Mar 21 - Ballito Umhl

BALLITO • UMHLANGA 

WIN! 

A week for two 

in the Maldives 

Vitamins & 

Minerals 

What you 

need to know! 

Bottles& 

bouquets 

Find the perfect 

pair at Ballihoo 

Shweshwe-inspired 

Indo-African 

designs by Ballito dancer Verushka 

SHOPPING, PEOPLE AND LIFESTYLE IN YOUR NEIGHBOURHOOD 

MARCH 2021

GET IT 

Editorial 

Phone 032 946 0276 

Email leah@getitnc.co.za 

Ballito Business Centre • Ballito Drive 

Ballito • KwaZulu-Natal 

Like our Facebook page: 

Get It Magazine Ballito.Umhlanga 

Follow us on Twitter: @GetItMagNC 

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@getitmagnc 

www.getitmagazine.co.za/ballito 

Editor Leah Shone 

leah@getitnc.co.za 

Layout and Design 

Nicole von Metzinger 

ads@northcoastcourier.co.za 

Advertising Natalie Bertram 

Natalie@getitnc.co.za | 082 434 3442 

Sales and Online Support Lisa Smith 

lisa@getitnc.co.za 

GET IT NATIONAL 

National Group Editor and National 

Sales Kym Argo 

082 785 9230 | kyma@caxton.co.za 

Distribution 

10 000 copies monthly 

Get It Ballito • Umhlanga is distributed 

free of charge in Ballito, Salt Rock, Umhlali, 

Umdloti, Umhlanga Rocks, Umhlanga 

Ridge and Gateway 

Published by The North Coast Courier 

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 Get it Ballito 

branch within 10 days or they will be forfeited. 

Prize winners’ names are published on our 

Facebook page monthly. 

Cover: Verushka Pather 

Shot by: Barry Bowditch, 082 256 0006, bowditch@ 

mweb.co.za 

Location: The Grand Exotic, Sheffield Beach, www. 

thegrandexotic.com 

contents 

Wish List 

4 Find happiness in the kitchen ... and on your toes this month! 

social scene 

7 Taking a road trip with your family? Discover the jewels on our 

doorstep with tips from The Saunter 

People 

8 Ballito surfski paddler Quinton breaks the world record 

health & beauty 

10 Time for a health reset. These two ladies know just what you need 

13 Incredible beauty technology ... now on your doorstep 

14 To take vitamins - or not to? And which ones? We chatted to a local 

doc and got the vitamin lowdown 

17 Managing your hair at home ... here’s how to embrace it! 

fashion 

18 Our cover girl Verushka Pather shares her fashion journey 

food 

20 Beautiful breads and delectable pastries - we meet the man behind 

the popular Breadologie bakery in Sheffield 

22 What is better than a receiving a great bottle of wine? A bouquet of 

flowers carefully selected to pair with it, of course ... 

Home & decor 

24 Bold and sleek ... this Ballito home is anything but conventional 

29 Talented designer Lisa Twyman shares some nuggets of wisdom 

30 We are loving 2021’s gorgeous new hue 

32 Baby on the way? Keep the nursery natural, neutral and classy 

34 Small changes can make a big difference 

36 Here’s what we’re planting this month ... 

motoring 

38 Keep the kids safe in the car by following these tips 

40 Great ways to glam up your wheels! 

42 Buying pre-owned? We’ve got some advice for you 

43 We can’t wait to get road trippin’ once more! 

travel 

46 WIN! An entire week in the Maldives for you and a partner! 

MARCH 2021 

9966 copies distributed (July – Sept 2020) 

March 2021 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 01

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Book club 

Mothers. Sons. Sisters. Friends. We’re all about family this month 

There’s been much noise about Girl A 

… and deservedly so. Abigail Dean’s 

debut novel, which is being called 

‘the book that will define a decade’, is 

magnificent. A psychological drama, it 

starts off fairly gently but gets deeper 

and darker and more distressing with 

every chapter. The story, told by Lex – 

Girl A, jumps from past to present … 

the past being her and her siblings’ 

horrendous childhood, growing up 

in her religious fanatic parents’ House 

of Horrors; the present being when 

her mother dies in prison and leaves 

Lex, now a lawyer, executor of her 

estate … a little money and the family 

home from which Lex escaped. Lex, 

with agreement and encouragement 

from her sister Evie, decides to turn 

the house into a force for good … 

including everything her parents 

would have hated. We meet each of 

her siblings – as children and as the 

adults they’ve grown up to be. Girl 

A, soon to be a TV show directed by 

Johan Renck (director of Chernobyl), 

is a story of redemption, horror and 

love, and is gripping, powerful and 

deeply disturbing. Brilliant! 

