GREETINGS FROM A CLOUDY AND COLD DAY IN CAPE TOWN

March has been just as busy as February, if not more. We have just had the Two Oceans Marathon, which was a great success once again.  The middle of March was The Annual Jazz Festival at the CTICC and the 6^th - 9^th April we had the World Travel Market here in Cape Town, where we were expecting people from all over the world. Everyone in Tourism was just rushing around getting everything ready for the opening day, or making the last few appointments to see how many clients they could still get for the WTM. We were very busy at the WTM, as I was assisting with the marketing of Richard’s Supper Stage, and Chris visiting his Adventure clients and also popping in to see all our CTC Marketing members and clients who were quite a few here in Cape Town. I will be attending Indaba again this year and hope to see more of our clients again.

Chris and I have completed another Marketing trip down the Garden Route the end of February and also of course, back on the Route 62 and cutting across to Ceres from Worcester, which took us 7 days to complete.  Our first visit was to Hermanus where we had to visit some Guest Houses and spent a wonderful evening with Han and Marijke at Walker Bay Manor. A delightful Guest House within walking distance to the Ocean and also shopping amenities. Very reasonably priced and very comfortable and friendly Hosts. Breakfast could be served in their Dining room or outside on the Patio in a wonderful neat Garden over looking their pool.

For more information please contact Han at: info@walker-bay-manor.co.za  028 312 2044

Our next port of call was at Swellendam where we visited Swellen2 Lodge just outside Swellendam on the Cape Town side.   This is ideal for you and your family, being Child friendly. Many places to play, as they have a play yard next to their Restaurant. They have many small animals which the children are allowed to pet. Lovely neat ten en suite wooden rooms with balconies, which can also be used for B&B or Self Catering, next to a river.  This is ideal for gents wanting to have a conference in the countryside.
The Breakfast and menu is typical country food, absolutely to die for.  We had an enormous Toasted Bacon, Cheese and Banana Sandwich with Chips and wonderful Coffee. Cheese cake, Muffins or an English breakfast was also available. The Restaurant is very colourful, and children have big thick plastic mattresses to play on, they can ride on swings, do some colouring in or play with blocks and various toys while you have your breakfast / lunch or just a Coffee or Tea.  They have large grounds where the children can run around and will be very safe.  Accommodation is at a very reasonable rate.  Next time you drive to Swellendam, please do pop in for a cup of coffee or a light lunch, or even stay overnight.
 
For more information please contact Richard at: swellen2@telkomsa.net  028 514 2199

After having a lovely time with Richard and his wife we set of for Mossel Bay where we stopped after Lunch at Indalu Game Reserve, about 30 Km outside Mossel Bay on the Herbertsdale/Cooper Road off the N2.  What an amazing Reserve with stunning views!  We were welcomed by Gerhard and Arina and then taken on a long walk with each getting their own Guide and elephant, who were most informative throughout the walk. Our Host was kind enough to take some lovely photographs of the two of us with the Elephants.  We were then taken to a wide open space were we had a chance to feed our elephants with fruit and vegetables which they loved and were so gentle with us and listened to all the commands given to them. After that we were taken on an amazing long Game Drive and saw many different kinds of Buck. The scenery was most amazing, so much bush and water, uphill and down dale we drove for many kilometres, plus we were shown where the elephants sleep at night. After all that excitement we were taken to our thatched roof Cottage where we were going to sleep.  There were two cottages each sleeping 4 people. We had a separate cottage housing a fully furnished kitchen/come dining room where we could prepare our own supper for the evening. Being Earth Day, we decided to have a lovely braai outside by the Boma. It was a lovely quiet evening, spending it under the stars all alone listening to the sounds of the night with only a fire going.  They do have lights and a Fridge run by solar panelling, Gas for Hot water for showering, and a large Gas Stove for your cooking. After an early breakfast the two of us set off for Oudtshoorn via the Robinson Pass. Children are also most welcome to have this wonderful experience.
To book your amazing walk and interaction with these amazing Elephants please contact Gerhard at: info@indalu.co.za  082 990 3831

Driving through Brandwagt on the way up the Robinson Pass we decided to visit Nyaru Game Lodge, which now have new owners we had not met before.  What a lovely surprised we had when we arrived there.  Low and behold just outside the Reception entrance was a Giraffe sitting and waiting for their guests to arrive.  This I had never seen before, so out came the camera, and getting out of the car along comes a rather large Warthog, very friendly with a small MeerKat coming with him, also very friendly.  We were welcomed by Zane’ who told us that the animals are now so used to the guests, and she must watch that they do not come into the lodge.   Needless to say, shortly afterwards Mr Warthog came in and made himself very comfortable on the Zebra skin rug in the entrance hall.  He was so cute that we decided to take a photograph of the two of us, this was quite an experience too.
The lodge is a 3* and children friendly, so again you and your family will be most welcome.  They offer Chalets catering for 4 people per Chalet. A lovely swimming pool and of course offer Quad bike rides, Games drives, horseback safaris, nature walks, helicopter flights and much more which will keep the little ones busy.  They serve traditional South African food under the stars, and is only 15 minutes away from Mossel Bay.

For more information please contact Zane at: info@nyarugame.co.za  082 175 1933

Our trip after Oudtshoorn took us to Plettenberg Bay and then onto Storms River Village which we love and decided to stay overnight.  They have put in a wonderful pool and upgraded their Boma.  t What a difference and are now truly a wonderful Lodge to stay at.  Not to speak of their lovely Breakfast, Lunch or Supper that is offered at a very reasonable price and so tasty.  Their accommodation is beautiful and very comfortable, large rooms with bathroom en suite. They also provide a dormitory or Camping facilities, which are tented accommodation, fully furnished. Grow their own herbs and vegetables. For your next visit, do pop in at Tube ‘n Axe, Storms River Village. 

For more information please contact: info@tubenaxe.co.za  042 281 1757

We were at last on our way to Ceres via Route 62, and stopped at the Bella De Karoo was a must for a morning Breakfast.  Nothing better than a Rooster Koek – (bread dough made into a donut size and roasted on an open fire) This is served with farm butter, Cheese and Bacon, what a treat and boeretroos, (which is small enamel kettle with home brooded coffee).  This is not too be missed at this Country Stall between Oudtshoorn and Calitzdorp.  They also make delicious homemade brown bread to take away, cakes, cookies, preserves and of course beautiful hand knitted articles, toys, Bags and place mats etc. The ladies have a workshop there on the premises, where you can actually see them doing their handwork. Really a stop worth taking when you are driving on the Route 62:  

For more information please contact Eunice at: eunice3306@hotmail.com  044 213 3737

We arrived at Ceres in the late afternoon to visit Ceres Zip Slide Tours.  This is an all weather adventure, suitable for most ages, young and old. No Group size in limited, the Tours Depart every 30 minutes.  You will be doing your zip slide through rock formations and the changing scenery is breath-taking. 8 Slides totalling 1.4km for the best tour in Africa.  1-2 hours (depending on group size) of Adventure and adrenaline rushes, plus refreshments along the tour.  The surrounding Skurweberg mountains forms a picturesque backdrop to this awesome adventure.  Guides are all qualified, and they use a patented braking system.  Their Guides and owners are very friendly and helpful, even assisted us with a young gentleman who was in a wheelchair, so that he could also have a super adventure.  They are very patient with the young people and the older folk, which does not often happen at Adventure facilities.

To enjoy this amazing experience please contact Angelique at: info@ceresadventures.co.za

                                             

After all our adventures and excitement, it was back to the office to do some emails for the WTM clients and not forgetting the Indaba at Durban next month.  So I now have to put down the newsletter and do some office work for a change.  We look forward to meeting some of you at INDABA, and will catch up on all your news.  We wish you all a wonderful April and hope that you are still very busy with clients coming to visit South Africa, seeing we still have a little bit of summer available although I must stay that the winter is creeping up slowly.  We did have a few cooler days this last week, and some very welcome rain a few days ago for a change.  We were fortunate to get some rain in Swellendam and again when we got home to Cape Town.  Please keep the news coming in, and thank for all the lovely emails we are receiving regarding our monthly newsletter.

Take Care and God Bless.

                              *************************************************************

             Thought of the Day:       Who comforts us in all our troubles, so that we can comfort those in any
                                                   trouble with the comfort we ourselves have received from God.  
                                                                            1 Corinthians 1:4
                                                                                

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours
P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443
Cape Town, South Africa  
Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700
elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za
Twitter: @ElaineCorbett7

The Farm dam at Rhebokskraal Olive Estate - Mc Gregor

Greetings from a Beautiful Sunny day in Cape Town,

Who said September is a quiet month?  My word it, has been a bumper month with so much to do, educational trips, visitors, tours and much more. We were hoping to wish you all a wonderful Tourism month, but when we looked again, the month was gone and we were in October.

