1

Mahalapye – The Place of Lights

Celebrating African traditions and heritageTraditional African foods corner

ISSUE 02 2013CRESTACalling

Cresta Hotels nowin Victoria Falls!

Lusaka celebrates it’s Centenary in 2013

Visiting Victoria Falls– The smoke that thunders!

2

3

Contents

PUBLISHERRichard Lendrum

ASSISTANT EDITORMichelle Hinrichsen

MANAGING EDITORDebbie Bassa

FOR ADVERTISING CONTACTMuchaneta Musarurwa (Zimbabwe)+263 4 788 066

Priscilla Katholo (Botswana) 267 391 2222

Michelle Hinrichsen (South Africa)+27 11 881 1200

DESIGN AND LAYOUTTheuns Kruger

Cresta Calling is published by:Future Publishing (Pty) LtdPostal Address:PO Box 3355, Rivonia, 2128

Physical Address:No 9, Third Ave, Rivonia 2128Telephone: 011 803 2040Fax: 011 803 2022Email: andre@thefuture.co.zaWebsite: www.thefuturegroup.co.za

From the CEO 4

Cresta Moments 5

Annual HATAB Conference at Mowana Safari Resort & Spa

Northern Lethlafuna – a festival of culture and cuisine

Getting to know Sibo Gumpo, Group Commercial Manager

Competition winner

Housekeepers Convention 2013

Cresta Golfview wins at ZITE

Movers and Shakers

Getting to know Roddy Meiring, General Manager, Cresta Sprayview Hotel

Cresta Thapama donates to SOS Children’s Village

Town Focus: Victoria Falls 10

Town Focus: Lusaka celebrates 100 years 14

Chef’s Corner 15

Wine Review 16

Tech Review: Best Africa travel apps 18

Car Review: The all-new Mercedes Benz A-Class 20

Trivia 22

10

20GFUTURE GROUP

FUTURE GROUP

G

14

Is this info correct?

From the CEO

The second quarter of 2013 at Cresta Hotels has seen our projects for the year make great progress. Our expansion plans continue as we are proud to announce the latest

addition to the Cresta Marakanelo portfolio with its acquisition of the eleventh property, Cresta Jwaneng, effective 1 June 2013. This 65-roomed hotel will be classified under the African Roots Gateway.

Our refurbishment project at the Cresta Sprayview is all on track and we are looking forward to an opening in August 2013. The town of Victoria Falls is preparing on all fronts to host the UNWTO delegates who will arrive in August 2013. The hospitality industry of Victoria Falls is delighted to host the delegates and show them all that Zimbabwe has to offer. Cresta Sprayview was launched to the trade at Indaba and was extremely well received.Cresta Marang Gardens outside Francistown is currently undergoing renovations and remains open to the public, with the refurbishment to be complete in August 2013. The naturally charming atmosphere at Cresta Marang will benefit greatly from this upgrade, and we are confident that business and leisure travellers alike will be delighted with the new look and feel.

The refurbishment project at Cresta Lodge is more than halfway

completed, and the newly renovated rooms have been a huge success! The new rooms, combined with the Sango Conference Centre facility, have definitely filled a void in the conferencing and hospitality market in Zimbabwe for this type of venue.

Cresta Head Office in Zimbabwe has recently moved out of Cresta Lodge to 6 Kenilworth Road, Newlands, Harare.

On our Cresta Facebook page, we recently held a competition and the lucky winner will spend two nights for two at Cresta Mowana Safari Resort & Spa for free! Visit our Facebook page and you will stand a chance to win in the next competition - keep watching for it on www.facebook/crestahotels.com.

Group Executive Chef Brian Ndlovu has embarked on his Botswana tour which will see a new focus on buffets and presentation across all our properties.

We look forward to welcoming you to experience the true warmth of African hospitality at Cresta Hotels.

Glenn StutchburyChief Executive Officer, Cresta Hotel Group

Expansion plans continue at Cresta Hotels

Cresta Marang Gardens outside Francistown is currently

undergoing renovations, but remains open to the public.

We want to hear from you!Please feel free to submit your letters, questions and comments to the Editor.Send your contributions to: michelle@crestahotels.com

4

5

Cresta Moments

The Hospitality & Tourism Association of Botswana (HATAB) exists to promote, encourage and police excellence in hospitality in Botswana. It is HATAB‘s role to ensure that

all visitors, both from within and from outside Botswana, enjoy consistently high standards of service from the entire hospitality and tourism industry.

HATAB was formed in 1982 and the voluntary membership now includes more than 40% of all registered and operating tourism enterprises in the country. These members benefit in many ways. Through HATAB they police themselves, and also have a

voice that lobbies Government and other shareholders, to create an enabling environment for hospitality and tourism enterprises to thrive and prosper.

The objectives of the conference are to engage different stakeholders to discuss pertinent issues in the tourism sector and come up with resolutions as well as timelines.The conference offers all stakeholders a

platform to discuss available opportunities and challenges that hinder progress, performance and growth of the sector. It is also a networking platform which offers business linkages and synergies.

This year’s annual HATAB conference was held at Mowana Safari Resort & Spa on 3 - 4 May 2013 with the theme: Tourism – key to sustainable development and promotion. The keynote speaker for this year’s conference was Mr Alex Monchusi, who is the BOCCIM President and a mechanical engineer by profession.

Annual HATAB Conferenceheld at Mowana Safari Resort & Spa

2013 Annual HATAB Conference keynote speaker, Mr Alex Monchusi.

On 27th April C r e s t a T h a p a m a

participated in the Northern Letlhafula & Cultural Cuisine Festival, a traditional food festival sponsored by the Botswana Tourism O r g a n i s a t i o n . Members of the community were

invited to this event to celebrate in traditional song, dance, cuisine and culture. Famous local artists attended the occasion, and delicious Setswana cuisine was served.