If you’ve nothing planned for the weekend, this one’s a light, quick read which 

will keep you guessing. Michelle Frances (The Girlfriend, The Daughter) takes sibling 

rivalry and family secrets to a whole new level in Sisters. It starts off slow, and a 

little predictable, but the story soon hots up … with sisters Abby and Ellie doing a 

Thelma and Louise through Italy, France and Spain, the police – as well as a baffled 

husband and an is-she-or-isn’t-she-evil mother – close behind. • Staying with 

sisters – Kate and Lauren have a great relationship … always there for one another. 

But when Jess arrives, claiming to be their half-sister, the fall-outs start. Is she the 

secret daughter of their father, who recently died? For the girls, their mother Rose, 

and newcomer Jess, life becomes a tangle of secrets, lies and questions. Is the 

family really as perfect as it appears? Sandie Jones (The Other Woman) is great at 

psychological suspense, and there’s no shortage of that in The Half Sister. 

In Bibi’s Kitchen 

Bibis – grandmothers – from eight eastern 

African countries welcome you into their 

kitchens to share flavourful recipes and 

stories of family, love and tradition in 

this cookbook-meets-travelogue. Food 

writer Julia Turshen and Somali chef Hawa 

Hassan gathered 75 recipes. Expect Kicha 

(flatbread) and Shiro (ground chickpea 

stew) from Ma Gehennet from Eritrea, 

Ajemi bread with carrots and green 

pepper from Ma Shara in Zanzibar, and 

stewed plantain with beans and beef 

from Ma Vicky – a real-life Tanzanian 

princess. Delicious in every way. 


Wish list 

Happiness in the kitchen and on your toes this March! 


Upcycle your roast! 

There is nothing quite like the 

feeling of using leftovers to create 

an entirely new, delicious meal! 

But, while these sarmies are a great 

day-after solution for leftover roast, 

there is nothing stopping you from 

roasting a smaller piece of pork for 

the sole purpose of making these 

sandwiches. 

Roasted pork open sandwiches 

with rocket, horseradish cream and 

pickled red onion (serves 4): 

You’ll need: Leftover pork roast, room 

temperature, sliced as thinly as you 

can; for the pickled red onion: 125ml 

white wine vinegar, 125ml water at 

room temperature, 15ml (1 tablespoon) 

sugar, 7,5ml salt, 5ml whole 

peppercorns, 1ml crushed dried chili 

flakes, 2,5ml mustard seeds, 1 red 

onion, peeled and finely sliced into 

half-moons or rounds. To make: In a 

medium-size jug, mix the vinegar, 

water, sugar, salt, peppercorns, chili 

flakes and mustard seeds. Stir until 

the salt and sugar has dissolved. 

Pack the sliced onions tightly into a 

clean jar, then top with the pickling 

liquid. Cover with a lid, then let it 

stand for at least an hour before 

serving or refrigerate and use within 

a week. For the horseradish cream, 

you’ll need: 250ml thick sour cream, 

30ml horseradish, 10ml Dijon mustard. 

To make: Mix all the ingredients 

together and set aside to top the 

sandwiches. To make the sandwiches: 

arrange sliced, dense rye bread 

on plates, top with rocket, horseradish 

cream and a generous heap 

of roasted pork and pickled red 

onion. Serve at room temperature, 

with a chilled glass of Spier Seaward 

Chardonnay (available from leading 

retailers or online at shop.spier.co.za, 

R115).

