The Ballito December 2011

WE COVER THE BEST NORTH COAST BEACHES

social scenes | fashion | health | property focus beauty | gadgets and gizmo’s & the ballito meander

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Ballito

Jewel of the Zulu Kingdom

North Coast The iLembe region is a playground that stretches 110 kilometres from luxurious Zimbali in the South to the strong, vibrant Amatikulu River on its Northern Kwa Zulu-Natal border. Here, in iLembe, you can experience the very best of Summer living all year round and discover a region with a thirst for life that will feed your mind and recharge your soul. iLembe is a place where refined luxury and inspiring cultural experiences intertwine amongst the coastline’s fine sugar cane playgrounds, playful beaches and warm, golden sunlight.

With a line up of summer events to keep you entertained, iLembe’s playground is reinventing the good life, welcome and enjoy your stay on the North Coast.

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www.enterpriseilembe.co.za

Enterprise iLembe, Sangweni Tourism Centre, Ballito, P.O Box 593, Ballito, 4420 Tel: +27 (0) 32 946 1256, Fax: +27 (0) 32 946 3515, Email: info@enterpriseilembe.co.za

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Ballito

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Ballito Auto

Ballito Auto 032 946 5600 Eshowe Auto 032 474 1376 Physical Address: 6 Moffat Drive | Ballito | 4420 | Tel: 032 946 5600

NEW FORD KUGA 2.5 TREND AWD

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Ballito contents

December 2011 February 2012 to

CONTENTS

12 GADGETS AND GIZMOS For the non techno junkies and junkies alike! What is new gadget wise 14 IT’S ALL ABOUT THE RHINO 16 CHRISTMAS GIVE AWAYS Win special prizes in our very own Christmas Give Away.

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19 out and about with the social scene 31 wrapping up 2011 Owner of Comprop, Louise Gibson, sums up the commercial property landscape on the North Coast 32 our 3 shining stars in ballito 38 5 fabulous ballito beaches A look at our top 5 beaches that are a must visit this holiday 42 eating revamped Eating out at Lifestyle Centre has changed, take a look.

44 bernard’s forever 50 gillian’s christmas trends 53 unique fashion at azure

54 are you ready to sparkle this summer

56 what’s hot on the north coast Looking back at all that’s happened on the North Coast this year - well at least the highlights because there was just so much!

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64 capturing memories 66 local is lekker in ballito 72 rock ballito this summer 74 heading places 76 bustling barcelona travel 89 all new ballito meander plus all our regular features on health, property, lifestyle and much much more...

Check out the Ballito Magazine website at www.theballito.co.za Having a social scene?

Give us a call to cover it and get the photo’s in the magazine

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Ballito editor

PUBLISHER Lorinda Scott | lorinda@fabmags.co.za EDITOR Justin Scott | justin@fabmags.co.za GRAPHIC DESIGN Lyndie Pieters | lyndie@fabmags.co.za Daniel Rambaly | daniel@fabmags.co.za SALES Lucille Nagel | lucille@fabmags.co.za +72 83 747 3694 IN HOUSE JOURNALIST Storm Catterick | storm@fabmags.co.za ADMIN & ACCOUNTS Sharlene Reddy | sharlene@fabmags.co.za +72 32 946 3187

The face lift had all of us working hard in the last few weeks and as we head into the new year I want to thank the amazing team at FabMags. They’re great to work with and there is no doubt that the heart of our

Please share your views with us

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Also, try find time to dig your toes in the sand this Summer, it’s going to be a good one and if you find yourself vegging somewhere make sure your copy of The Ballito is close by...remember it’s got 100 pages to keep you entertained!

Till our next edition, have a great holiday and travel safe.

God Bless Justin Scott

We believe that getting feedback from our readers is extremely valuable. Whether it’s about something we’ve written about or something you think we should cover, we’d like to hear about it. While we’ve been doing this a while we don’t think we know it all and always believe their is room to learn. Send us an email at editor@fabmags. co.za or chat to us on twitter @theballito. We’d love to hear from you!

EMAIL info@fabmags.co.za EDITORIAL ADDRESS Suite 1B Silverstone Way Douglas Crowe Ave | Ballito, KZN front page Provided by Gillian K | 084 500 0804 PRINTING DNA Print (Pty) Ltd.

BALLITO A N O R T H C OA ST WAY O F L I F E M AG A Z I N E

w w w. t h e b a l l i t o . c o . z a

WHATS NEW 2011

AFFORDABLE HOMES

What lies ahead for Ballito this year

New estates that focus on quality, affordable living on the North Coast

new

kids corner, global travel feature and a focus on going green this year

TERRIFIC TRAINING

A unique approach to getting and staying, fit

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FEB - APRIL 2011 R11,95

SOCIAL SCENES | BUSINESS IS BUILDING PROPERTY FOCUS | BEAUTY | GADGETS AND GIZMO’S

OCT - DEC 2011 R11.95 THE BALLITO MAGAZINE

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SOCIAL SCENES | BELLA ITALIA | FASHION | HEALTH PROPERTY FOCUS | BEAUTY | GADGETS AND GIZMO’S

ISSUE 13

Firstly, the mag has had a small face lift. We hope you like it and we must say we’re proud to say we’ve officially hit 100 pages - What a milestone. Let us know what you think about our new look, it’s going to be around for the whole of 2012 so we’d appreciate your ideas and thoughts because ultimately we love doing this all for YOU!

I hope that you all find time these holidays to reconnect with the special people in your lives. They are so important and need to be cherished while they are here, even if they have quirks that get up our noses. Find time in the break to learn to have a new appreciation for them - it’s the best gift you can give yourself.

FAX NUMBER 086 605 0098

BB

Every December I’m faced with the challenges of getting everything I want to say into my editors letter. This year is even harder as our new style gives me a little less space...so I’m going to go straight to it!

OFFICE NUMBER +27 32 946 0357 | +27 87 807 8084

ISSUE 09

editors note

business is made up of the people who work here. I can tell you publishing isn’t a stroll in the park and it takes determination, passion and energy by the bucket load...and our team has all of it. So thank you, sincerely, for a great year!

Photos Justin Scott, Lorinda Scott Barry Bowditch 082 256 0006

THE

Our magazine designer, Lyndie, recently headed of to the USA for her honeymoon. With a magazine to get finished the task was handed to a rusty, less skilled editor. I’m glad she at least found time for some fun - and truth.

Welcome back Mrs Pieters, we missed you.

THE BALLITO MAGAZINE

While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the contents Fab Mags Publications cannot be held responsible for any omission or errors, or for any misfortune, injury or damages that may arise therefrom. TheBallito is published by Fab Mags Publications, Suite 1b, Silverstone Way, Douglas Crowe Road, Ballito, South Africa 4418.

Copyright TheBallito and Fab Mags Publications. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or any part is prohibited without prior permission of the publisher. All products and services featured in this publication are subject to availability and are not stocked by Fab Mags Publications.

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Ballito gadgets

Leapfrog LeapPad Explorer www.leapfrog.com

By Marc Forrest | www.marcforrest.com

TomTom Top Gear Edition www.tomtom.co.za TomTom recently launched the TomTom GO LIVE Top Gear edition, bringing fans a combination of a Stig mode, Jeremy Clarkson’s directions and unique Top Gear selected points of interest including race track and raceway locations related to the series.

Featuring TomTom’s congestion-busting HD Traffic technology, the new satnav will steer drivers through traffic jams and is packed with Top Gear features including start-up and shut-down screens and car icons. Drivers can choose to have The Stig mode, which renders the device instantly silent, or select Jeremy Clarkson’s voice to guide them.

At R1 999, the TomTom GO LIVE Top Gear edition includes one year of TomTom’s LIVE Services at no cost.

The flagship service is TomTom HD Traffic, which delivers dynamic routing and accurate traffic information every two minutes. HD Traffic gives drivers detailed incident reports, length of delays and reason for them, accurate travel and arrival times and alternative route proposals.

Blackberry Bold 9900 www.blackberry.com Blackberry recently announced the latest addition to the their phone lineup with the BlackBerry Bold 9900. The phone, which features a full QWERTY keyboard, as well as a touch screen, brings the best of both worlds to 1 device.

This is the fastest and most powerful BlackBerry experience yet. The BlackBerry Bold 9900 is loaded with a 1.2 GHz processor, 8GB of onboard memory, 720p HD video recording, dual-band Wi-Fi, and a built-in compass, and also comes pre-loaded with the feature rich BlackBerry OS7.

If you due for an upgrade, or looking to get a new feature rich smartphone, then the new BlackBerry 9900 is a must look at!

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Designed for little hands and big imaginations, the LeapPad Explorer takes learning to new heights.

With his or her own learning tablet, your child can have fun with phonics, maths and science and then take learning beyond the basics to geography, world languages, music and life skills such as brushing their teeth! As part of the learning adventure, your child can also practice writing skills with step-by-step instructions and a child-sized stylus.

Edutainment takes centre stage and, thanks to the accelerometer and 5” brilliant colour touch screen, little ones can enjoy a truly interactive learning experience. Disney favourites like Toy Story 3 and Cars put them in the middle of the action with HD-like graphics.

LeapPad Explorer helps children with their vocabulary and improves reading skills. LeapFrog’s largest library ever (100+ learning games, videos, e-Books, flash cards and more) and e-book functionality enables children to customise an endless variety of learning experiences. Characters and backgrounds come to life and the interactive dictionary reinforces the definition of a word through animation and audio effects.

The LeapPad Explorer is child-friendly in every way and can withstand rough play. It has a 2GB memory, 480 x 272 resolution and is designed to work in portrait or landscape orientation.

Additional features include volume control, a headphone socket and home button for easy navigation.

To expand the fun across platforms, the exciting library of Leapster Explorer game cartridges and apps are cross compatible with the LeapPad. The LeapPad is available at DionWired stores for R1199.

Kindle www.amazon.com The team at Amazon recently re-launched the ever popular Kindle brand with a number of new models. We took a look at the fantastic Kindle Fire last month, which is an Android based device which brings your books to life on a full colour device.

Amazon also relaunched a newer, slimmed down version of the Kindle, which has no keyboard, and is a WiFi only device. Weighing in at around 30% less than the standard model, pricing has also been reduced to make it affordable at only $109 (±R800) This makes the new Kindle the perfect Christmas present for the kids or mom.

SUMMER IS HERE….

BIG 5 AFFORDABLE NOW

Book now for your 5* luxury break at KZN’S Premier BIG 5 Reserve (20 000 acres) in the luxurious Nambiti Plains Private 5* 10 bed exclusive eco lodge. 3.5 hr drive from JHB. 2.5 hrs from DBN (Ladysmith area).

Midweek special R1 600 per person per night (includes 2 game drives, all meals, teas, coffees, welcome drink).

This lodge is one of a select few exclusive lodges that form part of FLAVOURS OF KZN (Fine dining). Other activities include – walking with cheetah, bass fishing, Elandslagte battle field tour (all extras charge) CALL THE LODGE NOW FOR WEEKEND SPECIALS! DAYTRIPS ALSO AVAILABLE!

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Ballito

It’s all about

the rhino Rhino’s are heading towards the same existence as the Dodo - Nonexistent!

Words Tammy Menton & Kirsty Fonzari

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t should be abundantly clear to every one of us that rhino poaching is a catastrophic problem and one that needs immediate action before the rhino as we know it is, much like the dodo, wiped out forever! You see stories plastered all over the newspapers, on Carte Blanche and in numerous other forms of media, but the real question is - is anyone doing anything about it? The answer, I am happy to say, is YES! There are numerous foundations and groups that are doing everything in their power to save this magnificent creature, notably the Ezemvelo Wildlife Project, to which our very own ACSA KSIA has generously donated a hefty sum to ensure the project is well-funded. We also have smaller foundations with big hearts, such as the International Rhino Foundation, Save the Rhino and the Imagine No Rhinos foundation, to name a few! We contacted the Imagine No Rhinos foundation and got to hear the story from a person in the know.

Ever since I can remember, my parents would take my sisters and me to the bush “on safari”. My dad was involved in the tourism and hotel industry, so he always managed to pull some strings in order to take his girls along. Some of the guests were clearly not impressed and I often felt that there was a giant spotlight on my sisters and me as the adults waited for us to misbehave, or step out of line, so they would have a reason to complain about us being there.

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But my dad had one simple rule…as long as we behaved he would keep taking us with him to the game lodges. That was enough motivation for the three of us to be complete angels during our stay. And if ever we were tempted, an early morning game drive or sun-downers at the local watering hole was more than enough to remind us of the bigger picture.

And what a picture it was! I don’t think I completely comprehended how lucky we were - at least not until much later. I would go back to school and share stories with my friends about the animals we had seen, or about the lion hunt we’d witnessed, or how we’d watched a litter of wild dog pups playing with their mom. Our friends were always in awe, as most of them only ever saw those animals for real during our annual school tour to the zoo.

I was hooked, and I believe that most people who have ever had the joy of experiencing a safari at a game lodge become fans for life.

People from all over the world travel to our gorgeous continent and, in particular, to our magnificent country, to experience this at first-hand for themselves, with the Big Five being the ultimate prize! The day will come when we want to take our kids on a proper “safari”….The problem is that they may only be looking out for the Big Four by then.

The plight of the rhino has been a concern for just about as long as I can remember and, although I always felt quite sad when a new story broke in the press about another rhino slaughtered for its horns, I believed that there was nothing I could do about it. How could one person make any kind of difference or stand up to these murderous thugs? That’s until I saw a video on YouTube a while ago about how some poachers cut the horns off a female rhino while she was still alive. The video went on to show the rhino’s suffering as she died slowly and painfully with her face savagely mutilated by pangas. I cried. But I was not alone…

As the year has progressed, more and more stories about rhino poaching have flooded the news. According to the International Rhino Foundation, last year saw 333 rhinos killed and that number had already been exceeded by early October. At this rate, the total number will be pushed to way over 400 dead rhinos for 2011 if the poaching onslaught is not halted. On the open market in the Far East, I kg of rhino horn sells for over $32 000, 00 (R250 000, 00).

Wildlife activists and extremists have called for all kinds of radical action, the most recent of which was to suggest injecting poison into rhinos’ horns and then they release a worldwide public statement warning potential consumers of this illegal substance of the risks they would face, should they choose to buy it.

Personally, I am all for that! But this action has been vetoed, so once again all rhino lovers are looking desperately for other ways to curb this on-going scourge.

It was around this time that I was approached by Kirsty Fonzari, Marketing Consultant at Cradle Hotels, Lodges and Resorts, to set in motion a social media campaign to highlight the plight of the rhino, particularly in the Pilanesberg, where two of their lodges are based. The owner of Cradle Hotels, Gareth Simaan, has initiated a joint effort with all the lodges in the Pilanesberg to raise funds to support the dedicated and trained anti-poaching teams that operate in the Pilanesberg Game Reserve. Pilanesberg has lost 17 rhinos since March 2010, six of which were the endangered black rhino. By focusing on a particular area, it is hoped that a results-driven action plan, with measurable outcomes, can be put in place. Once the success of this is proven, it is hoped to roll it out to other areas.

But for now we need the funds to get this initiative off the ground.

We have set up a Facebook page called Imagine No Rhinos and have asked people to “like” our page. Once they are fans, they can spread the word amongst their friends and friends’ friends.

We have a donate tab on the page that is linked to a PayPal account for easy donation payments. Any donation, big or small, is welcome and we encourage big corporates to get behind this worthwhile initiative.

Because we desperately need some feel-good stories, we recently launched our Rhino Beauty Competition, where fans are asked to post their favourite photos or pictures of rhinos. The wall post that gets the most “likes” after four weeks will win either a 1oz collectors’ gold Rhino coin, or a two-night fully-inclusive stay for two at one of the two Cradle lodges in the Pilanesberg. Get to www.facebook.com/ImagineNoRhinos and make your donation or post your favourite pic. We need you to get behind this cause, because alone you may not be able to make a difference, but with the power of social media behind us, as a group we can change the future!

They won’t make it without you…

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AS & CHRISTM ES VALENTIN KAGES DAY PAC E! AVAILABL

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THE BALLITO MAGAZINE

Your Moments Forever

Give the gift of memories this year!

..Maternity Maternity ..Newborns Newborns ..Toddlers Toddlers ..Weddings Weddings ..Special Occasions Special Occasions ..Studio Studio ..Location Location

Unit 2 | Home and Decor Centre

032 586 1052 Shop 81 | Ballito Lifestyle Centre

www.dbphotography.co.za

De witters@dbphotography.co.za De Witt Witt 071 071 607 607 1132 1132 / / THE witters@dbphotography.co.za BALLITO MAGAZINE 17

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Social Scene

BEEN SPOTTED? email us and we’ll send you a complimentary copy of your photo

EVENTS AND HAPPENINGS ALONG THE NORTH COAST

Lorinda Scott’s Hair done by headhunters Headhunter for all Social Scenes hair nail & Beauty

HAVING A LAUNCH, EVENT OR SOMETHING SOCIAL YOU WANT US TO COVER? EMAIL US AT EDITOR@THEBALLITO.CO.ZA

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2 THE EVENT St Leger Launch THE PLACE Zimbali gUESTS

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1. Sheila Dovey, Gary Searle, Kirsty Lindley, Liz Darroll & Donna Plater 2. Ilsa Van Niekerk & Michelle Throssell 3. Lucille Nagel & Sam Dannhauser 4. Amy Kidger, Sylvia Berthelson & Julie Seago 5. Solange Hannah & Kathy Barnes 6. Megs Tweedie, Gaylene Schmulian & Jenni McCullam 7. Lee Moon, Ann Alderton, Wisty Raleigh & Lianne Van Niekerk 8. Helen Byloo, Tasha Dane & Michele Roux

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social scene

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THE EVENT Ashton College Debutant and Squires Ball THE PLACE Collesheen Estate

gUESTS 9. Anita & Larry Sardinha 10. Liezel & Kaliq Essop 11.Tara & Stuart Blake 12.Karen & Gary Strydom 13. Alexia Loubsor & Matt Scruse 14. Tracey Davidson & Nic Birch 15. Cayley Gahagan & Travis Strydom 16. Andre Labuschagne & Cristan Sardinha 17. Harishta Mathura & Tagen Hendriaz.

