digestion

9. Rich in pectin, bananas aid digestion and gently chelate toxins and

heavy metals from the body

10. Bananas act as a prebiotic, stimulating the growth of friendly

bacteria in

the bowel. They also produce digestive enzymes to assist in absorbing

nutrients.

11. Constipated? High fiber in bananas can help normalize bowel

motility.

12. Got the runs? Bananas are soothing to the digestive tract and help

restore lost electrolytes after diarrhea.

13. Bananas are a natural antacid, providing relief from acid reflux,

heartburn and GERD

14. Bananas are the only raw fruit that can be consumed without

distress to

relieve stomach ulcers by coating the lining of the stomach against

corrosive acids

Page 36: December issue 2013
Page 37: December issue 2013
Page 38: December issue 2013

The Royal Hotel Durban has stood at the centre of

Durban and its history for more than 150 years. It has

grown with the City and stands proud of its tradition of

exceptional service and hospitality.

On 12 December 1845 Durban‟s first hotel announced

itself open to the public. The story of McDonald‟s

Commercial Hotel, subsequently renamed the Masonic

and finally the Royal, begins during the late 1830‟s with

the arrival at Port Natal of a Scottish sea captain, Hugh

McDonald.

Hugh McDonald was in Port Natal during the 1842 siege

of Captain Smith‟s British garrison by Boer soldiers led by

Commandant Andries Pretorius. Despite the precarious

situation of the small settlement at the Port, Hugh must

have had faith in its future, for in November 1842, he

persuaded another brother, Charles, to settle there. It was

Charles McDonald who in January 1843, bought the

Market Square property on which part of the Royal Hotel

today stands, for the sum of £40. He erected a wattle-

and-daub thatch-roofed trading store and began selling

such essential items as sugar, tea, tobacco, wine and

brandy, conveniently supplied by the Pilot. It is possible

that he also offered rudimentary accommodation to

travellers.

Residents of D‟Urban (as the settlement at the Port had

earlier been named) eagerly awaited the arrival of the

ships and Hugh McDonald became well acquainted with

many of the locals during his stays in the port.

Charles McDonald moved to Pietermaritzburg at some

time during 1845 and his brother Hugh was at sea on the

Pilot when on 12 December 1845 an advertisement

appeared in Natal‟s first newspaper, de Natalier and True

Pietermaritzburg Recorder, announcing the opening of the

Commercial Hotel in Durban.

It may be assumed that Charles McDonald had

leased the property to John Edwards, the first

proprietor of the hotel. Little is known about

Edwards, whose proprietorship of the

Commercial lasted only a few months and in

February 1846 Hugh McDonald gave up his life

at sea to take over the hotel. He bought the

property from his brother Charles, together with

is adjoining plot, paying £40 for each.

Between January 1849 and June 1952, almost

5000 British immigrants arrived in Natal. Hugh

McDonald was not slow to take advantage of

the influx of people requiring temporary

accommodation. He consolidated his property

by selling off two portions of his brother

Charles‟s original property and erected a new

double-storeyed building on his undeveloped

property adjacent to the original Commercial.

Hugh McDonald died in June 1853 at the

comparatively young age of 56. His death did

not result in the closure or sale of McDonalds,

for it was managed until 1857 by his capable

widow, Ann. Besides being a busy mother of

four young daughters, Ann McDonald continued

to provide the „sumptuous‟ public dinners to

which Durbanites had become accustomed, as

well as to accommodate government officials

and many other visitors at the hotel.

Page 39: December issue 2013

www.theroyal.co.za

Telephone: +27 31 333 6000

Facsimile: +27 31 333 6002 –

Reservations

Facsimile: +27 31 333 6001 –

Banqueting

For Conference Enquiries –

[email protected]

For Accommodation Enquiries –

[email protected] or

[email protected]

Physical Address:

267 Anton Lembede (Smith) Street

Durban

4001

Postal Address:

PO Box 1041

Durban

4000

Page 40: December issue 2013
Page 41: December issue 2013
Page 42: December issue 2013

Discover a contemporary and fashionable haven on Bath

Avenue right in the heart of Rosebank, Johannesburg’s

trendy suburb. Classic and sophisticated, the accent is on

understated elegance and our focus is to provide an

exceptional guest experience. This hotel, which opened in

July 2012, is for the discerning traveller seeking intimacy and

refinement but always with stylish flair. From the moment of

arrival into the elegant lobby with its delightful lounge to the

luxury and comfort of your room, you will enjoy attentive and

friendly service.

Everything has been designed around your comfort and the

stylish interiors reflect a calm tranquillity with the use of

harmonious colours, sophisticated design and strong graphic

motifs. We invite you to linger and stay in a hotel which

recognises your individuality and mirrors your unique

preferences. Everything in short, to experience a truly

fashionable stay, whether you’re on business or simply taking

a relaxing break.

