Cape Royale Hotel

Posted on April 9, 2009 by Charl Norman

cape-royale

The City Improvement District of Green Point would like to commend the Cape Royale for their eco friendly and social responsibilities efforts.

As a new establishment in the Green Point vicinity, the Cape Royale has played a role in enriching the aesthetic appeal of the area – with its opulent style and grandeur – and setting an example with its exemplary green efforts.

The Cape Royale was designed around the concept of natural light and free flowing air. The building was constructed with suspended walkways allowing natural light and air to move freely through all eleven floors of the hotel. Motion sensors have also been fitted to each floor of the hotel, in so doing minimising the unnecessary use of lights.

Concentrating on conserving water as well as electricity, guests are urged – by means of cards featuring water saving tips – to pay attention to Africa’s ongoing water shortage problem.

From a social responsibility perspective, the Cape Royale Hotel is part of the Housing Trust’s Brick Foundation which helps build simple, affordable houses in poverty stricken areas like Mfuleni township outside of Cape Town. Cardboard “bricks” placed in the hotel’s rooms enable guests to donate money to the Brick Foundation charity, and in doing so affords guests the opportunity to do their bit for the social upliftment of South Africa.

The Cape Royal has also opted to support businesses in the local community by purchasing bath and body products from Charlotte Rhys, as well as buying Khayelitsha Rusks made by the previously unemployed women of this informal settlement.

Originally found on CID – posted with permission

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Balkanology

Posted on April 9, 2009 by Charl Norman

balkanology

The Balkanology parties in South Africa were first launched in June 2006 by Event Director Ma’or Harris and a distinctive, highly talented group of collaborators.

After five hit parties with numbers growing from 500 at the first to 3,000 at the fifth, Balkanology has created a cult following and a powerful brand synonymous with zest, energy and a theatrical music experience.

The parties are styled in the way of traditional Eastern European gypsy camps with caravans, bales of hay, tents with tarot and palm-readers, goats, chickens and pigs with DJ’s and musicians performing a remixed fusion of Gypsy, Serbian, Macedonian, Bulgarian and Romanian melodies

DJ Toby2shoes, a pioneer of alternative music in general in South Africa, has drawn inspiration from the Balkanology vision and with Ma’or Harris’ directing, is now seen as the ambassador for Balkan-gypsy-folk.

The Kolo Novo Movie Band, founded by musical director, Grada Djeri specifically for Balkanology has brought together some of the biggest names in South African music to produce a fusion of cultures and musical styles ranging from the Middle Eastern to the Mediterranean and Balkan.

Each party also features an international DJ: Boom Pam (Israel), Dunkelbunt (Austria), Robert Soko (Berlin).

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The Opal Lounge

Posted on April 8, 2009 by Charl Norman

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Cape Town’s most beautiful restaurant; styled with passion and attention to detail to give you an extraordinary dining experience. Sophisticated yet very homely, The Opal Lounge is situated in a 111 year old Victorian villa near the centre of Cape Town. Two stylish dining rooms, a glass enclosed Verandah, a stunning bar lounge, and garden deck, each one differently designed, provide a unique encounter each time you visit.

The Oriental Lounge is an elegantly styled room displaying Chinese antiques, an enormous chandelier and other interesting Chinese works of art. The working fireplace further enhances the room’s ambience when dining on cold or rainy days.

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The Persian Lounge is the largest room with long, tall lounge couches, and beautiful Persian rugs and ancient saddle bags adorning the walls. Candle-light flickers from within the Persian copper lanterns, whilst Byzantine lamps glow in front of the bay windows. The working fireplace gives this room an even warmer feel during cold days.

Furnished with crisp white and cream fabric chairs, the Verandah offers smokers or non-smokers a unique dining experience whereby they not only get a view of the garden deck with wonderful aspects of Table Mountain but also glimpses of the Oriental and Persian Lounges. An enormous deep red Afghan kilim adorns the main wall and smaller Afghan kilims lay scattered on the floors. On warm days, the sliding doors open up this area to the wonderful deck below.