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THE EVENT Gary Player INVITATIONAL THE PLACE fairmont Zimbali GUESTS

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18. Anthony Garstang & Wessel Witthuhn 19. Marco & Cath Coetzer 20. John Howe & Dave McFee 21. Pierre & Juanne Spies 22. Breyton Paulse & Phil De Sylva 23. Diana Luna & Fabio Orlandini del Beccuto 24. Gisela & Siegfried Errath 25. Nonhlanhla Saunders & Vicent Tshabalala 26. Peter Hanson & Carly Booth 27. Rebecca Throssell & Gary Player

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THE EVENT philips larson INC THE PLACE Zimbali Law Office GUESTS

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28. Joanna Govender, Reena Applesamy & Ian Naidu 29. Larry Aitken, Simon Bridges & Luke Meyer 30. Nombulelo Sithathu & Zanele Zulu 31. Jina Vlahakis & Aletta De Lange 32. Reshmi Nandlall, Beverley Gaul & Jeanette Swart 33. Ken Forbes, Graeme Phillips & David Jollands 34. Rod Sykes & Amelia Morgan 35. Kulshida Habib, Greg Larson & Joanna Govender 36. Natasha Jameson, Pamela Naidu & Kulshida Habib.

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social scene

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38 THE EVENT Tyson Properties THE PLACE Zimbali GUESTS

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37. Grant Horak, Sally Edlmann & Trenley Tillbrook 38. Lloyd Rees & Francois Van der Merwe 39. Brett Lambert & Ann McDonnell 40. Sally Edlmann & Samantha Daykin 41. Andrew Church & Paulo Da Rosa 42. Grant Horak & Lloyd Rees 43. Lucille Nagel, Trenley Tillbrook & Ann McDonnell 44. Surita Vithal, Ken Collins & Samantha Daykin

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43 THE BALLITO MAGAZINE

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Ballito

Ballito Bay Mall offers you the best undercover,exclusiveshoppingexperience, withleadingretailstoreslikeWoolworths, Checkers,Gameaswellasfoodoutlets-plus fun and games for kids.

Whenyouwantyourshoppingexperienceto complement your dream holiday, visit Ballito Bay Mall...

Yourholidayshoppingdestination 26

Find Ballito Bay Mall opposite the Tourism Centre in the heart of Ballito

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THE EVENT Tile trends & Union 3 Launch THE PLACE Home & Decor Centre GUESTS

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45. Justin Rosewarne, Chris Allen & Richard Du Preez 46. Diane Whittaker, Shana Pennington, Emily Simthers & baby Henry Smithers 47. Candice de Vlieg & Carey Davis 48. Dale Dennis & Yolande Kruger 49. Benno Terblanche & Dylan Jahnig 50. Gill Birch & Tracy Levinson 51. Danica Callaway & Tyler Whittaker 52. Andrew & Melanie Clarkson 53. Vanessa Wade,Pierre Scholtz & Janine Wade

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55 THE EVENT the well Launch THE PLACE The Well, Ballito gUESTS

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54. Lyzette Kotze, Terence Bray & John Bleach 55. Tim Johnson, Mark Johnson & Andreas Wassenaar 56. Lisa Bailey & Brett & Andrea Florens 57. Charlie Birt & Greg Taylor 58. Jane Wassenaar & Felicity Jameson 59. Lorinda & Justin Scott 60. Chrissie Johnson, Mike & Sandra Schuit & Lara Garz 61. Jane Wolff, Megan Dreyer & Lauren Dreyer

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wrapPing up 2011 By louise gibson

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n the space of six short years the landscape of Ballito has changed dramatically, from what was once “Seaward Farm” to a vibrant retail and commercial hub, the Ballito Business Park.

With the likes of a McDonald’s drive-through, Land Rover, Builders Warehouse and Virgin Active showing serious commitment to setting up shop in the near future, it seems that commercial and industrial activity in Ballito is about to take off in 2012.

The latter part of 2011 seems to have set the stage for a very exciting new year, with more commercial property sales, enquiries and leases being brokered in the last few months than in the last two years.

To illustrate this point, on the day of the launch of Ballito Services Park North, one of the nine serviced platforms was sold for R11m. The Durban based purchasers of the 14 670 m2 site announced their intention to build 24 industrial units in two phases, available for lease or for sale, in answer to the increasing demand for space on the North Coast. Given the shortage of serviced industrial land for sale north of Durban, the Ballito Services Park North is likely to cause a noticeable shift in industrial focus to the opportunities north of the airport.

The airport itself has become a node around which much activity is taking place. ACSA report that King Shaka International Airport will be processing 5 million passengers for the year, which is a 5% increase on the previous year whilst we saw the launch of the first Durban based airline, Velvet Sky and the announcement of a possible Gatwick - KSIA route by BA Comair. Airlines continue to see the opportunity and Emirates are negotiating the possible introduction of a second daily flight while Air Mauritius is likely to add a third weekly flight in 2012. Next year’s plans include the construction of a fuel station and some exciting developments within Dube City including offices, light commercial and even the possibility of a hotel.

In Ballito itself ,The Quarter, Ballito’s newest boutique retail centre, with its unique tilt-up method of construction, went up in record time with JNM Construction working around the clock to have the premises ready for trading in December 2011.(See the feature on The Quarter further on in this edition) Autodromo Monza, Ballito’s first motor repair hub, is another successful North Coast project that opened ahead of time in December. This one-stop answer to motoring service and repair needs will be tenanted by the likes of Midas, Hi Q, Bosch, Winclo Assessment Centre, Oblique Engineering,

Ballito Road Worthy Test Centre, Automotive Care and Diagnostic Centre (ACD), and Mark’s Auto.

With national brand tenants making Ballito their home, the changed landscape seems set and demand for prime property investment continues to grow.

Access to this changing landscape can be visited online through Comprop’s updated, easy to navigate site www.compropballito.co.za and our innovative approach has extended into the social media arena with our own Facebook page.

ComProp has listed a number of new commercial property investment opportunities and with our new financial programme, we are able to provide long term investment performance indicators for these properties.

The recognition of property opportunities for investors and businesses, given more competitive pricing, available serviced land, and new developments coming on stream, all indicate an optimistic outlook for business in Ballito in 2012.

Louise Gibson Owner, Comprop

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Ballito

Star

Manuella Botha

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hen Manuella walks into any room, this tall, gorgeous, well-put-together woman draws your attention. She moved to Ballito five years ago with her husband, Pieter, and her two sons, JJ and Pierre. With her keen eye for fashion and all things beauty-wise, she came to our little town with big hopes, dreams and the determination to excel! (Which she has.)

Manuella says that she’s had the fashion “bug” from a young age and that all of her friends would come to her for fashion advice when they were shopping and choosing clothes. In 2003 Manuella decided to make her passion her life’s work by studying to become an image consultant. With eight years’ experience behind her, she is definitely worthy of being hailed as Ballito’s very own Fashion Star!

During her first year in Ballito she was fairly apprehensive as there were already established, well-known businesses specialising in image consulting in town, so with that in mind, she focussed all her efforts on networking, getting to know the community and, most of all, getting her name and line of work recognized. After going to a business coach she decided to get an image consulting business up and running. Awareness of her business grew tremendously by word of mouth and within two years she had a fantastic client-base and was a wellknown business woman, so much so that Anne Dreyer from Colour Works International, a very reputable image consulting company, head-hunted Manuella and offered her the deal of a lifetime - a partnership in the company.

Manuella says that having someone of Anne’s calibre ask her to be a partner was her proudest moment and a huge honour; one that she will cherish forever! With this achievement she could tick off an important goal on her list, which was to work with a multi-national company.

This flourishing fashion guru was also nominated for the Business Achievers awards. When asked how she juggles work and family, Manuella said that she doubts that you will ever get it perfect, but that time management is imperative and that, no matter what, family always comes first!

There is no doubt that this ever-passionate woman has lots of determination and is definitely not done growing yet.

What lies ahead for Manuela in the next year is a lot more hard work in getting her name recognised on a national or even international level. She believes that if you want to be successful in life and work, you cannot focus your efforts on too many things at once as you will end up doing them halfheartedly, being only OK at a few things instead of fantastic at one.

We look forward to watching her continued growth and may more women be blessed by meeting her and finding themselves!

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Giving Star Louise Robinson

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uring her six years in Ballito Louise has certainly made a name for herself, not only as a leader, but also as a giver! She is an event co-ordinator to be reckoned with, especially since her pride and joy, the Miss Ballito competition, went off without a hitch!

far in her life was being able to conquer cancer without having it control her life or impact negatively on her family and friends.

Through this daunting time Louise managed to see the good in everyone and realised that though they truly wanted to help, many didn’t know how.

She has also been very involved with The Junction shopping centre’s holiday programmes and events, which have always been a huge success. Louise believes that her successes are thanks to her Mom, a woman she describes as strong and hopeful, who made her daughters feel as if they could reach for the stars and achieve greatness, no matter what! She instilled a great key attribute into her two girls that Louise feels is the perfect recipe for success. She explains that work is internal and that people can tell you what to do but unless you are internally driven or feel 100% invested in the project, you cannot succeed.

So, through all the events that she runs, Louise takes it upon herself to orchestrate ways in which people can help the lessfortunate. Despite great challenges and misfortune, she has strived to overcome any obstacle she faces and rise above it all with a smile on her face. She believes that when you go to heaven, God is not going to ask you how much money you made, but rather how you have made a difference in the lives of others. She explains that when you live a life of impact you will be able to see the ripples of your actions in the faces of the people that you touch.

At the beginning of the Mrs SA competition last year Louise was diagnosed with cancer and she realised that life was too short to waste. She is certainly no quitter and simply charged through the Mrs SA competition, even when people told her to take it easy.

She ended up walking away as the runnerup Mrs SA. Her proudest achievement thus

Louise is a bubbly lady with a lovely smile, real passion for Ballito and its people, her family, husband and two daughters, her friends and her amazing walk with God. Louise and her family have recently embarked on a new journey and we wish them a prosperous, healthy and blessed one and that she may continue to change lives wherever she may go!

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Ballito

34

ADJACENT TO THE N2 FREEWAY, SALT ROCK OFFRAMP

032 525 8030

PropertyStar Andreas

Wassena ar

Andreas is a very enthusiastic and unbelievably driven individual who is deeply rooted in the heart of Ballito, and has been savvy to its growth since the ’90s.

More recently this property star has made his mark in the property market with his relatively new and very successful Seeff franchise in Ballito. Andreas has lived in Zimbali for the past six years with his wife, Jane, and their children, Ross and Caroline, but has worked in the area since 1997, being intimately involved with the early phases of Zimbali as sales and marketing director. Always open to new challenges, Andreas bought the Seeff franchise for the North Coast in 2009 and, in his typical professional manner, has built it into a significant player in just a short time. With his strong leadership attributes and a passion for perfection, Andreas also has a deep respect for the team around him and acknowledges that without his expert team he and the company would not be where they are today.

Andreas believes his success stems from his determination to be the best at whatever he does, which is part of his genetic makeup.

Out of the office this dedicated family man also has a passion for surfing and kite-surfing. When he isn’t in the sea he likes to mountain bike and loves going to Holla-Trails when he can find the time. “Working in Ballito and having your family close by is definitely the way to go as time can be easily balanced between family, friends and work because everything is so close.” says Andreas. This property star honestly believes in his product and feels blessed to be part of a community that has blossomed over the past few years, especially Zimbali, which he endorses as the best place on earth to live in and a great place for kids to grow up in.

It’s not all business, though. With his strong sense of community, Andreas feels that more attention needs to be given to the disparity between what could be perceived as the opulent Ballito lifestyle and that of those less fortunate who live outside that blessed standard of living. With hungry orphans and children needing help, Andreas plans to focus more of his time and that of the Seeff team on seeing how they can make a difference, adopting the philosophy that your success is measured by what you give rather than what you take.

With all that’s been achieved this year, our property star is still forging forward, with plans to grow the business and maintain the professional and quality service he and his team have become known for. Andreas believes that they’ve only just started their journey and he is very excited to see what the future has in store for them.

There’s no doubt that Andreas is a property star and a shooting one at that!

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Ballito feature

reat jewellery is very personal as you are essentially buying something that is going to be in your life forever and then be passed down from generation to generation! Great jewellery always comes with a price, but no price can overcome the excitement you feel when you make your purchase or the great memories that you are going to experience with it.

Great jewellery comes with a feeling, an emotion that lasts forever. If it doesn’t, then it’s not great jewellery - if it doesn’t then it’s definitely not Mark Gold Jewellery.

Mark Gold are definitely jewellers of distinction and a name to be reckoned with, with innovative designs that break the mould of merely OK to out-of-this-world! Seeing jewellery pictured on a piece of paper cannot be compared to experiencing it at first-hand, so we decided to visit Mark Gold in Innes Road, Morningside where we spoke to the owner, Dean Gorrie, a master-jeweller and all-around amazing guy to find out why it is that this company is THE destination jeweller in South Africa.

36

In the jewellery industry you are often bombarded with throwaway imitations that don’t last, so it is refreshing to visit a place that is dead-set on providing hand crafted, top quality jewellery that doesn’t just claim to be different and unique, but truly is. Mark Gold creations, unlike much other jewellery, are not mass-produced; the company has stuck to its guns and provided top end, handmade, bespoke jewellery. With most jewellery your love for it fades, but owning a piece from Mark Gold ensures the kind of love that never dies!

At Mark Gold everything is made in-house and nothing is bought in and resold, so everything you see and touch is a true representation and experience of what the company does and the relationship between the pieces.

Each piece is unique, with a sense of individuality, but you can see the Mark Gold influence in all of them, as well as the care, time and quality that goes into making every piece. Another thing that makes Mark Gold jewellery so exclusive is that the company continually evolves its designs rather than always trying to create something new that

has no relationship to or connection with the rest of the pieces. Every range is an evolution of what the company has done before, so the items continue to get better and better while still retaining the “DNA” of its predecessors.

Not only that, but in what other jewellery store can you gaze at magnificent jewellery which the likes of Celine Dion, Princess Charlene of Monaco and Jensen Button have purchased, or sit in an award-winning coffee shop that offers a vibey atmosphere along with expensive, handpicked, single-origin 100% Arabica beans? Ah, nowhere!

Dean is an extremely interesting and passionate guy which shows through in the jewellery. You cannot fake that kind of passion; it is the result of making your profession an essential part of your life. His infatuation with jewellery stems from the underlying factor that it is always affiliated to all the pleasant things in life, such as birthdays, engagements, anniversaries etc. Dean says that being able share that with someone is priceless, as a bit of you is and forever will be a part of a special moment in someone’s life.

words Storm catterick

G

Mark Gold

A lot of the company’s preferences are for heavy items that are relatively chunky and bold - definitely not for the introverted or faint-hearted people. While saying that, the jewellery does not feel heavy and is in fact without a doubt the most comfortable piece of jewellery you will ever wear. A lot of the inspiration behind Mark Gold comes from Italy - the food, the culture and the overall ambiance, as you know the Italians are very bold people and they just know how to make things beautifully.

At Mark Gold you don’t just receive an exquisitely intrinsic piece of jewellery you are receiving a memory, an experience and a lifelong relationship, and a great cuppa to boot. It most definitely is a destination store that will leave you biting at the bit for jewellery that will send you into a state of frenzy and greed- yes they are that good! If you are in the market for a special ring for a special someone! There is no question about it Mark Gold is the only place to go where your love for the person is symbolised in the plethora of jewellery they offer.

“There is just no other jewellery like it”

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Ballito

5

Fabulous

words storm catterick

beaches

38

lito

HotB al

five top

Dolphin Coast

beaches words Storm catterick

This summer many of us will make our way down to the beach. Ballito and the North Coast boast some of the best beaches in the country offering up a beach buffet depending on what you want to do or where you want to go. We take a look at our top five.

One of the best reasons for living in Ballito is the array of beautiful, pristine beaches to choose from. All the way from Salt Rock and up towards Ballito you have the most amazing beaches to choose from when the sun is out and the kids want to play.

There is nothing better than relaxing on golden sand and soaking up the warm African sun whilst sipping on an ice cold... Coke. For us lucky ‘Ballitoites’ we literally have a beach for every occasion that will suite every beach lovers needs!

Safe swimming beaches, popular surfing beaches, quiet beaches, vibey beaches, family beaches, diving beaches and doggy beaches. What more could one actually need? Ballito also has an amazing promenade that links a couple of our great

beaches, making moving around easier and giving us an idyllic location to walk or even run on those perfect summer mornings.

Because it’s December, the sun should be shining and the holiday vibes coursing through your body, so we thought we would profile the Dolphin Coasts five best beaches for you to enjoy this summer!

Living in such a coastal sunny town this task was not difficult at all- from Salt Rock up to Ballito we chose some of the most immaculate, untainted shores on the east coast of South Africa. We’ve got our best five beaches covered and while most of you already know about them, a lot of our visitors are going to love what we have to offer with great surf, awesome rock pools and amazing, sandy beaches.

Whether you’re going for a run on the never ending promenade or soaking up the rays on our broad beaches we know you won’t be disappointed. Many of the beaches have nearby restaurants that are literally a hop skip and a jump away and offer up a place where you can enjoy a wholesome meal or a cheeky midday cocktail and relax whilst the crashing of the waves sends you into a complete state of utter calmness!