Local Tour Operators and Guides were invited by Langberg Manicipality to come and have an educational in their region that covers: Ashton, Bonnievale, McGregor, Montagu and Robertson, visiting some of their Wine Estates and so on.  Nine arrived  early at Excelsior Wine Estate to board our transport provided by Swanns.  We set off for our first visit of the area to “Klipdrift Brand Cellar’. Brandy at 10 o’clock in morning!! Going through our minds.

Well, what a surprise…………. A wonderful breakfast awaited us at the cellar after our welcome drink of Klipdrift Red and Ginger Ale with ice.  Such a refreshing welcome drink.

After breakfast we were welcomed by Farmer Red Beard from Ashton and his charming wife who told us all about their Beekeeping,  handcrafted wines where he shares the secret art of growing grapes and making wine. Then of course their very special ‘Voortrekker’ Breakfast on their farm, where Mrs Farmer Red Beard joins you for the cooking class, where traditional South African preserves, jams and breads can be made.  This is an ideal break away for the person looking for a hands on week-end with the whole family.  You are asked to join in with the making of the bread, harvesting grapes, preparing the breakfast and much more.  What an amazing experience for the visitor. . Farmer Red Beard’s farm is a restful haven in the calmness of the Langeberg mountains a mere 120 minutes from Cape Town in the Robertson Wine Valley and ideal to rekindle  your romance with the one that you love. A body massage is followed by a sunset wine tasting in the vineyard and a farm drive to a cosy bush braai for dinner. Accommodation on the farm is in a traditional South African 18^th century built farmhouse or farm cottages. Built at the base of the Langeberg, the views are different every day and every season. The calmness of the farm is soothing. Wake up to a breakfast at a table in the vineyards…………. Farmhouse food made by Mrs Farmer Red Beard accompanies each Hands on farming event.

Should you be interested to know more about a wonderful working weekend away in the country, Contact: Farmer Red Beard - 023 615 1204 - www.farmerredbeard.co.za

We then had an interesting talk about Klein Hoek Kloof Wines and their amazing ‘Breakfast’ white wine that was presented with charcuterie tasting, garlic salami, sausage,  smoked bacon and Spanish Ham. Their wines are also exported to the Netherlands and China. After coffee/ Tea and various cupcakes also provided by Klipdrift Cellar we were introduced to the Brandy pairing of food and dessert and sweets. Over 20 eats were provided with the Brandy tasting and what a treat it was. It was absolutely fabulous how a bottle of Brandy can be paired with all these wonderful treats. We learnt a tremendous amount from this Brandy and food pairing, and will definitely be bringing around the next Tour. Rates are from R40pp – R100pp for a Cellar Tour or Brandy pairing, depending on your choice. Contact: 023 626 3027 - www.klipdrift.co.za

Robertson is sometimes called the ‘Garden of the Boland’ because of its charming gardens and Jacaranda lined streets. The town was named after Dr William Robertson, a Scottish theologian and was
establish in the year 1853 when the town was laid out on the farm ‘Over het Roode Zand’ (beyond the red sand). The town that developed is surrounded by some of the country’s most valuable land, the tract along the Breede River having been priced so highly at times that it was called the ‘Goudmyn’ (gold mine). Its fertile, lime-rich soil makes the Robertson district one of the country’s major wine-producing regions, although table grapes, dried fruit, Lucerne and racehorse breeding also contributes to the local economy. Because of the town’s vinicultural importance, it is fitting that Kilpdrift should have established their Brandewyntuin Restaurant, where mouth-watering  meals are famous for their unique Klipdrift twist.

We then did a site inspection at the Merlot Manor Guest House in Robertson.  A beautifully restored Georgian double storey house which dates back to the mid 1800’s with a wooden balcony overlooking the town and street lined with Jacaranda trees. Merlot Manor is situated in the heart of Robertson on Route 62 which offers 4 star accommodation, and is situated in a quiet tranquil residential cul-de-sac close to all amenities,  The rooms have crisp white linen with colourful cushions and matching  crochet woollen throws over the beds.  It also provides a 25 seater restaurant which is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday and caters for Dinner for their guests and locals. Contact: 023  626 5151 - www.merlotmanorguesthouse.com

Back in the vehicle after visiting Robertson, we took off for Ashton area where we went to visit Rietvallei Estates for wine tasting and a Fondue Braai on their lovely lawn with sun umbrellas. What a venue! There were round wooden tables with a large hole in the middle, which eventually turned out to be the braai area, when our Hostess brought a small round dish with hot coals and a gridiron.  This was where we each were going to braai our own meat.  Then the meat arrived, salad and rolls with garlic and butter in tinfoil. What a feast we had and the wine was flowing all the time. It was a wonderful atmosphere, great food, lovely wine, friends and beautiful weather, what more could we ask for. Do visit this amazing wine estate when you are on holiday, or just for a day visit, but remember to book well in advance. Contact: Elizabeth - 023 626 3596 - www.rietvallei.co.za

Our next stop was  Montagu, This pretty little town, was named after John Montagu who was Colonial Secretary when it was founded on the farm Uitvlugt in 1851.  It nestles in a basin bounded  by mountains at the western end of the Little Karoo. Part of its charm lies in the number of houses dating almost from its inception, some of which are national monuments. Thermal springs 3 km from the centre of town first made Montagu a centre for holidays, and the spa hotel at which the waters were exploited was instrumental in the town being officially proclaimed a health resort in 1936. Montagu also prospered during the ostrich feather boom in the early 20^th century.  Montagu is also known for its wines and orchards, and have since ensured a name for their region’s wines as well as keeping a giant fruit-canning co-operative prosperously busy. Likewise the dried fruit factory and shops. Here we visit one of the many Guest Houses, namely Mimosa Lodge which has provided accommodation since 1855.  It was recently bought in 2004 by Fida who runs the Lodge for accommodation and also Fine dining during the evening. They have 23 rooms in total and 11 of them are Garden Suites with modern furniture, beautifully decorated and very colourful. They  also provide Wifi, TV Lounge, a pool Bar  and library. Outside you have a large Karoo garden, with fruit trees, vegetables, herbs, and flowers, plus a patio and various relaxing shaded areas, a summer house and a salt water (heated) pool.  For your next booking contact: Fida - 023 614 2351 - www.mimosa,co.za

Just outside Montagu we had a site inspection at a newly renovated Lodge opening very soon called Galenia Estate which will be a 5* establishment also serving fine dining in the evenings. The rooms are beautiful and each has a patio outside with amazing views over the Montagu valley. They will also be offering Olive tastings, walks and trails. We will keep you informed as soon as we have more news in due course. Contact:  Karen:  023 614 2514  www.galenia.co.za

Our next visit, was back at Excelsior Manor Guest house founded in 1859, where we had a wine tasting done by the Owner Peter de Wet at the Manor House and then served a 3 course meal made by their wonderful in house chef and Hostess Kirsten and served by James their Butler. This golden oldie homestead has been in the family for over 5 generations, so the furniture and fittings are befitting the era of this gracious homestead.  You even have a slipper bath in some of the rooms. Outside you have a beautiful garden, a superb pool area where you can also have your early morning breakfast served. Excelsior Wines offer Wine Tastings for local visitors close to the Guest House where you can overlook a lovely large dam. At their tasting facilities you are able to Blend and label your own creation of wine and your children are kept busy playing on the lovely lawn within eye sight.  They offer The Stables Conference Centre which is available for small functions and conferences.  Contact:  Kirsten 023 615 2050 www.excelsior.co.za

Our 2^nd day in this beautiful wine valley had us go through to McGregor the quaint picturesque village in the out skirts of the Robertson Wine Valley.  Originally called Lady Grey after the wife of Governor Sir George Grey, this town was renamed in honour of the Reverend Andrew McGregor who came from Scotland in 1862. The little town of McGregor with its blend of Cape Dutch and English architectural styles, has been authoritatively been described as the best-preserved and most complete example of mid-nineteenth century townscape in the Cape. The town is the centre of an area which has from its inception depended on fruit and wine production, although there was a time when it was also famous for the long bamboo whipsticks it supplied to the drivers of oxen teams all over South Africa.  Now a days it is known for its artists, potters, creative crafts and holistic retreats to name but only a few.