The aim of Cresta’s involvement was to educate people, generate more visibility for the brand and create market awareness about Cresta Hotels, the Cresta Pride card and, of course, Cresta Thapama’s facilities. Although it was the first time Cresta Thapama participated in the event, the response was extremely positive.

Cresta Hotels had a beautifully set-up stall showcasing a range of Cresta products, and also contributed towards the traditional set-up of the head table for VIP guests. The entire exercise was spearheaded by the very energetic Guest Relations Officer, Ms Lorato Phukula.

Northern Letlhafula – a festival of culture and cuisine

6

Cresta Moments

Cresta Hotels welcomes Sibonokuhle Gumpo, a seasoned marketeer

with over a decade of experience in the hospitality industry. A Master of Business Leadership (MBL) advanced marketing graduate of the University of South Africa’s School of Business Leadership, Sibo’s research report for which she was awarded a distinction, focused on destination branding – an area that remains a passion for her. Working for hotels affiliated to international groups including IHG, Leading Hotels of the World, Best Western International, as well as exhibiting at international trade shows – including the World Travel Market (WTM) – Sibo has gained an insight into the best practices of her trade. In her new role at Cresta Holdings, Sibo is responsible for the Group’s marketing, communications, channels and revenue management portfolio.

A self-starter, driven by a passion to succeed and add value to the bottom line without compromising standards, Sibo is a brand custodian always on the lookout for opportunities to improve the Group’s performance and brand promise. Sibo believes that success lies in teamwork. She is a past beneficiary and alumni of the Vital Voices Global Partnership programme patroned by Hilary Rodham Clinton (www.vitalvoices.org).

Sibo’s skill set encompasses a wide range of expertise within the marketing and communications field and includes, but is not limited to: brand development, communication strategy planning, event planning (including local and international trade exhibitions), budget planning, marketing planning, Public Relations (including internal and external communications), employee relations (including on the job coaching and skills audit), inter-personal relations, social media strategy and planning, Corporate Social Responsibility/Investment, media strategy, website strategy and quality management.

Sibo is a highly qualified individual. Her long list of academic and professional qualifications include: Master in Business Leadership (MBL) (University of SouthAfrica); BA (Dual – Honours) French and Portuguese (University of Zimbabwe); Diploma in Public Relations, Selling& Sales Management and Marketing (London Chamber of Commerce and Industry

– LCCI); Managing Quality for the Hospitality industry (American Hotel& Motel Association); Sales & Marketing Management for the Hospitality Industry (American Hotel & Motel Association); Public Relations Diploma (London Chamber of Commerce and Industries – LCCI), and ISO 9000:2000 Quality Management Systems Development – for drawing up new hotel procedures, work processes and policies for best practice.

When time permits, Sibo volunteers as a Grade 9 computers teacher (Saturday School) through Rose-Act Outreach programme. The programme aims to improve Matric pass rate in Alexandra Township, Johannesburg, South Africa. Sibo has published an article on Destination Marketing (copyright: UNISA). She also

enjoys short-story writing, with her latest article being published under ‘Readers Thoughts’ in Destiny magazine, 2012.

Getting to know Sibonokuhle Gumpo Group Commercial Manager, Cresta Hotels

6

Congratulations to Janet Keretetse who has won a fabulous wine hamper courtesy of the Lengau Wine Company. Enjoy your prize!

Competition Winner!

7

Cresta Moments

The inaugural Housekeepers Convention was recently held in Gaborone. Conceptualised by Lyndon Jones from Contemporary Linens and executed by Amy and Electra

from Chain of Events, the prime objective of the convention was to provide a platform to congregate the country’s different hospitality groups, role players and stakeholders, with the main goal being the betterment and recognition of Housekeepers in Botswana.

The housekeepers that attended the event came from various destinations in Botswana, as well as Zimbabwe and Zambia. (The out-of-town visitors were accommodated in various hotels in Gaborone, including Cresta Lodge, Cresta President, Mondior Summit and The Grand Palm.) The convention included a two-day conference at the GICC, with a site visit to the Gabs Bedding factory, a gala dinner at the Lansmore Hotel, and a final dinner at the Cresta Lodge.

The conference was opened with an address from Nina Hamid, Vice-Chair of the Grading Standards, on Grading and the role of the Housekeeper in this process. During the conference, they

were addressed by Simone Lobetti and Michelle Kleer from H.A.S.A (Housekeepers Association of Southern Africa) on various housekeeping topics, including safety in housekeeping, purchasing correctly, the importance of hygiene services, and green cleaning. These topics were interspersed with presentations from various suppliers to the trade, giving the housekeepers tips on various products. The gala dinner at the Lansmore Hotel was addressed by Lily Rakorong, CEO of HATAB, who spoke on the importance of housekeeping and how integral it is to the tourism industry in Botswana.

A very successful and educational convention concluded with a relaxing dinner at Cresta Lodge, where housekeepers were able to network with their peers and discuss what they had learnt over the two days. “These dinners, they were awesome,” said Sharon Nyamangara, Executive Houskeeper from Cresta Thapama Hotel.

The housekeepers were spoilt with lots of lovely gifts, there was much excitement, and the housekeepers were all very keen to get back to work and put into practice what they had learnt. “I thought I knew everything about housekeeping, but I learnt a lot, and I can’t wait to teach my colleagues what I have learnt,” said Tshepo Seatshogeng from Falcon Crest Suites in Gaborone.

Housekeepers Convention 2013

Lily Rokorong, CEO of HATAB

7

8

Cresta Moments

The Zambia International Travel Expo took place in Lusaka, Zambia from 25 to 27 April.

This annual tourism expo is this biggest event for the travel industry in Zambia, managed and run by Africast Exhibition Management and endorsed by the Zambia Tourism Board and the Zambia Tourism Council. It is the only tourism exhibition in Zambia that brings together a wide representation of Zambian products that showcases Zambia as a destination for tourist and business travellers. The Zambia International Travel Expo or ‘ZITE’ attracts exhibitors from the region including Botswana, Kenya, South Africa and Zimbabwe, creating more opportunities to package regional products for both local and international markets.