Nothing beats the dolphin coasts golden shores for a summer not to be forgotten...

So get your bikinis ready ladies, as it’s going to be a tanning fest frenzy and men, please no speedos - strictly baggies only!

39

Ballito beaches

It’s time to head to the beach. The wind blows through your hair. The warm sun bathes your skin. Soft golden sand caresses your feet. The waves sing to a perfect rhythm and the trees sway against the breeze. If you love the sun and the sea, the beach is the right destination for you. So grab your sun tan lotion and your Frisbee and go frolicking to the beach.

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willard beach

First on the list is the beach famous for its rambunctious waves and for hosting the annual Mr Price Pro surfing competition, Willard Beach, otherwise known as Ballito’s main beach, where all the cool kids go after school to get some rays and check out the epic surf, man (laugh). There are qualified lifeguards on duty so keep an eye out for them during season, plus a fullyequipped first aid station and if that still doesn’t float your boat (excuse the pun) it is also protected by shark nets. Besides being the hip place to be, it is also kid-friendly and boasts an immense number of little sea creatures.

Although it’s a bit rocky in places, it is a nice little playground with great spaces for kids to scavenge around in.

Clark Bay

Clarke Bay has lovely rock pools on either side of the beach area. It is fullyequipped with lifeguards and shark nets. The beach is situated between Main Beach, Byron Bay and The Pass and is in the most protected area, only exposed when northerlies are blowing, so it is a great place to catch some rays or to go windsurfing. The sunsets from the beach are spectacular, perfect for a romantic evening stroll. Just south of Clarke Bay is the Ballito tidal pool where many visitors of all ages like to enjoy a relaxed swim. The tidal pool is well-maintained and has some interesting sea life to be found.

thompson bay

Just north of Ballito lies the pristine beach of Thompson’s Bay. The beach has both qualified life guards and shark nets. Probably the best thing about the beach is the awesome tidal pool, otherwise known as Charlie’s Pool, which provides safe swimming conditions for both youngsters and the “not-so-youngsters”. The only downside is that it is quite a walk down from

the dedicated parking spots to the beach so prepare yourself and make sure you pack smartly if heading down as a family. This is very much a family beach and perfect for couples with young children with nice beach area and protected tidal pool.

Salmon bay

South of Ballito is Salmon Bay. This beach is a designated launch area for watercraft. It is popular amongst surfers and is a location where boaters launch from. With the un-spoilt beaches, it is a great place to enjoy the breathtaking sunsets. Salmon Bay is a dog friendly beach with long stretches to take your dogs for a run and get some much needed exercise. The beach is also known in the community as a great surfing and jet skiing spot and is perhaps the beach best positioned to the various restaurants close by.

Salt rock beach

Last, but by no means least, there is Salt Rock Beach, which is probably one of the best surfing beaches in KZN. However, be careful if you have kids as there are a lot of backwashes and currents to contend with. Nevertheless it is an extremely popular spot and has trained lifeguards on duty. Near the main beach is a massive tidal pool which was originally built for the use of guests staying at the hotel. Salt Rock Beach is also known by locals as a rewarding spot for fishing and, thanks to its beautiful reefs, it is great for diving, promising hours of enjoyment.

The nearby country club caters for visitors’ basic sporting needs with tennis, bowls and squash. There is also a well-kept swimming pool.

Lifesty

le Cent r 032 586 e Ballito 3221

Beach and Beyond brings you everything you need to complete your holiday wardrobe, glamorous and stylish beachwear to flatter every figure. Your one stop holiday beach boutique we stock the best selection of local and imported swimwear all selected to compliment and inspire confidence on the beach.

New brands in every week, including:

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Ballito dining

contact details John Dorys Shop 2 Lifestyle Centre 032 946 3009 mugg & bean Shop 3 Lifestyle Centre 032 946 0007 zaras cafe Shop 89 and 90 Lifestyle Centre 032 586 3204 beira alta Shop 6 Lifestyle Centre 032 946 2388

john dorys wanna eat out?

If you live in or visit Ballito often you’ll know about the familiar restaurants found at the Lifestyle Centre.

With the latest extensions to Lifestyle, the centre went one step further revamping the area where its restaurants are found into more of an eating promenade where outside dining is possible and the fresh smell of a blend of cuisines waft through the air.

The changes weren’t just building related as each of the restaurants jumped at the opportunity to change their decor and upgrade their own space.

The end result is a wide variety of the best food delivered in a relaxed, holiday setting offering up a prime location to stop off and enjoy an exceptional meal.

zara’s

eating revamped 42

mugg & bean

beira alta

mugg & bean

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BERNARD’S

words justin scott

Ballito

FOREVER Celebrating a year in their unique, in house design and manufacturing store, Bernard’s

Jewellery Design and Manufacturing is putting a sparkle in its customers eye through its excellent service and broad range of products.

Bernard’s Jewellery Design and Manufacturing celebrates a year of being at its store in Ballito Bay Mall, having opened its doors to the public in December last year, and has proudly found new life in old jewellery or designed new pieces for many of Ballito’s own ‘celebrities’ since then.

The store has become a well known destination for many of us in Ballito as Bernard and his team have worked hard at building relationships with the many of the local community, attending to their every jewellery need. Knowing the intimacy of jewellery and its innate ability to connect with people emotionally, Bernard has put his many years of experience into practice delivering nothing less than great service, at realistic and affordable prices, across a wide variety and range of products to locals.

Getting the product mix right is very important to the Bernard’s team as they strive to ensure that everyone who visits the store is able to find something that

44

appeals to their specific taste or desire.

When it comes to breathing new life into old jewellery or working with customers in designing new unique, custom jewellery - it all happens on site in the store. The inhouse design appeals to many customers, especially brides, as it is a tangible and collaborative process that begins with conceptual design of a ring and moves through the various manufacturing phases into a final product, all in one location.

In the last year the qualified team have not only sold new jewellery to happy customers but have worked with many owners of older jewellery that has needed repair or upgrading and in doing so is one of the only manufacturing jewellers that also manages repair work. With the ability to source all types of diamonds or semi precious stones Bernard has been able to revive many older, and sometimes forgotten, pieces of jewellery for customers.

crystal glass as well as being stockists of the popular Donna Mia and Nomination bracelets which combine high fashion and international appeal with affordable pricing.

The store has also grown its products in the last year and boasts an impressive range of watches, silver jewellery, pearls,

Visit Bernard’s at Shop No. 62, Ballito Bay Mall or call him and his team on Tel : 032 586 0889

Bernard and his team take great pride in the quality of the craftsmanship and their selection of exquisite diamonds, precious stones and other complementary jewellery. They are committed to continued exceptional service and their pursuit of complete customer satisfaction.

As a professional team, Bernard’s will continue to offer a service which is personal and intimate while they aim to meet the unique requirements of each individual client that visits their Ballito based store.

Appealing

SALT ROCK R2 995 000 Spacious 4 bedroom double storey home with modern finishes. Established garden and double garage.

Stunning Position Exclusive Mandate

SHEFFIELD BEACH R15 000 000 480m2 Beachfront home Spacious living and entertainment areas.

Staff accommodation.

Estate Living

“These gems have life in them, their colours speak, say what words fail of�

George Eliot

SIMBITHI R7 500 000 4 Bedroom family home. Granny flat, 3 garages & swimming pool. Secure eco-estate.

Invest Intelligently

BALLITO R11 500 000 5 Bedroom home with loads of space and great entertainment areas. Spectacular breaker views.

Fiona Crago: 082 551 2607 Robyn Jackson: 072 453 8267 Office: 032 946 1439 Fax: 086 607 8999 fiona@fionacrago.co.za www.fionacrago.co.za

Invest I ntelligently45

Ballito

?

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DURBAN | 031 576 5901 sahldbn@sahomeloans.com

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Terms and conditions apply. Please refer to our website for further details.

SA Home Loans is a registered credit provider. Registration Number NCRCP1735.

ROAST TURKEY

OUR CHRISTMAS RECIPE

WITH CRANBERRY STUFFING BALLS Roast Turkey 1x 3½-5½ kg turkey Softened butter 2½ cups salt

do not salt the skin or cavity. If you are going to use stuffing, it’s best to do this in a separate pan as cooking the bird with a stuffed cavity will take much longer which may jeopardise the juiciness of the bird.

1 cup brown sugar 4 Litres water Thaw your turkey first (this usually takes about 24 hours). Once thawed, remove the giblets from inside the turkey, rinse and pat dry with paper towels. Brown them in butter, season and simmer in some water until reduced – you can use them with your gravy mix if you like. Next, comes the brining of the turkey. Using a suitable container (bucket, cooler box) mix together 4 litres of water, 2½ cups of salt and 1 cup of brown sugar. Submerge your bird ensuring the whole turkey is covered.

Leave overnight or at least 12 hours before cooking which in this case would be Christmas Eve. After brining, wash the bird thoroughly, inside and out and dry it. Then rub softened butter all over the turkey, but

Cranberry Stuffing Balls 300g pork sausages 500ml fresh bread crumbs 1 egg 1 onion, finely chopped

Place the turkey on a rack in a roasting pan. Roast the turkey at 180° C for about 2-3 hours. Baste frequently with pan juices and cover with foil towards the end of the cooking time if the bird is browning too quickly. Most turkeys have a pop up indicator which pops up once the turkey is cooked. If yours doesn’t, you can check to see if turkey is cooked by pulling the leg away from the body slightly. The juices that run out must be clear and not pink. When the bird is done, switch off the oven, leave the door ajar and leave your turkey inside for 20 minutes – this allows the juices to circulate and adds to the plumping texture of the meat, making it easier to carve.

Throw your giblet mix into the boiling pan juices, thicken with 15ml corn flour and a little water and stir to make delicious gravy.

Strain before serving.

2 cloves garlic, crushed 250ml dried cranberries roughly chopped 50ml chopped parsley salt and pepper 250g streaky bacon Remove the meat from the sausage casing and place in a mixing bowl. Add breadcrumbs, egg onions and garlic and mix well. Mix in cranberries, parsley and seasoning. With wet hands roll mixture into balls the size of golf balls. Wrap each ball in a slice of bacon and place onto a baking tray with the join underneath. Roast in the oven at 180° C for 20-30 minutes. Remove and drain on paper towel. Serve with turkey.

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Ballito food

Have a

‘feast-ivitiy’

As Christmas is sitting on our doorstep and the delicious smells of Gammon and Chicken (Turkey if you are brave enough) are wafting in the air we thought why not put a few yummy Christmas recipes in our December edition of The Ballito mag? (like we did on page 47). But then it dawned on me that every mag you pick up will be choc-a-block with gammon this, lamb and chicken that- and that’s when it hit me the biggest problem most of us have after our Christmas feast is too many left over’s. And eating Ham, lamb and chicken for the rest of the week can get a bit tedious! So we’ve compiled three great recipes that can spruce up your left over’s and make them taste even more amazing! From breakfasts to lunches through to snacks we’ve got the scoop, so get out your spatula (laugh)...

F I N E

F U R N I T U R E

W I T H

F L A I R

We offer:

Interior Decorating Custom – Made furniture Curtaining Wallpaper Blinds Shop G53 | Ballito Bay Mall homeflair@telkomsa.net 032 946 2721

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www.homeflair.co.za

words Storm catterick

this Christmas!

Corn & ham fritters with roasted cherry tomatoes

Spicy Turkey/Chicken Burgers-Low Fat

250g vine-ripened cherry tomatoes

1 onion, grated

1 medium-sized onion

Olive oil, to drizzle

2 tbs tikka masala paste

2.5 ml (1/2 tsp) dried mint

1 cup (150g) plain flour

1 egg

5 ml (1 tsp) ground coriander

1 tsp baking powder

2 tbs plain yoghurt, plus extra to serve

1 garlic clove, crushed

1 tbs caster sugar

1 tbs mango chutney, plus extra to serve

75 ml (5 tbsp) olive oil

2 eggs

500g cooked turkey/chicken breast,

100 g (4 oz) cooked rice

1/3 cup (80ml) milk

roughly chopped

1 small egg

1 cup (180g) finely chopped leg ham

1 1/2 tbs vegetable oil

420g can corn kernels, rinsed, drained

Toasted buns, baby spinach and thinly

For the sauce

1 small red capsicum, finely chopped

sliced red onion, to serve

1/2 medium-sized cucumber

6 spring onions, finely chopped

3 tbs (1/4 cup) coriander leaves, to serve

250 ml (9 fl oz) yoghurt

Spicy Lamb Meatballs 250 g (8 oz) cooked lamb

1 tbs chopped chives Sunflower oil, to shallow-fry Rocket, sour cream and sweet chilli sauce, to serve 1. Preheat the oven to 180°C. Place the tomatoes on a baking tray and drizzle with olive oil. Roast in the oven for 5 minutes or until starting to split.

2. Meanwhile, sift flour, baking powder and 1 teaspoon salt into a bowl with the sugar. Beat the egg and milk in a jug until well combined. Add to the flour, then stir until you have a smooth batter. Add the ham, corn, capsicum, spring onion and chives, then stir to combine. Season to taste with sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.

1. Preheat the oven to 160°C 2. Place the grated onion, tikka masala paste, egg, yoghurt, mango chutney and chopped turkey in a food processor and pulse to combine. Form into 4 patties, cover and place in the fridge for 30 minutes.

3. Heat the vegetable oil in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat for 1 minute, and then quickly fry the turkey patties on both sides to seal. Transfer to a baking tray and place in the oven for 8 minutes. Serve in toasted buns with baby spinach, a spoon of the extra yoghurt and the mango chutney, slices of red onion and coriander leaves

3. Heat 2cm sunflower oil in a fry pan over medium-high heat. Using a heaped tablespoon of batter for each fritter, add 3-4 spoonfuls to the pan and cook for 2-3 minutes each side until golden.

Keep warm while you repeat to make 12 fritters in total. Serve with the tomatoes, rocket, sour cream and chilli sauce.

Hope your left over’s are put to good use and let this be a waste less Christmas. Merry Christmas and God bless to all!

10 ml (2 tsp) dried mint 30 ml (2 tbsp) olive oil salt and freshly ground black pepper

1. Mince the lamb finely and place it in a large bowl. Grate the onion into the bowl and add the mint, coriander, garlic and 15 ml (1 tbls) olive oil. Cover the bowl and leave to marinate for 1 hour.

2. Meanwhile, make the sauce. Peel and grate the cucumber into a bowl. Drain off any excess moisture. Add the yoghurt, mint and olive oil. Season to taste, stir thoroughly and put in the refrigerator to chill.

3. Add the cooked rice to the lamb and beat in the egg to bind.

4. Using 10 ml (2 tsp) of the mixture at a time form small round balls, patting them firmly but gently into shape.

5. Heat the remaining oil in a large frying-pan over low heat. When the oil is hot, put in the meat balls. Cook for 20 minutes, turning them regularly, then turn up the heat and cook for a further 4 minutes, turning. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on absorbent paper. Serve immediately, with the sauce handed round separately.

49

Ballito

A home in Mt Edgecombe, Umhlanga that was decorated by Gillian

50

“

by Gillian K

I have been Christmas decorating for over 20 years now and every year I get excited all over again choosing just the right ribbon to accentuate the perfect ornament, or the perfect cluster

I

n a freezing hall, where I sat chilled to the bone at minus 3 degrees - straight from sunny summer in South Africa to snow- and icecovered America - I listened to “world authorities” on colour trends for this year. It is fascinating how trends change with the times and with the mood of the shopper. They talked of “elegant palettes and timeless hues”, taking “bold chances” and being the “restless Nomad” and so it went. And then off I rushed to do the real thing...buy for Gillian’s, my seasonal sensations and gorgeous gifts shop in Ballito near Hirsch’s (and, for a short while, at the newly-revamped and stylish Lifestyle Centre). Well, that is when the theory goes out of the window and the heart takes over. To buy at a Christmas show, particularly in the USA, is nothing short of mind-blowing. You cannot begin to imagine the hundreds of showrooms filled with the most beautiful gifts you could ever imagine and have now laid eyes on. In a week you can never see enough, let alone remember what you saw or ordered. You are just too spoilt for choice.

Have you noticed how a whimsical Christmas has become awfully popular?

Maybe whimsy cheers us? I remember when studying for my Interior Design Diploma that whimsy was just what one needed for a good focal point or to stimulate conversation. So, whimsical I bought. I have had such fun using these cute, elf-like Santa figurines to add to a balustrade with lots of little elves on it, which somehow adds to an elegant and

”

angel-inspired tree in the magnificent home of one of my clients in Boschoek.

Red and silver or red and gold are the most popular choices and always a favourite. Do you know that although people always tell me how the red and white Santa is the “real Santa”, this character was originally inspired by Coca Cola. Now you know!

Many suppliers in the States featured lots of purple, lavender and lilac. From my favourite supplier of many years I simply had to buy a whole ballet and skating theme as it was just too cute for words - little pink ballet shoes and magnificent ballerinas and all the goodies to decorate a tree for the right little girl. Then there was turquoise with silver, or lots of platinum.

I also bought stunning table cloths, towels, finger towels, runners and chair bows from a favourite supplier. We laugh, as they know I will never shop online. I have to touch and see! I meet with the suppliers every year in different countries. We laugh and chat often online, all about where and how I am going to use the decor I buy and I keep them updated with ads and pictures.