Our visit took us to Rhebokskraal Olive Estate, where we were welcomed by the Owner and hostess Annalien, who is a musician, artist, has a passion for olives and the country living.
Here we were introduced to a country breakfast experience after  meandering through their olive orchard, having a look at their quaint “Volkshuisie” and Dove Cottage accommodation, taking photographs and hearing all about their Horse trails and walks. Our table was ready for us on arrival with multi coloured cushions on the benches or chairs with magazines as place mats and colourful cotton serviettes. Flowers from her garden on the large table with fresh bread, homemade preserves and jams, olives etc.  Scramble eggs were made on a little gas stove outside under the trees and we could add salads, olives,  chutneys,  cheese, tomatoes or whatever we wished to make up our breakfast.  What a wonderful idea, plus coffee or tea.  When sleeping over at Rhebokskraal there will be no TV’s or radios. It is time to talk or relax. It was really a wonderful experience and everyone should have this type of breakfast when visiting McGregor. Annelien also has a little restaurant and Farm Stall in town where you can purchase locally produced preserves, jams, and olives produced on their farm.  Contact: Annelien - 023 625 1951 - www.rhebokskraalolives.co.za

Our next stop was going to be Bonnievale Wines were we going to have a Biscuit and wine pairing. This was most unusual, as one really thinks of eating sweet cookies with white wine.  Well, we were in for a surprise.  The white wines were chilled and crispy, the red wines were very special to me as I prefer red wine. Robyn-Anne presented the wine pairing for us.  Needless to say quite a bit of wine was purchased. Bonnievale, the village is located on the banks of the Breede River and was called Vale in 1902, when the Cape Government opened a siding halfway between Robertson and Swellendam in this fertile Valley they added the Bonnie in 1917.  While the Cheddar and Gouda varieties produced by Bonnievale’s  cheese  factory have won many distinction, the district is essentially a wine-producing region and like Montagu, is noted for its Muscadel and other sweet varieties.  Contact - 023 616 220 - www.bonnievalewines.co.za

Our last stop for the day took us to Viljoensdrift located on the banks of the Breede River where we were
taken on a river cruise while drinking their wines or enjoying our picnic lunch. We were offered the option to have our lunch which we could choose in their Deli and have it on the cruise or afterwards.  Here you can pick and choose from the great variety of cheese, cold meats, freshly baked breads or pate’s, whatever you would like to eat. Their cruise takes approximately 50 min where after we saw a video on life on a wine farm in the Breede Valley. A wonderful time was had by all and should you wish to experience this lovely trip on
the river while enjoying the local wines with a picnic basket.
Contact: Fred Viljoen - 023 615 1017 - www.viljoensdrift.co.za

                          
After our lunch it was time to return to our own vehicles and set off back home to Cape Town. We saw so much, enjoyed so much, slept like dogs after the amazing dinner at Excelsior, that it felt as we had been on a week’s holiday.  We all recommend this as a wonderful visit to the Langeberg and Breede River Valley, so you have much to choose from should you be visiting Cape Town in the near future.  Do not forget our little country villages that have much to offer and just a stone’s throw from the city.Driving back to Cape Town you will also pass many farm Stalls, so purchase fresh homemade breads, cheese, pickles, jams and farm butter to enjoy with all the wines you have just purchased.

Do join us on Twitter and Face Book, and we look forward to hear from you all.

Warm Regards and God Bless,

                                                                        Thought of  the Day:

                                                     A man’s wisdom gives him patience;  it is to
                                                               his glory to overlook an offense.
                                                                         PROVERBS 19: 11

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours
Cape Town, South Africa  
Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700
elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za
Twitter: @ElaineCorbett7
Face Book: Elaine Corbett 9889
Registered Tourist Guide WC8172

GREETINGS FROM A SUNNY CAPE TOWN, This month my news letter is written with a very heavy heart. I will be writing about our wonderful Big 5 animals that are under threat from poachers and hunters from across the world.  Why oh why is this happening to our God given beautiful creatures.  Not only do we face this but also a terrible drought throughout Africa, which of course also includes South Africa, Botswana and Namibia.  I am enclosing a copy of an email I received from one of our Members who has the same feeling many of us have with the regard to the situation we are in at the moment. We thank Peter Hayward for this information from Hayward Luxury Safaris :

  An African summer can cook! Sometimes as summer enters we may be taken by surprise   with a few splatters of enticing rain that nothing responds to – not even the grass. To counter   this newfound seasonal hope, it's not unusual for this first sun of summer to demonstrate   what it’s made of and seemingly radiate the winter bush veld with Nature is quite a thing   if you take careful note. There are over 1’000 head of game roaming around the   Bobbejaansberg Private Nature Reserve that have tasted rain over nine months ago.   Luckily we have a small stream -The Boekenhoutskloof River - that feeds the reserve and   we keep a few select water holes topped up in some of the higher, drier areas within this   hilly sanctuary.   But food (grazing and browsing) at the end of each winter is scarce, very scarce and   the zebra and wildebeest over utilize every inch of this 1’000 hectare reserve. The eland   suffer by the end of winter, as do the warthog and bush pigs and there are losses as   nature takes her toll, but the giraffe, waterbuck, kudu and impala head through this weather catastrophe as if nothing is a problem! Besides this report we also have our farmers in the country in the same position, who have planted all the wheat, corn and also have domestic animals like their cattle, sheep, goats and many fruit trees etc, etc.   We need to give all this some thought and try and save as much water in the cities and towns, which might make a difference to these people living in the large drought areas of South Africa and further afield. A suggestion from my side is that we all try and acquire a water tank for our domestic use at our homes in which ever province we live.  I can remember years ago, all the old people had water tanks, in town and not only on the farms, as we need all the water we can save and it is sad to see all the rain water just running down the many streets and roads into the ocean, or rivers where we could have saved some from our drain pipes.  Maybe our Government will also think this way in the future.

September and October were very busy months for CTC Marketing and also the Travelling Media, as we also had a wonderful visit to Tulbagh in the Western Cape, where we held another Responsible Tourism meeting with the locals in Tulbagh.  This town was rocked nearly to the ground in 1969 by an unexpected earth quake as some of you might have remembered. They have the most Cape Dutch Houses in one street called Church Street, plus their wonderful and interesting Tulbagh Museum and a few Restaurants for lovely local cuisine such as ‘Readers Restaurant’ where we had an amazing Dinner.

They are now doing so well, all the buildings were mostly restored again and the wine farmers are all thriving so well and collecting many accolades for their wines. They have some wonderful Restaurants and many guest houses and self catering facilities.  A visit for a week-end to this lovely small country town is a must as you will enjoy the quietness and friendliness of the locals. Please contact their local tourism office tulbaghinfo@lando.co.za

Some History of Tulbagh: Established in 1795 (laid Out) Settled in 1699 by 14 farmers, the town itself only to develop from 1743. Named after Dutch Cape Colony Governor Ryk Tulbagh. Was previously named Land van Waveren and Roodezand (red sand). Tulbagh is known for its Wine and Olives. Also to be tasted are their dried fruit and handcrafted Belgian chocolates, and also sample a variety of olives and virgin oils. www.tulbagh.net

Ceres their neighbour is known for its many fruits, pears, peaches and wonderful mountains, now also offer a  Zipslide Tour with eight slides totalling 1.4km for the best tour in Africa! This was absolutely amazing and at the end of our network meeting we were offered an adventure with the company.  Even our little wheelchair warrior Damian had to try it. This was the best adventure he had in a long time. www.warrioronwheels.co.za/adventure-serv   (please watch) https//www.youtube.com/watch?v=g3JCasxdjRg       

They take children with disabilities and their staff are so interested to help and very friendly with the children and even with us oldies.  Even I had to go and really enjoyed it very much.   For more information on Ceres Zipline Contact  info@ceresadventures.co.za Ceres History:  Established in 1849.Municipal Status 1964. Ceres was named after the Roman goddess of Agriculture, Ceres. Regional centre for the surrounding towns of Tulbagh, Prince Albert Hamlet and Wolseley. Major deciduous fruit area.  On 29^th September 1969 a massive earthquake struck without warning. Some people died as a result and many old Cape Dutch buildings were damaged. Winter in Ceres also brings snow on the Matroosberg. Pick cherries at the Klondyke farm.  www.ceres.org

Looking down towards Ceres from the zipslide.