Classic stoneware 

Every piece of Le Creuset kitchenware 

is beautiful, in our opinion. But 

the new classic Olive Branch collection 

is something special. Each piece 

is embossed with an olive branch motif 

and finished in a soft matte white 

texture and, as with all their products, 

the collection is made from durable 

stoneware, which blocks moisture absorption 

to prevent cracking, crazing 

and rippling. The range can be used in 

the microwave, fridge or freezer and 

is also dishwasher safe! We absolutely 

love the oval serving platter … but 

the multi-bowl and rectangular dish 

with lid are just as beautiful. Available 

at Le Creuset at Gateway Theatre of 

Shopping and www.lecreuset.co.za 

A pint of happiness 

A whole pint of Magnum? Um, yes please! We are delighted, even a 

little thrilled, with the idea of tucking into a tub of yumminess that 

is the new Magnum Pint. This takes ‘me time’ to a whole new level! 

These little ‘pints of joy’ combine the crunch of their delectable 

Belgian chocolate that lines every inch of the pint to create a shell 

which contains the creaminess of their vanilla ice-cream to produce 

the most indulgent chocolate and ice cream experience. The pints 

also have chocolate pieces inside for additional texture, luxury and 

deliciousness. Magnum Pints are available in three flavours - Almond, 

Classic and White. Needless to say we’re stocking up! Available 

at Spar, Checkers and Pick and Pay stores. 

Conscious, funky fashion 

As with many things, we are slowly 

become more aware of the consequences 

of the choices we make as 

consumers, even when it comes to 

fashion. ‘Conscious fashion’ is more 

than just a buzz word and the team 

at Sexy Socks are fully embracing 

the concept. While it’s hard to clearly 

define conscious fashion, it basically 

means buying products from brands 

that are dedicated to sustainable 

processes and practices, have a 

strong code of ethics and are on a 

mission to impact the world positively. 

It’s about keeping social and 

environmental concerns top of mind 

and giving back. We love the Sexy 

Socks one-for-one goal, where for 

every single pair of socks sold, they 

give a pair of socks to a child in need. 

We also just love Sexy Socks! Details: 

www.buysexysocks.com 


Promotion 

TOPS... more than just liquor! 

Have you visited the new TOPS liquor store in Ballito? If not, it’s time you did. So much more than just a 

liquor store, this unique, beautifully designed space is filled to the brim with a massive range of wine and 

liquor, as well as a variety of gifting and snack options. You simply have to see it to believe it. 

Over two and a half times the size of 

the original TOPS outlet at Lifestyle 

Centre in Ballito, this one-of-a-kind 

store incorporates an expansive wine 

department, walk-in beer fridge 

and intimate, interesting spaces for 

gin, whiskey, rum, tequila, cognac, 

vodka and international speciality 

beers and craft beers. And it’s not just 

about the liquor. Think beautiful floral 

arrangements, a biltong bar, cigars, 

gifting, snacks and chocolates … what’s 

not to love? 

Lifestyle Centre and Lifestyle TOPS 

owners, Paul and Bruce Rencken have 

certainly achieved their vision of 

wanting to create an ‘experiential’ rather 

than a traditional liquor store and the 

sophisticated, contemporary design 

and easy flow make for a wonderful 

shopping experience. 

This certainly is another feather in 

the cap of the Lifestyle Centre, and 

a commendable addition to the 

wonderful aesthetic and vibe of The 

Market and Eat Street. 

“Our focus is to continue creating 

experiential spaces where Ballito 

families and friends can enjoy coming together and connecting. We aim to be an 

extension of how we live life, the Ballito way,” says Bruce. “South Africans are social by 

nature and enjoying a drink together often forms the basis of gathering with family 

or friends, usually accompanied by an excellent meal, a braai, or a sporting or cultural 

event. Lifestyle TOPS is no longer your average, run-of-the-mill liquor store. It is now a 

magnificent environment where anyone will feel comfortable browsing and selecting 

from a broad range of products to enjoy, simply for their daily tipple or for any social 

occasion, activity or adventure.”

Take a little saunter 

A wonderful concept (aimed at encouraging South Africans to explore 

the amazing talent they have on their doorsteps), The Saunter, was 

launched at an intimate media event at The Gallery at Lifestyle Centre 

Ballito recently. The Saunter is a travel guide with hand-picked things to 

do and places to stay in areas from Clarens to Durban and up the North 

Coast. Showcasing a range of arts and crafts from emerging artists to 

those whose work you might find in the The Tate, The Saunter is a wonderful 

guide and worth checking out before you head off on your next 

road trip – www.thesaunter.co.za 

Nicole Pletts 

Bok van Blerk and Hanna Grobler 

Anne Schwankhart 

and Brenda Kuhn 

Ballito artist Ali Cockburn 

Nic & Emma Jacobs

World record breaker 

After losing his close friend in a tragic accident in March last year, followed by weeks of 

lockdown, Ballito surfski paddler Quinton Rutherford got into the ocean and paddled 

50km in one go. What he didn’t know was that this would be the catalyst towards him 

breaking a world record just a few months later. 