As I decorate many homes and a few hotels for Christmas (my favourite being the Fairmont Zimbali as the general manager, David McGillivray, a Christmas Eve birthday boy, shares my passion), I buy all sorts of funny and gorgeous themes. So if it’s not colour, it’s themes - angels, pizza, beach, golf, Santa, sushi, candy, baking, pool table, etc for these

types of contracts. Sorry, you won’t find them if you shop, but you definitely will in a salon I am decorating for the Pavilion... I keep the special decor to decorate exclusive trees and theirs will be purple (my favourite colour). I have been Christmas decorating for over 20 years now and every year I get excited all over again choosing just the right ribbon to accentuate the perfect ornament, or the perfect cluster. Beachthemed goodies were also very popular at the shows and for Fairmont Zimbali I decided to decorate a beach-themed tree for the cocktail bar... Santa with all sorts of cocktails and decked out in his beach attire. I then added jellyfish, coral, beach baubles, seaweed, deck chairs etc... too cute for words.

So, whether it’s red and white, or pure white, as one beautiful home in Zimbali belonging to a friend has been decorated (her tree is quite magnificent), it’s really your own personal choice. .

I wish you happy Christmas shopping and wonderful hours of decorating.

Gillian’s Crowthorne Corner, Garlicke Drive Ballito , gill@gilliankdesigns.co.za Tel 084 500 0804 Gillian can also be found at Lifestyle Centre opposite Mica www.gilliankdesigns.co.za

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Ballito

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Unique Fashion A zure means calm, it’s the colour of the sea, and it is also the latest and edgiest boutique offering on the Durban women’s fashion scene. Azure Collection has found its place in the new-look Lifestyle Centre in Ballito, and this fun-to-browse concept store is making statement.

It’s a labour of love for owners, Sue Kuhn and Kerry Osborne, whose fashion interests include the Purple Orange Fashions’ personal-shopping brand. And the love is evident in almost every aspect of this ground-breaking space, which showcases carefully sourced local and international clothing, a quirky décor and gifting selection, and a sampling of designer furniture.

It’s a statement as much about the eyecatching, feminine yet classic fashion lines

as it is about the inspiring store interiors.

A shop design - that would capture attention in an international retail context as much as a local one - conceptualised by installation artist, Brendon Edwards.

Naturally aged silvered wood compliments a brilliant azure-blue wall alongside custom-designed wallpaper and raw metal sculptures reflected off a polished cement floor.

This is the eye-popping backdrop for the 20 odd clothing designers jostling for attention in the store. Amongst them is JO CARLIN - no stranger to the Cape Town, London and Tokyo design world but a new comer to other South African cities, and certainly Durban. Jo Carlin’s carefully cut garments, which are simultaneously elegant and sassy, are made from top imported fabrics and show the signature cutting edge design and quality evidenced

in her furniture ranges. The country-wide search for “stand-out” South African talent also culminates in the likes of Leigh Schubert, Colleen Eitzen, Ruff Tung, Vino, Miss Su, Ruby, and some new rising stars such as Cape Town label, Non-European.

The mix of highly wearable clothing with an edge is accented by select findings from overseas ranges including a funky Italian dress range, designer jean labels, resort and beach-wear exclusive to Azure, and some hand-picked accessories.

It’s a must-visit for women wanting something a little different from a boutique where individual attention, a commitment to dressing women artfully and respect for beautiful things count.

Azure can be found at Lifestyle Centre, Ballito

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Ballito fashion

ARE YOU READY TO

Sparkle THIS SUMMER?

An important part of choosing the right colours for your wardrobe is picking those that flatter your skin tone. Colour is the first thing the eye is drawn to. Wearing the right garment in the right colour can make you look chic and timeless. the wild. A range of greenish or bluish tones, khaki. Accessorize with semiprecious stones and metals with a shifting appearance, like meteorites – malachite, agate and lapis-lazuli.

Are you the Daring Urban girl with glamour? Be the glamorous day-to-day Colour is our best weapon when it comes lady with an uninhibited urban theme, to fashion. A flattering shade can give your which subverts the codes of luxury and skin and appearance a healthy glow. On the seduction. Punchy red colours as the pivot other hand, the wrong hue can make you of a range that revives timeless colours look sickly and washed-out. with the sensuality of cosmetic accents.

Accessorize with tassels and covered buckles –glitter jewellery and precious Colour Trends for stone trims.

Summer 2012 Are you an Escapist longing for casual elegance? Escape to the wilds…chill out and relax in style. The casual look goes sophisticated and the outdoors becomes more elegant with a subtle harmony between vegetable, mineral and aquatic shades, which tempts us to escape into

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Are you a Romantic with a fresh, playful, joyous style, full of vitality for today… but really for tomorrow! White, petal pink, fusion coral and light blues are your tangy colours. Accessorize with clear, translucent or white-painted jewellery, plastic and

perforated crystal, water-coloured motherof-pearl, moonstone, feathers. Be the inventive one with a range of luminous neutrals and colour that brings back memories. A mix of style and colour for sheer pleasure.

Accessorize with ethnic jewellery, belts with retro gilt or enamelled metal jewellery buckles.

The benefits of wearing the right colours are: To even out skin tones, Diminish lines, blemishes and dark circles, help the complexion to look more radiant and younger, bring definition to the features and impart a general look of well-being.

Swimwear Hot pops of colour like tangerine, aqua and coral are the colour rage for swimwear this summer. Pick the right colour for your skin

words manuella botha

W

hy is it that when you slip into that fabulous red dress or your favourite blue sweater your spirit is instantly lifted? That special piece of clothing can make you feel beautiful and radiant. Aside from the fit and fabric, the colour could be the major appeal.

in

in Kle

Calv

tone. The darker you are, the brighter you can go. If you opt for making a statement, add high glamour to your look – think elegantly classic. Inject some attitude into your style with tribal or animal prints. Think about your body shape when choosing your swimwear.

Sheer Cover-up Sometimes gauzy, cover-ups take to the beach in a big way for 2012. They come in all the typical cover-up styles, including the big shirt, skirt, maxi and short dress. These goodies are fabulous for a touch of sassy cover at the beach or poolside.

Most of them can’t double as clothing when you leave the beach, though.

Summer is a time to enjoy and have fun in the sun. Give up on the blacks and browns and indulge your body in the sheer colour of summer.

Need some help with your colours?

Contact Manuella from Colourworks International today for your Colour Analysis at manuella@imageconsultant.co.za or visit www.imageconsultant.co.za

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Ballito

got an ipad for christmas and need help?

With an estimated 150,000 iPads in circulation in South Africa, it seems to be the must have gadget to have. And, thanks to the latest FNB customer campaign, that allows customers to get the iPad at a reduced price, they seem to be everywhere.

But with new technology comes time to learn new things. That’s why our local gadget guru, Marc Forrest, has decided to put together an “Intro to iPad” course/workshop in the New Year right here in Ballito.

To get more info on the workshop, visit http://www.marcforrest.com/ipadcourse and Marc will get back to you with all the relevant info. The first workshop will take place towards the end of Jan at a local venue, to be confirmed.

If you require any further info, feel free to drop Marc an email on marc@iguy.co.za or call him on 082 851 5587

The finer details are being ironed out, but the sessions will be kept small and interactive, with the majority of time being allocated to a Question & Answers session to allow participants to ask all the questions they have. Other topics include, how to setup your iPad with iTunes, how to sync & how to download apps.

Ballito’s first IPAD training course on the cards http://www.marcforrest.com/ipadcourse/

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Praises for

Mount Richmore offers fresh new architecture that appeals to people from all walks of life.

Mount Richmore M

ount Richmore Village Estate is proud to announce that its first homeowners’ transfers have taken place just weeks after retail banks approved the bond finance for the first residential units in phase 1 of this lifestyle village.

The delighted homeowners will be moving into unit Nos3, 2B and 5. Two of the three luxury freestanding homes and one of our simplex homes and 20 apartments on the estate have already been completed. We are excited to be a part of this self-sustaining urban village where plans to further develop the estate are in motion. These will include a sensational mix of retail stores and restaurants on its commercial shopping boulevard.

One of the North Coast’s signature developments, Mount Richmore offers fresh new architectural design that is sure to

appeal to people from all walks of life. This has been realized through a combination of clean lines, natural materials and the unique roof design emerging on the ever-expanding estate. The use of hardwood pergolas and exposed rafters, together with natural stone chimneys and varied wall finishes create a luxurious, youthful and distinct identity. The interiors are complemented by the high-level glazing built into the mono-pitch roof system which magnifies the internal space within these beautiful homes.

For further information on the Mount Richmore Estate visit www.mountrichmoresales.co.za or www.mtrichmore.co.za Call one of our on-site agents, Warren: 078 017 8663 or theo: 071 879 6030

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Ballito

what’s hot

on the North Coast

words justin scott

Whether you’re on holiday or living on the North Coast, there is no doubt it’s booming as the landscape changes and more people become savvy to what the North Coast has to offer. Each year we look back at what’s changed and what’s new, so come with us on a nostalgic journey look at the last year in the greater Ballito area

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59

Ballito its hot

Above Sage in Salt Rock has added a new area which offers Turkish style benches and great pizza’s Opposite, clockwise from top Our ship that spent some time with us in Sheffield beach and had thousands of visitors flock to Ballito, our regular beach traders still ply their trade every holiday, Hooked on Fish opened in Ballito old town and offers a different sushi experience with views of the beach and sea, our very own Miss Ballito graced the cover of our Ballito Magazine in October and Milk Cafe still offers the best milk shakes in Ballito

If you’re thinking to yourself that you’ve seen this feature before you’d be right.

It’s become a tradition, along with all the other Summer ones we know, to cover all that is new and exciting in Ballito and on the North Coast. For our regular readers it’s a story that allows you to reflect on how much has changed in our town over the last year, and perhaps it even highlights a few things you didn’t know about.

For our visitors it’s a piece that highlights some of the best that Ballito has put on display this year, and it will hopefully help you find your way around a fast growing and very energetic town. No matter how you approach this piece you’ll eventually see an ode to an a place many of us call home.

When it comes to places to eat Ballito has flourished. This last year not only saw several new brands arrive but it also saw a very different cuisine arrive on the North Coast, which means that there is less need for any of us to venture off south to find variety.

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Places to eat Well known Gauteng group, Crawdaddy’s, opened in Ballito’s old town centre and this restaurant made a large footprint with its generous portions and wide, wide variety to choose from. The restaurant boasts one of the better sea views in Ballito and backs that up with impressive food and scrumptious desserts. Just downstairs from Crawdaddy’s is the new Hooked on Fish & Sushi restaurant, a quaint place that offers great, fresh seafood and an alternative for Sushi in Ballito. The venue is just right for a break from the beach or a stop in during the early evening. The new sushi bar will cater for us sushi lovers and seems well placed when trying to decide what to do for dinner after a day in the sun.

Local restaurateur, Mara, bounced back in style after selling her two restaurants in Umhlanga Rocks a few years ago, and she’s done it with the very modern and authentic Zara’s Coffee Shop at Lifestyle Centre. Zara’s, combined with the new mall extension (we’ll cover that later) seems to have brought a blend of Melrose Arch and the Umhlanga Boulevard to Ballito and it’s backed by great food, like their amazing chicken salads, and

strong service. If you are looking to laze around this summer Zara’s is a new Hot Spot in Ballito.

At the Well Centre (opposite Ashton School on the M4) Charlie and Greg have brought a whole new style and energy to The Eatery.

Previously known as Food Matters or Fabulous Flavours, this new restaurant with an extended deck and new style really is a must stop spot. Everything on the menu is good but my favourite is the Jenergy Sandwich with a good cappuccino. If Charlie and Greg haven’t been busy enough they’ve brought us one of three new Thai restaurants to open in Ballito. Thats right, Ballito’s gone Thai! The new place, just across from The Eatery promises to offer great authentic Thai cooking and a variety of the ever popular Sushi.

So, no doubt Ballito’s got a lot more to offer when it comes to eating out but wait, that’s not all (can you hear the Verimark ad in there?). As I’m writing this article we know that a new Thai restaurant, Asia, has opened down in Ballito’s old town and the owner of the legendary Mamma G’s has opened an

So much is happening on the North Coast and a town like Ballito is at the heart of the change experiencing it first hand...it’s an exciting journey and you’re part of it!

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Ballito

unique concept restaurant, BBM Cafe, at Tiffany’s shopping centre in Salt Rock.

Shopping on the Coast If it’s shopping you looking for then there’s a whole new world for you to explore these holidays. In Ballito the well known Lifestyle Centre has had a major facelift which houses the first Edgars store in Ballito.

The new section of the centre is a massive upgrade and has allowed for a range of new leading brand stores to open plus has seen the revamp of some of the existing shops.

The new tiled walkways, clean fresh look and glass doors have really brought the centre to the fore.

If you venture a little further north of Ballito you’ll find Tiffanys. The centre opened this year and also carries an open, fresh style to it. The old Umhlali Spar Custom home theatre systems with complete home automation Purist music systems for the connoisseur House-wide multi-room audio and video distribution Large-screen projection In-house service department Pre/post construction wiring design and layout Blending high-fidelity with decor Designed and installed throughout South Africa for over 20 years

A U D I O

E X C E L L E N C E

GATEWAY OFFICE PARK UMHLANGA ROCKS CALL

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031 566 5931/30

sales@audioexcellence.co.za

moved out of Umhlali town and into the new centre along with iTravelSmart (a unique travel agency), Clicks, Tops and several other stores.

Ballito is also home to favourites like Ballito Junction with Dischem, Pick n Pay and other boutique stores as well as being where you’ll find HeadHunters. Across the road you’ll find Checkers, Game, Woolworths, Pep and more at Ballito Bay Mall. Not really a shopping centre per se, The Quarter (featured in the magazine), also opened this year offering retailers a different experience with a different tenant mix.

Business Ballito Before we create the wrong idea about Ballito, it’s not all just eating, shopping and relaxing on the beach. The North Coast has a strong business community

that are innovative and driven, and this year that community established a Chamber of Commerce. What’s hot about the Chamber was that it scooped up the prestigious SA Chamber of the Year award winning against chambers from all the other major towns and cities. The Chamber was also instrumental in development a Mentors programme that saw a ‘reality TV style’ competition to find The Entrepreneur.

BMW Auto moved into its new, impressive showroom in the Ballito Business Park and many more new businesses launched in 2011, proving that Ballito and the North Coast was Hot when it came to bold, brave new business ventures. All you need to do is drive around behind Lifestyle Centre and you’ll see many more new businesses all working hard.

If that’s not enough chances are good you had to tackle the new interchange to get in and out of Ballito recently. While there is still some work to be done before it’s complete, the new interchange is a Hot new addition to Ballito and will soon allow all of us to zip in and out of town while meandering up or down the coast.

Sadly for those of you visiting there are a few Hot items that you won’t be able to experience but that we felt are worth mentioning.

Ballito rocked this year with the biggest and best Mr Price Pro surf competition that saw surfers from around the world descend on our beaches to ride our winter swells. We also had our second Prawn and Jazz festival with amazing food, music and shopping. A little later on in the year our ‘ship came in’. A large, stranded ship washed ashore in Sheffield beach and had thousands of visitors heading

to Ballito to see the magnificent site. The ship made headlines for several weeks before authorities got to pull it back out to sea and sink it.

Looking back over this year, reflecting on What’s Hot, it’s clear we just won’t be able to cover ever single new, exciting hot spot, event or place. There really is just so much that’s happened in 2011 and we can’t fit it all in. The best thing to do is to get out there, get ‘lost’ on the North Coast and experience it all for yourself. If you find a place we’ve missed and think it really deserves a mention you can send us a message and we’ll make sure they get a mention on Twitter.

Enjoy, love summer, love Ballito.

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Ballito Memories For bookings or to find out more call Emily at 073-244-8854 or email her at emilyannallan@gmail.com Chris and Emily Allan

C

hris Allan has been responsible for the landscapes images that have been on the covers of “The Ballito” for most of our issues in 2011. He and his wife Emily have now been living in Ballito for over a year shooting between Johannesburg and Ballito. This is the story of how it all came to be....

It all started as a series of furious scribbles in an aeroplane, on the back of an airline paper napkin between Bangkok and Mumbai.

3 months before, Emily and Chris Allan had quit their jobs as a TV director and Photographic Editor to travel the world, and when they landed back in SA they took the opportunity to start afresh. “We knew that if we didn’t get our butts to the coast before we had kids, we would be stuck in Joburg for a loong time!”

Using their combined love and skill in photography they hatched a plan between plastic knife and tin foil tray, to start their own company that would allow them to capture images that families would treasure forever. It would enable them to

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meet new people, explore new places, and take great photos.

Napkin brainstorms lead to advertising online and in magazines. Advertising lead to the first few nervous shoots in wintery afternoons in Joburg, and then, before they knew it, families from all over the country were starting to call. “To date we have done shoots in Knysna, on the beaches and estates of the north coast, the wild coast, mozambique, in most of the parks and botanical gardens of Johannesburg and Durban, in Kloof, Hillcrest, Nottingham road, throughout Natal...the list goes on.”

While Chris and Emily have been shooting commercially for ten years, and also photograph everything from the most humble ciabatta sandwich to two day commercial shoots with professional models and production teams, they find that the personal nature of photographing families can be more creative, fun and rewarding.

“I think we are addicted to the thrill of getting great feedback from a family that has enjoyed the fun of a shoot and can

treasure the images that were captured for years to come.” Clients love the fact that while the PeppermintPix team are able to set up a studio in the privacy of their own homes for more intimate or studio style photos, they also cherish the opportunity to use natural light and beautiful places outdoors or other meaningful locations. “A shoot in a first home or on a family farm allows for so much more of a story to be told in the photographs and a park or beach gives children, and in fact the whole family, the space to enjoy themselves.”

With the success of their family photography business and after receiving numerous requests the PeppermintPix team decided to expand their offering earlier this year and now shoot weddings.

They believe that this is where Emily’s flare for creative direction really shines and Chris is able to shoot in a way that is not obtrusive, but still manages to capture all those magical moments.