Cresta Golfview Hotel participated in the expo and was awarded for the Best Hotel Stand overall. Cresta Hotels have won the award for two years running. Congratulations to the Cresta Golfview team – we are very proud of you!

Cresta Golfviewwins at Zambia International Travel Expo

Neo Nkele, Sales and Marketing Manager at Cresta Hotels was recently promoted from Cresta President, Gaborone to Cresta Mowana Safari Resort and Spa, Kasane effective1 March 2013. We wish you all the best in your new position!

Movers and Shakers

Air access to Cresta Hotels

BotswanaFrancistown: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia

Gaborone: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink, Kenya Airways

Kasane: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink

Maun: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink

ZambiaLusaka: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink,

Kenya Airways, LAM, Ethiopian Airlines, Emirates

ZimbabweBulawayo: SAA, SA Airlink, Air Zimbabwe

Harare: SAA, Air Botswana, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink, Kenya Airways, LAM, Ethiopian Airlines, Air Malawi, Emirates, KLM, Kulula.com

Victoria Falls: SAA, British Airways, Air Namibia, SA Airlink, Kulula.com,Air Zimbabwe

Planning your next trip to a Cresta Hotel?Below is a list of airlines servicing the destination cities of out hotels.

Flights to various destinations in and around Botswana, Zimbabwe and Zambia can be chartered through Cardinal Leisure.

8

Cresta Moments

Q: Why and how did you get into the travel/hospitality industry?A: My father is a well-known hospitality figure and he introduced to me the diverse industry at a young age. After finishing my schooling in Harare l moved to Cape Town and undertook a three-year hospitality course where l achieved my full AH&LA and HND Diplomas at The International Hotel School whilst undertaking my internship through the Cape Grace Hotel. From there, l worked mainly around Southern Africa for a couple of years including Indigo Bay Island Resort in Mozambique. This was not long before l moved back to Zimbabwe towards the beginning of 2010.

Q: What is best part of your job?A: The hospitality industry never allows for a dull day at work. Most importantly, l love to interact with guests from all over the world whilst assuring that their visit and stay within my operation is beyond their expectations.

Q: What are the most challenging aspects of your job?A: Wherever you go, whatever you do has its challengers. It’s all about how you turn a challenge into an opportunity.

Q: Do you have any career highlights worth mentioning?A: I took my first post as a General Manager at Ilala Lodge in Victoria Falls, a 4-star boutique lodge. During my time there it

got voted the best restaurant in Zimbabwe for the de luxe category by the Zimbabwe on a Plate Awards.

Q: What are your thoughts/predictions on the travel/hospitality industry as a whole?A: The hospitality on a whole in Victoria Falls is really on the up, and with the upcoming UNWTO conference in August 2013 the local infrastructure is really being enhanced and upgraded. There are also such positive feelings with the new 4 km runway currently being constructed. We now hope to bring in further long-haul flights and new airlines to the falls. With the recent rebrand and re-launch of Cresta Sprayview, this puts a new hotel into the international and local market specialising in the 3-star market.

Q: What do you do to relax – any hobbies or other interests?A: The hotel industry does not always allow for too much free time, so most importantly I enjoy spending time with my wife. Social events are always on my list and, when time and the opportunity allow, l do enjoy horse riding.

Getting to know Roddy MeiringGeneral Manager, Cresta Sprayview Hotel

On 11th April 2013, Cresta Thapama donated linen and towels to the SOS Children’s Village in Francistown. This donation was in line with Cresta Thapama’s

continued commitment towards corporate social responsibility and giving back to the community in which we conduct our business.

The event was attended by Francistown Deputy Mayor, Joyce Ndove, SOS Francistown Director Lydia Mhlelu, SOS staff members and the Cresta Thapama Management team. All had words of praise and thanks for Cresta Thapama for the noble deed.

Cresta Thapama donated the following:• Facecloths85• Pillows40• Pillowcases40• Bedcovers25• Doublesheets20• Bathtowels14• Handtowels10

Speaking at the occasion Cresta Thapama General Manager, Mr Dass emphasized the need for the private sector to come forward and lend a helping hand to the communities in whichever way possible. He also spoke about Cresta Marakanelo’s continued assistance to many such projects and its commitment towards Vision 2016 of working towards the creation of a just, caring and compassionate nation.

Cresta Thapama donates to SOS Children’s Village

9

10

VisitingVictoria Falls

It was more than a century ago that David Livingstone, armed with little more than sheer courage and a thirst for adventure, first glimpsed the spectacular Victoria Falls. From

his seat in a dugout canoe, Livingstone named the falls after the reigning British monarch, Queen Victoria, while the local Makalolo tribesmen who guided him to the Falls had their own name for the natural wonder: Mosi -oa-Tunya or the ‘smoke that thunders’.

From the moment they were discovered, Victoria Falls became the area’s greatest tourist attraction; not surprising when you consider that it is believed to be the largest sheet of falling water in the world. Situated between Zambia and Zimbabwe on the Zambezi River, there is much to do see and do in the region for adventurers and nature lovers alike, not to mention the rich and fascinating history shared by the Falls and the surrounding towns.

Looking back Shortly after Livingstone discovered the falls in 1855, large numbers of Anglo traders were attracted to the area and the first settlement of Old Drift, which today forms the Zambian Riverbank, was established. Later on, droves of tourists from the Transvaal travelled on foot, horseback or ox wagon to view the falls. Unfortunately, malaria plagued the town, and the population soon shifted to the present -day town of Livingstone, in Zambia.