The Bar Lounge is a dramatic pre- or post-dinner area to enjoy a drink – the perfect place to start savouring mouth-watering cocktails such as the Opal Chill or Peanut Butter Dream. The original pressed ceilings are meticulously hand-painted in black and gold, whilst the vaulted pressed ceiling is lit, taking ones eye to the hand-painted patterns of the craftsmanship of a bygone era. French, Louis XV chairs and beautiful sofas complete the look.

The Colonial Lounge is The Opal Lounge’s cosy smoking bar. Decorated in antiques, fabrics and paintings from deepest Africa, it houses some of the collection from the owner’s travels through the continent. Deep, comfy chairs and a huge suede sofa will make you want to savour that cigar for a while.

The Garden Deck is a wonderful area for a pre- or post-dinner drink and will become the area for lunches on hot summer days and lazy Sunday morning brunches.

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Two Oceans Marathon 2009

Posted on April 8, 2009 by Bradley Voges

This coming Saturday the 11th of April welcomes the 2009 edition of the Two Oceans Marathon.
2oceans
The Old Mutual Two Oceans Marathon has earned a reputation as the world’s most beautiful marathon. The first race was held in 1970 and saw 26 runners line up to face the unknown challenge. Since then, the race has become a national institution and a firm favourite with local, upcountry, and international athletes. The event attracts close to 26 000 participants across the ultra, half marathon and the fun runs and provides them with a mixture of breathtaking scenery, a gruelling test of fitness for both the elite and recreational runner, and an unrivalled race organisation and atmosphere.

Participants consistently vote it as one of the best in South Africa and it continues to attract strong fields and an increasing number of international entrants. The event has become synonymous with the Easter Weekend in Cape Town, with the pre-race activities at the expo, family day, and fun runs on Easter Friday. En-route entertainment on the race day provides fun, excitement, and a unique experience to runners, family, friends, and spectators alike.

Old Mutual is proud to continue its association with this great event, which is the premier event in their road-running portfolio. Participants can choose from various distances – the scenic 56km ultra-marathon or popular 21km half-marathon and the 5km or 2.5km fun runs.

(www.twooceansmarathon.org.za)

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Cape Town Jazz Festival

Posted on March 27, 2009 by Bradley Voges

CT Jazz Festival

Cape Town Jazz Festival

10th Annual Cape Town International Jazz Festival
The Cape Town International Jazz Festival has grown into a hugely successful international event since its inception in the year 2000. Attendance figures have increased from the initial 14 000 to 32 000 in the last nine years.

Melodytrip has ranked this proudly South African event as No.4 in the world, outshining events such as Switzerland’s Montreaux Festival and the North Sea Jazz Festival in Holland.

The festival’s winning formula of bringing more than 40 international and local artists to perform over two days on five stages has earned it the status of being the most prestigious event on the African continent.

Known as Africa’s Grandest Gathering, the festival which will be in its tenth year when it takes place on Friday 03 and Saturday 04 April 2009 at the Cape Town International Convention Centre. Once again Cape Town international Jazz festival will thrill loyal and new fans with world class music.

For more information visit Cape Town Jazz Festival

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13 reasons to visit Cape Town

Posted on March 27, 2009 by Charl Norman

cape-townImage by neilsingapore

The second largest city of South Africa and the southern most city of the mighty and timeless African continent, Cape Town is a place of many marvels. A journey to this modern city takes you back into nature’s lap to your complete surprise. There are so many wonders that are waiting to thrill you to bits, so many adventures to excite you and millions of sights and sounds— almost overwhelming. Other than the great heritage, the city’s culture and the amazing architecture, here are 13 reasons to visit Cape Town.

1. Meeting of the mighty Indian and Atlantic Oceans

cape-of-good-hopeImage by zug55

cape-of-good-hopeImage by Michel van den Burg

Few top notch cities in the world lie at a stone’s throw away from the merger of two great oceans. And with the vast temperature differences of the Indian and the Atlantic oceans, you can expect great diversity as you enjoy a very rare sight indeed. A trip to the Cape of Good Hope offers you sights and sounds you will never forget.

