Lowveld - Dec 2020 / Jan 2021

GET 

LOWVELD 

IT 

drinks 

& 

Dazzling 

fab 

food 

Say hello to a 

SUN-KISSED 

CHRISTMAS 

Raise a toast to 

Megan 

Lagerwey 

Bright young thing 

HAZYVIEW’S 

HIDDEN GEM 

festive flair 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

DECEMBER 2020 / JANUARY 2021

RM_WEY1250A

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 013-754-1600 

Lowveld Media 

12 Stinkhout Crescent, Mbombela 

Facebook Get It Lowveld 

Instagram Get It Lowveld 

Website getitmagazine.co.za/lowveld/ 

Editor 

Mellissa Bushby 

mellissa@getitlowveld.co.za 084-319-2101 

Photographer 

Belinda Erasmus 082-567-0596 

Layout 

Geraldine Reyneke • Niël Henning 

Subeditors 

Jess Steyn • May Nel 

Sales 

Yulandi Jansma 081-458-6034 

yulandi@getitlowveld.co.za 

GET IT NATIONAL 

National Group Editor and 

National Sales 

Kym Argo 

kyma@caxton.co.za 082-785-9230 

Facebook and Instagram: 

Get It National Magazines 

Distribution 

Get It Lowveld is distributed free of charge. 

For a full list of where to find a copy, phone 

Monya Burger on 083-555-4992 

Published by CTP Limited 

Competition rules 

The judges’ decision is final. Prizes cannot be 

transferred or redeemed for cash. Competitions 

are not open to the sponsors or Caxton 

employees or their families. Get It Magazine 

reserves the right to publish the names of 

winners, who will be contacted telephonically 

and need to collect their prizes from Caxton 

Northern branch within 10 days or they will be 

forfeited. Prizewinners names are published on 

our Facebook page monthly. 

contents 

Why don’t you... 

04 Attend a jazz festival, visit a gin bar or spoil yourself at a local craft market 

06 Indulge in yummy wine while spending the hols surrounded 

by our fab reading choices 

WISH LIST 

08 From seashells to shwe-shwe, we are looking mighty fine 

people 

10 Megan Lagerwey talks to us about why you should live life to the fullest 

14 Festive cheer with the Breytenbachs 

BEAUTY & Fashion 

16 It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas 

18 ‘Tis the season to be glam 

FOOD 

20 Our cocktail (and mocktail!) pages will keep you 

ultra-cool this summer 

28 Jingle bells 

30 Burgers and cheese are bound to please 

decor & gardening 

32 Wreathful delights 

COMMUNITY 

34 With you every step of the way 

36 Building upwards 

38 The perfect time to buy local 

TRAVEL 

44 We visit a grand old dame in the heart of Hazyview 

Win 

48 A Clarins hamper worth R3 775 for one gorgeous reader! 

COVER LOOK 

Megan Lagerwey 

Photographer: Belinda Erasmus; Belle-Grace Photography 

Make-up: Bianca van Wyk; Oh, Honey 

Flower crown: Pearly Bothma; Mbombela Florist 

Shot on location at The Blue Gate, Mbombela 

Dec 2020 / Jan 2021 

Dec 2020 / Jan 2021 Get It Lowveld 03

A hot date! 

Pencil in these events into your December diary right now! 

If you have a date for our diary, email the info at least a month in advance to jess@lowvelder.co.za 

03 

Come let you hair down and enjoy a girls’ night out 

with a paint and wine evening. Hosted at Adega 

in Mbombela, the event is from 7pm to 10pm. Tickets 

cost R250 and include one glass of wine and all paint 

equipment. Booking is essential. Details: 084-785-3598. 

05 

Secret Sunrise Lowveld hosts a tribal-themed 

event at its home ground on Longmere in White 

River featuring Justin Behrendt. From 7:30am to 9am, 

tickets can be bought via Quicket from R80 and up. Bring 

the whole family. Details: Natascha Cope on 072-530-9795. 

12 

In need of Christmas gifts? Or just keen on 

a morning out and about? Don’t miss the 

I Love Local Market at Crossing Centre in Mbombela 

from 8am. You’ll find anything and everything local, 

home-grown, homemade and locally sourced at this 

gorgeous market. Details: Peta de Wet on 082-331-0712. 

04 Get It Lowveld Dec 2020 / Jan 2021 

Get It Lowveld 

wishes all its readers 

a fantabulous festive 

season and wonderful 

New Year! May the year 

ahead sparkle and shine 

for you and yours. 

13 

We are so excited for the Pink Floyd tribute at The 

Barnyard White River. Doors open at 5pm and the show 

starts at 7pm. Tickets cost R150 and can be bought via Quicket. 

Cash bar and catering are available. Details: 076-027-3402. 

19 

Join us at the exclusive grand opening of Woodsluck 

Distillery in Pilgrim’s Rest and the official launch of 

Woodsluck Gin. The event starts at 1pm with exciting artists, 

Moonshine Country Blues Band and Dan Patlansky, to entertain 

crowds until 6pm. There are only 100 tickets available, so don’t 

miss out on a gintastic experience. They cost R300 per person 

and can be bought via Quicket. Details: 013-768-1066. 

23 

Are you ready for some soulful sounds? The fourth 

annual Mbombela Jazz Festival takes place at 

KaMhlushwa Stadium in Nkomazi. A total of 500 tickets will 

be on sale at Computicket. R295 for general, R350 at the gate 

and R2 500 for VIP.

RM-GRAS1250A

Book club 

We’ve got your holiday reading sorted! 

Newly promoted Detective Sergeant William Warwick has been reassigned to the drugs squad. 

His first case ... to investigate a notorious South London drug lord known as the Viper. As he and 

his team close the net around the criminal network, he’s also faced with an old enemy, Miles 

Faulkner. It will take all William’s cunning to devise a means to bring both men to justice ... a trap 

neither will expect, one that’s Hidden in Plain Sight. This is Jeffrey Archer’s second thriller 

featuring Warwick – it follows on from Nothing Ventured but reads well as a stand alone story. 

Full, as Archer fans would expect, of thrills and twists and turns. • Oh, joy for fans of The No 1 

Ladies’ Detective Agency series. A new instalment, just in time for the hols. Alexander McCall 

Smith’s How to Raise an Elephant allows readers to catch up on the latest from Mma 

Ramotswe, Mma Makutsi and other favourites. The book starts off nice and easy ... in fact, 

Precious Ramotswe wonders whether rising heat in Gaborone could be the reason that 

business is particularly slow. But add some new neighbours who, by the sound of it, have a 

rather volatile relationship, a distant cousin who arrives at the agency with a plea for help, 

and a hair-raising night-time expedition, and things heat up pretty quickly. But nothing 

that can’t be sorted out over a slice of Mma Potokwani’s fruit cake. • You know what you’re 

going to get in Together By Christmas. Girl meets boy, heart-wrenching dilemmas, 

some long buried secrets and a whole lot of romance. But that doesn’t take away from 

the sheer hedonistic joy of a chick-lit novel to read on a sun lounger this December. 

Karen’ Swan’s latest love story is just lovely. 