Tel: +27 11 344 8500

Fax: +27 11 344 8501

Postal:

PO Box 3046

Saxonwold

2132

Physical:

54 Bath Avenue

Rosebank

Johannesburg

Page 43: December issue 2013

BRING THE WHOLE FAMILY TO LAWHILL LUXURY APARTMENTS

Mantis Collections Lawhill Luxury Apartments overlooking Cape Town‟s bustling V&A Waterfront is the

perfect family holiday destination. The upmarket, luxurious five star apartment-style hotel offers a full

concierge service and 24 hour reception to attend to your every need. All 30 exquisite units are located in the

same building range from one to three bedrooms. They‟re fully serviced, beautifully furnished and very

generous in size.

The V&A Waterfront, South Africa‟s number one tourist destination, is just a few steps away from your

apartment door and provides a treasure trove of fun and exciting experiences for the whole family to enjoy.

Visit the Two Ocean‟s Aquarium where kids can have their photo taken with Nemo, walk through a tunnel

with Great Whites circling overhead and get up close and personal with the friendly penguins.

Famous for its working harbour, kids love nothing more than to take a boat ride around the harbour where

seals sun themselves and wave their flippers as your boat cruises by.

If a bird‟s eye view of Table Mountain is on your list of things to do this holiday, don‟t miss out on the Cape

Town Eye Ferris wheel ride which lifts you high above the harbour walls providing a one-of-a-kind view of

one of the new seven natural wonders of the world, Table Mountain.

Travelling with little ones? Lawhill Luxury Apartments will organise a cot to be placed in the bedroom.

There‟s nothing like an early morning walk and picnic on the beach and at Lawhill Luxury Apartments all you

have to do is ask and they‟ll organise you delicious continental breakfast packs that will be placed in your

fridge the night before, ready to take to the beach in the morning.

For bookings contact Lawhill Luxury Apartments Reservations directly by telephone 021 438 9160 or by

email [email protected]

Page 44: December issue 2013
Page 45: December issue 2013

Madikwe Game Reserve

Madikwe Game Reserve, one of South Africa‟s foremost Big 5

malaria-free reserves, was envisaged not by conservationists, but

by economists. They found conservation would create more

income and jobs than the existing land-use, which was cattle-

farming. This successful reserve is now a model that has inspired

South African conservation.

Madikwe Game Reserve, right up against the Botswana border in

the North West province, is a strange anomaly in the world of

conservation.

It was transformed from a number of low-yield cattle farms to a

high yield conservation area. This was not land chosen by

ecologists for its rare vegetation or animals. It was chosen by

economists because they found a game reserve here would

generate more jobs and money than any other land use option,

and is now a model of what the benefits of conservation can be.

Another remarkable factor is that this was pioneered in 1991,

within one of South Africa‟s apartheid-era Bantustans –

Bophuthatswana – which was reintegrated into the country in

1994.

Bop Parks, as it was then called, created an initiative where the

state would manage the land and wildlife, the private sector would

profit through game lodges, and the surrounding community would

benefit through sustainable jobs and income.

On paper it seemed idealistic. Yet in practice it worked. Bop Parks

launched Operation Phoenix in 1991. By 1997, it had brought in

more than 8 000 individual animals, the largest translocation of its

kind in the world. Several private companies set up very

successful bush lodges within the 75 000 hectare park. And the 3

villages around Madikwe – Supingstad, Lekgophung and Molatedi

– are doing very well.

Women are particularly empowered – a high proportion of them

are employed in the park.

Social and financial upliftment aside, Madikwe is now better

known as one of the best places to see the Big 5, and it also has

the advantage of being malaria free. Madikwe is seen as a model

of the benefits conservation can bring.

You may not be in an exclusive private game reserve (it's actually

a provincial game reserve), but you‟ll feel as if you are – the

experience is almost indistinguishable.

The only difference is that you might catch a special sense of

pride from some of the people you encounter in and around the

park.

Page 46: December issue 2013

B&B Markets enhances all the excitement of the traditional craft and flea market

experience with all the convenience of formalised retail shopping.

With kids’ activities, food stalls, credit card facilities, gift vouchers, trolleys, customer

service kiosks and a refund service, every B&B Market promises an inimitable lifestyle

experience for the entire family!

Our Rooftop, Hillfox and Hatfield Markets are carefully tailored to deliver a diverse

and ever-changing range of unique and authentic quality products, first-class live

entertainment and great value for money.

The world-renowned African Craft Market offers a vast selection of high quality

handcrafted wares in an exhilarating environment that invites you to barter for the

best price in the true style of the African market experience.

.

Page 47: December issue 2013

The super-regional 76,000sqm Cradlestone Mall is set to

open its doors in Mogale City on 20 November 2013, with

more than 200 stores offering unparalleled choice to

shoppers, both local and from further afield.

Developed by Sasol Pension Fund, Pivotal Property Fund

and Retail Africa, the mall is located at the intersection of

the N14/R28 highways and busy Hendrik Potgieter Road,

west of Johannesburg.

Signed-up anchor tenants include Woolworths, Pick n Pay,

Checkers, Game, Dion Wired and the Edcon Group.

“Major retailers were quick to seize the opportunity,” says

Andries Schaap, General Manager Investment from Sasol

Pension Fund.