Check out some of their work on their site and look out for their new portrait studio opening this December in the new centre in Ballito called The Quarter! www.peppermintpix.co.za

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words storm catterick

Ballito local

Local is Lekker

in Ballito

B

allito is a beautiful town, not only because we are right next to the beach and lead a really mellow lifestyle, but also because we have an array of amazingly talented people who don’t always get the recognition they deserve for the incredible items they produce. They are the people who say,

“Why buy it when I can make it,” and who provide us with unique ranges of fashionable clothing, jewellery and other incredible “arty” bits and pieces. So we have decided to uncover these local talents and introduce Ballito to them for what we hope will be a lifelong relationship, profiling local people who produce their

Fisticuffs Fisticuffs is an exciting and innovative business run by Stacey Berkeley and her husband, Lyall. The couple own a signage company in Ballito and were looking for ways to diversify what they do and try new things and thus Fisticuffs leather bracelets was born.

Stacey believes that, living in this gorgeous little town, there is all manner of beauty from which to draw inspiration. They are a tiny team and are forever changing their taste and designs, as well as the patterns they create.

Fisticuffs are cut out of genuine leather hides which are dyed a number of delightful colours. Each cuff is individually engraved and then cut according to a design before being carefully washed, dried, studded and lovingly oiled to ensure maximum longevity and beauty. The range comes in nine different colours — black, white, brown, red, turquoise, purple, pink, mustard and green. The best thing about the range is that there are both masculine and feminine designs so men and women can share in the delight of the bracelets.

Fisticuffs are aimed at a younger, hip market, for people who enjoy being edgy and a bit punky, but there are also designs

66

that, when teamed with the correct clothing, can look sophisticated and very up-market.

What makes Fisticuffs different from the usual mega-punk spiked cuffs are their bright colours and unique designs, which, although they are created to attract attention, are made from the very softest leather, so the comfort and breathability makes them light and simple to wear. One of the most awesome features of the range is that the designs are constantly changing according to fashion trends and what the designers are going through in their own lives, as well as what their clients are wanting at that time.

If you are interested in purchasing Fisticuffs, they are sold at White Summer at the Junction, Abundance at Karibu in Umhlali, and Surfers at the Lifestyle Centre.

Fisticuffs contact details: 079 491 7795 or view the website where there is an online store where buyers can see the range and contact Stacey directly. www.fisticuffs.co.za

items locally and sell them locally too. As they say, local is lekker, and you are sure to be intrigued and delighted to discover the many great things that are made with a lot of love, time and effort right on your doorstep!!

Margie Howard Margie is an interior design consultant with training and experience in both interior and fashion design whose business, Minim Interior Design, is situated in Sheffield.

What began as a side-line to complement her work, the design and production of a range of hand-appliquéd cushions, has become something of a passion with her.

Margie works with two local Zulu women, Siphiwe Nyawo and Melta Ncanana, who do the handwork and make-up of the cushions. The team has recently started experimenting with handbag and scarf designs featuring hand appliqué and hand embroidery. The unique and contemporary designs come in limited editions and are made from only 100% cotton or linen.

If you are interested in purchasing these amazing cushions, they are available through Abundance at Karibu Nursery in Umhlali and Plumbago in Florida Road, Durban or contact Minim Interior Design direct for trade enquiries.

Margie Howard contact details: 082 926 1022, mmhoward@iafrica.comor visit the website at www.minim.co.za

Fullnana Fullnana is a range of easy-to-wear, trendy clothing that is just perfect for the hot and humid weather we experience on a daily basis in Natal. Antoinette van Der Merwe is a busy mother of three who still manages to find the time to design and sew all the Fullnana clothes herself! Her fabric is sourced in and around Durban, thus supporting fellow local businesses.

Antoinette believes that her range has a certain individuality which makes it a definite must-buy as the garments are not mass-produced and that therefore you can be sure that you are getting great quality clothes.

Her range is also quite exclusive as she also only makes one or two of a specific garment so you’ll never have to worry about bumping into too many people wearing the same outfit! Her clothing speaks for itself — timeless, chic and fun and there is something for everyone from late teens to late 50s.

If you are interested in purchasing items from the Fullnana range, Antoinette makes garments on request and supplies White Summer at the Ballito Junction Fullnana contact details: 083 442 2839.

We are fine art consultants providing a We are fine art consultants a one-stop service to private providing and corpoone-stop service private corporate rate clients.

Wetohave a and wide selection clients.

We havecontemporary, a wide selectionlandscape, of abstract, of abstract, contemporary,landscape, seascape, nude, seascape, nude, tribal, wildlife and phototribal, wildlife and photographic art to suit graphic art to suit every taste and requireWe are fine artrequirement. consultants providing a every taste and also stock ment.

We also stock bronzes,We designer and one-stop service toand private and corporate bronzes, designer ethnic jewellery ethnic jewellery and provide a complete clients.

We have a wide selection of abstract, and a complete art experience art provide experience from sourcing, commissioncontemporary,landscape, from commissioning, framingnude, and ing,sourcing, framing and hangingseascape, of art. tribal, wildlife and photographic art to suit hanging of art. every taste andofficial requirement. stock Imbizo is the stockistWe of also Derric van bronzes, and ethnic jewellery Imbizo isdesigner theJan official stockist of Derric van Rensburg, Vermeiren, Hannetjie de and provide aRichard complete art in experience Rensburg, Jan Vermeiren, Hannetjie Clercq and Scott KZN, andde also from sourcing, commissioning, framing and Clercq andwork Richard Scott other in KZN, and also have the of many leading and hanging art. have theof work of many other leading and upcoming South African artists on display upcoming South African artists on in display in in our consumer-friendly gallery the BalImbizo is the Centre. official stockist ofthe Derric van our gallery in Ballito litoconsumer-friendly Lifestyle Rensburg, Jan Vermeiren, Hannetjie de Lifestyle Centre.

Clercq and Richard Scott in KZN, and also have the work of many other leading and upcoming South African artists on display in our consumer-friendly gallery in the Ballito Lifestyle Centre.

Please contact Isabel or Hanneke on 032 9461937 for an appointment, or visit our website at www.imbizogallery.co.za to view our stunning collection of hand selected art.

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Ballito local

Casey Jeanne - Exclusive Fashion Design and Couture Casey has lived in the heart of Ballito village from the age of five. Her mum owned the well-known and successful Nicole’s Coffee Shop down in the village (which was all there was to Ballito at that time). Casey started off as a waitress at The Waterbury before deciding to study fashion and textiles at DUT. She is now going into her fifth year and will be completing her B-Tech Thesis before carrying straight on into her Master’s Degree in Fashion and Textiles, specializing in Celebrity Red Carpet Gowns.

She is a designer of exclusive couture fashion and has an undying passion for bridal and high-class lifestyle design, designing wedding dresses, red carpet gowns and collections. Both her wedding and special occasion gowns flatter women of all ages and tastes and the gowns are custom-designed to suit each client’s body shape and skin colour.

All of Casey’s products and garments are produced locally, and she alone designs and produces her garments. “Every seam and painful stitch is done by my hands and my hands only,” says Casey. Even though she sources her materials locally and internationally, she is adamant that, either way, she only sources the best quality for her clients. This is not your average runof-the-mill designer and, at the tender age of 21, Casey is making some serious waves in the fashion world, making an award-winning name for herself. Casey has more than a passion for designing — she says that it has and always will run through her veins. She designs each dress with a lot of love, personal touches and special attention and tries to make each project unique.

She doesn’t have a showroom or a rail that she sells from as of yet, so if you are interested in getting a dress made by Casey you can email her at caseyjeanne777@gmail.com or call her on 082 768 6250.

Lauren Gregory - Designer Young, hip, trendy and elegant are the only words to describe this remarkable local designer’s garments. Lauren is in the midst of creating her own fashion line called Lauren Gregory. She has also been working with Carmen Lindsey from White Summer Fashion boutique to create a range of in-house designs, which will be the exclusive White Summer Fashion label. She is stringent about only sourcing locally produced items as well as getting the clothing made locally.

when you come back. The White Summer label has pieces which fill a gap in the market spotted by both Lauren and Carmen and extensive research is also done into finding out what customers are seeking.

What’s so refreshing about this brand is that the clothes are not only to-die for, but also you can picture yourself wearing the pieces — you can feel the comfort and envision how great they will look on you as they are just such light, graceful garments.

If you are interested in purchasing items from the Lauren Gregory range or the White Summer Fashion label, they are sold at The Lauren Gregory label is designed White Summer at the Ballito Junction. to be an exclusive brand and only has a few garments made-up in each Lauren Gregory contact details: design. So, if you like what you see, 073 265 5369 or lolgregory@gmail.com you’d best buy, as her dresses sell like hot cakes and might not be there

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Fran Jex Fran is a local entrepreneur who you may know from the quaint but magnificent store, Abundance. What you may not know is that Fran also takes photographs which she prints on canvas, which is also done locally. She draws the inspiration for her photographs from what she sees around her —Nguni cows, aloes from her mother’s garden and the erythrina which grow along most of Natal’s roads.

Unlike most other photos printed on canvas, Fran actually takes all her own photos and these reflect her love of nature and our precious earth. She has a deep and unshakable love of the land and respect for the soil and water that is our lifeblood here on this earth.

Apart from scenes from nature, Fran also prints words on canvas. She gives you the option of choosing the words that you wish to have printed. Her work is truly unique and is a testament to true beauty.

If you are interested in purchasing Fran’s products, they are sold at Abundance, at Karibu in Umhlali, or you can also purchase them off her website.

Fran Jex contact details: 082 444 1518, franjex@mweb.co.za ,www.franjexart.com.

Izzy’s Bits and Pieces Izzy Randal is a very talented young jewellery designer. She has been living in Salt Rock for the past nine years and during that time has unleashed her passion for making spectacular jewellery. She is assisted and supported by her mother, Roz, who helps make the prototypes of the jewellery, after which Izzy takes over the production process.

Because Izzy is at school all week at Sunfield Home School in Verulam she only gets to make the bulk of her jewellery on weekends.

Currently her jewellery is made with resin and antique china, jewellery, lace and other bits and pieces — hence the name of the range, Bits and Pieces. Her pieces consist of these bits and pieces placed in a pendant mould (which she also makes herself) which is then filled with resin.

When the resin has hardened, the pendants are polished and put on faux leather. Izzy works closely with Carmen from White Summer to adapt her colours, ideas and designs to fit in with the current fashion trends and what is in stock at White Summer at the time.

Her products are unique and extremely beautiful. An immense amount of time and love goes into her jewellery, which truly shows, and the playful, inventive nature that encompasses the jewellery makes it difficult to stop looking at. Izzy likes to describe them as her “little works of art within art”.

If you are interested in purchasing jewellery from Izzy’s Bits and Pieces range, they are sold at White Summer at Ballito Junction.

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Ballito

ENRICHING EDUCATION IN SOUTHERN AFRICA

Ashton international • Internationally accredited Independent Examinations Board (IEB) and Cambridge International Examinations (CIE) offer the best of both worlds • The Ashton College are the only schools in South Africa that uniquely offer the two syllabi side by side through Form 1 to Form 5 • Integrated Learning Centre being introduced at the Ashlings in 2012 • Action arena, heated swimming pool, Ashtonian Sports Café, Lifestyle Sports Deck • Sporting codes include rugby, hockey, soccer, swimming, action netball, indoor hockey, squash, cricket, golf, netball and tennis • Affordable aftercare facility • Variety of clubs and extra-murals offered on campus • Open Day – 23/24 February 2012

“Excellence belongs to the Zealous” 70

em ail: admissions@ashtonballito.co.za | web: www.ashtonballito.co.za | tel: 032 946 2096 | fax: 032 946 2104

Hey kids! this page is just for you ... please send us interesting information or questions for us to look into for you. kids@fabmags.co.za These twins have certainly made their names famous featuring in over 30 TV films and programs. The twins were born August 4, 1992. They are collectively referred to as Dylan and Cole Sprouse or the Sprouse Bros. Their first prominent major theatrical film role was in Big Daddy, where they starred alongside Adam Sandler. They later appeared in several television sitcoms and starred in the straight-to-DVD family films, I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus and Just for Kicks. You may better know the twins from their hit Disney Channel sitcom, The Suite Life of Zack and Cody and the sequel The Suite Life on Deck. Cory and Dylan are said to be the highest paid Disney Channel stars.

Sydney is an alchemist, one of a group of humans who dabble in magic and serve to bridge the worlds of human and vampires. They protect vampire secrets - and human lives. When Sydney is torn from her bed in the middle of the night, at first she thinks she’s still being punished for her complicated alliance with dhampir Rose Hathaway. But what unfolds is far worse. Jill Dragomir - the sister of Moroi Queen Lissa Dragomir - is in mortal danger, and the Moroi must send her into hiding.

To avoid a civil war, Sydney is called upon to act as Jill’s guardian and protector, posing as her roommate in the last place anyone would think to look for vampire royalty - a human boarding school in Palm Springs, California. But instead of finding safety at Amberwood Prep, Sydney discovers the drama is only just beginning...

Q: What do you ge t when you cross a pig and a cactu s?

A: A porky-pine Q: What’s at the bottom of the ocea n and shakes?

A: A nervous wrec k.

Q: Why is it so ho t in a stadium af ter a football ga me?

A: Because all the fans have left.

Q: What has ten letters and starts with gas?

A: An automobile.

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Ballito kids

words storm catterick

Rock Ballito this summer

The holidays are upon us and we all know how hectic life gets when the kids are on holiday and chomping at the bit for something to do, everyday. Well, your troubles are over! We have found a few perfect things to do to ensure you and the family have a fun filled family holiday!

You will be amazed at the array of activities our beautiful town has to offer...

Outdoor adventure activities Fat Traxx Off-Road Quad / 4x4 Trails Fat Traxx offers you the adventure of a lifetime as you explore the North Coast in a unique and exhilarating way. The outride in Ballito is a breath-taking off-road ride customized to suit your needs, from beginners to advanced riders. They cater for fun out-rides for families and business events like team building, etc.

For more information call: 082 477 5837 pre-booking is essential, generally one week in advance so if you on holiday get cracking.

Sugar Bay Sugar Bay is a luxury holiday resort, in Zinkwazi, for kids and teenagers aged 7 to 17 which runs holiday camps during all the school holidays. Sugar Bay boasts a huge sports-field, a 25-metre swimming pool, a paintball arena, a massive recreation hall, a climbing wall, an obstacle course, a tree swing, a skate park, high and low rope courses and much, much more. In total over 90 different activities are offered to campers and, with a free-choice system, each child is given the opportunity to try out new, fun adventure activities. For more information call (032) 485 3778

Activities for fitness enthusiasts Suburban Play Suburban Play is a trendy new leisure and entertainment facility in Umhlali, near Ballito. Creatively geared for indoor sports such as indoor soccer, netball and action cricket it caters in a unique way for all age groups. Also available for Team Building, Children’s Birthdays, Cricket league and soccer league. For more information call 082 640 0109

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The Secret Spot Surf Camp This is perhaps the first of its kind in South Africa in terms of an actual fully-fledged “Surf Camp”. The hosts of The Secret Spot Surf Camp, Rozz and Mike Smith, have created a matchless African/Beach/Safari setting especially for surfers and people wanting to learn to surf. The Secret Spot facilitates high-performance and speciality courses, like judging, coaching and Tow-in surfing as well. For more information call (032) 525 5479

Lucky Linton Museum and Goldmine This is a genuine gold mine set amongst the North Coast’s sugar cane, 15km from Ballito and 60km from Durban. You can learn to pan for gold, ride a pony, go down a “foefie slide”, or go down the gold mine shaft. Adults can enjoy a fun-filled day of fishing and braaiing whilst the kids go wild with the many activities on offer. For more information call: (032) 947 1459

Wildlife

The Litchi Orchard Market 1st and 3rd Saturdays of each month, 8a.m. to 1p.m. A definite “must do” is a visit to the Litchi Orchard Market for a fabulous day out with friends and family.

The market gives visitors an opportunity to experience this traditional and original way of shopping, as well as to learn about the true value of food and the way in which it is produced. Customers are able to interact with stallholders, sample the many delights of locally-made bits and bobs before they buy, and spend time in a truly unique and beautiful setting in the Litchi Orchard.

For more information call: (032) 525 5118

Rain Farm Game Lodge- Exclusive Private Game Reserve Just 15 minutes inland from Ballito experience a touch of Africa at Rain Farm Game Lodge, a 300-hectare wildlife sanctuary where you will come across prolific birdlife and animals such as zebra, giraffe, wildebeest and many of the species of antelope which roam the African plains.

On offer are game drives and scenic horse rides or you can experience nature up close and personal on a guided trail walk.

Enjoy a swim in the beautiful rock feature pool, attempt a challenging game of mini golf or test your fishing skills in the dams, which are stocked with a generous number of bass. For more information call 083 352 6830 Harold Johnson Nature Reserve The Harold Johnson Nature Reserve is on the KwaZulu-Natal North Coast.

Wildlife species which occur include zebra, bushbuck, impala, blue, red and grey duiker, vervet monkey, slender mongoose, white-tailed mongoose, banded mongoose and porcupine. There are also seven kilometers of nature walks. For more information call: (0324) 861 574

Museums and History Albert Luthuli Museum Dedicated to the life and legacy of an extraordinary leader, a man who fought for human rights and dignity, a trip to the Luthuli Museum in Groutville will leave you awestruck and humbled. Entrance is free For more information call (032) 559 6822

Out and About

Ballito Bay Microlights You can experience magnificent aerial views of the stunning coastline and vast swathes of “green gold” by treating yourself to a microlight flip along the Dolphin Coast. Flights leave from the school and are generally either 15- or 30-minutes long. If you are lucky, you might even spot dolphins, turtles or whales as you fly over the Indian Ocean and back again. For more information call 082 659 5550 360° Gaming Lounge For an awesome day out with the kids, the 360° Gaming Lounge is a definite “must do” this holiday! Relax and play the wellknown X BOX 360 whilst sitting in one of the cosy private “lounges”. For those who fancy active and competitive games there are three rooms specially dedicated to the brand new Kinect technology, where there are no controls, no gadgets or gizmos. In case you get hungry or thirsty, 360 Gaming Lounge has a fully-operational kitchen. For more information call: +27(0)32 586 0994

There is still so much more on offer on the North Coast. Check out our Ballito Meander at the end of the magazine for more ideas of places to go. Brief descriptions and contact details are provided. Happy Holidays!