As it’s time for the holidays, a wine from Journey’s End boutique winery seems 

appropriate, particularly a bottle of Destinations Chardonnay 2018. The 

vineyard, owned by the Gabb family, has just released its rebranded top-tier 

Precision Series ... this gold medal Chardonnay is rich and full and creamy and a 

complete treat for the last book club of the year. It’s a limited edition – only 20 

barrels were produced – and is vegan-friendly. R280 from good bottlestores and 

online from shop.journeysend.co.za. 

06 Get It Lowveld Dec 2020 / Jan 2021

In Peter James’ Find Them Dead, Roy Grace gets a tip-off about a drug ring operating out of Brighton, and is investigating 

what appears to be a senseless murder. His investigations lead him into the sinister sphere of influence of a ruthless, evil 

drug dealer on trial, a man who’s prepared to order the death of anyone it takes to enable him to walk free. One of the jurors 

is a woman who’s just getting her life back together after a car crash that killed her husband and son. While she’s doing 

jury duty, her daughter is off on a gap year, travelling round South America with a friend. A few days into the trial, she gets 

home – and lying on her kitchen table is a photograph of her daughter in Ecuador. Then the phone rings. She’s told if she 

wants to keep her daughter alive, all she has to do is make sure the jury votes not guilty. We’re massive fans and this book 

simply races along, dragging you with it. • All is not calm on Mustique. A tropical storm is heading its way, and most of the 

villa owners have left the island, with just a few young socialites staying behind, not wanting summer’s partying to end. One 

of these thrill-seekers, an American heiress, disappears after an early morning swim. When her body’s found, the investigation 

turns from one of missing person to murder ... and things turn even nastier when the storm hits and someone else 

disappears. Murder on Mustique by Anne Glenconner is full of glamour and mystery ... another great beach read. • If you’re 

one of the many, many Jeremy Clarkson fans, here’s your Christmas gift, sorted. Can You Make This Thing Go Faster? is the 

latest in The World According to Clarkson series, and is just as funny, rude and sharp as the previous seven. Full of strange 

and diverse issues that perplex Clarkson – why saving the planet means soggy straws, why fishing is for people who hate 

kids – irrelevant but entertaining. 

If you’re in need of an adrenalin shot these hols, pick up a copy of 

Robert Pobi’s Under Pressure, which will deliver in spades. A tech 

company is holding a private gala event at New York’s Guggenheim 

Museum. Lots of cocktails and air kisses and an impressive holographic 

and laser display. Lots of blood and gore, too, when a thermobaric 

explosion brings an end to the evening, and to more than 700 guests’ 

lives. Move over to Dr Lucas Page, an astrophysicist whose mind is 

exceptional, but body not so much ... an accident has left him with 

a prosthetic arm and leg and only one good eye. He’s called in to 

help find the person behind the bombing, and those that follow. An 

action-filled plot, with some laugh-out-loud moments (Pobi’s wicked 

wit and spot-on descriptions are terrific), this is a follow on to last 

year’s City of Windows thriller, but reads easily as a stand alone. It’s fast, 

sharp, and gruesome. Everything you want from a holiday thriller. 


Wish list 

Palm groves and oyster shells ... 

we’re longing for the romance of the ocean 

These work just as well at a glam poolside 

lunch as they do at a sunset cocktail party. Gold 

shell earrings, R99.95 from Woolworths; and 

gold conch shell choker necklace with a single 

white shell, R299 from takealot.com 

Compiled by KYM ARGO 

This glorious Palm Grove graphic is printed on archival 

watercolour paper, using pigment-based archival ink. You can 

have it printed in the size of your choice, and framed however 

you wish ... it’s right at the very top of our Christmas wish list. 

Prices depend on size and framing. 

Details: pezulainteriors.co.za 

Whether you’re fortunate 

enough to be having a 

seaside break or not, you 

can still breathe in the 

intoxicating, stress-releasing 

scent of the ocean. Soothing 

Seaweed Bath Crystals 

have been made with the 

nourishing, soothing and 

hydrating properties of 

seaweed extract. Pour a 

handful into your bath, and 

follow up with the matching 

Body Souffle. Bonus ... you 

won’t get dunked! R240 and 

R189 from Woolworths. 


The suggestions for how to 

use this faux giant clam shell 

include filling it with bath salts 

in the bathroom, or with fruit in 

the kitchen. We think it would 

be an eye-catching salad bowl 

on your lunch table if you’re 

having a beachy theme. R805 

from bespokehome.co.za • 

We’re completely besotted with 

these hand-crafted silver mussel 

shell risotto paella ervers. Big 

enough to dish up a healthy 

portion, glam enough to be 

the centre of attention. For your 

next seafood lunch, you need 

them! R970 for the pair from 

hauteedit.com 

Oysters at sundown. Serve them with a bottle of Stellenbosch Hills 1707 

Reserve White 2019 – a premium wine (just 3000 bottles were produced) 

that’s elegant and voluptuous. A blend of 70 per cent Chardonnay, 20 per 

cent Semillon and 10 per cent Viognier, it’s lively and crisp and in addition to 

oysters, pairs well with sushi, fish curry, mussel soup, risotto, grilled chicken 

and cream-based dishes. R135 from stellenbosch-hills.co.za 

RIEB1250NH

Life 

by 

intuition 

Born in Durban, Megan Lagerwey has called the Lowveld 

home for a while now. After completing her film and media 

production studies in Cape Town, she started working in the 

corporate industry as a copy editor. 

Megan Lagerwey 

fter a few years, Meg left 

the corporate world and 

started freelancing, 

which she still does 

from her lovely 

Lowveld home in 

Mbombela. 

“I love my work,” 

she smiles. 

“The pace 

of life here is very different to that of 

Cape Town, it’s more relaxed and less 

competitive. You can breathe a bit 

easier, it isn’t quite as frantic.” 

While she adores copywriting, her 

true passion is health coaching, 

specifically regarding digestive issues. 

A complete natural in front of the 

camera, you would think Meg was 

the poster girl for many a fashion 

shoot. Appearances, however, can 



Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: BELINDA ERASMUS 

be deceiving, and for a long time she 

struggled with a number of maladies, 

none of which could be accurately 

diagnosed. “I was so sick. Fatigue 

and bloating were my constant 

companions, and I endured brain fog 

to the point of barely being able to 

function.” 

Meg eventually ended up in hospital 

and was told that she had severe food 

intolerances to dairy, egg and gluten. 

“I cut everything that I was told to cut 

out, to the point where my diet was 

so bland and boring. My digestive 

issues eased slightly, but I knew that 

this wasn’t a lifelong approach. It didn’t 

sit well with me that I’d have to get rid 

of my favourite foods. The last thing I 

wanted was to eliminate everything 

long term, which is why I started to 

look into the concept of gut health. 

And this is how The Good Gut Guru 

came about.” 