Our visit in the area also took us to Piekenierskloof Resort just outside the valley of Citrusdal know for its citrus fruits, where we had a Responsible Tourism Workshop with all the folk from the West Coast Tourism who brought us many interesting people who delivered various presentations regarding Responsible Tourism. and telling us how they managed their business through responsible tourism.   www.capewestcoast.org

The San Cultural Centre !Khwattu, just outside Cape Town on the R27 route, which was very interesting to listen to. They shared the San spirit/cultural and educational centre a real uplifting tourist destination, plus guided tours. Their Restaurant serves delicious meals, Beach & Nature self catering accommodation, for a weekend breakaway. www.khwattu.org

Marine Dynamics from Gansbaai telling us all about their Shark Cage Diving  and Whale watching projects. They also recently won ‘The World Responsible Tourism Award’ for  Best Destination!  CTC Marketing is very proud of them. All in all it was a very exciting and interesting visit to these lovely small country towns. Here people still have time for you and nothing was too much trouble. So when you decide to have a break, even for a week-end or a holiday do think of visiting the  West Coast area for many surprises, interesting places and wonderful accommodation  you will be able to choose from, at very reasonable rates.   CTC Marketing wish you a wonderful December and Happy Holidays if you are taking your annual leave.  Drive Safely and do visit some of our amazing places here in South Africa. Seasons Greetings from Chris and myself. Warm Regards and God Bless,

P.S.

 When visiting Cape Town during December, remember to visit Richard’s Supper Stage in Sea Point for a night of Cape Culture, Cape Cuisine, Music and laughter. A Special Christmas lunch at 12 Noon and a New Years Evening with many surprises and entertainment. www.richardscapetown.co.za  Mobile: 0747 092 502 for our Bookings.

 Thought of the Day:  Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies.Psalm 34:12.13

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443 Cape Town, South Africa   Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700 elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za

GREETINGS FROM A SUNNY AUTUMN DAY IN CAPE TOWN, We are having the most wonderful warm weather after some chilly days. We have just returned from an amazing Marketing visit to Touws River in the Western Cape, on Route N1, 2 hours drive north from Cape Town. We were 5 ladies and 2 Gentlemen who were photographers, bloggers, twitters, and Marketers visiting this small country town, somehow forgotten by many South Africans. Approximately 21 years ago, the large shunting yard and train centre closed down due to the stopping of the Steam Trains in South Africa. Nearly half the locals living in Touwsriver were employed by the Government Railway, if not more. When this large employment centre closed down, many people were left unemployed, forcing a large school to also close its doors and now stands empty and deserted as many people left the town to go and find work somewhere else. The local Railway Station which had been running since early 1936, was not used and has been so badly vandalized since 2012. Great attempts are being made to try and restore the station back to its old glory, and have visitors staying over for 2 or more days in the old Hotel next to the Station which was also vandalized. Touwsriver used to be the biggest Steam Train Depot in the Western Cape. Luckily one of the old Steam Train Engines has been put to rest in the Gideon Joubert Park , which represents the History of the town and is still a great Tourist attraction. Luckily many other people have started new businesses in the town and also outside Touwsriver as you will read further in my newsletter below.

The Vandalized Railway Station …….

The Last Steam Train …… The Marketing Team ……

We visit “Kom Kyk” right next to the BP Filling Station just outside Touwsriver and had a wonderful welcome of eats, tea and coffee after our early morning drive from Cape Town. Nina was a lovely hostess, and the little Restaurant was abuzz with clients come in while we were there. Next door, they have a Wine Boutique, Deli, Gift shop and local Crafts. Kom Kyk, also serves an amazing Breakfast. Email: nina@breede.co.za

We then set off with Willie Marais a local gentleman who took us on a quick tour of the town ending up at CTE. Commuter Transport Engineering has a policy that is to achieve sustained, profitable growth by refurbishing, repairing, manufacturing and delivering products that satisfy customers’ specified and accepted standards of workmanship, performance and reliability. This company was started in 1998 by Patricia Norris who is the CEO. Their aim is to build a solid honest, foundation in the forgotten community of Touwsriver. She looked past the neglect and desolation of this abandoned old rail town and saw hope and a greater purpose for CTE, who were able to not only change the South African rail industry but change lives. As the South African Rail industry makes the essential and exciting leap forward into the future, CTE will have the responsibility of the greater community across the nation of making rail a safe, reliable and affordable form of public transport and to empower and transform the individuals of South Africa and it starts with them. CTE has a vision to contribute to planning, creating and realizing that future through nurturing the skills and talents of its people and building the capacity to grow and develop with the industry as a whole. Their primary aim is the refurbishing commuter rail coaches, which has enjoyed considerable success in the rail industry. It was absolutely amazing to see what they have done with the old coaches that have been delivered and what they look like when going out. Everybody was working , learning, enjoying what they were doing amongst all the coaches, some on wheels, wheels without coaches on top, some being built with steel, others putting in windows etc, etc. From the General Manger Ian Watson who took us on the Tour and gave us a very informative talk to Nwabisa Ntiyane, their Managing Director who showed us what they are busy with and what they proposed to do in the future, we were most impressed. They should all be very proud of their achievements and so should the community who are also working very hard. www.cte.co.za

Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve is situated in a beautiful part of the Montagu district, in the Klein Karoo, 2.5 hours from Cape Town. This mountainous terrain stretches over 4300 ha boasting a rich variety of fauna and flora. Game Drives, mountain bike tails will keep you active or you can just relax in and around one of the various accommodation options available. Birds and animals reside aplenty in this natural Karoo environment. We had a visit to Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve where we were introduced to the Nature conservation and lectures that they were taught, by 3 Black Students from various areas of South Africa. They were so interesting to listen to and had a great passion for their country and its Fauna and Flora and animals. Conservation is an important part of the reserve and measures are taken to ensure that man’s ecological footprint is as minimal as possible. They also offer affordable self-catering facilities for visitors and the students also live out at the Reserve while studying there. A wonderful Reserve to visit if you are interested in conservation. All units are family friendly and equipped with basic amenities giving you peace of mind for your stay. No hunting opportunities at Drie Kuilen Nature Reserve. Contact: San-Marie at manager@driekuilen.co.za www.driekuilen.co.za

We ended our afternoon at Njalo Njalo Safaris a few km outside Touwsriver. Here we saw many White, Brown and Gold Springbok. A Springbok pie, and red wine was served for Dinner after a warm welcome from Maggie Nel. They have a wonderful Restaurant and Bar, large swimming pool and deck outside the dining area. Day visitors are very welcome, mountain biking is also available. We were shown to their lovely Chalets that were B & B or you could have it Self Catering. We found our accommodation absolutely wonderful and slept like logs till the next morning. Contact Maggie at: info@njalosafari.com www.njalosafari.com

Early the next morning we were fetched by the transport provided to have breakfast at “Kom Kyk” restaurant who provided us with a wonderful spread. Directly after that we set off on a quick tour of the town on our way to Rangers Reserve where we were welcomed by Marcus and Hilarie who are responsible for the training of the anti-poaching guides, rangers and sometimes private security companies. They offer 1 day – 14 days, or a 1 week Course or 2 Day weekend Course, depending on your needs. Their school programme also provides leadership skills and life skills, Survival and Bush craft skills, Team Work or young Rangers. There are camping facilities, or semi-tented lodges and so on. All this in 1385 Hectares of breath taking mountain views and serine valleys, not forgetting the Cape Fynbos Ecosystem - Proteas and many succulents. For more information on any training or animal tracking skills or just sightseeing please contact Marcus@tactrac.co.za www.tactrac.co.za

After leaving the Rangers Reserve we were taken to Karoo1 Village Hotel enroute to De Doorns, were we were welcomed by Alwyn and Tasneem who offered a very interesting Brandy and wine tasting for us. We were then taken on a site inspection of the property, which was most unusual. One of their group of rooms were built in the cob, or sand bag way instead of bricks. It was so lovely, and cosy. They have many statues on the property, different kinds of restaurants, a lovely bar. A large Conference Centre and entertaining centre. The owner produces his own wine, brandy and perfume. The original Homestead is used as their home, and looked after very carefully. Some of the slave quarters from way back have been turned into beautiful en suite bedrooms and even have their own fireplaces, which is used during the cold winter of the Karoo. They have built an amazing Chapel and hope to have that ready shortly, for those wishing to get married. You are also welcomed by a herd of sheep, made from wire and beads which was most unusual. The Hotel is really worth a visit and at least two night stay to enjoy everything around you, as it was so much to mention. They also have a helipad for those who would rather visit that way than by car. info@karoo1.com www.karoo1.com

We had two memorable days in the Touwsriver Valley with very friendly people, and will be back again in October when they have their MAKADAS FESTIVAL. We at CTC Marketing and the Marketing Team wish them all the best and hope that their Dreams of rebuilding their town once again into a vibrant village like it used to be, and a beautiful Railway Station where we once again may have a Steam Train running like days of yore. If you are coming from Cape Town or Johannesburg on your next trip, please do go and support these wonderful people by visiting their Filling Station, enjoy a meal or two with “Kom Kyk” or visiting one of the Reserves and spend a few days in this wonderful country town with fresh air and country style living. We would also like to thank the Touwsriver people for their hospitality, friendliness and of course HGTS Tours for their Transport and driver, all the way from Cape Town and safely back home again.