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Ballito

places

words lorinda scott

I was invited to Ashleigh D Hair and Nail Salon in Salt Rock, at the new Tiffany’s Shopping Centre, to come and experience their salon and get my hair done.

Ashleigh the owner opened for business on 01 September with passion and vision to take this salon places. Currently with 2 hairstylists and the capacity and space for nail treatments, I can see the potential this new salon has. It is crisp, clean and unpretentious, with all their focus on the client.

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Senior Stylist, Shannon conducted my hair assessment with me, they do ask interesting questions to figure out your personality, likes and dislikes ensuring that when they do your hair it is what you want and need. Within minutes we had agreed on my new look and the way forward to get the look I eventually want, and just as quickly my head was in foils. Ashleigh is a business woman and has amazing vision for her business, clients and staff. The salon has a very personal feel, which is great, but yet the energy and potential is tangible. In life you don’t always want to feel like just a number, that you are

being “squeezed in” and rushed to finish, you want to feel that you are important to your hairdresser. I can see that Ashleigh and her ladies focus on quality in every way, she wants to have a personal relationship with her clients and talks to each person sitting in the salon. A young lady comes running in, “Dad dropped me off” … and she is sat down, hair washed, and treated as all clients would be, I must admit that was very “cool”.

The salon itself is wedged between 2 great restaurants which is a huge plus when it comes to passing feet. Why Tiffany’s? All I can say is “Location, location, location, I see the potential in the area, add value to the Salt Rock economy, I have no doubt this centre is going to do well. “ says Ashleigh.

Sne does an amazing job at washing hair and massaging! This is always my favourite part of going to the hairdresser and Sne rocked my socks! I loved the firm but thorough head massage. They focus on the little things .. putting your feet up at the wash basin, making sure you are comfortable at all times, offering

a really nice cup of tea, nicely presented, with something nice on the side ..

Roschelle the other stylist was Carlton and Rolf Offerman trained and she loves the calmer more personal feel of this salon.

Ashleigh D is a Wella Signature Salon. The salon also stocks Pureology, Redken, Nizim and Global Keratin, Pureology specifically is a big focus, as it is an organic, 100 percent vegan product. Ashleigh is very pedantic about using the best!! Their rates are very affordable and Ashleigh says “we are very competitive.”

Ashleigh D is ALL about customer service, everyone has a genuine smile (even the very 7 month pregnant Shannon!!) and will happily meet all your needs. I am very impressed and wish Ashleigh and Co. continued success and growth, I too can see you will be blessed with great success. Do yourself a favour, or if you want to miss the hustle and bustle of Ballito, go visit this new salon, they are really interested in their clients and giving of their best at all times.

Find Ashleigh D Hair and Nail Salon at Tiffany’s Shopping Centre, Salt Rock or call 032 525 5227 or 082 394 5376

Awesym Skin & Body are at Unit 5, Villa Commercial Park in Douglas Crowe Avenue.

Call them on 032 586 3199

Experience Lucille nagel

awesomely awesym I recently visited ‘Awesym Skin and Body’ beauty salon for a day of utter pampering, and pampered I was!!! I received a back wrap, back massage, pedicure with medi-heal treatment and a specialised dermalogica facial.

I have ever received in my life, all I can say is WOW!!! But what I found was so nice is that after the massage they scrub you down to get rid of all the oils which I felt is an extremely nice way to finish off a massage and prevents you from breaking out.

The salon is big and spacious which I felt definitely makes a huge difference when it comes to your sense of privacy and tranquillity. It was so relaxing not to hear any of the hustle and bustle from the busy street outside, just the sounds of the therapeutic music playing in the background.

And then it was time for my pedi with a medi-heal peel. Basically medi-heal is a chemical peel for your feet only, it is applied to the heel and to areas affected with tough skin. I was amazed at how well it worked- seeing is definitely believing with this treatment, you have to try it!

When I was getting my back wrap done I literally was writing my thoughts down with my eyes half closed it was that amazing. After that intensely amazing experience I went for my back massage I can safely say it is the best back massage

The spoiling didn’t stop there; I then went for my Dermalogica facial, which was absolutely lovely, she used the BT Machine that helps the Dermalogica products penetrate deep in to the skin. The btmicro™ is the latest rage in professional

technology and combines ultrasonic peeling with patented microcurrent and ultrasound penetration capabilities. The results are plumper, firmer skin that magnifies the results of key ingredients of all products.

What I truly loved about this beauty salon is that it was so different, the space the specialised unique treatments such as advance peels, micro needling and much, much more. They also offer Artificial Nails, Waxing, Medical treatments, Slender wonder clinic etc.

This was a day well spent, everyone has stress in life, especially during this time of the year, and this definitely takes the edge off it all. What a wonderful experience, one that i wouldn’t think twice about doing again.

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Ballito travel

words & photos alex verhagen

BUSTLING

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BARCELONA This is a busy, vibrant and active city!

If you are looking for an iconic travel destination, then look no further than the city of Barcelona. Incorporating an eclectic mix of old and new, historical and modern, art and architecture, it offers much on a grand scale, and on many levels.

Actually, this is quite true about many cities in Spain, but this particular city has something extra. It has something that you can figuratively put your finger on. It has a pulse that doesn’t beat softly ~ It thumps!

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain, with the capital Madrid taking the top honour. Situated on the eastern boundary that Spain shares with the Mediterranean Sea, it boasts a considerable population running into the millions, with these numbers being swelled daily as a result of tourism.

There is much to experience here and it can certainly accommodate a multitude

of differing taste requirements, from gastronomic to social to cultural. The city is in the top 5 most visited cities in Europe, and it shows!

For many visitors, a favourite “startingoff” point in the area is the Colon, or Barcelona Column. It is situated on a traffic-circle island and functions perfectly as a highly visible landmark. Various modes of transport, which one can make use of to see the city, are all around the vicinity. Taxis, horse-drawn carts, bicycle hire, and the obligatory “hop on-hop off” buses so prevalent throughout Europe, are all in abundance. The nearby marina boasts the immensely popular Mare Magnum Mall, full of designer stores and big-name outlets.

From there, one can phase oneself into the adjacent Las Ramblas. This is a tree-lined pedestrian avenue over one kilometer long, and has become a “must-

see” attraction because of the variety on offer along the entire length of it. The established shops and eateries along the sides of the avenue are varied, but can be expensive owing to the capitalization of the thousands of seasonal tourists. However, for sheer visual delight, the actual walkway is something to behold.

Street traders sell their wares from both permanent and temporary kiosks; artists and crafters offer their personal talents on large display boards or easels; florists offer fresh or fake flowers; pavement café’s offer tapas and refreshments; and last but not least, many interesting street performers and mimes (statues) take up positions along the way! Credit must certainly be given to these performers, as almost all of them have gone to great lengths of costume-design and incredible make-up effort to transform themselves into static acts of visual delight aimed at parting you with a few Euros.

The old centre of Barcelona is where one can find the Gothic Quarter. Just a short walk off Las Ramblas, it incorporates many buildings that date back hundreds of years to the medieval era. The architectural evidence is tremendously ornate and complex in design, and one cannot help but admire the workmanship that has gone into creating such marvelous structures like the Barcelona Cathedral and the Carrer del Bisbe, a very popular little street adorned with grotesque gargoyles.

Of course, when making references to Barcelona’s outstanding architecture and their various designers, it would be remiss of me to exclude a dedication to Antoni Gaudi and incorporate a few references to some of his glorious designs. Gaudi was most definitely a visionary with an astounding eye for detail. I had the privilege of taking in the visual splendor, and photographing, four of his many influential contributions to the city.

Casa Batllo and La Pedrera are two buildings in relatively close proximity to each other along the same avenue.

Their facades consist of beautiful curved balconies incorporating ornate ironwork, stylish windows and superbly sculpted stonework. While they are similar in appearance, each has its own individual charm and character; Casa Batllo being festooned with colourful mosaic designs while La Pedrera sports a raw stone surface, but they are both stunningly constructed.

Park Guell is 15 hectares of prime land overlooking almost the entire city. As you step into the main entrance of the park, your eyes immediately notice the unmistakable Gaudi “touch”. Flowing lines of stone and mosaic work are in evidence everywhere. Superb symmetry is juxtaposed by radical irregularity in places, yet it all blends together so magnificently.

The interior area of the park is vast and I highly advise a time allocation of a few hours to adequately explore this delightful setting.

The fourth and, in my opinion, the most truly magnificent of Antoni Gaudi’s projects is the monumental Sagrada Familia Roman Catholic church. It has been under construction since 1882 and

is only anticipated for completion in 2026 to commemorate 100 years since Gaudi passed away.

The carved stone facades are wonderfully ornate, incorporating figures of saints, angels, religious individuals and events, but each façade or aspect ranges in style from classical to almost futuristic in appearance. Mention must also be made of the masterful engineering involved in such a grandiose undertaking, especially considering the available technology at the inception of construction. As it stands now, the sheer scale and craftsmanship of this multi-spire church has simply got to be seen to be believed. On completion, I have no doubt that it will be “jaw-dropping” spectacular!

Simply stated, Barcelona has a multitude of diverse offerings available for them that go there. If you visit this bustling city, please bear in mind that it is going to be massively busy. But, for so many people to have the same idea at the same time, it is undeniably a great option as a travel destination. Oh yes, I guess I could mention that it has a pretty great football team too!

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Ballito

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T

he Quarter has a “proudly Ballito” feel to it with most of the shops and businesses at the complex owned and run by a new mix of enthused, energetic local businesses who were quick to commit to the complex when it launched in February this year.

If you do the maths for the time taken from launch to opening, you may be wondering if you have just read wrong, you didn’t.

When the Quarter project was successfully launched in February this year by local commercial property company, ComProp, there was an instant demand for what the complex

planned to offer – a combination of great location, unique style and affordability. Using the revolutionary Tilt-up method of construction, the 3700m2 building project broke ground on May 6th and was a spectacle to watch as Brent Youens and his team at JNM Construction used precast concrete panelled walls and support structures to miraculously complete the development in record time - 6 months from start of construction to tenant occupation! The finishing touches were added by well-known interior design consultant, Debbie Tilbrook of Attention to Detail.

A Unique Destination With easy off street parking boasting 150 parking bays, The Quarter is uniquely positioned as you enter the heart of the growing Ballito Business Park and adds itself to a new wave of promising destination locations in the area.

Its open architectural design style allows shoppers a free flow of comfortable circulation space to move around the centre without having to navigate nooks and crannies or navigate lifts and escalators. The 400m2 upper level centre court offers fine dining, both indoor and “al fresco” style with the relocation of Althea Da Silva’s popular Tin Roof Restaurant

Whether you need a break from Ballito’s amazing beaches, need an alternative on a rainy day or just want to see what’s new and fresh around town we recommend you make some time to stop in at The Quarter to experience a warm welcome from the tenants and do a spot of Christmas shopping.

So what can you expect to find at Ballito’s latest consumer and business destination? Well the 22 tenants offer a blend of food, retail and services at a full list is detailed below for you to look through.

Tin Roof The best fine dining restaurant in town, Ocean Queen Ballito’s favourite fish shop now also a restaurant, The Depot Home retailer offering exceptional quality and value for money, Peppermint Pix A refreshing new photographic studio, Stepping Stone Studio Well known KZN interior décor outlet, Silverline Picture Framing & Art Specialised Picture Framing and Spectacular Art, Brand Habit Where runway meets high street, Eastern Essence Eastern delights in food, clothing & décor, gStore The ultimate gadget store, Glitz & GlamouR Spectacular fashion accessories, Fish On LureS Zukulu Fishing Charters and Specialist Tackle Shop, MEC Trading Ballito local Myles Casey and his home décor blinds, iKyaya An unusual new gift shop, BlisS Divine Organic and natural food, body, face and home care products, Butterfly Kisses Bridal, evening and exclusive wear, Hairmarx Professional and friendly hair styling, The Green Room Open the door to a naturally healthy and beautiful you, Café Barber The Sporting Mans Barber Shop, Future Vista Technology & Training Solutions, Mega Force Security A security must have, Sugar Dance Adults & kids dance classes and studio hire, iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry & Tourism New offices and boardroom as well as the convenience of an ATM machine.

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Ballito

100’s

of Locals

cannot be wrong...

ON WHATS HOT!

B

words teresa vos

y socializing or Walking around Ballito, you will definitely see drastic changes in people you know and all due to the many options at TopForm.

BEFORE

after

GREG lost 15 kilos in 6 weeks

BEFORE

after

Lindi lost 20 kilos in 14 weeks

BEFORE

after

Donna lost 17 kilos in 15 weeks

Teresa one of our regular contributors to articles for “The Ballito” on general wellbeing TopForm Body Scan, Lifestyle, Health and and some Locals gave us short testimonials Weight Loss Clinic - The NEW - HOT – “Talk that include people who have: of the Town” - amongst locals who either, has • kept the weight off and have lots of energy by been or are still with TopForm Owner, Teresa following the program Vos. • have embraced the lifestyle change and 2010/11 and already in great demand for 2012 regained holistic health has seen LOCALS and PROMINENT Sports Men • went through detoxification phases and & Women including people from surrounds identified their intolerances • and are now completely healthy and/or slim.

MLS – Says “ On birthday rushed to hospital. Decided to loose weight. Blood pressure & cholesterol was up. Joined 12 months ago. The change - dramatic. After 1 year, still feel and look at least 10 years younger, joined gym and have my life back.

Energy levels high, no longer lethargic and sleep well. Dr has taken me off prescribed antidepressant and heart medication. You nurtured me on my journey - thank you.”

LG - Says “Tried everything on the market for 30 years. Contacted Teresa. For the first time in my life, I was not hungry – amazing!

Biggest thing -No longer obsessed about food. You have been fantastic, supporting me all the way. TopForm made it all so simple and logical BH – Says “ “You can’t argue with Facts and Proof. Eye opening and led to an education in how the body works and the effects of different foods on the body.

Result, health and confidence.”

BEFORE

after

Dalene lost 13 kilos in 10 weeks

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of Durban and beyond borders changing and becoming completely HOT and NEW.

BR – Says “ The weight started falling off, started to feel full of energy, sleeping better

and my mood improved. The best part of all is my self esteem grew tenfold. The most rewarding 12 weeks of my life.

RB – Says “Personally I have seen a huge change in my lifestyle, I have more energy than ever before and the big realization was my old habits and how easy it was to rectify it!

GK Says “I was inspired to meet with Teresa, after seeing the results of weight loss on other people I know personally.

Truly magnificent. Teresa ”with her extensive knowledge”, knows how and with what, to treat you.

I, after 5 weeks on her program, lost 15kg’s and feel totally re-energised. My cholesterol, sugar and blood pressure have all dropped and nearly normalised.

My hiatus hernia has not given me a day’s problems and I have been sleeping like a baby with “ NO MORE SNORING” and no heartburn.

You are a true inspiration to us all. It is a very large life changing experience.

is that a

W

e often find sports drink labels that leave us scratching our heads, wondering what they mean and how good the drink would be for one. Here are some facts might help debunk some of the myths.

Myth 1: Water is the best fluid replacement during activity.

Fact: Whilst water is good, it does have its limitations in terms of athletic performance.

• Adding a subtle flavour actually encourages drinking more than water alone does.

• Water turns off the thirst-mechanism before rehydration is complete.

• Water lacks electrolytes and carbohydrates which facilitate optimal performance.

Myth 2: All sports drinks are basically the same.

Fact: There is still a great variation in terms of formulae in today’s sports drinks and the trick is to learn to read the label — Ingredients are listed in descending order from greatest to least.

Myth 3: It doesn’t really matter what drink you use as long as it contains a blend of carbs and electrolytes Fact: The formulation matters a lot: • A high concentration of carbohydrates in the gut actually slows fluid absorption.

About 10 grams and upwards of carbohydrate content per 100ml of water would make the solution hypertonic and not ideal for quick hydration.

5 grams to 8 grams of carbohydrate to 100ml of water (5 percent-8 percent in solution) is isotonic and less than 4 grams would make the drink hypotonic. 6 grams

• A blend of carbohydrates (maltodextrin, fructose and some glucose), can hasten fluid absorption.

• Recent research has been inclined towards higher sodium levels. Having sufficient sodium in a sports drink may help prevent hyponatraemia (a condition of dangerously low sodium levels, from over-hydration with a low-sodium drink or water alone).

Sodium also keeps the thirst mechanism active for longer which translates into better rehydration.

• The flavour of the drink matters — a lot, too — if it is too sweet, most people will tend to drink less and possibly dehydrate.

Myth 4: If you drink a sports drink during a long, highintensity training session, you will put on weight.

Fact: Research has shown that people who drink a well-designed sports drink during a long exercise session can train/race far longer and at a higher intensity Consuming a carbohydrate drink during exercise or an event changes the level of perceived effort. Research has also shown that people who drink sports drinks during long, intense sessions are less likely to overeat afterwards.

to 8 grams of carbohydrate to water (6percent-8percent concentration in solution) is probably the best compromise for quick refuelling and quick hydration.

With thanks to one of the most knowledgeable supplement specialists around, Megan Jaffray. from Pace and Power.

Myth 5: Sports drinks contain high levels of simple sugars that cause “bonking” in the latter half of the race.