“The mall is positioned to attract middle- to high-income

shoppers from neighbouring Krugersdorp, Roodepoort and

Randpark Ridge – but also from North-West Province and

even cross-border shoppers from Botswana.”

In addition to national retailers, Cradlestone Mall offers

specialty retailers like MBW Art West Rand and Apadana

Rugs; and a diverse restaurant and fast food component,

including Menchies, The Raj Express and Doppio Zero.

A Food Lover‟s Market and Dischem are scheduled to open

in early 2014.

Access and parking have been priorities for the developers,

with a focus on „pop-in‟ shopping for food and services, as

well as longer shopping trips.

“With easy commute times from the north and north-west

suburbs, Cradlestone Mall has been designed to offer a

range of shopping options for our consumers,” he adds.

To ensure maximum accessibility, the developers invested

R60 million widening Hendrik Potgieter leading to the

intersection, as well as upgrading the interchange at the

corner of Hendrik Potgieter and the R28.

“Cradlestone Mall not only enjoys exceptional visibility from

these major roads and highways, but we have also worked

hard to ensure the mall is easily accessible to shoppers,”

says Schaap.

The mall offers 4,500 convenient parking bays.

www.cradlestonemall.co.za

Page 48: December issue 2013
Page 49: December issue 2013

Mauritius, so far away, yet so much at home...

Mauritius, a sparkling crystal in the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean, will

fascinate you. The contrast of colours, cultures and tastes makes the island so

charming that the scene is set for an unforgettable holiday. Here, you have the

opportunity to experience unparalleled luxury: a level of refinement that is

head and shoulders above that on offer in other tropical holiday destinations.

Here, you will discover the true meaning of ‘beauty’ – a realisation that will

compel you to return to Mauritius’ shores time and again. Mauritius was

named after Dutch Prince Maurice Van Nassau...

Port Louis , the capital of Mauritius, was founded by the French governor and

colonist Bertrand-François Mahé de La Bourdonnais in 1735.

Situated on the north-west coast, Port Louis is the business and

administrative capital of Mauritius. Packed with office-workers during the day,

it quickly quietens down after office-hours – allowing visitors to enjoy a night

out along the famous Caudan Waterfront.

Those arriving during daylight hours should head for the bustling Central

Market or Champ de Mars: the oldest racecourse in the Indian Ocean region.

ww.tourism-mauritius.mu

Page 50: December issue 2013
Page 51: December issue 2013

Central Reservations Office

LUX* Resorts - Head Office

Pierre Simonet Street, Floreal

Mauritius

Registration number: 6590

Tel : +230 698 9800/ 698 2727

Fax :+230 698 4222

E-mail (rooms only): [email protected]

E-mail (rooms & flights):

[email protected]

Page 52: December issue 2013

The pinnacle of tropical elegance

World-renowned luxury five star resort in

Mauritius, Le Touessrok is one of the world‟s

great romantic resorts. It is the essence of

cool, modern elegance basking in the cultural

warmth of tropical Mauritius.

Le Touessrok resort Mauritius is one of the

“Leading hotels of the World”.

This majestic resort lies on a beautiful stretch

of sandy coast, with magnificent views of the

tranquil Trou d‟Eau Douce Bay. Out in the

lagoon are two beautiful islands; Ilot Mangénie

and Ile aux Cerfs , home to the resort‟s Le

Touessrok 18-hole championship golf course,

one of the best in Mauritius.

Le Touessrok hotel: luxury and elegance for

your holiday

Le Touessrok hotel Mauritius is five star luxury

at its best, the perfect holiday setting for

couples and families, with a fabulous range of

facilities, including an extensive choice of

water sports and land-based activities, 5

restaurants, a renowned Givenchy Spa and

personal butler service.

This five star resort also features three luxury

waterfront villas, which have redefined the

benchmark for luxury villas in Mauritius.

Open since May 2005, Le Touessrok Villas

offer ultra-exclusive and spacious

accommodation, using the latest technology to

meet the high expectations of the most

discerning guests to Mauritius.

Contact : Mr Nihad Kader Tel : +230 402 7700 - Fax : +230 402 7500

Email : [email protected]

www.letouessrokresort.com

Page 53: December issue 2013

On the southwestern side of the island, the soft

white sands of Le Morne Beach and its

turquoise lagoon create a magical setting

where lavishly appointed accommodations and

pampering converge amid the many charms of

Mauritius.

The St. Regis Mauritius Resort is a five star

luxury resort with 172 guest rooms and suites

with breathtaking views over the Indian Ocean

waters.

Bask in the sun by a luxurious pool or on the

beach; go wind and kite surfing; or escape to a

sanctuary of rejuvenation at the signature

Iridium Spa featuring 12 private treatment

rooms. indulge in the sublime pleasures of the

spa.

The Resort introduces a collection of carefully

selected restaurants and bars including Simply

India, the signature restaurant by Michelin star

chef Atul Kochhar, where accomplished master

chefs present exciting new fine dining

experiences to the guests.

Le Morne Peninsula · Mauritius · Phone:

(230) 403 9000

Central Reservations: +800 325 78734

[email protected]

www.stregismauritius.com

Page 54: December issue 2013

Recommended