Text: Leah Shone | Photographs: CHRIS ALLAN PHOTO 

ery few people are as passionate about ocean paddling as 

50-year-old Guinness World Record holder Quinton. “I started 

surfski paddling when I was 20 years old and I haven’t stopped 

since,” he says. “It actually drives my wife crazy, because I’m 

literally always in the water!” 

Quinton secured himself a spot in the Guinness Book of Records 

for the longest ocean paddle in 24 hours when he paddled 227km 

from Cape Vidal to Salt Rock last November. His motivation to tackle this 

incredible feat was to honour his friend, former Olympic paddler Mark 

Perrow, who died in an aircraft accident shortly before the first lockdown. 

Originally from Amanzimtoti, Quinton, who owns his own plumbing 

company, his wife Cindy and their three children relocated to the North 

Coast 10 years ago. 

As a former SA Navy diver, Quinton has always been exceptionally sporty. 

He loves running and triathlons and, of course, is passionate about 

paddling. He has completed 25 Duzi Canoe Marathons and 15 Fish River 

Canoe Marathons and 15 Umkomaas River Canoe Marathons. 

08 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga March 2021

But while he has spent a significant 

amount of time paddling in rivers, 

the sea is his first love. “If I can’t 

paddle, I will surf,” he laughs. “That’s 

what we love about the lifestyle in 

Ballito. You can surf, paddle, dive or 

fish to your heart’s content.” 

Unbeknown to him, Quinton’s 

journey to breaking the world record 

started when he met Mark three 

years ago. “We became fast friends 

and spent a lot of time paddling 

and fishing together. He was one of 

those people who I just wished I had 

met 20 years earlier.” 

Quinton was devastated when Mark, 

a pilot, died tragically in a plane 

crash in March. Shortly afterwards 

South Africa went into hard 

lockdown. 

“When we were finally allowed out, 

I got into the ocean and paddled 

50km. The next time I paddled 80km. 

When a friend asked why I was 

doing it, I said I wasn’t sure.” 

The same friend, an ex-pat in New 

Zealand, also told Quinton that he 

lived across the road from the world 

record holder for the longest ocean 

paddle. His record was 209km. 

“I started thinking it was possible 

to break the record. The next time 

I pushed it to 100km. I was tired 

afterwards but, two weeks later, 

I did 133km, from Zinkwazi to 

Scottburgh.” 

With each long paddle, the idea of 

breaking the record became more 

of a reality and, when a tracking 

company offered to install a live 

tracking device in his paddle and the 

SA paddling group got involved, it 

became a tangible goal. 

Quinton had to overcome a fear 

or two of his own in the process 

though. “I was attacked by a shark 

off Karridene on the South Coast in 

2000. It was a later afternoon and 

the shark 

launched me into the air and bit my 

boat in half. I was also taken out by 

a wave in 2005, 6km out off Durban. 

My boat broke and I had to swim in. I 

had to find a way to pack those fears 

away.” 

The logistics for breaking the record were complicated and, in order to avoid 

paddling in the dark, Quinton had to maintain an average speed of 16km/h, 

which would only be possible if it there were good North East winds and he was 

able to catch the current that runs from Cape Vidal. His longest training paddle 

was 164km from Richards Bay to Durban. He paddled from 7Am to 7pm, arriving 

in Durban in the dark in late October. The paddle generated a lot of interest 

and Quinton started securing sponsorships from Fenn Kayaks, Spilltech and 

Engen Ballito, which were necessary to help cover the cost of R175 000 to have 

Guinness officiate and record it. 

With meticulous planning and after carefully considering the weather, Quinton 

decided on a date and phoned his friend Mark’s wife to let her know. Both were 

amazed to find that Quinton had inadvertently chosen Mark’s birthday. 