Fact: Low blood sugar/hypoglycaemia (aka ‘bonking’) is usually caused by an extreme insulin response to the ingestion of high amounts of simple sugars. Most sports drinks today contain a blend of both simple and complex carbohydrates and have a low carbohydrate content of less than 8 percent to 10 percent. In addition, exercise usually blunts this insulin response to carbohydrates ingested during exercise. The risk of bonking on an up-to-date sports drink is thus significantly reduced provided of course, that you continue to drink at appropriate rates.

words sean temple

understanding the label information

fact or a myth?

What is Osmolality?

It is a measure of the number of dissolved particles in a fluid. These particles or solids could be sugars, glucose polymers, salt or other electrolytes.

The osmolality of the drink determines which way or at what rate the fluid will move between the gut and the bloodstream. Low osmolality will result in better absorption.

Hypotonic means that a drink has a fairly low osmolality. An Isotonic drink has the same osmolality as the body’s fluids. Hypertonic drinks have a high osmolality.

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Ballito

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directory

Alluring Tapware Sublime Sanware

Devine Tiles...

...Sensational Service

Bathroom & Decor Boutique

SHOWROOM 3A SILVERSTONE WAY DOUGLAS CROWE DRIVE OPP LIFESTYLE CENTRE BALLITO GPS CO-ORDS: S 29'31.578' E031'11.972

Showroom : 032 586 3255 Sameera : 079 660 1983 Tammy : 073 906 9165

Simbithi Area Specialist Kim Bailey kim.bailey@seeff.com www.seeff.com

as & Christm es Valentin ages Day PaCk e! aVailabl

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directory Ballito

Quality Paint Supplier

The Duraline Range Of Quality Paints

Tel: 032 946 0703 Shop 1 Silverstone Way

Ballito Business Park 5 Douglas Crowe Ave

Ballito 84

www.decorontheridge.co.za

directory

pizza@mammags.co.za | www.mammags.co.za

Shop H5 | Ballito Junction Shopping Centre | Corner Ballito Drive & M4

Tel. No: 032 946 2214

16 Compensation Beach Road | Ballito Tel: 032 586 3477 | 086 609 3843

For the best steaks, chicken and seafood grills Secure off street parking All our food is freshly prepared and cooked to order Friendly service in a neighbourhood atmosphere

63 Compensation Beach Road, Ballito Tel : 032 946 1029 New Lunch Specials and Wine List 85

directory Ballito

Zulu Nyala is a privately owned game reserve, located in one of the largest and most diverse conservation areas in Southern Africa. Situated in Southern Maputoland, KwaZulu Natal, Zulu Nyala Game Lodge offers guests an exclusive wildlife experience on the reserve. Conveniently located, in the heart of the LSDI, guests have easy access to many of the conservation, wildlife and cultural attractions in the region, including Hluhluwe / Umfolozi Game Reserve, the World Heritage Site – St Lucia, Sodwana Bay, Lake Jozini and Tembe Elephant Park.

The lodge is Located high on the southern Lebombo Mountains the lodge affords views across unspoiled game land to the highest vegetated sand dunes in the world at the eastern seaboard of Sodwana Bay. The natural stone and thatch lodge is comfortable, with modern features in typical game reserve ambience. The lodge offers 50 air-conditioned rooms, all en-suite with separate bath and shower. Provided in rooms are coffee / tea making facilities, wall safe, hair dryer and direct dial Telephones, Rooms are serviced twice daily, their is a Boma, dining room (seating up to 200 guests) Bar – open 10h00 till late, a swimming pool and pool deck, tennis Weather permitting breakfasts and lunches are serves on the veranda, in the Boma and / or Dining Room.

Summ

Book 3 nights at Zulu Nyala Game & Heritage Safari Lodge and get the 4th night FREE pay for meals only. R499 pp sharing. Includes Dinner, Bed & breakfast. SA residents only, terms and conditions apply.

SPeCIeAr L

Book 3 n ights an d get the 4th night Fr ee*

Tel: 035 562 0177 | Email: reservations@zulunyala.com | www.zulunyala.com

Tel: 032 586 3223 | Fax: 032 586 3223 info@drallys.co.za | www.drallys.co.za Unit 11, Pinnacle Park, Dawood Close, Ballito The new evolution of laser-assisted liposuction is now available for the first time on the Dolphin Coast. A minimally invasive medical procedure, for focused and effective immediate body sculpting, achieved in a matter of hours under the expert treatment of a Canadian-trained physician.

Be amazed!

Remove fat and tone your skin simultaneously at a fraction of the cost of traditional liposuction.

Schedule your free consultation* today to learn more about how Lipolite can beautifully reshape your body! Visit our website at www.drallys.co.za to view the amazing results some of our happy clients have achieved.

Laser Liposuction | Varicose- & Spider Vein Treatment | Botox and Fillers | Soflift Makeovers | Skin Rejuvenation *Free consultations are available for a limited period only. Book now to avoid disappointment.

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directory

Diante Fuchs M.A. Clin. Psych (UKZN)

Pr. No. 0371505

Clinical Psychologist

Offering Adult, Adolescent and Couples Therapy •Depression & Anxiety •Stress & Anger Management •Trauma Counselling

•Self Harm / Mutilation •Relationship Difficulties •Adjustment & Support

• www.psychminded.co.za • dfuchs@cybersmart.co.za T: 074 5062668 / 083 3827216 •

We specialise in: • manicures • pedicures • gell / acrylic nails • styling • colouring • extensions • decleor facials

032 9463093

Add: unit 6 | Adam Park | Garlicke drive | Ballito

All Blinds,Shutters, Curtains All Blinds,Shutters, Curtains and Accessories and Accessories

032 946 2574 Cell: 079 631 7042 Tel: 032 946 2574 Cell: 079 Curtains 631 7042 AllTel: Blinds,Shutters, burgessblinds@telkomsa.net and Accessories burgessblinds@telkomsa.net

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Ballito motoring

words richard webb

Peugeot 3008 Premium 1.6 THP 5dr

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eep inside Peugeot HQ at Avenue De La Grande Armee Paris, Peugeot designers have found inspiration from a Tetraodontidae, commonly known as a ‘Puffer Fish’ their 3008. A car styled after a fat, poisonous, bloated fish may not sound that appealing, But it is. Really, it is!

Jean Francois Bacos, MD of Peugeot Motors South Africa says of the 3008. “By blending the best attributes of the most popular contemporary market segments into one vehicle concept, the Peugeot 3008 is a true crossover in every respect.” I think he has a point.

The 3008 is Peugeot’s 308 ‘cross-over’ and vies for sales against competitors like Nissan’s Qashqai and VW’s Tiguan and quite a few others. Peugeot will wrestle buyers out of a much wider range of cars, so good is its packaging. The 1.6 petrol engines are smooth and free revving, producing 88 kW in the 5-speed manual VTi and 115kW in the 6-speed manual THP (Turbo High Pressure).

The 3008 is easy to drive around town, but its slightly light steering limits the fun on

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twisty roads. Mechanically, most parts are already tried and tested elsewhere in the company’s range, so the car should be pretty reliable.

The panoramic glass roof is truly excellent and the superbly finished cabin feels bullet-proof, with fine soft-feel materials and metallic trim. Stylish dashboard architecture that includes a padded passenger grab handle that would not look out of place in a Bentley.

In the rear there’s generous room and there’s a false floor that can be repositioned on three-levels with ingenious ease. The split tailgate aids loading and can be sat on, the front passenger seat backrest folds forward for an extended load deck. Add to that an appealing instrument display and lots of storage space and it adds up to be an excellent effort.

Out of all the high tech goodies stuffed into the 3008, the most interesting is the dynamic roll control device fitted to the rear suspension of the 150bhp petrol, which pressurises the outboard shock absorber in corners to counter roll and

understeer. Clever stuff! The 3008 drives well with its supple suspension, sharp steering and tidy handling that will entertain spirited drivers. It’s brisk rather than fast but it is practical, refined and easy to drive. A sumptuous cabin and some excellent engines help make it even more appealing.

Peugeot’s 3008 offers excellent refinement, a classy interior and plenty of versatility: it’s a fine all-rounder for families.

quick facts

Price R 286,119 Engine Capacity 1598 Power 88 kW @ 3800 rpm Torque 160Nm @ 4250 rpm Transmission 5-spd Manual Acceleration 0-100 km/h in 8,9 seconds Top Speed 210 km/h Fuel Consumption (combined) 7.1 /100km Emissions 167 g/km Warranty 3yrs / 100 000km

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. ACTIVITIES . ARTS AND CRAFTS . CUISINE . LEISURE . WEDDINGS

Ballito meander

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e live in one of the most beautiful coastal towns in Kwa Zulu Natal, Ballito, which offers a little bit of everything for every local and ‘holiday goers’ - from the pristine beaches to our growing malls through to the quirky little places that we feel are a must see!

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edition

We know that sometimes there is nothing better than jumping in the car and finding a new quaint spot that becomes the highlight of your holiday and gets you coming back for more so we have come up with our very own Ballito Meander which truly shows you some of the best that Ballito has to offer, by the people who are truly in the know - The locals!

In our first Ballito Meander you will find we wanted to bring you a collection of places that offer you, our readers and visitors, hospitality in truly beautiful surroundings, outstanding accommodation, remarkable restaurants, rejuvenating outdoor activities and thrilling adventure sports and best of all a shop-a-holics paradise.

We hope you enjoying exploring the North Coast, especially around Ballito, and more importantly we hope you’ll keep coming back for more.

Happy Meandering from The Ballito Team!

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. ACTIVITIES . ARTS AND CRAFTS . CUISINE . LEISURE . WEDDINGS

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ACCOMMODATION

Ballito

Dirty Harry fishing charters

The Grand Stand sports bar

Dirty Harry is the most sought after and popular Fishing Charter Boat in Ballito and Durban. An outing on Dirty Harry will definitely be memorable and exciting experience! They Hire boats (inc Skipper) for comps or you can hire a boat that is packed and loaded for you for a hassle free fishing holiday.

What more can I guy ask for then good food, cold beer, great atmosphere, over 11 TV’s to watch the game on. The Grand Stand is the only place you want to watch sport on the North Coast.

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www.dirtyharry.co.za Tel: 082 579 3878 / 082 789 6340

The Litchi Orchard Market

The Litchi Orchard is a unique venue just off the N2 heading into Salt Rock - a melting pot of food, culture, community and creativity; with an emphasis on the outdoors and food which is fresh, local and sustainably produced! The Litchi Orchard Market takes place on the first and third Saturday of each month between 8am and 1pm.

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www.litchiorchard.co.za Tel: 032 525 5118

Pumpkin Theatre

The Pumpkin Theatre Club is a world class, state of the art supper theatre staging lively shows with infectious music.

The dinner menu is buffet style and provides a selection of seafood delicacies, tasty curries and traditional carvery amongst other delights. Booking is essential!

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Email: info@pumpkintheatreclub.co.za www.pumpkintheatreclub.co.za Tel: 032 946 2121

Simbithi Country Club Golf

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grandstandsa@gmail.com Tel: 032 946 0563

Crush Night Club

Crush is an upmarket nightclub, which operates throughout the year to accommodate locals and visitors in Ballito. During holidays they are open 7 days a week and provide great entertainment, the best Dj’s and amazing specials. If you like dancing and are looking for a great night Crush is the place to be.

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www.crushnightclub.co.za Tel: 082 927 4794

Umhlali Country Club Golf

Umhlali Golf Course is rated the 28th most popular course in South Africa, 3rd in KZN. It is nestled in a natural, and tranquil environment, with many birds and small animals as well as a vast array of trees to enhance the country living experience. The beautiful 18 hole parkland course offers golfers a challenging but rewarding game.

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golf@umhlaliclub.co.za www.umhlalicountryclub.co.za Tel: 032 947 1181 / 082 828 9422

Tranquility Bird Hide

Ideally situated close to the North Coast town of Ballito nestles a unique gem of a golf course that will challenge each and every level of golfer. Simbithi Golf course is fast becoming the most talked about golfing destination in KwaZulu Natal and is the first executive golf course to be built in South Africa. The course caters for every level of golfer, from a forward junior tee to the championship tees.

The hide overlooks a large settling pond which is mostly covered by reeds and rafts of water hyacinth. A variety of wader and waterfowl species are attracted in fairly large numbers, and the hide provides opportunity to view a number of difficult species. Bookings essential

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Email: elbert@simbithi.com Tel: 032 946 5406

Tel: 032 437 2222

Mt Moreland bird watching This bird viewing site is home to some 5 million barn swallows during the November month and is said to be the best bird viewing site in South Africa.

The viewing site is well kept and offers the public great picnic sites to ensure a fun filled bird watching experience.

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Email: angie@barnswallow.co.za www.barnswallow.co.za Tel: 031 568 1557

Holla trails

www.hollatrails.co.za Tel: 082 899 3114

Gillian K Gill is known for transforming homes, hotels and offices around the world from drab spaces, into beautiful places filled with exquisite handpicked furniture and accessories. Gillian is also renowned for her Christmas Decor, and is fondly referred to as “Mrs Christmas” herself. Visit her Christmas wonderland shop at both Crowthorne Corner and lifestyle centre and feast your eyes on the stunning selection of quality imported Christmas decorations available.

Experience magnificent aerial views of the stunning coastline and vast swathes of “green gold” a microlight flight along the Dolphin Coast. Flights leave from the school and are generally either 15- or 30-minutes long.

If you are lucky, you might even spot dolphins, turtles or whales as you fly over the Indian Ocean and back again.

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Tel: 082 659-5550

Flag Animal Farm Holla Trails consists of nearly 300 kms of marked and signed trails. Both novice and experienced mountain bikers are catered for - the tacks are varied and the scenery spectacular. The venue also has facilities for you to shower or freshen up after your ride before enjoying a well earned lunch or drink on the terrace.

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Ballito Bay microlighting

gill@gilliankdesigns.co.za gilliankdesigns.co.za 084 500 0804

Secrets Day Spa From smooth full body hot rock massages, aromatherapy massages, facials, manicures & pedicures to magic day spa packages all done by internationally qualified therapists, Secrets is truly a pampering experience that you don’t want to miss out on!

Flag farm offer free-range animals for all young enthusiasts. Kids are able to enjoy pony rides, feed chickens, ducks, rabbits, cows, goats, to name a few. Kids can go wild on the play ground whilst mom can enjoy a light snack at the tea garden or take advantage of their picnic site.

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www.flaganimalfarm.co.za Tel: 032 947 2018

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info@secretsbeautyspa.co.za Tel: 032 946 0453

Uniquely U

Salt Rock Hotel

Suburban Play

Uniquely U is a sanctuary to escape and be thoroughly pampered in a quiet and intimate location. They offer a range of uniquely tailored facial treatments, waxing, body massage, manicures, pedicures, nail extensions, reflexology as well as body exfoliation, wraps and spray tanning.

Enjoy a summers day, sipping on a cocktail whilst taking in the scenery at Salt Rock Hotels Beach bar. If you work up a hunger, located at the hotel is Al Fresco’s Restaurant and Coco’s Buffet.

Trendy new leisure and entertainment facility in Umhlali.

Geared for indoor sports enthusiasts, families and friends and caters for groups of all ages. Activities include indoor cricket and soccer.

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Tel: 032 946 3314

Crocodile creek

hotel@saltrockbeach.co.za 17 Tel: 032 525 5025

360 Gaming Lounge

Tel: 032 9443845

Clubventure Situated in the heart of the Esenembi Valley, Clubventure offers a day jam packed with exhilarating fun! Including River Quad Trails , obstacle course with true survival test challenge facilities, Zipline foofie slide , paintball and much much more.

360 Gaming Lounge offers a great place to relax in cosy private “lounges” and play X BOX 360, Kinect technology.

They also have a fully operational kitchen offering simple lunches and a bar for over 18’s.

Home to some 9,000 crocodiles, as well as snakes, monkeys, alligators and leguaans.

You will be able to enjoy a guided “hands-on” tour with experienced guides on this working farm, where you will get the opportunity to touch small crocs and snakes.

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www.suburbanplay.co.za Tel: 074 158 8057

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Tel: 032 586 0994

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www.clubventure.co.za Tel: 032 942 8014

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ACCOMMODATION

Ballito

Siggi’s

Rain Farm Game Lodge

Siggi’s offers you a truly unique dining experience with a selection of speciality German delicacies, foods, beers and drinks. Great dining for the whole family, enjoy inside seating in the intricately decorated German style restaurant, or outside on the veranda with a lovely view, and garden catered for kids who like to play. They also have a comfortable pub and big screen to watch the sport of the day!

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siggis@iburst.co.za Tel: 032 525 7460

Rain Farm offers a variety of activities from exhilarating game drives to scenic horse trails, bass fishing and archery. Enjoy a gourmet meal at the restaurant, open seven days a week. The lodge offers accommodation in picturesque surroundings overlooking the rapids of the Umhlali River and game roaming in the grasslands.

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The Waterberry Coffee Shop

Email: cara@rainfarmgameandlodge.com Tel: 032 815 1050 / Cell: 083 352 6830

The Duck at Karibu The Duck Pub & Grill at Karibu is a great local pub.

Championing gourmet grill pub classics, perfectly designed for breakfast, lunch, familystyle dinner or snacks. The bar is famous for drinks, parties and intimate catch-ups. The venue is host to large plasma screens so you won’t have the problem of missing the big game. Great atmosphere, very reasonable prices and awesome entertainment- the perfect mix for a tremendous night out.

The Waterberry Tea Garden is a delightful Italian bakery and coffee shop. Serving delicious homemade food, decadent lemon meringue pie and sublime cheesecakes!

There is ample indoor and shaded outdoor seating perfect for those hot North Coast summer days. Children are kept entertained with the garden play area and short forest walk.