Until next month ………….

Warm Regards,

Thought of the Day: Wait for the Lord; be strong and take heart and wait for the Lord. PSALM: 27:14

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443 Cape Town, South Africa Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700 elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za

GREETINGS FROM A SUNNY SPRING DAY IN CAPE TOWN,
This month started with a flower tour as far as the Copper Mine Area of the Namaqualand in the Northern Cape.   I am sure most of you have already had a chance to travel to see our famous annual spring flowers on the West Coast.  The flowers in the Postberg Nature Reserve were absolutely amazing.
Lunch at the well known Geelbek Restaurant was out of this world, and everyone enjoyed it.  Do remember always to book well in advance as they can get very busy during the flower show. Traveling up on the R27 and also along the coast on our way to Clanwilliam, was like passing a picture as there were flowers everywhere in many different colours forming a carpet along the roadside.

                         
Our next stop was between Graafwater and Clanwilliam where we were privileged to meet Chris and
Annette at Elandsberg Tea Plantation. The evening we slept over at the Clanwilliam Lodge and had
a wonderful Dinner, and a good night’s rest.  www.clanwilliamlodge.com

Red Gold from the Cedarberg

It is one of the miracle plants of the world, and has been used as a medicine for perhaps thousands of years. Today it is consumed my millions all over the world as a refreshing tea. It is used in the preparation of natural cosmetics, skin care products and as a basis for medicines. It is rich in anti-oxidants, has a calming effect on the nervous system, has strong anti-inflammatory as well as anti-allergic properties, assists the body in blocking the production of cholesterol. It contains no caffeine, very little tannin and a wide variety of minerals, albeit in small quantities.

This is Rooibos – Aspalahtus linearis – endemic to the Clanwilliam / Cedarberg area.

Today Rooibos is cultivated in plantations over large areas around Clanwilliam and Van Rhynsdorp as well as in the Piketberg / Aurora area. Up to about 55 – 60 years ago plantations were unknown. When it was harvesting time – late summer and autumn – the farmers used to go into the veld to harvest the Rooibos growing wild.

Visitors to the area who want to see what Rooibos is all about can go to Rooibos Ltd in Clanwilliam where they will be shown a short video. Alternatively they can contact Elandsberg Eco Tourism on the Groenkol Rooibos Tea Estate for a safari tour of the plantations and the processing plant.

We had the amazing opportunity of visiting Nieuwoudtville , where we saw the Nieuwoudt Falls, the Glacial Rock Striations  which date back to over 280million years. The Quiver Tree Forest and of course the Matjiesfontein Padstall, which is about 20km out of town, where we did a journey through many, many flowers. Nieuwoudtville is of course also the global mecca for botanists because of its unique bulb concentration.  Sir David Attenborough filmed parts of his documentary ‘The Private Life o Plants’ here in Nieuwoudtville. www.nieuwoudtville.com

After leaving Vanrhynsdorp we set off to visit Christine Visser at the Knersvlakte Kombuis who gave us a wonderful
talk on the Indigenous Succulents  in the Knersvlakte area. She then directed us to the vast Quartz field on a nearby farm, where we could see how these minute plants have had to adapt to the extreme harsh conditions in the area.  It was amazing to see how these small  plants just seemed to grow amongst the quartz, that keep the soil moist after the rain and also shields the plants from the harsh heat of the sun in summer.
Vanrhynsdorp was founded as a Mission Station in 1751 and is now known for the largest succulent nursery of its
kind in the world.  www.kokerboom.co.za

At Kamieskroon we met up with the well known Namaqualand Lita Cole, whose knowledge of the local flowers
in the Skilpad Wild Flower Nature Reserve was absolutely astounding.  She could tell you everything about each
flower or shrub she came across.  She is high in demand by Botany specialists from all over the world.
Kamieskroon was established in 1860 known for its farming and wild flowers, plus one of the best (unknown)
mountain-biking areas. www.northerncape.org.za

Springbok as most of you know is another flower area in the Northern part of the Province, where we also encountered History of the Anglo-Boer War and History of the Cape Copper Mines stretching as far as Port Nolloth, Nababeep, O’Kiep and of course Concordia.
Nababeep  can have three meanings in Nama, depending again upon the pronunciation – ‘the place where
the Giraffe drinks’, ‘the water behind the little hill’, or ‘where the rock is carried’. The farm Lelykepad, alias Nababeep was granted to Pieter van Zyl in 1850. It was later sold to 3 Mine magnets in 1852 and in 1899 it was reported that it was by far the most promising of the trial mines.   It is interesting to know that the village was entirely company controlled which resulted in a complete lack of documentation concerning its history, as its only history was written up in the documents of The Cape Copper Company and these were destroyed between the time The South African Copper Company  stopped operations and the time the O’Kiep Copper Company took over the Namaqualand mines.  Namaqualand was named after the nomadic Nama tribe of the Khoi-Khoi who were killed
in large numbers (50-70%of them) by German colonizers from 1904 to 1907. www.namakwa-dm.gov.za
A visit to Goegap Nature Reserve to see the flowers was also an eye opener. goegap@outlook.com

                       

From the Northern Cape we ventured towards the coast and made a stop at Strandfontein and Doringbaai  where
we had lunch at Fryer’s Cove.  Wonderful Seafood and amazing salads, plus some Wine Tasting.  The afternoon we
travelled to Strandfontein  where we had accommodation at the Seabreeze Guest House overlooking the beach and later in the afternoon sat watching the sunset before enjoying a scrumptious Dinner by candle light.  We fell
asleep listening to the ocean lapping the beach,  as it sent us off to dreamland. www.strandfontein.co.za

Early the next morning after a wonder breakfast fit for a king, we set off towards Citrusdal and ventured our trip over
the Middelberg Pass, unfortunately still gravel but not too bad to travel on.  The valley was covered in blossoms of
white, pink and dark pink.  Descending down it was amazing to look down onto the Ceres Valley as we entered the small village of Prince Alfred Hamlet before getting to the Tolhuis where we were going to have some local cuisine at the foot of Mitchelle’s Pass.   This was to be our last stop before returning to the hustle and bustle of the Mother City of Cape Town.   It sometime does one the world of good to just escape for a few days into the country and what is more relaxing than to visit our wonderful West Coast and Northern Cape to see the annual Spring flowers.
We hope to give you more news about our beautiful country in our November Newsletter,
Wishing you all a wonderful October and may you have many Tours or Guests coming your way shortly, getting you all geared up for the Summer Holidays.

We would like to hear if there is any part of the Country you would like to know more about, which we could visit
and give you some more news or information. 

Are you visiting Cape Town for the School Holidays, then we have great news for you. Seeing that it is Tourism Month,
Table Mountain Cableway has a wonderful surprise for the locals.  As Cape Town and the world geared up for the World Tourism Day on the 27^th September, they are running with a variety of amazing specials for most of the year.
Children Season Special:  Two children ride for  free with every paying adult on week-ends, public holidays and during the school holiday until October 31. This  special includes a free treasure map and sweet treats.
Seniors Special: Fridays are seniors’ day at the Cableway.  Show the friendly ticket office your ID document and receive a discount on your ticket. Pensioners also receive a tasty meal discount voucher for pie, chips and salad, a filter coffee or tea and a slice of milk tart to be redeemed at the Table Mountain Café.
Birthday Special: A free birthday ticket for all SA residents are available all week long. Remember to bring your ID document to our ticket office to claim your ticket. Please note this offer is valid for SA citizens over 18 years and older.
Sunset Special: Summer time means epic sunsets. Get your half-price Cableway ticket from their ticket office or online at www.tablemountain.net  and join them for this must-do experience from November 1^st to February 29^th (excluding 19^th December to 3^rd January 2016.
Think you know everything about Table Mountain?  Think again!
* Table Mountain is approximately 260 million years old.
* The cable cars travel at a maximum speed of 10m per second and can hold up to 65 passengers –
more than a bus
* Table Mountain’s cloudy “Table-cloth” is the stuff of legends: The cloud comes from a smoking contest between
  the Devil and a local pirate called Van Hunks.
* There’s a water tank in the base of each cable car, which can be filled with water to serve as a ballast in windy     
  conditions. 
  The Cableway operates seven days a week, weather permitting, The New 7th Wonder of Nature.