The paddle was a huge success and Quinton far surpassed the record by 

paddling 227km in one day. He started in Cape Vidal at day break and eventually 

fell out of his boat just past Thompson’s Bay, almost directly in front of Mark’s 

house. “I ended up having to go 34km out to sea to catch the current. We were 

dealing with 32 knot winds and 8m to 10m swells, so it was quite challenging for 

the support vessel. I think they had a harder time than I did at times,” he laughs. 

While his friend Mark was the motivation for him taking up the challenge, 

Quinton says he has had a number of people reach out to him since then to tell 

him how they have been inspired by him to do something different. 

“It just felt like something that was possible – and I was looking for a challenge. 

We couldn’t participate in any races, so I guess I just made my own race. I really 

believe that anyone can do something like this – you don’t have to be special 

or very talented. You just have to make up your mind and, if you’re passionate 

enough, you’ll do it.” 

Quinton’s next goal? To paddle across the Atlantic in a conventional surfski – 

something that’s never been done. Watch this space! 


Time for a reset! 

Being healthy has become about so much more than just getting fit, losing weight and 

looking great in a pair of jeans. If the past year has taught us anything, it’s that true 

health lies in finding balance and prioritizing the way we care for and fuel our most 

precious assets – our bodies. 

Text: Leah Shone 

“Although a ‘reset’ is a great way to initiate a 

good relationship with your body and food, 

it’s not the end,” says Gabrielle Akal, who is one 

half of the gorgeous Reset Collective duo. 

Gabrielle (or Gabs) and her partner Melissa 

van Straaten’s lockdown venture (Reset 

Collective) helps people to reboot their health 

by following a short wellness programme. 

Most important to remember though, Gabs 

says, is that it doesn’t end there. “One of the 

biggest misconceptions people have is that 

once the reset is done, all their problems 

will be solved. Moving your body, getting 

stronger and nourishing yourself correctly is 

a continuous daily choice and a lifestyle that 

you need to commit to every day.” 

Born and bred Durban girls, both Gabs 

and Melissa are passionate about health 

and fitness and have backgrounds in this 

space. Gabs runs her own digital marketing 

and copywriting business and qualified as 

a group training instructor while living in 

Cape Town. Mel has a degree in psychology 

and has completed a number of courses 

and certifications in the health and wellness 

realm, including being a yoga instructor, 

qualified specialised nutritionist and group 

fitness instructor. The two became friends 

while working at MovementX in Umhlanga 

and, over a cup of coffee during lockdown, 

decided to start their own business. 

So, what is a reset? 

“It is basically a 4 to 6-week health and 

wellness programme that includes four types 

of classes - Vinyasa Yoga and Power Yoga, 

High Intensity Interval Training and Functional 

Fitness - at different locations around 

Umhlanga. The classes run on a schedule 

(there are online options as well), and you get 

a meal plan and running guide.” 

Health trends for the year ahead 

While it is inevitable that there are new health 

trends and fads that come with the start of 


each new year, Gabs says there are some 

‘trends’ that simply never go out of style. 

“We believe in viewing health as ‘multilayered’. 

Going to gym and lifting weights 

or going for a run every day doesn’t make 

you healthy. Health comprises many 

aspects in our lives and we don’t only need 

to work our physical body, but our mental 

and emotional sides too.” 

She says it’s important for people to view 

movement and exercise as a lifestyle, rather 

than an obligation or punishment. And 

likewise, with food. “We view food as fuel. 

It should never be restricted or associated 

with feelings linked to guilt and shame. If 

you are moving your body on a consistent 

basis, then why wouldn’t you want to fuel 

it with wholesome, nutritious foods? The 

brain and gut work together and, therefore, 

what you put into your body will directly 

influence things like your mood and 

energy and concentration levels.” 

Gabs and Mel believe that in the year 

ahead more and more people will start 

looking for smaller gyms and studios 

that they truly resonate with and that will 

ultimately become their ‘home away from 

home’. “If you find yourself in the right 

space, with the right people, moving your 

body is never seen to be a ‘chore’.” 