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www.thewaterberry.co.za Tel: 032 946-2797

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Tel: 032 947 0520

Beach Bums

Karibu James

If you love the sun and sand then Beach Bums is your perfect venue. Ladies enjoying cocktails to men loving the ice cold draughts and the kids having a ball building sand castles, you are assured to have a great time. With a meal for everyone’s tastes, the family is sure to be satisfied.

Nestled in amongst Umhlali’s Lush vegetation, sits a gem yet to be discovered. Catering to those looking for a relaxed indulgent lunch, breakfast with the girls or a romantic champagne sundowner. Try their renowned deli selection of designer cakes, imported sweets, freshly baked home-made pastries, breads and cheese.

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www.beachbums.co.za Tel: 032 943 1132

Sage Cafe

victoria@karibufarms.co.za Tel: 071 214 0389

Litchi Orchard cafe Sage Cafe offers an excellent, wholesome and healthy food, drinks and even better coffee menu as well as an exceptionally warm, relaxing atmosphere. They have exciting activities and food for the kiddies including a fantastic ‘Educational Jungle Gym’ & a sand-art play area in full view of the restaurant and surroundings so that you and your children can experience a fun day out.

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sagecafe@telkomsa.net Tel: 032 525 8059

The Orchard Cafe is a vibrant destination where the vision is to create a melting pot of food, local culture and creativity. A great meeting point for friends and family, as well as to reconnect with good food, and the way in which it is produced. The simple but fresh menu includes seasonal dishes and as much fresh locally-sourced produce as possible.

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www.orchardcafe.co.za Tel: 032 525 5991

Cindy’s Umhlali take away

Latte Lounge @ IVK

Nestled in the heart of a farming village, this shop has an old trading store feel. Freshly plucked produce is mostly from her farm and includes east coast specialities. Browse the shelves for homemade banana or guava chutney, mazavaroo, garlic pickle, veggie atchar, coriander sauce, curds and jams.

Let’s not forget her amazing curries and locally caught fresh fish.

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Tel: 032 947 1495

Gigi’s Basserie The restaurant has a classic yet fun look, boasting an elaborate chandelier, splashes of bright pink and romantic lighting. Executive Chef Guy Gorrie promises gastronomic pub fare, boasting mostly organic ingredients, homegrown veggies and herbs and very reasonable prices. An intimate and warm spot perfect for a quiet dinner.

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Serving Italy’s finest coffee, Lavazza, a celebration of flavour and aroma greet you at the Latte Lounge situated within IVK Interiors in Umhlali. The Latte Lounge is the north Coat’s best kept secret, serving up a selection of designer coffees and superb breakfasts, lunches and light meals. The Latte Lounge can also provide outside catering.

www.hotelizulu.com Tel: 032-9463444

Palm Terrace- La Montagne

Tel: 032 947 1470

Crawdaddy’s Grill

Crawdaddy’s, established 1995 has become a landmark for its Seafood and Meat Dishes, and has created a huge loyal family of patrons that keep the restaurant buzzing the year in and out. Crawdaddy’s marries the best of both worlds, offering an extensive variety of seafood and meat dishes of exceptional quality and is now available in Ballito

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www.crawdaddys.co.za Tel: 032 946 2987

hooked on fish

Et Voila Restaurant @ Umhlali Country Club

If you are looking for the best sushi in KZN and for the best value look no further then fish hooked, shop no 1 at 16 compensation beach road. They also offer takeaways and a delivery service.

16 Compensation Beach Road | Ballito

Et Voila does both Catering and meals for the Club House and Halfway House. The restaurant offers a varied and versatile menu in a relaxed, family-orientated environment. The friendly service and garden-like setting can be enjoyed by both members and the community.

There is a full bar facility available at the Club House as well as a large selection of wines from around South Africa.

Email: info@etvoila.co.za 34 Website: www.etvoila.co.za Tel: 032 947 2919

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Tel: 032 586 3477 | 086 609 3843

Tel: 032 586 3477

Mamma G’s

OSA Restaurant

pizza@mammags.co.za | www.mammags.co.za

Palm Terrace is the perfect casual restaurant, with warm and bright decor overlooking La Montagne’s sweeping pool area and Sun Terrace - serving scrumptious breakfasts, charming munches and delicious dinners.

From a host of crisp green salads, to arguably the best Eastern curries and pasta favourites.

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Tel: 032 946 2121

The Fig Tree Restaurant

Mamma G’s is a buzzing café/restaurant serving real Italian food using only the freshest ingredients.

Their pizzas are cooked in true Italian style in traditional wood-fired ovens. Their Pastas are hearty and wholesome and are offered in a broad variety of delicious flavours. The menu is diverse and interesting and also includes light meals, lunches, salads and grills.

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www.mammags.co.za Tel: 032 946 2214

Primi Piatti- Plantation

OSA is an innovative South African steakhouse that serves prime South African grain-fed cuts, wet aged to perfection. The contemporary fashionable dishes are paired with wine from some of the most sought after vineyards in South Africa. The unrivalled and eclectic mix of leather, velvet and black granite floors sets the stage for a dining experience second to none.

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Email: zim.dining@fairmont.com Tel: 031 536 8151

The Eatery- Café

Shop H5 | Ballito Junction Shopping Centre | Corner Ballito Drive & M4

Tel. No: 032 946 2214

The Fig Tree restaurant is surrounded by the undulating sugarcane fields which is characteristic of the KwaZuluNatal countryside. The restaurant offers stunning views of the golf course and is the ideal eatery for guests to relax and enjoy good, fresh food and locally sourced wine.

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www.simbithi.co.za Tel: 032 946 5403

This bustling restaurant and its staff are masters in creating a total dining experience around their robust authentic menu items, created from traditional Italian recipes. The espresso style cooking method creates food of distinction from scratch on order. Specialising in pasta, pizza, focaccia, anti-pasta and a variety of meat, fish and chicken speciality dishes.

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www.primi-piatti.com Tel: 032 946 3750

Enjoy a healthy breakfast or take advantage of their amazing lunch buffet served every day. The food is fantastic and the atmosphere is even better. Inside and shaded outdoor seating is available to take advantage of the wonderful summer mornings. It is definitely well worth the visit.

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Tel: 032 946 1527

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ACCOMMODATION . ACTIVITIES . ARTS AND CRAFTS . CUISINE . LEISURE . WEDDINGS

Ballito

Zimbali resort

Located on a pristine stretch of coastline, the Fairmont Zimbali will feature an ultra-luxurious resort hotel, a championship Gary Player designed golf course with clubhouse and golf academy, full-service Willow Stream Spa, Signature Beachfront Villas, Golf Chalets, Apartments and Villas, as well as a Fairmont Heritage Place Private Residence Club.

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zimbali@fairmont.com Tel: 032 538 5000

Canelands

Canelands is a luxurious and elegant 10 bedroom (all ensuite) beach club situated in Salt Rock. Set literally a step away from the beach with safe bathing offered by the many rock pools and coves that Salt Rock is renowned for, Canelands Beach Club is the ideal holiday and weekend getaway beach hotel.

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info@thecanelands.co.za Tel: 032 525 2300

The Caledon Hotel

ZIMBALI LODGE

Zimbali Lodge is one of Southern Africa’s most exclusive hideaways, set within the serene confines of a coastal forest reserve on the north coast. The rooms classical architecture is accentuated by warm wood and russet autumn tones. The bathrooms are luxurious and feature Victorian baths.

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zimbali@fairmont.com Tel: 032 538 5000

sak n pak

Boasting a total of 8 exclusively designed and decorated units, two of which are elegant executive suites these luxurious guesthouse rooms all comprise of en-suite bathrooms with standard amenities. Each room has its own balcony facing either the beautifully landscaped gardens or the enticing swimming pool.

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www.saknpak.co.za Tel: 032 946 1585

Hotel Izulu

A boutique Hotel hotel nestled in the rolling hills of Umhlali. A truly South African “country” experience awaits discerning guests, and with its´ sense of tranquillity and natural beauty, the hotel is also ideal for romantic weddings, private functions or conferences.

The 5-star Hotel Izulu, situated in Ballito is renowned for luxury boutique Ballito accommodation, outstanding cuisine at Gigi’s restaurant and its award winning Impilo Spa as well as its extraordinary wedding and banqueting facilities. Hotel Izulu’s warm friendly atmosphere and attentive staff contribute to an unforgettable experience of relaxation, peace and tranquility.

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www.thecaledonhotel.co.za Tel: 031 312 6250 (Three Cities Hotels)

Coco de Mer Coco-De-Mer Boutique Hotel is situated on the main beach road in Ballito, within walking distance to the beach while being within close proximity to all the modern convenient stores, shopping malls, restaurants, points of interest. The hotel itself is distinctively Afro- Bali styled, situated in the midst of a natural eco forest and backdropped by the warm tropical Indian Ocean, boasting a fusion of creative interior design marrying its natural element surrounds along the friendly Dolphin Coast.

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Email: info@coco-de-mer.co.za Tel: 032 946 1034

info@hotelizulu.com www.hotelizulu.com Tel: 032 946 3444

Ocean Reef

The hide overlooks a large settling pond which is mostly covered by reeds and rafts of water hyacinth. A variety of wader and waterfowl species are attracted in fairly large numbers, and the hide provides opportunity to view a number of difficult species.

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Tel: 032 437 2222

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Ballito including Stanford University and UC Berkley, this home may make the perfect digs for their children who so often end up being educated in American schools. Redefines what we would think of as a student pad.

Andreas Wassenaar Principal – Seeff Properties Dolphin andreasw@seeff.com

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subscribe to the Economist magazine.

Undeniably, its esteemed journalists and editors communicate the most astute economic, financial and business insights.

It has a readership of approximately 720,000 and is published weekly. In my 1991 Finance Honours year at UCT, our professor insisted that the Economist magazine be prescribed reading for every student of economics and finance. It proved to be good advise and I have been reading the publication for the past 20 years. Economic trends and data are accurately commented on and it provides a quotable resource of integrity for those individuals like myself who are always looking for insightful views on global economic, financial and political stories. A recent issue had a full page, full colour advertisement that caught my eye and which I found most unusual. The owner was advertising a Hillsborough, California mansion privately. It is rare to see a full-page residential property advert in the Economist magazine. Even at a discounted rate I am pretty sure the advertiser would have paid in excess of US$30,000 for this privilege of reaching the almost ¾ million readers. That is R243,858 at the current prevailing, and recently much weaker Rand: US$ exchange rate of R8,1 to the dollar. This would smash most estate agents’ print-media advertising budget.

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This amazing American home is offered for sale at US$29m (R235,7m) and is described as a 35,000 ft2 (3,252 m2), 9 bedroom, 11 bathroom mansion, built on three levels with 3+ kitchens, VIP suite, media room, wine vault, elevator, pool and pool-house. All this is set on 6 acres (24,281 m2) of manicured gardens.

The advert had a reference to a website which was well presented with detailed photo gallery and descriptions of each aspect of the property. The current owners originally bought the home in 1992 for US$3,2m as a bank foreclosure sale. Rather than demolish the property and build a series of new homes on the valuable land, an extensive renovation project was undertaken which lasted 18 months and cost US$19,2m. So with a base cost of US$22,4m, plus fees plus furniture, the US$29m asking price seems reasonable.

This property was apparently briefly listed for sale in 2002 for US$45m. How things have changed. What is also interesting about the owner’s offer for sale is that “Owner financing is available” and a “7% commission is offered to any representative of a qualified buyer”. Sounds like a very committed seller.

At “only” R72,478/m2 this property is more aggressively priced than many of our local Atlantic Seaboard properties. I would not be surprised if more than one Russian oil-trader or Chinese manufacturer enquires. Situated close to a host of top American Universities,

Just as a weaker US Dollar and weak American property market make for outstanding buying opportunities, our strong Rand and firm pricing has made South African properties uncompetitive when compared on an international market. The predicted and widely expected weakening of the Rand seems to have begun. Exporters will cheer while importers will start to feel the pressure. It did not take us long to get used to the Rand trading between R6 and R7 to the dollar. Most commentators believe that at R9-R10 to the dollar we will experience renewed interest by foreigners in our domestic residential properties. For those areas in the country that used to enjoy a high percentage of foreign buying, the global financial crisis and strong Rand had an immediate impact. For other areas such as the KZN North Coast, and Zimbali included, the impact was negligible as foreign buyers make up such a small component of this overall market. South African purchasers have historically typically bought our Zimbali flagships properties priced at between R20m and R40m. There is however a new niche of “foreign” buyers who are actively looking for prime South African real estate. They are cash flush and astute in terms of knowing and understanding what they want. They are Africa’s elite and represent enormous buying power. They are brand conscious and will almost always favour the established high profile suburbs and gated estates.

We are living in exciting times. A transfer of wealth is happening from West to East.

Sovereign debt defaults and the risk of defaults weigh heavily on policymakers.

The risk of a global double dip recession remains high, as America prints money to pay for its current expenditure, and China wonders why it should keep on buying US Treasury bonds. Our South African banks appear to be so much better off than their European counterparts. Ooba, South Africa’s largest mortgage originator, reports that the average initial mortgage application decline ratio remains at 46.1% and that the ratio of applications declined by one bank but approved by another is 22.7%, indicating that is still difficult to secure bond finance, but that it is worth your while shopping around.

Despite a tough economic climate normal buying and selling of residential properties is happening every day. Value for money is the determining factor in whether a property trades. If you are a frustrated seller, re-look at your pricing. If you are a cash buyer – call us, we have just what you are looking for!

Andreas

R 5,750,000

ZIMBALI

R16 500 000

CHAKAS ROCK

R19 500 000 JOINT SOLE MANDATE

SIMBITHI

NEW SINGLE STOREY STUNNER!

WEB 237277

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Garages 2 A beautiful elevated and treed site with dam and distant sea views. An exquisite brand new modern single storey home. Incl (VAT) Jules 082 646 9319

R3 600 000

WEB 252813

SIMBITHI

UNIQUE BEACHFRONT MANSION

WEB 251440 210252

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Garages 4 One of a kind! Bespoke in every detail overlooking “Surfers” in Ballito this immaculately presented mansion has that ‘wow’ factor.

Jules 082 646 9319 | Sandra 083 685 5462

BALLITO

R4 342 000

R10,750,000 SOLE MANDATE

SIMBITHI

FAIRWAY FRONTING BEAUTY

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 4 Garages 2 The finest example of a prime fairway fronting property within Zimbali with over 60m of direct fairway frontage.

Andreas 082 837 9094 | Tim 082 424 6202

PENTHOUSE LIVING

WEB 192800

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Basement Parking 2 Stunning north facing penthouse unit priced to move.

Magnificent sea views, Jacuzzi, and large patio.

Kim 083 448 2632 | Tim 082 424 6202

R4 200 000

WEB 251251

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garage 2 Well appointed ground floor unit offering four bedrooms and three bathrooms. Spectacular sea views in secure estate.

Kim 083 448 2632 | Tim 082 424 6202

SIMBITHI

R5 595 000

STYLISH LIVING-PANORAMIC VIEWS

WEB 246843

Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3 Garage 2 Perched on the ridge with panoramic ocean views this stylish home offers a sophisticated and relaxed lifestyle. A must view opportunity.

Sandra 083 685 5462

SHEFFIELD

R7,900,000 SOLE MANDATE

BALLITO

SPACIOUS GARDEN

CONTINENTAL CHARM

WEB 250206

Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 3 Garages 2 Beautiful Tuscan villa. Fall in love with this charming family home of 365sqm. Totally private and secure with large trees. Staff accommodation, pool & pet friendly.

Sandra 083 685 5462

R6 500 000

WEB 237506

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 3 Garage 2 A resplendent home with breathtaking valley and dam views. Watch the birds flying below you from a large covered patio.

Jules 082 646 9319 | Tim 082 424 6202

ZIMBALI

R3,500,000

MEDITERRANEAN BEAUTY

WEB 245697

Bedrooms 4 Bathrooms 3 Garages 2 Breathtaking views from this cliff-hanger! Secure direct beach access. Tucked away and nestled in amongst “millionaire’s mile”.

Sandra 083 685 5462 | Jules 082 646 9319

ZIMBALI

R3 200 000

ULTIMATE GIFT – PRIVACY

WEB 251605

Bedrooms 5 Bathrooms 5 Garages 2 Eco friendly home set amongst lush trees offering privacy and a wonderful lifestyle.

Kim 083 448 2632 | Tim 082 424 6202

Rentals [032] 586 0170

PICTURE PERFECT GARDEN HOME WEB 247659 Bedrooms 3 Bathrooms 2 Garages 2 Ideally located within peaceful garden surrounds within the idyllic Zimbali Coastal Resort. Fully furnished.

Excellent price.

Andreas 082 837 9094

For many more properties, visit

www.seeff.com

SOLE MANDATE

SOLE MANDATE

SIMBITHI

SENSATIONAL VIEWS

FABULOUS FAIRWAY FRONTAGE

WEB 209154

Last of the fairway fronting sites looking over the sensational 4th and 6th fairways of the Zimbali golf club with beautiful surrounding lake.

Andreas 082 837 9094 | Tim 082 424 6202

SEEFF DOLPHIN COAST BALLITO 0861 2 73333 / 0861 2 SEEFF 082 326 6236 ballito@seeff.com | www.seeff.com

Official Voyager Estate Agent Partner

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At your service!

At Aon, our Private Brokers have experienced specialist capabilities to provide you with an unparalleled level of advice with exceptional personal service.

Our exclusive Household and Motor Insurance is designed specifically around catering for the needs of the High Nett Worth Individual from Contents to Art to Antiques to Collectibles and even that little sports car in your garage.

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Contact us today: 0800 400 400 or quoterequest@aon.co.za www.aon.co.za

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