Fast forward to the 1900s, and Cecil John Rhodes commissioned

By Samantha Du Chenne

Town Focus

11

Town Focus

the construction of the Victoria Falls Bridge as part of his dream to build a British railway line from Cape Town to Cairo. While Rhodes never visited the falls himself and, in fact, died before construction of the bridge began, it did much to increase the popularity of Victoria Falls as a tourist destination. Soon after the completion of the bridge, the Victoria Falls hotel was built and opened – indeed, the hotel remains operational today in the popular Zimbabwean town of Victoria Falls, and the Victoria Falls Bridge remains a major attraction in the area.

In recognition of the uniqueness of the area, Victoria Falls was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1989, alongside other natural wonders such as Mount Everest and the Great Barrier Reef.

What to see and do Livingstone is famously quoted as saying that ‘scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight’ when attempting to describe the beauty of Victoria Falls. Indeed, visitors to the falls cannot help but be awed by the breathtaking vista. Arching above the spectacular view is the ever-present ‘rainbow’ that is created by the spray from the falls, which rises to a height of over 400 metres. Those who are lucky enough to time their visits with the full moon can expect to see a ‘moonbow’ in the spray – a truly magnificent sight.Both Zambia and Zimbabwe are well geared for tourism, and the countries allow tourists to make day trips from each side; day visas are easily available from the border posts.

The areas surrounding Victoria Falls are a dream for lovers of adventure sports, and there is much to keep even the most demanding of adventure seekers occupied. Perhaps the most famous of these outdoor activities is the bungee jump from the Victoria Falls Bridge, a jump of 111 metres with the falls in the background and the Zambezi River below. The bridge itself is one of the best vantage points of the area, offering 360 degree views of the falls from one side to the other. White-water rafting is another draw card for adventure enthusiasts. Two-day, full-day or half-day trips are available, with 23 white-water rapids to negotiate amidst breathtaking scenery. In fact, there is a vast array of outdoor activities on offer in the region, including game fishing, horse riding, kayaking, elephant and lion walks, canoe safaris, gorge swimming, abseiling, and flights over the falls promising magnificent aerial views.

Many tourists extend their trips to include a sojourn on Lake Kariba in a houseboat – another unforgettable experience. The easiest way to access Lake Kariba is via the town of Binga – a three-and-a-half-hour journey from Victoria Falls, where a wide variety of houseboats are moored. Each houseboat is fully equipped with a captain, crew and a chef, and has a small tender boast for fishing trips and game viewing. The lake is home to 40 different species of fish, including the famous tiger fish. Indeed, tourists from all over the world enjoy the houseboat experience for game viewing and tiger fishing, not to mention the spectacular sunsets and, during the rainy season, awe-inspiring thunder storms, which are all part and parcel of the package.

Of course, those wishing to view the Big Five will not be disappointed either. There are three national parks in the area:

12

Town Focus

Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, the Victoria Falls National Park and the Zambezi National Park. The parks house a wide variety of game including elephant, buffalo, zebra, giraffe, antelope, lion and leopard, as well as the hippos and crocodiles that are found in the river above the falls.

Cool, tranquil walks through the rain forests that have thrived due to the continuous spray from the falls are well marked and paved. Knife Edge Bridge, which can be accessed by walking the path opposite the Victoria Falls Bridge, provides an excellent view point. During the dry season, it is possible to walk along the lip of the falls all the way to Livingstone Island, where it is said that David Livingstone first saw the falls. Another interesting walk is to the Boiling Pot, which allows for a view deep within the gorge where the falls descend. Be warned though - the climb is steep, despite the steps that are provided. However, the descent is easy and the view up to the Victoria Falls Bridge is remarkable. The spray from the falls is likely to soak you – so be sure to invest in a raincoat or umbrella which can be hired from the entrance gates.

For a taste of local culture, a visit to Mukuni Village is a must for any itinerary. Mukuni is an authentic tribal village, also offering a craft market where art and artefacts such as animal carvings, masks, drums, marimbas and jewellery can be purchased. Trading and bartering with local stall holders is possible. Every July, the Leya people of the Mukuni Village hold the Lwiindi Ceremony. During the ceremony, the Leya people (who believe their ancestors live in the gorges of the falls), offer sacrifices in order to receive rain.

History enthusiasts will benefit from a visit to the Victoria Falls Museum, where one can learn how the falls developed over time. The museum itself is built over an excavation site, where evidence of hominids was found from over two million years ago. Guided bridge tours will tell you all you need to know about the history of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the story behind its construction.

When to visit Victoria Falls There is no ideal time to visit the falls -it all depends on what type of experience you’re hoping for. The flood season, which takes place from March to April, allows one to view the full force of the falls. During this time of the year, the abundant spray obscures the view from on foot. However the aerial views are impressive.

The drier months of November and December see the falls become far less forceful, but the views of the cliffs that form the walls of the falls and the abyss below are well worth a visit. The weather during this time is particularly hot and dry and the

fishing is best during these hot summer months, with October being particularly noteworthy for tiger fishing. April through August are the coolest months in the region, providing warm days and chilly evenings with little rain.

What you need to knowProvided your stay does not exceed six months, the visa requirements to enter Victoria Falls on the Zambian or Zimbabwean sides are minimal.

For entry into Zimbabwe, countries are divided into three categories: nationals of category A countries do not require a visa to enter Zimbabwe; nationals from category B countries will be granted a visa at port of entry once the required visa costs have been paid; whereas nationals from category C must apply for, and have been granted a visa before they travel. This can be done via a travel agency or the Zimbabwean High

Commission in your country. To find out which category your country falls into, contact your travel agent or visit a travel website such as www.victoriafallsguide.net.

South Africans travelling via either Zimbabwe or Zambia do not require a visa, whereas British and American travellers will be granted a visa at the port of entry. Should you not wish to wait until port of entry to purchase your visa; these can be obtained from the Zimbabwean or

Zambian High Commission in your country.

