Getaway Magazine - May 2012

Letter from the Editor

In a recent address at the opening of the Global Aviation and Environment Summit in Geneva, Switzerland, tourism minister Marthinus van Schalkwyk reminded delegates that, ‘As it stands, tourism sustains one in every 12 jobs globally, and contributes some nine per cent of worldwide gross domestic product.’ I reckon it’s maybe even more important in countries such as South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique.

He was urging the European Union to consider postponing a new Emission Trading Scheme (ETS) – essentially a kind of carbon tax – on all flights originating or landing in the European Union. Unfortunately, this tax will further increase the cost of flights to long-haul destinations, of which South Africa is one, and will surely exacerbate soft international tourist numbers.

While on one hand I worry about my friends and colleagues in the travel business, on the other I can’t help thinking this is good news for regular travellers like you and me. The net result of lower than expected international arrivals will be that tourism operators will be forced to concentrate more of their efforts on their domestic markets – in other words us.

There are already signs this is happening. Just recently I was in contact with a private lodge that has ditched its old offering of servants in white gloves and OTT service for high-quality, luxury self-catering in the bush. More are sure to follow as owners come to realise that us local fools aren’t easily parted with R9 000 and upwards a night. Not even half that amount.

In order to thrive, survive even, tourism businesses are going to have to consider local price ceilings and offerings which are attractive to people earning good old-fashioned rands (think of that pronounced ‘randt’ for maximum effect).

So where does that leave us? Well, looking south. In fact, the very south of the continent where our itinerant correspondent Scott Ramsay (who calls travelling through the parks and reserves in South Africa for a year work) brings us the incredible story of Agulhas National Park, one of South Africa’s must-see destinations. Also featured this month is Dylan Kotze’s story on one of wildlife’s great spectacles, while we also provide great advice for those of you looking to find the Big Five within two hours of the major centres.

With that to whet your appetite, all that’s left for me to say is enjoy planning your next break with us. And remember your travel industry needs you – so go on holiday!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Features

Sardine run
Witness one of the world’s greatest spectacles on the east coast. By Dylan Kotze.

Wildlife on your doorstep
Where to find the Big Five within hours of the city. By Craig Leyenaar.

Something’s brewing
Beer resurrects old Port Alfred. By Nick Mulgrew.

Tankwa Karoo
All you need to know about the new Watervlei 4x4 Eco- Trail. By Hannelie van As.

Taking on the Rubicon
We test drive the new Jeep Wrangler. By Cameron Ewart-Smith.

A year in the wild
Agulhas National Park, steeped in stormy history. By Scott Ramsay.

Alternative sport
South Africa’s freestyle motocross champ. By Evan Haussmann.

Getaway Gallery
A selection of stunning images sent in by our readers.

Departure lounge

From the editor
Take the leap and explore close to home, says Cameron Ewart-Smith.

Ultimate getaways
Pictures of spectacular places that will make you wish you were there.

Inbox
Have your say and see what Getaway has been up to.

Hiking
Discover your inner caveman with these great treks. By Fiona McIntosh.

On your bike
Thrilling ride through Cape Town’s Tokai Plantation. By Jacques Marais.

Drop in the ocean
Seabirds under threat: our coastal species need help. By Peter Chadwick.

Travel photography
Part one of two: basic SLR settings to improve your pictures. By Cameron Ewart-Smith.

Ranger in your pocket
Chimps, humans’ closest relatives. By Hannelie van As.

Natural selections
Cheetahs: more like birds than big cats. By Don Pinnock.

Birding
Stunning sunbirds, jewels of the avian world. By Vernon Head.

Lord of the braais
Winter workout programme for braaiers. By Jan Braai.

Getaway gear

Gear
Gadgets, gear and apparel for hikers. By Evan Haussmann.

How to
Make your own beer. By Jaclyn Stephenson.

Jacked up
Suspension: to lift or not to lift? By Evan Haussmann.

Trailer talk
Winner of the Jurgens Designa- Caravan competition. By Tyson Jopson.

Shop
Industry news, outdoor and lifestyle products, plus nifty vehicle accessories.

Getaway guide

Diary
Our choice of events in May.

Six of the best
Quirky festivals across South Africa. By Rachel Robinson.

Roadside rendezvous
The Wheelbarrow in Magoebaskloof, Limpopo. By Lisa Johnston.

Quick escapes
Great weekend getaways across Southern Africa.

Crystal Springs Mountain Resort
Perfect spot for a family weekend break. By Marion Whitehead.

Stanford
Our guide to accommodation, restaurants and activities. By Sarah Duff.

Places to stay
Find your dream accommodation here.

Couch potato
Best reads online and off.

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