A restrictive diet is not Meg’s idea 

of healthy eating, food freedom is 

an important part of what she gives 

credence to - the important thing is 

balance. “A diet consisting of whole 

foods is key. I don’t believe in the 

restriction of any kind, unless you 

are struggling with major food allergies and intolerances,” she says. “Did you 

know that there are trillions of bacteria in the gut? If you took the Milky Way and 

multiplied it by 100, you still wouldn’t be close to the number of microorganisms 

living in the digestive tract. And all of them have to be aligned for your body to 

thrive. As soon as the gut is out of whack, everything else goes too. Skin, hair, 

nails, general well-being and healthiness are all dependant on good gut health.” 

Her diet is 80% plant-based and she tries to eat 30 different types of fruit, 

vegetables, nuts, pulses and grains every week. “Food sensitivities can present 

themselves when your microbiome is damaged, resulting in strange reactions 

‘A diet consisting of whole 

foods is key. I don’t believe in the 

restriction of any kind’ 

Meg and her husband, Paul 


Megan and Buster the dog 

to certain foods. But the key is to heal 

a damaged microbiome, not cut out 

the foods. And the best way to do 

that is to eat more plants. I do believe 

supplements have their place, but 

my first step when helping clients is 

always to start on the plate. Gut health 

starts there!” 

Apart from her focus on this, Meg is 

also incredibly active, supplementing 

her healthy eating plan with highintensity 

functional body training. 

She also loves running. So much so 

that Asics chose her to be part of its 

front runner team, representing the 

company as an ambassador. However, 

her running has taken a bit of a back 

seat lately, as she and hubby, Paul, are 

expecting their first kiddo in May. 

You might wonder where she will 

find time for a baby, but Meg’s flexible 

lifestyle is perfectly suited to the arrival 

of a new addition. While his (or her) 

impending appearance has already 

changed the couple’s lives in so many 

ways, they cannot wait to incorporate 

this little bundle of joy into their 

lifestyle. 

‘We are enjoying 

the ride and 

are so looking 

forward to the 

baby’s arrival’ 

The family can’t wait to welcome their new arrival in May 2021 

As many expectant mothers will tell 

you, babies have their own way of 

doing things, and it doesn’t always 

tally with expectations. “It’s been 

quite tough,” Meg sighs, nibbling on 

a cracker. “At the moment, I need to 

rest quite a bit. Whatever pregnancy 

maladies are out there, you can bet I’m 

having them! But it is starting to get 

easier now that I’ve passed the first 

trimester,” she laughs. “No matter what, 

we are enjoying the ride and are so 

looking forward to the baby’s arrival. 

As with everything, you adapt, and 

between us and the baby, we’ll learn to 

just roll with it!” 

Details 

Follow Meg on Instagram: 

@the_good_gut_guru 


Johan, Saartjie, Ronel, André and Charl 

A family Christmas 

Text: MELLISSA BUSHBY. Photographer: BELINDA ERASMUS 

After rather an arduous year for many, 

it is finally time to deck the halls and 

prepare for Christmas. We catch up 

with the Breytenbachs - Johan, Ronel, 

André and Charl - to find out each 

one’s take on the festivities, and what 

it means to this Mbombela family to 

celebrate together. 

“Christmas with the Rooikatte is quite 

a busy time. Arriving home after 

work, we firmly believe in quality over 

quantity time with our loved ones, 

and have come to accept that while 

others are on holiday, we are still on 

the go - this is simply the nature of 

our industry. Having said that, when 

we do get together, it’s quite an 

event,” says Johan. 

On December 24, despite being quite 

worn out, the family usually meet at 

one of their respective homes and 

are greeted by little ones who are 

anxiously awaiting their presents. 

“We build on their excitement by first 

getting into the tune of the festivities 

by singing a few Christmas songs. Inbetween 

we’re snacking on the finger 

foods my mother and our wives have 

prepared. The favourite among these 

is my mother Saartjie’s secret mustard 

sauce served with beef tongue (a national champion). One of the brothers 

usually takes on the role of Santa Claus, complete with a bell and a bag full of 

presents swung over his shoulder. From here on, our main focus is spending 

time with the kids and sharing the meaning of Christmas with them.” 

Having a business in the liquor industry that all the Breytenbachs are involved 

in means that they have to go the extra mile to ensure they have quality family 

time. “Due to long work hours, the amount of free time we have for this is 

limited,” says Ronel. “We remain a family that values tradition, such as sharing 

meals and enjoying one another’s company when we can. When we as the 

Agenbags gather, quality time with our children is a priority. With the kids no 

longer being little and the youngest completing matric this year, we enjoy 

spending time together on the stoep or cooling down in the pool.” During these 

get-togethers, the deboned chicken flatties Ronel’s husband, Gerrie, braais are 

an all-time favourite, “they are extra juicy!” she laughs. 

Served with salads and her mother Saartjie’s hit recipe from her trusted 

recipe book, malva pudding and ice cream, the meal is always memorable. 

Not forgetting the liquid refreshment, the children love to experiment with 

cocktails. “They are so eager for us to try out their new concoctions,” she smiles, 

“but our go-to is still an ice-cold strawberry daiquiri. When Gerrie and I are by 

ourselves, we explore the neighbouring towns on the Harley-Davidson. We 

enjoy travelling and discovering new scenery. Playing golf together is another 

favourite, which ensures that we truly appreciate and enjoy the free time we 

have together.” 

The family firmly believe that Christmas is a time for connecting, and getting 

together, a celebration with family and friends. “Our philosophy is to keep it 

simple, but also welcoming, with a touch of elegance. We decorate the table 

in a minimalist style and make a big deal about the Christmas tree! The kids 

normally decorate it at the beginning of December with everything that we 

have collected over the years,” says Cora, Charl’s wife. Each member always 


puts something special on the tree, 

something that is significant to them, 

and fairy lights are a must, inside 

and outside. “Oh yes, and we love 

popping crackers! We don’t always 

sit down to a full-on home-cooked 

Christmas lunch or dinner, we like to 

serve all kinds of snacks (warm and 

cold) with a variety of wine (white and 

red) and champagne. Non-alcoholic 

champagne for the children is always 

something they look forward to 

and enjoy!” 

Snacks are always a winner. They love 

to make new things for the Christmas 

table, normally everyone brings 

something that they’ve made and 

love to eat and share. “Then, we end 

the festivities off with different kinds 

of nice, snacky deserts. After a hectic 

December 24 at Rooikat, it is always 

nice to relax on Christmas Day and 

enjoy it with loved ones. I love to see 

the kids’ faces during this time, their 

eyes light up with joy when they see 

the table filled with festive goodies; 

how excited they are to celebrate. It 

is a tradition that the story of Jesus 

Christ’s birth is told. We all gather 

together around the tree while one of 

the family members reads the story, 

and afterwards we sing Christmas 

songs. The gifts of time and love are 

the basic ingredients of a truly merry 

Christmas!” 

The festive season and especially 

Christmas Day, are significant for three 

reasons when it comes to André and 

his family. “From a spiritual point of 

view, of course, it is of great import,” 

he says. Christmas Day and the days 

leading up to it are spent together, 

remembering the significance of the 

holidays. “In such a fast-paced and 

commercial world, we need to show 

the respect and honour that is due,” 

André says. “Then there is the fact that 

being in a family business means that 

Christmas Day falls under the two 

busiest weeks of the year for us, but 

this time also gives Dad a chance to 

take a breather - even if it is just for 

one day,” he laughs. 