Until next time,
Warm regards and God Bless,

     Thought of the Day:  Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil
                                                                                   and your lips from speaking lies.    Psalm 34:12.13

                                                                                                           PSALM: 27:14

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours
P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443
Cape Town, South Africa  
Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700
elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za

              Beautiful photograph received from ‘Garden Route Game Reserve’

 GREETINGS FROM A COOL SUNNY CAPE TOWN,

After a very hectic few days, with a very large fire cover much of our wonderful fynbos, here in the Cape Peninsula things have slowed down, and we celebrated our amazing Cape Town Carnival last Saturday and tribute was paid to our heroic Fire Men and the volunteers who assisted without slowing down. We are now looking forward to the most beautiful flowers and vegetation blooming over our mountains  that we have not seen for many years, after this terrible devastation that moved from Muizenberg to Noordhoek and over to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve at Cape Point.  It was quite nerve wrecking to see the fire move so fast and destroy everything in sight.  Unfortunately, a few homes were destroyed and many people had to be moved to safety, but as South Africans, many of the locals were on hand to assist where possible, which was greatly appreciated.
Our wonderful Cape Town Carnival managed to get everyone into the party spirit once again. The Fan Walk was used for the procession to move from Gallows Hill to the Green Point Stadium, where thousands of people lined the pavements and street waving and clapping for the participants.  There were over 50 different groups taking part besides the most amazing floats, depicting Earth – Fire – Air – Water (the ocean) etc.  There were many dancing groups with old and young taking part, such as Belly dancers, Indian dancers, The Riel dancers (which originates from the Northern Cape) various school children were dressed up and did their dancing, skateboard riders, Harley Davidson with a very large group of Bikers were also in the parade.
The Fire men, volunteers, metro police, local police and many musicians were all part of the Carnival which started at 6.00pm and continued till 9.00pm, after which there was an After Party at the Stadium till midnight, where the public was entertained by local musicians. www.capetowncarnival.co.za

Swellendam, in Overberg region, approximately 250km from Cape Town, is the 3^rd oldest town in the Western Cape. Visitors to this small town will find amazing restaurants, wonderful Guest Houses on their way to the Garden Route. For more information contact us at CTC Marketing & Tours. Stroll through this historic 18^th century village, view the wildlife in the Bontebok National Park, or just a short drive away, hike in the lush Langeberg Mountains or River-raft on the wide, meandering Breede River. Discover a peaceful, relaxed country quality living way of life, during your visit.  The Drostdy Museum is very interesting, and you will be able to see how the early  pioneers lived and worked in Swellendam.
  Do not forget to visit Wildebraam Farm just outside Swellendam where you will be visiting the largest
  Berry farm in the District and also taste the preserves, jams and locally made liqueurs.

  As you have noticed in are last few newsletters, we are now also advertising various Activities for our
  visitors to enjoy when they are on holiday, or just driving from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth through the
  Garden Route.  Do not forget here in Cape Town there are now also quite a large number of activities to
  to enjoy.  We have many hikes either on Table Mountain, or Lions Head, 1940 side car motor cycles that
  will take you on a round trip through the Peninsula, plus have a picnic on the way, Canopy Tours just
  between Villiersdorp and Elgin, Sky Diving just outside Cape Town, and not forgetting Hand Gliding from
  Signal Hill or Abseiling from Table Mountain. 
  We look forward to hearing from you all, with news from you area which we will be able to put into our
  monthly newsletter, and I also look forward to see many of your at the World Trade Market here in
  Cape Town next month and also at the Indaba in May.  Just a reminder also of  the KKNK Festival (Klein Karoo
  Nationale Kunste) the 3^rd – 11^th April in Oudtshoorn.
  Warm Regards from us,

                         SOME OF OUR LOVELY MEMBER GUEST HOUSES YOU MIGHT WISH TO VISIT

       Forest Hall B & B-  Port Elizabeth,  Eastern Cape        Le Bonheur B & B – McGregor, Western Cape 
                     

       Clanwilliam Lodge – Clanwilliam, Cederberg      Albert Manor Guest House – Ladismith, Cape
                   

       Monte Cristo Manor, Oudtshoorn, Klein Karoo             Sonskyn B & B , Blouberg, Cape Town

                        Congratulations to Namibia Celebrating 25 years of
                                   Independence this Month.

          

                                                               Deadpan

          Namibia is such an amazing and wonderful country, we recommend that if you
          are looking for something very different to your normal holiday, do visit this country.
          The country side is so diverse, the people are friendly, the weather is amazing and
          the best time of the year to visit is during the winter months being June, July or
          August.  The summer months are very hot and dry and not for animal viewing if you
          would also like to see the Big Five.  It is also the rainy season, when some of the
          dry river beds could be in flood.   We recommend some wonderful things to see
          during your holiday.   Their meat is amazing, and not to talk about the lovely cakes
          at Café Anton in Swakopmund and their bakeries.  Happy Holiday………….

                 1. Namibia’s number one tourist attraction, Etosha is one of Africa’s most dramatic and
                           easy to visit reserves , offering sightings of big game in a splendid, surreal setting.
                           Namibia Wildlife Resorts 021 422 3761
                       2. The Fish River Canyon, the second largest canyon in the world (after the Grand Canyon).
                            Gondwana Collection +264 (0) 61 230 066

                           

                               
                                           ANOTHER ACTIVITY AVAILABLE FOR THE ADVENTURER    

Actively involved in sustainable and responsible tourism

                     Close and personal awe-inspiring encounters with the fascinating
                     majestic whales in the bay.
                            Interaction and fun with our wonderful dolphin and whale species
                     while learning all about their phenomenal abilities and lifestyle.
                     The opportunity to experience the many other wonders of the bay:
                     pelagic birds, seals, sharks, history, geology and lots more.
                           Sea Kayaking, a wonderful person encounter with the ocean,
                     guides two hour tour.

                            Personal interactive tour through our local Qolweni Community,
                     Experience the way of life of a real African, touring the Raster Village
                     and meeting  the children of the crèche in song.  
                                   Real Conservation and Community Upliftment

          info@oceanadventures.co.za +27 (0) 44 533 5083  www.oceanadventures.co.za

          THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH:  Faith makes: the up-look good – the outlook bright and
                                                                    the  Future glorious.     Unknown                         

         Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing & Tours

         P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant. 7443                                                                          

         Cape Town, South Africa  

         Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700

         Email:  elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za

         www.ctcmarketing.co.za

         www.PlacesAndPrice..co.za

GREETINGS FROM A LOVELY SUNNY CAPE TOWN,

After a rather hectic 3 days at the World Travel Market here in Cape Town, we are ready again with making appointments for Indaba which will be from 8^th May – 11^th May 2015, and we hope to see some of the clients we missed at the WTM. Hopefully it will also be as successful as we have just been at WTM. Some interesting History from Namibia, which you may not know about. On the south-western coast of Namibia is small German settlement called Luderitz, where the wind is just as busy as we have here in Cape Town, and this settlement seems to have survive against all odds. Nearly 400 years after Bartholomew Diaz planted his cross here on the rocky shore in 1488, the arid corner played an important role in the destiny of the country. Many mariners who followed in his wake accorded the Namibian coastline a wide berth. The waters were treacherous and the yellow shore of the Namib Desert utterly desolate. The land is attacked remorselessly by a raking wind that drives the stinging sand before it, and when it is not being hammered by a savage sun, it is enveloped in a murky sea-fog. Only the hardiest of desert plants, sucking life-giving moisture from the condensate of the atmosphere, can survive. Yet, at some point, nature must have taken pity on the injustice, visited on this tortured stretch of coastland for she sprink- led its sands with diamonds. These diamonds would constitute the richest deposit the world has ever seen. In the meanwhile, colonial fever was spreading amongst the competing powers of Europe in the 1880’s. The great carve-up of the African continent was about to take place. In South West Africa, Adolf Luderitz, a merchant and colonial adventurer who hailed from Bremen, paved the way to the raising of the German flag. In April 1886 approximately, Luderitz managed to arrange a takeover of his South West African interests, including all property and mineral rights, by the Duitsche Kolonialgesellschaft fur Sudwestafrika (DKG) founded in Germany 1885. It is known that Adolf Luderitz had bought land from the Nama Chief, giving Germany a foothold in Southern Africa and joining the European powers in the scramble for Africa. How ironic that the sands across which Luderitz trampled his last days hid riches enough to have answered his most entreating prayers. The wheel of fortune certainly spun cruelly for him. In years to come the discovery of diamonds littering Luderitzland would transform into one of the most prized pieces of mining real estate in the world. In 1888 Cecil Rhodes amalgamated the major producers under the umbrella of De Beers Consolidated Mines Ltd. In May 1907, a German by the name of August Stauch arrived in Luderitzbucht and was assigned the task of supervising the maintenance of the Luderitz-Aus section of the railway line to Keetmanshoop which the company Deutsche Kolonial Eisenbahnbau – und Betriebsgesellschaft of Stettin, had commissioned to build. The track was constructed right across the Kolmanskop area, but who would have dreamt of looking for precious stones in such a wasteland? Bahnmeister Stauch did! An outbreak of diamond fever was triggered off. The desert coast lacked fresh water sources, and water had to be shipped from the Cape Colony or procured from salt-water condensers. World War 1 halted diamond production. The diamond towns were abandoned to the wind and shifting sand. Now a day’s Kolmanskop is known as a Ghost Town. Visit Kolmanskop, on the outskirts of Luderitz only open mornings for Guided Tours Monday to Saturday 9.30 and 11.00, Sundays and Public Holidays 10.00. Call +264 (0)63 202 719/202 622. For more latest stories about Luderitz and the diamond area, look out for our May 2015 newsletter.