Regardless of the category into which your country falls, certain requirements apply across the board. Your passport must be valid for six months from the date you arrive; you must be in possession of a return ticket or the funds to purchase one; you must have sufficient funds to cover your stay in the country and finally; there must be sufficient space available in your passport for the required visa stamps. It is important to note that Zambia does not recognise dual nationality; therefore you must be in possession of a passport from the country of departure. For the most accurate information on visas and visas costs, it is advisable to contact your travel agent, as the costs and conditions are often subject to change without notice.

There is a risk of contracting malaria in the region; therefore visitors are advised to take anti-malaria medication.

Victoria Falls is a destination that allows foreign tourists and locals alike the opportunity to experience Africa at its best – the climate, the wildlife, the adventure, the history and, most of all, the chance to watch as 546 million cubic metres of water per minute hit the river below.

13

Town Focus

Looking for a place to stay?

The Cresta Sprayview Hotel is 20 minutes from the Victoria Falls International Airport and is one of the first hotels you encounter as you get into town. The hotel is ideally situated, in

walking distance of the town of Victoria Falls, with its accompanying restaurants and curio markets and a short 10-minute walk to the falls themselves.

Set on eight acres of manicured grounds, the hotel offers a tranquil oasis from which to enjoy all Victoria Falls has to offer. Alfresco dining and the large swimming pool make the hotel a relaxing retreat for families, international travellers and honeymooners. The hotel has recently been refurbished and will open to guests in the month of August 2013. All the modern amenities such as satellite television, room service, conference facilities, a business centre and Wi-Fi in public areas are available.

Accommodation includes 60 standard rooms, as well as two suites and three family suites. All rooms are equipped with air-conditioning to combat the high summer temperatures the region can experience. In-room tea- and coffee-making facilities, as well as small touches such as personal safes, hairdryers and universal plugs, help to make guests feel at home.

With a long history in the area, the Sprayview Hotel originally opened its doors in the 1960s as Pete’s Motel later rebranded as the Sprayview Hotel, run by the Gardini family who recently entered into an agreement with Cresta Hotels to operate the property, which is rated as a three-star establishment.

13

14

Town Focus

Lusaka celebrates 100 years!

The city of Lusaka turns a 100 years on 31 July, 2013. A committee is already in place planning for celebrations that will take place over 13 days, with activities spanning

from a food and wine festival to a display of fireworks.

The history of the city goes way back to the 1890s when Northern Rhodesia was formed, after the area in which the city is situated was taken over by the British South Africa Company from the local chiefs. In 1924 the British Colonial took office and Lusaka was then named after the headman of a nearby village, Lusaaka.

The city’s growth occurred after 1935, when it replaced Livingstone as the capital of the British colony of Northern Rhodesia.

During the struggle for independence the city was where the Federation of African Societies founded the Northern Rhodesian Congress. After the federation of Northern and Southern Rhodesia took place in 1953, Lusaka was a hub of the civil-disobedience movement in 1960 that led to the creation of the independent state of Zambia, Lusaka becoming the capital. In 1976 the city and its surrounding became a province.

The choice of Lusaka to become the capital did not follow any traditional development pattern. The city was not the home of an established ruler, neither was it a natural fortification nor the most convenient point of meeting for travellers from all parts of the land. The town’s main feature was its central location and healthy climate.

Gazetted as a local authority by the British South Africa Company under a Village Management Board in 1913, the city has since grown from a mere village to become a budding city full of life and one of the fastest growing cities in Central Africa.

The city that first saw its first car in 1917 is now overwhelmed with traffic like many other African cities with an optimistic air of a town on the rise. Lusaka is a perfect example of what economic liberalisation can do for a country and its people. It is viewed from other cities in the country as the glittering capital and a persuasion for rural-urban migration.

With a population of over two million people, the city is surprisingly a haven, with most people trying to make an honest living, selling their wares or services and always with a friendly smile.

A visit to Lusaka is not just all work as the city boasts of upmarket night clubs and restaurants in the suburbs. However, pubs in the townships offer a closer experience of how Zambians ‘get in the groove’ and dance the night away to many different sounds.

Lusaka is, indeed, a sprawling metropolis with many multi-storey buildings, high-walled suburbs and busy shanty towns. Development has brought together people of many nationalities, making it a bustling centre for economic, political and cultural activities.

100 years is definitely an occasion worth celebrating. Happy Birthday Lusaka!

1908 Benjamin Glasser builds Lusaka’s first building – a store.

1912 Lusaka now home to a hotel, several stores, three maize mills, and a school adjacent to the railway station including Lusaka Trading Company Store.

1913 The British South Africa Company gazettes Lusaka as a local authority under a Village Management Board.

1917 First motor vehicle arrives in Lusaka, owned by Percy Morton.

1918 Standard Bank opens its doors.

1920 First aeroplane flies over Lusaka.1927 New 11-bed hospital opens.1928 First market built. 1930 Lusaka gazetted a township. Two new hotels open –

Grand and Imperial.1935 Lusaka becomes capital of Northern Rhodesia.1954 First Mayor elected.1967 Lusaka International Airport (now Kenneth Kaunda

International) completed.

Notable historical occurrences for the city over the last hundred years:

Chef’s Corner

15

Pinwheel Kingklip with Lemon Butter SauceINGREDIENTS• 4piecesofkingklip • 4piecesofbackbacon• 100gspinach • 1lemon• Parsley • Saltandpeppertotaste• Bayleaf

INGREDIENTS• 80gcreamcheese• 30gtennisbiscuits,

crushed into crumbs• 5tablespoons

strawberry pie filling

• 100gsugar• 2tablespoongelatine• 300gbutter,melted• Water

Strawberry Cheese Cake

METHOD1. Tenderise the fish using a flat meat tenderiser and set aside. 2. Blanch spinach and keep in cold water to maintain its

colour.To stuff the fish:1. Sprinkle the inside with salt and pepper to taste and add a

squeeze of lemon juice.2. Spread the spinach down the centre of the fish and place

the bacon on top. 3. Roll the fish and wrap it with silver foil.4. Boil the water for poaching the fish with bay leaf, onion and

salt.5. Cook for 20 minutes; let the fish cool in the refrigerator

before serving. 6. Serve with lemon butter sauce and seasonal vegetables.