The third reason is the opportunity 

to spend the day with the rest of the 

family. “Christmas Eve was always such 

a treat for the children as they got to 

see Santa Claus (usually the brother 

STRAWBERRY DAIQUIRI 

Ingredients 

• One cup of frozen strawberries 

• 4 blocks of ice 

• ½ cup of sugar 

• ½ cup of lemon juice 

• ¼ cup Lemon Twist 

• ¾ cup Bacardi rum. 

Instructions 

Pour into a blender and blend 

until smooth. Here is the secret: 

serve it in a classy cocktail glass 

with a straw and a few fresh 

strawberries. Delicious! 

MA SAARTJIE’S GINGER 

BEER 

Ingredients 

• 5L warm water (not hot) 

• 4 cups of sugar 

• 2 tsp ginger 

• 1,5 tsp cream of tartar 

• 1,5 tsp tartaric acid 

• 1,5 to 2x 10g sourdough 

• A handful of raisins. 

Instructions 

Pour the sugar into the 

water and once it has 

dissolved, add the rest 

of the ingredients. Leave 

it to stand overnight. 

Drain the mixture using 

a cheesecloth. Bottle and 

enjoy chilled. 

whose figure most resembles that of the old man himself ), who, dressed in 

the traditional red North Pole clothing, had the task of telling the youngsters 

how well behaved they were and handing out gifts. I made sure I ate healthily 

throughout the year so as not to be assigned the task. Now that the kids have 

grown up, there is much less pressure!” 

The family’s Christmas feast is distinctive to the Afrikaner culture, complete with 

beer bread, home-made ginger beer and cold beef tongue served with Ouma’s 

famous mustard sauce. And in true festive fashion, this is accompanied by lots of 

laughter, stories and masses of cheer. 


Everyone needs a signature scent ... and this season, ours is Mont 

Blanc Signature. This eau de parfum is chic, addictive and above all, 

ultrafeminine. It’s all sparkling clementine, enchanting magnolia and 

ylang-ylang, sensual vanilla and musk. 50ml R955 at Mopani. 

Wet n Wild cult-favourite Photo Focus has just launched Dewy Foundation ... weightless, super-nourishing, with 

natural, all-day wear. Also easily buildable, so works from day to night. R99. Add a little shimmer with the Hello Halo 

Blushlighter in After Sex Glow, R99. Both exclusive to Clicks • And for golden eyes, also look out for Pretty by Flormar 

Stars Baked Eyeshadow in Golden Party ... it’s long lasting, works wet or dry and adds a glam shimmer. Also in Silver 

Blaze. R99.95 each, only from Foschini. 

It’s beginning to look a lot like 

Christmas 

The party season’s here. Perfectly prepped skin, 

a slick of metalic, a touch of shimmer. Get your glow on! 

Compiled by: Kym Argo 

Glow girl. Stila Heaven’s Hue 

Highlighter is a radiance-enhancing 

highlighter ... gossamer-light, it melts 

into your skin for a barely-there feel, 

and gives a soft, luminous, naturallooking 

glow. R610 • Stila Shimmer 

& Glow Liquid Eyeshadows come in 

gold and bronze party shades ... think 

Kitten Karma, Bronzed Belle, Retro 

Rosegold and Perlina – rich, beautiful 

colour with a high shimmer sheen, 

minus the glitter! R395. Stila available 

at Woolworths. 


Filorga Skin Perfusion 

SHP Youth Cream 

is a rejuvenation 

cream crammed with 

ingredients that improve 

skin firmness and 

elasticity, reduce wrinkles, 

improve hydration, 

restore and protect skin 

barrier function, stimulate 

skin regeneration and 

also has a wound healing 

agent. A long list of 

reasons to try it. R1720. 

For a list of stockist 

near you email 

info@filorga.co.za 

There comes an age when we can finally feel 

beautiful and confident just the way we are 

… naturally radiant. So we’re loving the new 

range from Clarins, devoted to the ‘silver’ 

generation. The Nutri-Lumière range has 

four new exceptional skin care products to 

deliver a complete pro-ageing nutrition action. 

All nourishing and revitalising, there’s a day 

cream, a day emulsion for those who prefer a 

lightweight lotion, a comforting, melting night 

cream and a renewing treatment essence. 

Clarins Nutri Lumiere day R1 795, night R1 845, 

renewing essence R760at Mopani. 

Stila 

Heaven’s Hue 

Highlighter, 

R610. 

RM-MOPA1250N

Festive 

glam 

We all need a reason to glam up and 

feel good about ourselves - and the 

festive season gives us exactly that! 

Whether it’s a new hairstyle, freshly 

painted pretty toes or an aesthitic 

skin treatment to give yourself a 

healthy glow... we say go for it... you 

deserve it! 

Look forward to 2021 and get a GLAMorous GLOW 

for the features that SHOW. The eyes are the 

windows to the soul... 

Refresh, Relax, Revitalise with BEAUtox, Dermal fillers 

and various anti-aging treatments like the Vampire 

Facial®. Rewind, refresh and restart your skin’s history. 

Leave dull, devitalised skin in 2020 and get GLOWing 

with The Aesthetic Doctors. Details 072-893-6132 

Anti-ageing mesotherapy is the ultimate treatment for dull and 

ageing skin. Mesotherapy focuses on treating and improving 

its loss of brightness, density, suppleness and dehydration. 

In addition it improves your overall skin tone, without any 

downtime or need to avoid the sun afterwards. 

Details: 013-590-7345 or hello@elanhealth.co.za. 


Oliver’s Wellness & Beauty Centre 

offers a panoramic view of the 

surrounding farmlands, river and 

golf course, providing the perfect 

setting for relaxation, revitalisation 

and rejuvenation! We have a team 

of professional therapists and our 

centre consists of two massage 

rooms for couples, two rooms for face 

and body treatments, a dedicated 

room for waxing, an indoor manicure 

and pedicure station as well as an 

additional pedicure station on our 

veranda which offers spectacular 

views! Our spacious wellness area can 

easily cater for pamper parties, bridal 

showers, a birthday surprise or even 

just a chance for a group of friends to 

relax and unwind while being spoilt 

together. Be on the lookout for our 

monthly specials! Details: 013-750-0479 

or wellness@olivers.co.za. 

The Dermapen4 treatment involves a virtually 

painless microneedling technique where multiple 

fine channels are created in the skin which on 

healing leaves you with a tightening, lifting and 

rejuvenation effect. It is the five star treatment now 

available at Berry Body for virtually all skin problems, 

including advanced anti-aging to pigmentation 

and acne scaring. Our trained somatologist will 

assist you with the best possible options. It is highly 

recommended by our inhouse Dermatologist Dr 

Edward Berry. 

For more information on the products, phone us on 013- 

752-5615, 013-752-5935 or WhatsApp us on 

072-260-7887. Alternatively drop us a mail on admin@ 

drberry.co.za. You can also follow us on Facebook and 

Instagram under Berry Body. 


Say cheers to 

SUMMER 

sips 

Let the fun be-GIN! 