2. Swim with the penguins at Boulders

simone28099s-town-beachImage by ifijaysimone28099s-town-beach-1Image by teachandlearn

The popular beach near Simon’s Town is known for the colony of friendly African Penguins that take shelter here. Just a small trip away from Cape Town, you can not only get friendly with the clever little guys, but also take a swim with them. Unlike in the case of being caged and going underwater to meet a shark, this is a lot happier, pleasant and a far less tense affair.

3. Go back in history at Robben Island

robben-islandImage by fihliwe

robben-island-prisonImage by maanskyn

Used during the apartheid days to hold political prisoners, including Nelson Mandela and the late Walter Sisulu, this iconic former prison is not just a spot of extraordinary historic significance, but also a beautiful little ride for nature lovers as well. For many, the soothing half day ferry ride symbolizes the struggle for equality and a fight against discrimination… Robben Island merits a special spot anyway you see it.

4. Victoria and Alfred Waterfront

cape-town-waterfrontImage by slack12

cape-town-waterfront-1Image by troopa

Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain and in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbor, the waterfront that attracts over 20 million tourists each year is a great place for having fun, dining, shopping and just enjoying flat out in every way that you can. If you wish to party loud, then this is the place to hang out. With scenic views of Table Mountain, historic buildings, museums and even a chopper ride for those interested, this is all about living it up in a classy way!

5. Bo-Kaap

bo-kaapImage by exfordy

The part of Cape Town which was once a settlement for mainly Muslim descendants of slaves from South-East Asia, the region presents for an awesome walk through its colorful streets. It offers a glimpse into its unique and vibrant culture. An hour long walk through the Bo-Kaap is both a treat for your eyes and your stomach as you will find some real delicacies on its crowded streets.

For all 13 reasons go here

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221 WATERFRONT

Posted on March 26, 2009 by Charl Norman

221 WATERFRONT is an exciting contemporary international restaurant and cocktail bar located at the site of what was Morton’s on the Wharf, the most exclusive address at the V & A Waterfront.

221waterfrontcptlogo

The designers have created an unparalleled ambience, revealing breathtaking views of both Table Mountain and the working harbour from every table in the restaurant. A soulful feel has been created featuring fireplaces that will during the winter months, create a warm welcoming environment.

The menu is a result of extensive research and development by Executive Chef Katerina Alexandris and her team which include two international Sushi Chefs. It features a fusion of foods from across the globe. The accent is on flavour and the presentation, awe inspiring. The menu has a variety of interesting unique dishes and will satisfy a diversity of tastes.

I’ve been to the restaurant a couple times and have always enjoyed myself. The sushi is delicious, the steak is scrumpteous and the service delightful, I would recommend this place to anyone. Although not cheap, it’s worth every penny, whilst you sit and look out towards the docks and the sea.

Fe and I went through on Saturday night, starting with some sushi, followed by peppered steak and then a couple drinks in the lounge area, the night was most delightful.

Live the life style!

Posted by Chris Mills

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Table Mountain fires

Posted on March 18, 2009 by Charl Norman

devils-peak-fire

Residents were evacuated from their homes on Wednesday morning as firefighters continue to battle the fires on Table Mountain in Cape Town, Disaster Management services said.

Spokesperson Greg Pillay said people from University Estate, Walmer Estate, Urban Edge of De Waal Drive, The Towers and Vredehoek were requested to leave their homes for safety.

“Approximately 60 evacuees are currently being accommodated at the Good Hope Centre where medical crews are on standby.”

“At this stage no property has been damaged and the fire crews are battling to bring the fire under control as a result of strong wind conditions,” he said.

Pillay added that the fire first started in the vicinity of Rhodes Memorial.

“Strong winds resulted in the fire spreading rapidly around the mountain to Vredehoek.”