New year, new goals 

When it comes to new starts and new year’s resolutions, Gabs says the 

biggest mistake most people make is setting unrealistic goals. “People often 

come in way too hot and give themselves complicated training and eating 

schedules. Start slow. If you want something to be a long term change it 

needs to be achievable daily.” The other mistake, she says, is giving up too 

soon. “People are often impatient and, when they don’t see immediate 

results, they fall back into their unhealthy habits. Be gentle on yourself. 

Results are usual slow and steady and as long as you stay consistent, they 

will come.” Details: IG @reset_collective 

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Aesthetically speaking 

While getting older may be a gift, the signs of ageing on 

our skin don’t always feel like one. That’s where aesthetic 

treatments come in! 

With a wide variety of aesthetic treatments on the market, it’s hard to know 

where to go or what to have done. Durban North’s Andrea Botha is a qualified 

chiropractor and has worked in the health and wellness industry for the past 20 

years. She is passionate about holistic wellness and recently became the sole 

distributor of a new aesthetic device, called Neogen Plasma, in South Africa. 

She shares a few tips for preparing for an aesthetic treatment. 

before aesthetic treatments: 

1. Prepare your skin as best you can. Start by increasing your hydration, use 

sunblock daily and load up on fresh veggies. Often the physician needs to create 

a ‘wound’ which your body will then heal to get the effect that you desire. The 

better building blocks you give your body, the better the result. 

2. Take very good before photos of yourself and have a close-up look at your 

skin from all angles. When your improvements are gradual, as most non-surgical 

procedures are, you might not notice the end product and this often leads to 

dissatisfaction despite everyone else telling you how great you look. 

3. Follow your physician’s instructions regarding before and after care. The 

combination of technology and pharmaceuticals have been extensively 

researched to provide the best possible results to fight the harsh conditions your 

skin has to endure every day. 

Give this a try … 

Neogen Plasma technology is ideal for men and women of all ages, either to 

reverse the signs of damage or prevent permanent damage as a preventative 

measure. It’s great for teenage acne and people with disfiguring scars. “Plasma 

is the fourth state of matter. Items can be solid, liquids, gasses … or plasma. 

Examples of plasma include lightning, the Aurora Borealis and fluorescent tube 

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and readily permeates skin. Heat released from the plasma has a profound 

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should you be taking them and why? 

While we are trying to live our best lives and be as healthy as possible, there seems to 

be a constant onslaught of information (and misinformation) about what we should be 

putting into our bodies. Passionate about treating the individual rather than just dolling 

out medication, Ballito GP Dr Melize de Villiers chatted to us about what vitamins and 

minerals we should (or shouldn’t) be taking. 

If you and your family are eating a 

wholesome, balanced diet, then 

chances are you don’t need to 

supplement with anything. But life 

does happen and there are factors 

that can get in the way of ensuring 

our bodies absorb all we need from 

the food we do (or don’t) eat. 

Probably the most important thing 

to remember, says Dr Melize, is that 

supplementation with vitamins 

and minerals should be specific to 

each individual. “Just like when you 

take other medications, there are a 

number of factors to consider. Your 

history, age, lifestyle and diet all play a 

part. Are you on chronic medication? 

Do you live a fast life with plenty 

of takeaways or are you vegan or 

banting? Are you sporty and active or 

do you have food allergies?” 

That said, there are very basic and 

‘general’ guidelines that can help you 

understand what your body needs 

during each phase of your life. This, 

together with understanding your 

own individual circumstances, can 

help you understand what vitamins 

you can take to help supplement your 

diet. 

Toddlers and young kids: 

This age group are often exposed 

to many new viruses at school and 

playgroups that they have to fight off, 

so a good multivitamin with Vitamin 

C is a good idea. They are often fussy 

eaters at this stage, so pay attention 

to what they aren’t eating and 

supplement accordingly. They can be 

iron deficient and if they suffer with 

concentration problems may need 


Vitamins... 

Ballito GP Dr Melize de Villiers 

omegas. Vitamin D is also important (this isn’t found in breast milk). Kids are often 

on exclusion diets (due to allergies) at this age, so supplement if a food group 

(like dairy, seafood, etc) is being omitted. Food tip: Hidden veggies (in mince or 

chicken dishes) for the win! Also make a yoghurt, small sweet cheese or frozen 

fruit a dessert treat! 