METHOD1. In a medium bowl, mix tennis biscuit crumbs with melted

butter, and press onto bottom of springform pan.2. Melt gelatine with water in a large bowl. Mix cream

cheese, sugar, melted gelatine and strawberry pie filling. Beat until smooth.

3. Pour filling into prepared crust, chill in refrigerator for about 3 - 4 hours. Serve chilled.

Stuffed Beef TenderloinINGREDIENTS• 2tablespoonsbutter• ¼cupchoppedonions• 1kgbeeftenderloin• Salt• Freshlygroundblack

pepper• Soysauce• 100gSpinach

COOKING METHOD1. Preheatovento340degreesCelsius.2. In a medium pan melt the butter and cook onion over low

heat until tender for about 5 minutes and let it cool. Blanch spinach and keep it in cold water.

3. Butterfly the beef tenderloin by cutting the beef lengthwise down the centre to within ½ inch of the other side. Set beef aside.

4. Stuff the tenderloin by opening the beef and sprinkle the inside with salt and pepper and rub with soy sauce. Spoon the onion onto the beef and spread the spinach down the centre of the loin.

5. Bring the two sides of the tenderloin up and around the filing to meet, and using a butcher string, tie the tenderloin together.Placethetenderloininaroastingpan.Roastfor40min for medium rare.

6. Let stand for 10 minutes before slicing. 7. Slice and serve with demiglace sauce.

CHEF’S CORNERChef Letsatle, Head Chef at Cresta Botsalo, shares some of his delicious recipes.

16

Health CornerWine Review

ThePack,‘Guillermo’Pinotage2010SwartlandTASTING NOTESA rich full bodied wine sporting ripe blueberry and mulberry, exotic spice and creamy vanilla with evident ripe tannins and a long lingering finish.

THE VINEYARD Pinotagegrapeswere sourced from theKasteelsigvineyardwhich isownedbyPaintedWolf Pack members Billy (Guillermo) and Penny Hughes. The grapes are organicallyfarmed and will be fully organically certified in the 2013 vintage. The site is primarily red Glenrosa soil with some Oakleaf - both shale rich duplex soils. The vineyards are irrigated.KasteelsigvineyardsuppliesgrapesforsomeofSouthAfricanstopboutiquewines. Yields are round 8 tons to the hectare.

WINEMAKING The grapes were hand-picked into small baskets and taken to the cellar where they were hand sorted, destalked and gently crushed. The wine fermented in small open fermented bins with 4 punch downs per day. Before the wine was totally dry, we pressed and placed it in oak barrels to complete alcoholic and malolactic fermentation. ThewinematuredinamixtureofFrench,HungarianandAmericanoakbarrelsfor14months, approximately 40% new wood. A small percentage of merlot and Grenache were added to the wine to lift the fruit of the wine. 2400 bottles have been produced – the bottling has been split and is sealed with both natural cork and screw cap.

AGEING POTENTIAL This wine will age well in bottle for a number of years.

BLEND INFORMATION WINE ANALYSIS

92%Pinotage Alcohol14.6%

Residual Sugar 2.3g

45Grenache TotalAcid5.8g/lPh3.79

AWARDS & ACCOLADES Wine Enthusiast USA – 91 points and editor’s choice in May

Wine Advocate – 90 points

Platter2012–4stars

Painted Wolf winesPaintedWolfWinesisadynamic,innovativeSouthAfrican

wine company dedicated to the production of distinct, authentic wines, the conservation of African wild dogs and their habitat and the building of a community which share

similar interests and values.

Funds from every bottle sold go towards the research and conservation of this intriguing, beautiful but highly endangered species – successful long term conservation

of African Wild Dogs is only possible where large tracts of wilderness still exist…

Painted Wolf Wines is an advocate for the conservation of the highly endangered African Painted Wolf (African Wild Dogs) and the protection of the diminishing wild spaces of Africa, through its donations to The Tusk Foundation (www.tusk.org) , the Botswana Predator Conservation Trust (www.bpctrust.org) and the Endangered Wildlife Trust (www.ewt.org.za). To find out more visit www.paintedwolfwines.com

17

18

Tech Review

Best Africa travel appsfor your smartphone and iPad

1. KindleAmazon.com has by far the best selection of guidebooks, phrasebooks and books in general about Africa. With the Kindle app, you can download numerous books to your phone or iPad. It saves lots of luggage space, perfect for traveling light since the airlines are charging a fortune for extra bags. The Lonely Planet Guides work well on the iPad and iPhone, but they haven’t quite figured out their maps, so that’s a little annoying. The fact that you have the backing light on your phone or iPad means you don’t have to worry about power cuts or a reading light. Very convenient if you’re staying in a luxury tented camp, hut or dorm.

2. Wi-Fi FinderA Wi-fi finder that covers 144 countries and that includes plenty in Africa for a change! This is a great app especially if you’re spending any time in African cities. You can save your searches for later use offline. The listings for Cape Town,

Marrakech and Cairo are very comprehensive. My iPad relies on Wi-Fi; and I’ll personally try out their Accra and Kumasi recommendations on my next trip. The free Wi-Fi listings also act as an unofficial guide to great little cafes.

3. SkypeMaking international phone calls is notoriously expensive with high roaming charges to and from Africa. Figuring out the right SIM card is also tricky, especially if you are moving from country to country. Avoid it all by using a Wi-Fi connection to communicate with loved ones back home for

free! You can call or text, and even send photos and videos. If you don’t have the right phone, you can use Skype credit and get the same cheap and/or free rates. Also works with the latest iPod.