“Fire & Rescue Services deployed 29 fire engines, 90 firefighters who are being assisted by 45 fire-fighters from the South African National Parks and volunteers of Disaster Management,” he said.

According to Disaster Management two helicopters are also on standby to assist with aerial support at first light.

disa-park-fire-cape-town

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Image credits – 1 2 3

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Chevelle night club

Posted on March 10, 2009 by Charl Norman

chevelle night club photos

Situated in the cosmopolitan Harrington Street, Chevelle is the quintessential club in Cape Town. As the latest addition to Cape Town’s bustling night-life, this chic and sophisticated venue offers the finest all round clubbing experience for locals and discerning travelers alike.

Created by Cape Town’s leading club entrepreneurs, Chevelle is best described as a super club. With no expense spared in creating the four full-service bars or plush VIP areas – complete with exclusive tables and private booths – Chevelle is what Cape Town’s party scene has been waiting for.

Made up of a multitude of levels each boasting their own unique offering, Chevelle caters something for everyone. Guests can book the intimate 10-seater Crow’s Nest, a tucked-away table between the Courtyard and the suave Rose Room or enjoy the view from the VIP mezzanine booths, which over look the action happening in the Temple.

Music at Club Chevelle ranges from trip-hop and funk through to progressive house and uplifting commercial dance on the main dance floor. Described by owner Garan Reck as “an out of the ordinary experience”, the club features the very best in South African DJ’s, world class acts, live music and visual experiences.

To become a Chevelle Club member, you have to be chosen. Only those in the know make the cut and although applications are available, make sure your references are up to scratch. As a member you will enjoy many privileges including, access to the private rooms, membership credit facilities, exclusive tables and a Chevelle ring to certify your membership.

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Cape Town Argus 2009

Posted on March 9, 2009 by Bradley Voges

“Wind plays havoc at Argus – Sport24.co.za

Cape Town – Winds of up to 60km/h wreaked havoc at the Cape Argus Pick ‘n Pay Cycle Tour on Sunday, collapsing tents and scaffolding.

A woman broke her arm when the breakfast tent at the start of the race collapsed with her inside, said joint operations manager for the event Brad Geyser. She had since been taken to hospital to have the broken limb set.

Geyser said: “The wind did a lot of damage. We didn’t expect it to be this strong.”

The start of the race itself was delayed 54 minutes because of the wind, with wind speeds of 40km/h measured at Chapman’s Peak and 60km/h elsewhere on the route, he said.

Scaffolding erected at the Allan Gray building, near the finish line, collapsed, crushing three cars, but injuring no-one. A tent at the finish line also came down.

Most of the structures erected for the race at the start and finish lines had to be taken down because the wind was so severe, said Geyser.

The Greenpoint stadium construction site, where most of the hospitality tents were erected in sandy ground, became a “dust bowl” which the fire department had to water down, he said.

Geyser said heat was not a problem during this year’s race, because the wind had a “cooling effect”.

In some areas there was such a wind chill factor that cyclists had to be warned not to stop.

In one of the nastier incidents, a woman cyclist hit the tar face first in the Perdeberg, breaking both collar bones and sustaining scratches on her face.

Another cyclist’s ribs were crushed when he came off down Chapman’s Peak. A doctor on a motorcycle immediately attended to him and he was taken to hospital right away.

Although 35 000 cyclists entered this year, only 25 600 started the race, said the organisers. The wind had resulted in much slower times than usual, they said.”

I too took part in this years Argus Epic. I was meant to start at 08.42 but due to the delays only got going closer to 10.00. I’m sitting here at my PC with very sore legs and odd sun tans but a generally satisfying feeling that I completed what is going down as the toughest Argus ever. The excessive wind as well as the addition of Boys Drive to the route certainly made for different prospect compared to the past 3 tours that I’ve taken part in. Well done to all those that completed the race… Next event on the calendar is the Two Oceans half marathon.

For a good overview of the race have a look at the following link: photo slide it includes pics of Matt Damon who also completed the race.

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