Gin & Co, situated in the stunning country 

garden setting of Casterbridge Lifestyle centre 

in White River, Mpumalanga, is not only the 

home of Dollie Gin, but also of a number of 

craft gin brands, along with boutique wines; 

champagne; local craft beer and selected 

craft spirits. Here, at our very own brick and 

mortar distillery you can experience delicious 

tastings; browse our comprehensive range; or 

simply sit back and relax with one of our many 

classic pairings, after all, a G & T is nothing if not 

timeless! 

064-980-7284 

Sonpark Boulevard, 

Sonpark, Mbombela 

081-739-4637 

Sonpark Boulevard, Sonpark, Mbombela 

Enjoyed best under the 

African Sunset 

André Okes 079-942-1899 

andre@mosquitocoast.co.za 

Facebook: Mosquito Coast Beverage Co 


Alluring blue, six times scientifically distilled, craft gin, created by the Kruger 

cousins. Subtle aromas of spicy juniper and blueberry sweetness, layered with 

rhubarb and botanicals. delicacy contributing to the clear waters of the Blyde 

and the significance of the Drakensberg mountains. 

Prime gin, from farm to bottle – PRIMOS 

sales@primosgin.co.za 

Local liquor outlet 

Mexico meets 

Mozambique 

An upside down 

R&R in a classic 

frozen margarita. 

GRASKOP GORGE 

L 

I F T 

C O 

066-305-1572 

Situated just outside of Graskop on the R533 

towards Hazyview (on the opposite side of the gorge 

to the Big Swing) 

Cheeky tiki rum 

A distinctly attractive 

cocktail containing 

rum, pineapple, lime, 

coconut and Blue 

Lagoon served in a tiki 

glass. 

RED BULL 

SMASHCOOLER 

Bulldog Gin, 

Red Bull Energy 

Soda, Grapefruit 

& Rosemary 

Tiki tea time 

Jägermeister, berry 

tea and raspberry 

served in an 

authentic tiki glass. 

Watermelon and 

mint gin fizz 

A deliciously beautiful 

pink cocktail with 

Bombay Sapphire, 

watermelon, lime, mint 

and tonic. 

show us love 

on facebook 

Get your 

smash delivered 

Get in touch 

061 216 8768 

Rocomamas I'Langa Mall, 

Corner Flamboyant & Bitterbessie Street, Mbombela 

064-686-8817 

i’langa Mall, corner of Bitterbessie and Flamboyant streets, West Acres, Mbombela 


all the fun 

without the hangover 

Mocktails. Phwa. There’s nothing mock about these. Whether you’re not 

drinking for personal or health reasons, or have been designated as the driver 

for the night, there’s no reason to hold back on festive cheer. 

These non-alcoholic options scream party, without the morning-after woes! 

Compiled by: Kym Argo 

From G&T to cocktail, in one easy (garnish) step 

If you’re planning a party, add a dozen bottles of The Duchess non-alcoholic gin 

& tonic to the bar station, and go mad with the garnishes. For the horticulturist 

guest ... a few sprigs of freshly cut rosemary and thyme enhance the gardeninspired 

extracts in The Duchess Greenery. Add a squeeze of fresh lemon 

juice, loads of ice – ideal for a sunny day in the garden. Romance in the air? 

The Berry Burst is simply a few raspberries and a sprig of mint 

in The Duchess Floral, garnished with lime zest. For a very 

Christmassy drink, pour The Duchess Botanical into an icefilled 

glass and add either a sprinkling of star anise seeds and 

some thin orange peel, or some cardamom seeds and one or 

two cinnamon sticks. Details: drinktheduchess.com 

Dress up that drink 

Garnishes can make or break a 

cocktail ... alcoholic or otherwise. 

Some of them are purely for aesthetic 

reasons, others add aromatics and 

flavour. A glass of soda with a splash 

of flavoured syrup goes from ho-hum 

to let’s-do-the-salsa with the addition 

of a mint sprig and a lime wedge. Set 

aside a little spot on the bar, make a 

display and let your guests go mad. 

Easiest (and most common) is a 

citrus peel – orange, lemon, lime or 

grapefruit. Make sure you give it a 

good twist before dropping it into the 

drink, allowing the oils to spray and 

add flavour. A bowl of maraschino 

cherries is a must, as are fresh berries 

– strawberry, blackberry, blueberry, 

raspberry. Pomegranates are great, 

and very festive. For tutti-frutti 

cocktails, have slices of pineapple, 

peach, melon balls and coconut 

meat. Balance 

all the sweet 

options 

with olives, 

cucumber ribbons, 

and have loads 

of herbs – mint, 

rosemary, basil and 

thyme all work well. 

And don’t forget 

the pretties ... rose 

petals, pansies, violas, 

lavender, 

nasturtiums. 


Our drink of the season is this lime & coconut 

flavoured syrup, mixed with sparkling water or soda 

(or still water, if you’re not into fizz). Pretty up with 

mint, shavings of coconut, loads of lime and ice and 

sip away all day. R73.49 from Woolies. 

Have you 

tried Schweppes 

Mojito? You’ll find this 

mint and lime drink in cans 

at your local supermarket and 

it’s a delicious way to enjoy 

an alcohol-free version of the 

classic Cuban cocktail. Add 

fresh mint and a wedge of 

lime to dicky it up. 

Move over G&T, it’s time for a spritzer. The new 

Duchess Spritz doesn’t need much doing to it ... just 

pour into an ice-filled wine glass and you’re good to 

party. There are two flavours of this de-alcoholised 

wine spritzer ... Elderflower White (crisp, sparkling 

and refreshing, with a definite wine ‘tang’) and Berry 

Rose (pink, sweeter … add a strawberry to the glass 

for a pretty touch). Both at local supermarkets like Spar, 

or online from yuppiechef.com for around R79 for a 

case of four. • We’re massive fans of the Monin range 

of syrups ... which add all sorts of exciting options to 

our mocktails. Our latest craze is the Mojito – born in 

the sultry bars of Havana, it’s a sexy drink made with a 

simple syrup muddled with lime and mint leaves and 

local rum. For our non-hangover version, we take the 

easy way out and use this delicious Monin Mojito/ 

Wild Mint Syrup (available in one litre bottles, so we 

never run out) added to soda or club soda with a good 

squeeze of lime. Decorate with fresh mint leaves from 

the garden and it’s all hola-Havana-nights. R180 from 

onlinebeveragestore.co.za • Fluére is the latest nonalcoholic 

spirit to arrive on the shelves. Three options ... 

Original (a floral blend of botanicals), Amber (a spiced 

cane dark roast – think dark roasted coffee, cocoa, 

liquorice, tonka beans and toffee), and Pink (all fresh 

raspberries in flavour). Serve with tonic water, ice and 

garnished with a few sprigs of lavender and juniper 

berries. Around R299 from local bottle stores. 


Profanity alert ... there’s 

a little swearing. But if 

you’re broad-minded, 

this Classy as F*ck 

Cocktails, with 60 damn 

good recipes, is fun to 

have. With it’s gold foilstamped 

cover, and with 

Calligraphuck’s expletives 

sprinkled throughout, 

the recipes are not too 

complicated, the book is 

frivolous and irreverent 

... just what we need this 

festive season. R335. 