4. XE Currency ConverterA currency converter that’s free and easy to use on your iPhone, Blackberry, Android or iPad. It doesn’t get better than that. A very useful app wherever you plan to travel around Africa, especially since credit cards are not

very widely accepted, and you’ll be dealing with cash for the most part. All currencies are listed from Angola’s Kwanza, to Zambia’s Kwacha. If you also need help converting inches to centimetres and kilometres to miles, check out this Converter Plus app that does it all, including currencies.

5. TripAdvisorNeed to get a last minute hotel, or just walking around town trying to find a nice place to stay? TripAdvisor has by far the most comprehensive hotel and Bed and Breakfast listings in almost every African city and town;

f r o m the humblest guest house in Accra, to the swankiest hotel in Cape Town. Getting first-hand reviews from people who have recently stayed there is very handy since things change rapidly in Africa and a change in management can be disastrous to a previously well run establishment. The map showing the location of every hotel is excellent, would work well if you’re lost too, just find a hotel close by and pinpoint your location.

By Anouk Zijlma, About.com Guide

Here is a list of travel apps that I highly recommend you download on to your phone or iPad before your trip around Africa. Whether you’re planning a safari, or a long weekend in Marrakech, these travel apps are invaluable. On a recent trip to Rwanda and Tanzania I used my iPad to read guidebooks, convert currency, store videos (from my Flip), download

photos, take notes, listen to music, and play Scrabble. The battery life is excellent and a solar charger worked perfectly at the tented camp. Cellphone networks are more widespread and reliable than electricity, so a 3G connection works better than Wi-Fi.

19

Tech Review

6. StarWalkOne of the joys of travelling in Africa, especially when you’re on safari, is the truly awesome night sky. It’s a free show and you’ve never seen the Milky Way like this. And while I can somewhat make out the Southern Cross and occasional planet,

I’m woefully ignorant of the constellations. This Starwalk app is fantastic. Just point your phone or iPad to the sky and it will tell you exactly what you’re looking at. It’s a star safari every night for just $1. The app also shows you the moon phases, so you can head to a nearby beach for a full moon party. If you have an Android, check out Google Star Map.

7. WunderMap - Weather Forecasts from Weather UndergroundWeather underground is easy to use, has detailed temperatures, forecasts, and weather information for even the most remote locations in Africa. You can check on dew points, rainfall, wind and 4 day forecasts in both Celsius and Fahrenheit. The iPad app in particular is very nice, full screen and touch sensitive; perfect for planning your trip around African countries, since you want to know “when to go”. And while on holiday, it’s useful to get a forecast so you can plan your day around the weather. It’s easier than trying to figure out when the weather girl/guy will appear on local TV.

8. TomTom Southern AfricaGet your road and city maps with TomTom Southern Africa. Includes South Africa, Namibia, Botswana and other countries where self-drive holidays and renting your own car is an excellent option. Also includes easy contact options and direction

for local hospitals and police stations. No mobile signal or data plan is required to browse your map and navigate to your destination.

9. World Nomads Language GuidesWith thousands of languages spoken in Africa, there isn’t a simple translator app that will work for you in every situation. But luckily, most Africans speak at least two or three languages, and chances are you can get very far with either French, English,

Arabic or Portuguese. World Nomad language guides are free or just $1.99 to download. They all include useful travel phrases that will at least enable you to order a beer with confidence, and ask your cab driver how much the fare will be, and even flirt (awkwardly no doubt). The World Nomad Swahili guide is the only specific African language available, very useful throughout East Africa.

10. Sasol Southern Africa Bird GuideThe Sasol Southern African Bird Guide is a really excellent guide to have around, even if you are not planning to be on safari in Africa. Whether you’re enjoying a cup of coffee in an outdoor cafe in Nairobi, or checking into a tented camp in South Luangwa, it’s wonderful to spot a lovely little bird and actually figure out what you’re looking at. Many of the birds you see in the rest of Africa, will be in this guide, so don’t be put off by the “southern” bit.

Anouk Zijlma is an experienced travel agent, travel editor, and international traveller. She’s lived in Malawi and Kenya, and has travelled extensively throughout the continent.

20

Redefining the benchmark

When it comes to setting automotive standards, Mercedes-Benz is renowned for leading the way with innovative technology focused on performance

and safety. Now, breaking convention with a new take on what was previously perceived by some to be a car fit only for dowdy soccer moms, the new A-Class represents in the company’s eyes all that is sophisticated, sporty and stylish.

Though the front is easily recognisable thanks to the familiar three-pointed star and the wide grille typical of Mercedes-Benz, the sculptural shape – coupled with a low and wide stance – helps to place the car among the most purposeful-looking and progressive in the segment. As testimony to the eye-catching appeal of the design, more than 100 000 car fans from 52 countries voted the A-Class the Most Beautiful Car of the Year in 2012.

Interaction between design and aerodynamics is evident in the fact that the new ‘A’ sets the benchmark in its segment for co-efficient of drag– 0,27. In this department, attention to detail extends to tail light clusters which feature an eye-catching surface finish along with defined break-away edges styled to

help to smooth the flow of air around the rear of the car.Agility, too, has come under the spotlight, cornering ability improved considerably by the vehicle’s lower centre of gravity – better by 40mm compared with the predecessor’s – and by a wider track. Interestingly, Mercedes-Benz’s measurements indicate that the car’s overall height and seat height has been lowered by almost 18cm compared with the previous version.

Available with a choice of petrol and diesel engines, the A-Class boasts propulsion technology that helps to define it as a cut above. New-generation turbocharged and direct injection petrol-fuelled units – available in 1,6-and 2,0-litre capacities –offer good performance coupled with low fuel consumption.Mercedes-Benz spokesmen claim up to a 26% reduction in fuel usage for the smaller engine when used in A200 guise despite a gain in power output of15kW more than the predecessor’s 100kW.The quoted return for the model fitted with dual clutch automatic transmission (7G-DCT) is 5,4 litres/100km. The entry-level A180 version – which uses a similar engine tuned to produce 90kW –is more frugal still, returning 5,2 litres/100km according to the company’s tests, while even the range topper, the A250 Sport –fitted with the

Car Review

Mercedes-Benz breaks tradition and redefines benchmarks in the compact premium segment with the launch of the all-new A-Class. Nina Harms reports

The supplied text is more than 6300 words. It needs to be edited down to no

more than 2200, please.