Kolmanskop Ghost Town – Namibia Sand inside the front door - Kolmanskop

We await information about other wonderful historic areas here in South Africa, which we hope some of our Members will send us, or tell us what they would like us to write about. I am sure there will be more news after our visit to Indaba, and hopefully there will be time to chat to some of our Members and overseas tour operators while I am there.. We wish to inform our Members that our Newsletter goes to many countries overseas to Tour Operators and various Tourist Guides and previous visitors to our country, this is why from time to time we write about our country in detail, because interest has been shown by our overseas clients and operators. Wishing you all an amazing month of May, and looking forward to hear from some of you. We take this opportunity to wish all the Mothers receiving our Newsletter a wonderful Mothers Day, may you have an unforgettable Day. Until next month …………….

Warm Regards from us,

SOME OF OUR WONDERFUL PLACES YOU MIGHT WISH TO VISIT

“The Diamond Works” in Johannesburg Organic Square Guest House - Namibia

www.diamondworks.com www.guesthouse-swakopmund.com

Robertson Wine Valley – Route 60 Nantucket Guest House - Hermanus

www.robertsonwinevalley.com www.nantucket-hermanus.com

The Bo-Kaap – Cape Town Nieubathesda – Eastern Cape www.bokaap.co.za www.nieubathesda.co.za

ANOTHER ACTIVITY AVAILABLE FOR THE ADVENTURER

Hippo and Crocodile Estuary Cruise in St Lucia, Kwa Zulu Natal - South Africa 100% GUARANTEE on HIPPO SIGHTINGS or you get ALL your money REFUNDED!!!!

The best way to explore the St Lucia Estuary is aboard the luxurious double decked passenger ferry, Advantage Cruiser, a legal concession holder within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

The start of the St Lucia Estuary, the estuary mouth, is situated within the town of St Lucia at the most Southern point of Lake St Lucia, within the province of KwaZulu Natal, South Africa. This area was proclaimed a World Heritage Site in 1999, and recently (2007) the adjacent Wetland Park bordering St Lucia was renamed the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, meaning “Place of Wonder” or “Miracle”.

St. Lucia Tours, Advantage Cruiser Isimangaliso Wetlands Park Saint Lucia South Africa

Guaranteed hippopotami – 100%

People on the boat – 80pax

Experience of a lifetime! – 100%

Advantage Cruiser is wheelchair friendly!

The St Lucia Estuary is the largest estuarine system on the African Continent and boasts the largest concentration of Hippo in South Africa. The St Lucia, South Africa, section of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, boasts a variety of activities within one hour proximity from the guest house you’re staying with. These vary from the whale watching just offshore from the town of St Lucia, to the always favored iSimangaliso Wetland Park and Cape Vidal just 2km’s away, and to the oldest Game Reserve in Africa, the Hluhluwe and Imfolozi Game Reserves, which are just an hours’drive from us. St Lucia is the place that Danie Bennett, Riëtte Bennett and their partners operate their exclusive boat trips to view hippopotami, crocodiles, mangrove swamps, prolific bird life, oyster banks with stories of days gone by, the 2nd highest vegetated dune in the world.

1 McKenzie Street, Dolphin Centre, St Lucia Phone: +27 35 590 1259 | +27 35 590 1180 Mobile: +27 83 487 2762 Fax: +27 35 590 1053 Email: advantage@zululink.co THOUGHT FOR THE MONTH: Whoever of you loves life and desires to see many good days, keep your tongue from evil and your lips from speaking lies. PSALM 34 : 12.13 Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing & Tours P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant. 7443 Cape Town, South Africa Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700 Email: elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za www.ctcmarketing.co.za www.PlacesAndPrice..co.za

The Golden Seal in front of the Table Bay Hotel, V & A Waterfront Cape Town.

GREETINGS FROM A BEAUTIFUL DAY IN CAPE TOWN, What a busy February we have had in Cape Town!  With many visitors, Cruise Lines, Hot Weather and Tours we have just not touched ground.  Our visitors were from Germany, UK, New Zealand, Australia, USA and Canada. So pleased that many of them were first time visitors to South Africa.I was fortunate to do some Tours once again with the some of the Cruise lines such as Oceania Insignia Cruise Line from the USA.  This is their first visit to South Africa and the Sea Princess. Our Tours took us to Table Mountain, Cape Point, Robben Island and of course the Winelands of Stellenbosch.

The photographs above are of Robben Island: The island, a World Heritage Site some 9km (5.5ml) offshore from Cape Town, was dubbed “Robben” (the Dutch word for seal) Island by early settlers in reference to the seal population at the time. Over the centuries, the island has housed a prison, hospital, mental institution, leper colony and a military base. Nelson Mandela spent 18 years of the 27 years of his incarceration imprisoned on the island. The tour of the Robben Island Museum begins at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V & A Waterfront with a multimedia exhibition, a museum shop and restaurant to entertain you whilst you wait for the ferry to depart for the island.  Please be sure to be there 30 minutes prior to the departure time, with the gates closing 10 minutes prior to departure. Ferries depart at 9am, 10am, 11am, 1pm, 2pm and 3pm and each tour takes approximately 3.5 hours including the boat trip there and back (the ferry trips times vary from 20 minutes to an hour depending on the weather and the vessel). On the island, tours are all guided by former political prisoners of the island, offering the visitor a truly unique insight into the island’s history and personal accounts of prison life. The tour includes a visit to the maximum security prison, with the poignant stop reserved for Mr Mandela’s former cell, prepared exactly as it was when he was imprisoned here.  We were very privileged to meet with Christo Brand who was Mr Mandela’s warden. He has just published his book “My Prisoner, My Friend” check at your local bookshop or library, or on your visit to Robben Island. The beautiful white church – The Church of the Good Shepherd (generally known as the Lepers’ Church) was built by the lepers themselves in 1895 to the designs of the distinguished architect Sir Herbert Baker. The money for the church came from the Rev W.V. Watkins.  The stone was quarried on the island.  It was an Anglican church, and only to be used by men and was not provided with pews. It had no pews, because lepers could only stand or lie down. A general infirmary was established on Robben Island in the 1846 to receive the chronically sick, insane and lepers to relieve pressure on mainland hospitals. There was over 1,000 lepers on the island at some point. The lepers were all moved to Pretoria in 1930. In 1931 all leper buildings, with exception of the Church of the Good Shepherd, were burned and demolished.  The graves surrounding the Church of the Good Shepherd are those of lepers who died on the island. www.robben-island.org.za  Telephone: +27(0)21 413 4220

On the 21^st February International Tourist Guide day was celebrated all over the world. Cape Town did their share by inviting all Guides to join them on a trip by Tourism Train to Stellenbosch and bus to visit Blue Rock Cable Waterskiing just outside Sir Lowry’s Pass Village, where we were entertained by seeing a few young men demonstrating their skills on the water. A lovely resort to take the family and friends for a day out in the country.  Also ideal for team building such as Paintball, conferencing, picnic parties, or just relaxing at the waters’ edge and enjoy Mediterranean-style food from their Restaurant Pizzeria. Email: info@bluerock.co.za  Telephone enquiries: 021 858 1330 Mobile: +27(0)84 366 3233