Jingle 

bells 

rock 

Nothing like a little glitz and glamour – and a sparkling cocktail 

or two – to get the 2020 festive party started. Have fun. 

Copmpiled by KYM ARGO. 

Not just for kids. 

Christmas isn’t the 

same without a 

candy cane ... on your 

place setting, tied to a 

gift, hanging from the 

tree. R17.99 each from 

Woolworths. 

Joy to The World ... these festive 

treats – two dozen of them – are 

certainly a joy. Created by Silke 

Martin, the book has recipes for 

cookies and biscuits from around 

the world, perfect to serve at 

teatime or give as sweet gifts R170. 

And if you can’t be bothered to 

make your own .... Woolworths (as 

always) to the rescue. The festive 

Holiday Treats collection is a 

sweet as can be ... we love this DIY 

braai soetbroodjie jar, R149.99. 

WOOD1250NN

Burgers 

& cheese 

are bound to please 

2 X 100g Smashed Beef, American Cheese, 

Tomato, Butter, Lettuce & Yomayo 

show us love 

on facebook 

Get your 

smash delivered 

Get in touch 

061 216 8768 

Rocomamas I'Langa Mall, 

Corner Flamboyant & Bitterbessie Street, Mbombela 


Abeega monster burger 

Try this square burger (because round is so boring and nothing about our 

food or flavours is boring.) Freshly baked buns straight from our bakery. 

Garnished with the finest and freshest lettuce, tomatoes, onions and 

gherkins straight from our local farmers. Two 200g home-made pure 

beef patties, topped with cheese and our very own secret burger 

sauce. All of this served with a generous portion of chips. 

062-095-7698 

Nelspruit City Centre 

Cnr Andrew Street 

and Madiba Drive 

Mbombela 

Best Greek burger 

Enjoy a home-made patty with 

lettuce, tomato and Greek pickles. 

013-741-5371, 7 Faurie Street, Sonpark, Mbombela 

The peanut burger 

Indulge in a handmade 150g beef patty topped 

with melted cheddar on a fresh bun with peanut 

butter, lettuce, caramelised onion, pickles and 

sweet chilli sauce served with potato wedges. 

060-768-4818 

10 Jones Street 

Mbombela 

Jock’s burger 

Don’t miss out on a 200g chargrilled beef patty 

with bacon, cheese, lettuce, egg, gherkins, 

onion rings and home-made sauce. 

081-340-3714 

R40, Moseley Farm 

Barberton 


Wreathful delights 

Concrete and Garden Creations tells us this edition’s 

DIY succulent wreath will keep you creatively 

engaged over many a weekend. It does, however, 

demand some detailed work and the fabricating of 

the wire ring, that forms the base for the project, 

might be a bit tough on the hands, so be sure to 

wear gardening gloves. The wonderful thing about 

this succulent wreath is that once it has served its 

decorative purpose, it can be placed in the garden 

where it will provide a beautiful focal point. 

Shopping list 

• Hydrocache - improves water 

retention and also ads carbon to 

your soil 

• Coir lining 

• Wire: +/- three millimetres thick 

and thinner galvanised iron coil 

• Stockings 

• Paper clips 

• Succulent pot mix 

• Kebab stick 

• A variety of succulents. 

Step 1 

From your sheet of cover lining, cut a 

ring with about a 45-centimetre outer 

diameter and about a 35-centimetre 

inner diameter (as per the illustration). 

Make two wire circles/rings, one 

slightly smaller than the other. Lay 

them down on top of your cover 

lining. 


Step 2 

With scissors, make short cuts - on 

the inner and outer side - around the 

edge of the cover lining. 

Step 3 

Fold the cover lining over the wire 

(on both the inner and outer edges) 

and, using thin wire, and in a zig-zag 

manner, fasten it around the wire 

rings. Do it in such a way that you 

keep a wide space between the outer 

and the inner ring. 

Step 4 

Mix a handful of hydrocache with 

your succulent pot mix. 

Step 5 

Take the stockings and fill them with 

the potting mix. Tie it down at the 

end once filled and place it on top of 

your wreath frame.

Text and photographer: MATTHYS FERREIRA 

Step 6 

You will need to have another pair of 

stockings filled with potting soil to 

complete your soil base on top of the 

wire one. 

Step 7 

Next you have to tie your stockings 

to the wreath base with thin wire. 

Steps 8 and 9 

Now it is time to plant the various 

succulents you have chosen in the 

stockings. You will need a kebab stick 

or something similar. Make a small 

hole in the stockings and press your 

succulent firmly into the soil mix. 

Step 10 

Should the base of your plant be a 

bit short, push a paper clip (as per 

the illustration) through the base and 

then plant the succulent. 

Step 11 

For longer type succulents, you will 

need to make an angled hole to 

firmly plant the succulent. 

Step 12 

Arrange it out along the stockings 

and secure the other end with a 

paper clip. 

Step 13 

Complete the planting process. 

Step 14 

You can now add some “old man’s 

beard” (air plant) and a candle. 

Step 15 

Place the wreath on your table. Once 

it has served its decorative purpose, 

you can take it as is and install it in 

your garden where it will establish a 

little island of succulents from where, 

in due time, you can once again 

harvest cuttings. 

If you are going to keep this 

indoors, water it well once a week. 

Do this outside and allow for the 

water to drain properly before you 

bring it inside again. 

This is one of those DIY projects 

that will reward you with much joy 

and gratitude for many months to 

come. Enjoy!.


TRAC - with you every 

kilometre of the way

The N4 Toll Route 

was designed 

to world-class 

standards with a 

focus on safety, 

convenience, ease 

of travel and peace 

of mind. 

Safety is one of our priorities and for 

this reason we put immense effort into 

ensuring a safe route for all N4 road users. 

We monitor our road closely and take 

corrective action to improve safety at 

prominent accident spots, working hand 

in hand with law enforcement authorities 

and emergency services personnel. 

We believe in being proactive, rather than 

reactive, and therefore daily route patrols 

are conducted by TRACAssist which, with 

the TRAC Helpdesk, is available 24 hours 

a day, 365 days a year to assist road users 

with emergencies, incidents, accidents 

and queries. The TRAC Helpdesk is a 

core element of our operations as it is 

the link between the motorists and the 

different departments of the company. It 

also facilitates communication between 

TRACAssist, state and private emergency 

assistance stakeholders and road users. 

TRACAssist is our emergency roadside 

and accident response unit. Teams are 

stationed along the N4 Toll Route and 

are on call 24/7to assist with any roadrelated 

emergency, incident and situation 

(including breakdowns). The TRAC 

Helpdesk is the mediator between the 

road users and TRACAssist, meaning that 

assistance on the N4 Toll Route is simply a 

phone call away. 

TRACAssist’s roadside assistance service 

is free of charge, meaning that there 

is no call-out fee! Motorists will only 

have to pay for the additional services/ 

items that are required to 

solve their emergency (like 

petrol, tow truck or a new 

tyre). However, our teams can 

facilitate the acquisition of these 

for road users at no extra cost. 