21

2,0-litre plant which offers 155kW and 350Nm – is efficient, using jus t6,1litres/100km in combined cycle tests.As far as diesel units go, the new baseline engine develops 80kW and 260Nm and, coupled with a six-speed manual transmission, consumes 3,8 litres/100 km. CO2emissions are rated at a tax-beating 98g/km. The consumption figure represents a 22% improvement over that of the preceding model, which had an engine that delivered 20kWless power. Similarly, the A220 CDI – equipped with a unit that produces 125kW and 350Nm – is said to use 25% less fuel than its predecessor, in 7G-DCT guise consuming a claimed 4,3 litres/100 km.

Chassis and suspension set-ups include those aimed at delivering comfort or performance, while sports suspension – in conjunction with a Dynamic Handling Package or AMG Sport Equipment Line – is optional. On the road, the damping employed by the A250 Sport feels firm to the point of tautness, the chassis’ responses engineered by AMG to deliver low dynamic rolling behaviour and a low start-off pitch angle. In my view, the ride may prove too harsh for some, especially when bumpy tarmac is being negotiated.

On a positive note, when accelerating out of bends taken at speed, the tendency of the vehicle to under steer has been reduced by the incorporation of a system dubbed Extended Traction Control (XTC), in which the Electronic Stability Programme (ESP) provides additional support for maintenance of the vehicle’s directional stability.

In terms of safety, there’s no compromise in the new A-Class. According to Zimmermann, Mercedes-Benz has set new standards by providing ‘the highest levels of safety ever seen in this vehicle class’. Among the car’s features across the range are Attention Assist, Collision Prevention Assist and Pre-Safe. Optional safety measures include Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, side airbags in the rear and Distronic Plus, a cruise control device that maintains a constant following distance to a vehicle in front.

The interior look and feel of the A-Class does much to please the senses with high quality and soft-touch materials. With Urban, Style and AMG Sport appointment lines, three Design packages – Night, Exclusive and AMG Exclusive – as well as further optional

extras, the model can be customised to suit individual needs and tastes. With air conditioning, Audio 5 USB, electrically powered windows all round, Headlamp Assist and a 12-button multi-function steering wheel, the A-Class is substantially equipped even in its base configuration.

With regards to multi-media availability, the model offers an optional Drive Kit Plus for the iPhone. The integration of the system means that Mercedes-Benz is able to offer Twitter and Facebook users convenient accessibility while mobile.Setting another industry standard is the PremiumDrive maintenance contract of 6 years/100 000km, standard on all Mercedes models. Overall, it’s clear that with a revised design strategy and impetus on quality and safety,Mercedes-Benz continues to break boundries and revolutionalise the premium car park.

ENGINE

Type in-line four-cylinder, 16 valves

Displacement 1 595cc

Power 115kW @ 5 300 revs/min

Torque 250Nm at 1 250-4 000 revs/min

TRANSMISSION

Type 6-speed manual

DIMENSIONS/CAPACITIES/EMISSIONS

Length 4,292mm

Width 1,780mm

Height 1,434mm

Wheelbase 2,699mm

Wheels 16-inch alloy

Tyres 205/55 R16

Fuel tank capacity 50 litres

Consumption 5.8 litres/100km

CO2 emissions 98g/km

Luggage capacity 341 litres

PRICE R273 718 (A180 BE),

R355 000 (A220 CDI BE),

R392 626 (A250 BE Sport)

R273 718

PR

ICE

D

FR

OM

Car Review

SPECIFICATIONS

22

Trivia

10 Questions about Botswana

1. What is the total area of Botswana?a) 20,200km²b) 18,200km²c) 600,000km²

2. What is Botswana’s system of government?a) Parliamentaryrepublicwithaceremonialheadofstateb) Presidential Republic, executive power linked to a

parliament with an executive head of statec) Constitutional monarchy with a ceremonial head of

state

3. Which countries does Botswana border?a) South Africa, Namibia, Benin, Cameroon, Niger,

Chad and Zimbabweb) Benin,Cameroon,NigerandChadc) SouthAfrica,NamibiaandZimbabwe

4. What do you call a hundredth of a Botswana pula?a)Centb)Centipulac) Thebe

5. What is the basis of Botswana’s executive legitimacy?a)Ministryissubjecttoparliamentaryconfidenceb) Presidency and ministry are subject to parliamentary

confidencec) Presidencyisindependentoflegislature

6. What is the name of the President of Botswana?a) ThembaDlaminib) IanKhamac) ThaboMbeki

7. What is the date of the national day in Botswana (independence from the United Kingdom in 1966)?a) 9Juneb) 13Aprilc) 30September

8. What are the official languages spoken in Botswana?a) EnglishandTswanab) EnglishandFrenchc) EnglishandSwahili

9. What is the currency of Botswana?a) Kwanzab) Takac) Pula

10. What is the height of Otse Hill, the highest mountain in Botswana?a) 3,387m/11,112ftb) 627m/2,057ftc) 1,491m/4,892ft

CROSSWORD

1. c)2. b)

3. c)4. c)

5. b)6. b)

7. c)8. a)

9. c) 10. c) ANSWERS

TRAVEL QUIZ

ACROSS1. The country that has the most pyramids in Africa3. A well-known African language4. The ocean into which the Zambezi river flows6. The most populated city in Africa

DOWN1. The world’s largest desert2. The number of countries in Africa3. A peninsula, or tiny strip of land connecting Africa to

the rest of the world5. The longest river in the world

Keeping busy - staying sharp!