After this wonderful experience we proceeded to the Idiom Wine Estate also in the Sir Lowry’s Pass area. What a wonderful wine estate with views as far as Cape Town, really a wonderful setting. We were welcomed with a lovely drink and then we could have some wine tasting, have photographs taken via Revelbox a modern camera made on the old type one where the photographer had his head covered with a black cloth. Much laughter when we had our photographs taken. www.revelbox.co.za  072 116 2406 We were also welcomed by Olyn from Royal African Diamonds who presented all the Guides with a goody bag containing a bottle of water, cookies, a muffin and their beautiful brochure. Do make a visit to them when you are in Cape Town, but make an appointment first. Tel: 021 424 3000 www.royalafricandiamonds.co.za  

After everyone had a good look around, tasted wine, had their photographs taken we were all welcomed to a wonderful Buffet in an amazing setting which is their lovely large restaurant with views from every corner of the Restaurant. What a feast was awaiting us. They will be opening their establishment shortly to the public and we highly recommend a visit with your family and friends. Their wines served at the table with our food was ever flowing and very light to the pallet. Their Cuisine had an Italian flavour plus lovely homemade breads and cheese and a delightful dessert. Email: info@bottegafamilywine.co.za  wine@idiom.co.za  Tel: 021 852 3590

We would like to thank Wesgro, Metro Rail. HGTS Tours, Travelling Media, CPT Bookings, Western Cape Government and the people mentioned above for a wonderful International Tourist Guides Day, which would not have been possible without their assistance. Another event to look forward to, if you should be in Cape Town is our annual Cape Town Carnival which will be held on the 12^th March this year. An event not to be missed by anyone.

CTC Marketing now also has a Twitter account @ElaineCorbett7 so please follow us, and you are welcome to send us a message or two. Chris and I wish you all a wonderful March and hope that you will still have visitors coming around before our cooler weather sets in.

Warm Regards and God Bless,

Visiting Kwa Zulu Natal during 2016?  Then do visit St Lucia  - Advantage Cruises Contact: 035 590 1180  Mobile 083 487 2762 ( after hours ) advantage@zululink.co.za

Advantage Cruises offer hippo/crocodile Boat Cruises on the St Lucia Estuary, Whale and Dolphin Watching tours from St Lucia beach as well as Richards Bay harbour as well as Durban harbour , also harbour cruises in Richards Bay, and deepsea Game Fishing in St Lucia, Turtle tours in St Lucia, Big 5 Game Safaris to the iMfolozi/Hluhluwe Parks , Game Safaris in the Eastern and Western Shores of the iSimangaliso World Heritage Site Wetland Park, Night Drives into the iSimangaliso Parks , Zulu Cultural Tours in Khula Village just outside of St Lucia,  Kayaking on the St Lucia Estuary, Horse Riding on St Lucia beach OR a Game Ride,  Scuba Diving can be arranged, they will also assist you with all your accommodation requests.  Do not forget your camera, see Hippo and Birdlife included.

On arrival in THIS main office of ours we do have FREE WI FI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I9InwyBvCpo

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2zIpH04kBhg

ST LUCIA SOUTH AFRICA – PLACE OF WONDER – iSimangaliso Wetland Park – World Heritage Site – take ‘advantage’ of the ADVANTAGE team – we will do everything in our power to make your holiday eventful – tick off our activities on your bucket list –

DEEPSEAS  GAME FISHING @ R1100.00 pp  6-7 Hours per trip: All tackle supplied and what you catch is yours.

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 Thought of the Day:   But God chose the foolish things of the world to shame the wise; God chose the weak things of the world to shame the strong. 1 Corinthians 1:27

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443 Cape Town, South Africa   Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700 elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za Twitter: ElaineCorbett7

Our Beautiful Penguins who are under threat - Save our Birds

GREETINGS FROM A SUNNY & HOT CAPE TOWN,

We are still having very hot weather, although a few showers did make their appearance one or two evenings.  South Africa on the whole is still very dry, specially the Northern Cape and Karoo.  We have been
requested to take bottles of water when travelling inland to the dry parts of the country, were we have
dropping points in each town.  Many schools are also assisting with water and sending them where it is
needed most.  Please take 5litre bottles with you to any of our smaller towns battling without water.

January has been a very busy month for myself at CTC Marketing due to many Cruise liners visiting us here
in Cape Town and Mossel Bay. Guides were needed from Cape Town so a few of us were taken to Mossel Bay where we stayed overnight at the Protea Hotel and had a wonderful Dinner and Breakfast at the Gannet Seafood Restaurant.   Being School holidays Mossel Bay was full to capacity with Campers, visitors at the local Hotels and Guest Houses.  So visiting during the season was very interesting meeting the
passengers from the Europa ll, from all over the world and also having the honour to show them our amazing country plus meeting a few local visitors camping in town.

Passengers from the Europa ll were taken to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve – outside Mossel Bay.

Guides stayed at the Protea Hotel Mossel Bay

I have also had a private tour with clients from Canada, who left as friends.  Their tour took us to very interesting places in Cape Town, visiting the penguins, Cape Point, our beautiful Wine lands were we visited Delhiem Wines and had a wonderful cheese and meat platter, also took a  look at Muratie Wines one of the oldest wine estates dating back to Simon van der Stel days.   A walk around the Stellenbosch Village Museum and seeing the various old homesteads dating back from 1709 -1929 beautifully decorated in the style of that period with lovely friendly lady in each home welcoming you and telling you more about the people who lived in these homes.

 It was interest to also see the Herb gardens, the shrubs and fruit trees in these well kept gardens and some dating back so many years. Really worth a visit if you have the time to spend in Stellenbosch and do wonder around Dorp Street where you have many old homes that have been restored and kept perfect,  also a visit to Oom Sammie se Winkel which was opened in 1902 and still running under the care of the Melck family from Muratie Wines. Table Mountain was also a special day.
In Cape Town a visit to “Richard’s Supper Stage” to end a lovely stay in Cape Town, where we were enter tained by local artists giving us a glimpse of the old Cape Town with their music, singing and storytelling. Not forgetting the amazing Cape Cuisine which was served during the show and the amazing dessert.

Anne & Sylvester from Canada visiting Richard’s Supper Stage - Restaurant

We have had another Open Day in Bree Street, Cape Town a few Sundays ago, and what a lovely day everyone had.  This year more people visited than last year. It is a wonderful idea for us to do more often. Cape Town is really trying very hard to unite all its people from Artists, to dancers, singers, food stalls, arts and crafts and children on skate boards, roller blades, bicycles enjoying themselves and no cars in sight. The mood was amazing, people talking to one another, drinking coffee, beer, and feasting on the various options available at the food stalls. To crown it all we had a beautiful windless, cloudless sunny day.

Cape Town has had many Cruise Liners coming into the Harbour lately as mentioned above.  We have just had the QueenElizabeth ll leaving us 2 days ago en route to Port Elizabeth.  They stayed for 3 days and  many had a chance to visit the city, Table Mountain, our Wine lands, and of course Cape Point.  I am sure they all enjoyed their tours with our knowledgeable Guides we have here in Cape Town. The Sea Princess first visit to Cape Town last week and shortly the Insignia will be arriving.

A Cloudy day on Table Mountain – Cableway Station. Adderley Street, Cape Town

Some news for our visitors and Guest House owners, regarding the Route 62:
Due to a section of the R62 between Ashton and Montage being upgraded and blasting taking place, that the road will be temporarily closed to traffic on Tuesdays and Thursdays between 11h00-13h00 for the
next 6 months (no road closure over Easter).  There will also be some delays to a Stop/Go system, but the waiting time per Stop/Go area is expected to only be approximately 10 minutes.
The recommended alternative route to Montagu is via the R316 (Koo Valley)  off the N1, and about 5 km beyond the Hex River Pass. The other alternative route to Barrydale and beyond is via the R324 (Tradouw Pass) off the N2, about 11km beyond Swellendam.

Well, I will close our January news letter wishing you all a Happy Valentine’s Day on the 14^tth February and
may you and your loved ones have a wonderful week-end.  Remember “Richard’s Supper Stage” has a
Special evening “Love on the Slopes” with love songs and not their usual “Kaapse Stores” if you wish to give them a visit.  For more information : bookings@richardscapetown.co.co

Looking forward to hear from you with news from you area for our February Newsletter or lovely photographs.
Take care and God Bless.

Thought of the Day:

The Lord does not look at the things man looks at.  Man looks at the outward
appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart.

1 Samuel 16:7

Corbett Tourism Consulting, Marketing and Tours
P.O. Box 11535, Bloubergrant, 7443
Cape Town, South Africa  
Mobile: +27 (0) 747 092 502 / 073 1409 700
elainecorbett@ctcmarketing.co.za
Twitter: ElaineCorbett7