Furthermore, they offer members 

of the public the peace of mind, 

and comfort, of “never being 

alone” in any situation on the 

N4 as all officers are trained to 

secure accident and incident 

scenes to ensure the safety of all 

road users. 

TRACAssist and the TRAC 

Helpdesk are available in both 

South Africa and Mozambique. 

Details 

South Africa: 0800-872-264 or 

082-881-4444. Mozambique: 

(+258) 84-343-4346. Solange Soares 

on 013-755-3316, 076-021-2524 or 

sssoares@tracn4.co.za 


Daniel Stemmet and Lebogang Sihlangu 

upwards 

They say it takes a village to raise a child. For Lebogang Sihlangu, however, it 

took a village and a very strong matriarch. As managing director of Fountain 

Square Construction, he credits his success to his grandmother and mother 

who fostered in him an entrepreneurial spirit which shines as bright as his eyes 

when he speaks of his passion for construction. 


Lebogang’s journey started at the tender age of 

seven when he would buy and sell jelly beans to 

the neighbourhood kids. It was, however, only after 

hearing his mom and gran in conversation about 

profit and gain that he realised his small operation 

would be much better run if he actually sold the 

sweets at a higher price that what he had bought 

them for. From that day he’s been making ends meet 

by understanding the delicate relationship between 

buying and selling for gain. It became a lesson that 

Lebogang vowed to share with his community. 

Upliftment has been a major part of how he conducts 

his business. 

Fountain Square Construction is a CIBD level 7 

certified company and executes its projects with 

competence, effectiveness and relentless attention to 

detail. Over the years it has built a team of extremely 

resourceful and capable staff who complete each 

undertaking to the highest standards. Projects 

span over multiple provinces and include public 

infrastructure, commercial developments, residential 

developments, civil engineering operations and 

government capital works. 

The road to the proud company it is today was not 

paved with roses and Fountain Square Construction 

suffered its fair share of disappointments over the years. 

“It has been a tough journey for us,” says Lebogang 

about this cut-throat industry. “In this business it is about 

survival of the fittest, and we are blessed that this ship is 

still a-sail.” 

During tough times the company has relied heavily on 

close business relationships to make it safely across stormy 

waters. BUCO Nelspruit has been one such strong ally and 

he speaks with gratitude how it has always been by his 

side. With humble honesty he describes the times when 

BUCO would go the extra mile to help him face the storms. 

Lebogang again brings up how his grandmother, who was 

illiterate, built her legacy on relationships and a definite 

partner strategy. Another lesson from the matriarch: you 

are only as strong as those you associate yourself with. 

There is no quality construction without quality suppliers 

which deliver on time and according specification. It is 

no secret that this builder, with his keen eye for detail, 

would not have been able to deliver according to his own 

standards without BUCO Nelspruit’s dedicated account 

manager, Daniel Stemmet. He understands the needs of 

this client better than anyone. 

As we sit at the construction site and watch the mounds 

of cement roll buy in wheelbarrows, you get a clear sense 

of purpose from each staff member as they go about their 

day. Determination and dedication have flowed down 

through generations and washed over everyone in the 

family circle, a circle that includes BUCO Nelspruit. 

Zenele Nkosi and Lebogang Sihlangu 

Daniel Stemmet, Kenneth Masango 

and Lebogang Sihlangu 


BUY LOCAL 

It’s the season of giving and there’s no better way to do your part than 

to shop locally this year. You may have heard talk about buying from 

local suppliers and wonder, what’s all the fuss all about? 

Lowveld Soap Company is passionate about 

making soap and we invite you to contact 

us for that special, thoughtful and useful gift. 

With your soap, wrapping and labels can be 

customized to produce a truly unique gift. 

We also collaborate with local businesses 

and artists to create delightful hampers to 

suit any budget or occasion! 

There are plenty of great reasons to shop in the Lowveld. With a variety 

of industries, and a stunning range of local businesses in every town, the 

region is blossoming with options. But those aside, when you buy locally, 

your contribution has a massive effect all-round. From securing jobs 

to keeping the money in the Lowveld, shopping from a locally owned 

business creates a “Multiplier Effect”. This means that an amount of R100 

could easily end up producing at least six times its value in goods and 

services as the money will continue to circulate among local businesses 

and families. 

Join our Buy Local Lowveld movement and become part of the change! 

Visit our Facebook page to register your business on our database for 

FREE and chat to us about how you can get involved. 

The Farmers Box: Born from the necessity of adding to the 

value of family time, The Farmers Box delivers specially 

packed boxes and hampers directly to your door. Choose 

from a wide variety of seasonal farm vegetables, meats, 

cheese, eggs, locally produced preserves and more! 

Perfectly packed, portioned and personally checked. 

Details: Visit www.thefarmersbox.co.za to build yours or 

call 082-465-9848. 

Quirky, goofy, 

lovable, funny... 

whoever he is 

we've got you 

covered! 

49 Brown Street, Nelspruit 

013 752 5539 

Camp & Gas: For 39 years, Camp & Gas has been the 

Lowveld’s leading outdoor and gas store. Managed 

by its current owners since 1990, you are guaranteed 

a wealth of experience and personal service. Perfectly 

located in Mbombela just off the N4, it’s easy to stop by 

on your holiday journey to stock up on all your camping 

and equipment needs. 


The Roasting Company: For the past 12 years we have 

been supplying the hospitality trade with our products. 

Our clients include many five-star safari lodges that 

are frequented by international guests. Check out our 

exciting products on offer on our website or at the local 

markets over weekends. 

Details: www.theroastingcompany.co.za. 

CREATE: We chase 

delicious! A perfect 

gift for Xmas, or 

holiday food. Mix and 

match a choice of our 

products and create 

the perfect gift box. 

Contact us for the full 

range of products. 

Details: Claudia on 

083-325-1621. 

Lowveld.Today: An online events hub born from a 

love of the Lowveld and a passion for the local events 

community. Every successful occasion starts with the 

right date, and knowing what is happening around the 

Lowveld is the first step. They created an events calendar 

that’s super easy to navigate and even simpler to list and 

manage your event for free. From here, you can decide 

if you’d like to sell tickets or register participants through 

their online sales hub. 

Art by Murray: This 

is a local business in 

White River. The gifting 

range consists of coffee 

mugs, serviettes, table 

runners, hand-painted 

trays, hand-engraved 

wooden serving platters 

and more. This is the 

artwork of Michelle 

James, the woman 

behind Art by Murray. 

Details: 083-391-6691 or 

michellemurrayjames 

@gmail.com. 

L O W V E L D . T O D A Y 

O N L I N E E V E N T S H U B 

List your event for free 

on our calendar! 

For all events: 

sporting | entertainment | business | 

cultural | food & drinks | fundraisers 

We Offer: 

Online Event Calendar 

Entries & Tickets 

Planning & Marketing 

Visit lowveld.today to get started! 

Africa Joy: Africa Joy at Casterbridge has been delighting 

customers for 10 years with a curated selection of inspiring 

and original South African products. Find your gifts, 

homeware, decor items, fashion, jewellery and fun things for 

children in a tranquil and relaxed environment. 


GET IT DIRECTORY 

RM-ELAN1250M 

THEA1250R


RM-MOPAN1250M 

this Summer! 

VDWD1250R 

MYS1250R 

FB112450NN 

It will make her happier 

than flowers


DIRK1250R 

• Speech Therapy • Feeding Therapy 

STEPMED CENTRE 

DELUXE MASSAGE CHAIR 

Proven health benefits: 

• Spinal nerve stimulation 

• Improved blood circulation 

• Lymphatic flow 

• Pain relief 

• Relaxation 

SAVE 

R2 000 

Valid for December 

Book a FREE demonstration today 

FUR1250NA 

NOW 

R40 000 

013-590-0700 | www.furnituregalleries.co.za 

Living@915 Centre between Makro & CTM Riverside Park, Nelspruit 

LFW1250R 

ZONA1250R 

RON1250R 

WATC1250R


RM-WALT1250M 

RM-UNI1250N 

XELA1250NA

The entrance hall to the Olive & Vine Restaurant 


Old 

world grandeur 

Set in the heart of the bustling town of Hazyview, the Numbi Hotel and Garden 

Suites is an oasis of sorts. Pools of water, alive with glistening multicoloured koi 

fish and sheltered under the sublime coolness of mighty fig trees, it is a haven 

away from home. Mellissa Bushby tells us more. 

stablished 

in 1963, 

Numbi is 

arguably the 

oldest familyowned 

and -run 

establishment 

in the Lowveld. 

Started by Willem 

Fick and now 

in its third generation, the family’s 

passion for hospitality and quality 

service is evident in their commitment 

to the comfort of their guests. From 

the spacious executive suites to the 

comfortable en suite hotel rooms, this 

grand old dame offers home-grown 

and down-to-earth cosiness. 

As a child, I used to stay here with my 

parents, always en route to the game 

reserve. I have memories of enormous 

trees, overgrown jungles teeming 

with birdlife, large, leaves and fragrant 

flowers, incredibly beautiful gardens 

and balmy evenings spent under the 

African sky. 

Entering the grounds, we discovered 

that not much has changed. The 

gardens offer an abundance of trees 

and birdlife, a welcome respite from 

the busy street just outside, muting 

the sounds of traffic rushing past 

The executive suite 


‘Our guest suite 

opened onto a 

semi-private 

garden with a 

swimming pool, 

in the shade of 

a great jacaranda 

tree’ 

with flowing water, cool breezes and 

birdsong. We felt as though we had 

stepped back in time to an era of 

old-world grandeur, where sweeping 

staircases and patrons dressed for 

dinner were the norm, and tall, ice-cold 

drinks were served on the terrace on 

long, languid afternoons. The fish 

ponds are a revelation, with massive 

koi lazily sweeping their tails back and 

forth through the shadowy water, 

emerging from the depths with flashes 

of gold and pearl-white iridescence to 

break the surface before once again 

descending into their twilight world. 

The Wild Fig pool deck 

Numbi is renowned for its beautiful fish ponds 

The stately Olive & Vine Restaurant 


We were situated in Main House, our 

guest suite opening onto a semiprivate 

garden with a swimming 

pool, in the shade of a great 

jacaranda tree. Beautiful, scented 

blossoms adorned the ground in a 

swathe of lilac, leading a pathway to 

the inviting blue water, a welcome 

escape from the Lowveld heat. 

Afternoons are best spent lazing 

about, napping, reading and 

generally pondering whatever takes 

your fancy. We indulged in an early 

evening walk around the gardens, 

discovering a rather full campsite 

area, and then continuing on past 

the garden suites, cosily tucked 

away in their own little alcoves. Old 

man’s beard is a common sight 

here and adds a certain charm to 

the grounds, with their whimsical, 

delicate tendrils. 

There are two restaurants on the 

premises, the Olive and Vine, and 

Wild Fig restaurant and pool deck. 

The former immediately brings to 

mind the works of Agatha Christie, 

with wooden panelling and royal 

blue plush finish. Dinner is a set 

menu, and for those more partial 

to a bit of variety, it is best to eat 

elsewhere as the choices are rather 

limited. Topolino’s, situated at Perry’s 

Bridge which is just a kilometre 

from the Numbi, is an excellent 

alternative and serves a variety of 

pizza and pasta meals. 

Our stay at Numbi was laid-back 

and relaxed - a welcome and 

pleasant antidote to what has been 

a stressful time for so many, one 

which has affected the entire world. 

Establishments such as these, which 

have been around forever and 

weathered many storms, have been 

hard hit by Covid-19. The tourism 

industry in South Africa now has 

to claw its way back, one guest at 

a time. Fortunately, a number of 

them have managed to rally and 

are doing just that, and with our 

warm and welcoming South African 

hospitality, splendid old ladies such 

as the Numbi, with so much to offer 

in the way of old-fashioned charm 

and comfort, will be around for a 

long time to come. 

Details 

013-757-7301 

The garden suites 

Executive family suite 

Relax in the executive family suite jacuzzi 

after a day of game viewing 


Are you party pretty? We’re raring to start the holiday season with a gorgeous bang ... 

and we’ve put together a hamper of our favourite Clarins products to make sure we’re 

looking our festive best. With loads of parties, cocktails, late nights ... our skin may need 

a little SOS help. Hello colour correcting SOS Primer ... which gives 24 hour moisture, 

minimises signs of tiredness and revitalises our complexion. For eyes, the 4-Colour 

Eyeshadow Palettes have satin, matte and iridescent shadows, allowing us 

to go light during the day and dazzle when the sun goes down. Not much of a 

party without some flirty winking ... Clarins Wonder Perfect Mascara 4D 

gives volume, length, curve and high definition. Wink, wink indeed. Blush prettily 

with Joli Blush ... it adjusts to any skin tone, has an airy, fine, soft and lightweight 

texture that lets your skin breathe, and smooths the skin’s texture by blending into 

the surface – in just one step. We wear this in Cheeky Pink for absolutely irresistible 

cheeks. Kick off kissable lips with a lip liner pencil for definition and to improve 

lipstick wear. For a casual holiday look, we love Instant Light Lip Comfort 

Oil, which simply melts on the lips. It’s a nourishing lip care product that 

gives a non-sticky, sweet coat of shine. Up it just a bit with Intense Lip 

Perfector, which plumps lips and gives a wet-look gloss. For a more intense 

jolt of colour, the Joli Rouge range is creamy, with strong colour and a 

delicate satin finish. This is a win-win option ... the lipstick hydrates the lips 

from within for six hours and leaves them soft, supple and comfortable. Seriously 

stunning lips! Ready to go? Not quite. A quick spritz of Clarins Fix’ Make-up – a 

light and refreshing mist – will set make-up and give longer-lasting hold, instantly 

moisturises and soothes the skin and has a lovely fresh scent, too. 

Spoil 

Festive 

As it’s Christmas, we’re feeling all gifty ... 

and have a Clarins hamper worth R3775 

(wow!) to give away to one of our gorgeous 

Get It readers. To win, pop over to Get It 

National Magazines on Facebook, find our 

Clarins Party post, and enter. You’ve got until 

December 15 ... so get going!

Lowveld - Dec 2020 / Jan 2021

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