The teenage years: 

This is a busy age! Kids often have long days at school with sport and lots of 

studying. They need lots of energy and brain power. Good supplements would 

be: vitamin B, Omegas, fish oil and iron. If they struggle with acne try adding 

zinc. If they’re very sporty, remember to replace lost minerals like sodium and 

potassium (through sweating). Food tip: a good breakfast is important at this age 

– oat bowl with added seeds and nuts and banana, a boiled egg with a glass of 

orange juice. For school, add a tin of fish or cottage cheese. If all you have time 

for is 2-minute-noodles – just add a tin of fish to that!

Midlife (20’s to 40’s): 

You’ve usually got well established diets and eating habits by this 

stage of your life and know what you do and don’t eat and can 

supplement accordingly. A general multivitamin is a good idea and 

important to remember folic acid for women (these are your fertile 

years). 

Later in life (over 50): 

In this age group it is often more about replacing than 

supplementing. Older folks are usually on medications that can 

cause deficiencies, so it’s important to take that into consideration. 

Calcium, magnesium and vitamin D are very important to prevent 

osteopenia and osteoporosis. Vitamin B, fish oils and omegas are 

good for brain function and memory (and to prevent diseases like 

Alzheimer’s) and vitamin E, zinc and folate are good for skin and hair. 

Vitamin E is also good for hormonal changes during menopause. 

Food tip: A smoothie is a great way to get lots of vitamins and 

minerals in one go – try one with banana, milk, peanut butter, 

almonds, chia seeds and full cream yoghurt. 

Covid-19 vitamin regime: 

If you have been diagnosed with Covid-19 and are managing it at 

home, Dr Melize suggests the following regime: vitamin D (4000u 

daily), vitamin C (1000mg twice daily), zinc (100mg twice daily), 

vitamin B (once daily) to help fight the viral load. If you want to take a 

‘preventative’ dose, in case you do get ill, she suggests a basic vitamin 

C, zinc and vitamin D regime (with the usual daily doses). 

Meet the doctor 

Originally from a small town in the South Coast, 

Dr Melize (aka the ‘traveling hippie doctor’) has 

worked in practices all over South Africa and 

overseas. She went into private practice 10 years 

ago and says she became a general practitioner 

because she loves people and loves to chat! 

She settled in Ballito six years ago and recently 

founded the Health Matters practice. “I love kids, 

teens and the elderly. I love the whole family. I 

love that my normal day can include anything 

from a broken bone to talking about mental 

health or treating a common cold.” Passionate 

about treating the ‘entire individual’ rather than 

just their symptoms, Dr Melize believes most 

illnesses have a physical, mental, emotional 

and social component. “This is why our team 

includes a physio, psychologist, life coach, etc. 

People need a healthy diet and exercise and also 

need to spend time with friends and family and 

do the things they love. This is how they reach 

optimum health. A tablet is only the beginning.” 

Details: Health Matters, Regency House, 3 

Douglas Crowe Drive, Ballito; reception@ 

healthmattersballito.co.za, www. 

healthmattersballito.co.za, 087 152 3030 

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industry. Aureum is a purpose-driven brand created by a mother, daughter 

and CBD expert passionate about the amazing benefits and qualities 

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Promotion 

Wendy Stone: Supporting Dyslexic 

Superheroes In Our Community 

“Dyslexia is not a pigeonhole to say you can’t do anything. It is an opportunity and a possibility to learn 

differently. You have magical brains - they just process differently.” Her Royal Highness Princess Beatrice 

mathematical-based learning difficulty). Wendy describes it as a 

privilege to meet children with incredible Dyslexic super strengths 

and she is often left in awe of the resilience and diligence they 

have had to develop in order to cope with the associated academic 

challenges. 

What is Dyslexia? Dyslexia is a condition where the brain 

is ‘wired’ slightly differently to the non-dyslexic, meaning they 

have a different way of processing information. The wiring of the 

Dyslexic brain results in a pattern of strengths like critical thinking, 

creativity and communication skills. It also results in challenges 

affecting traditional learning such as reading, writing, spelling, rote 

learning, memory and concentration. Dyslexia is often thought to 

be ‘reversing letters’ when reading and writing but this is only one 

type of Dyslexia. 

How do I know if my child or a child I work with 

should be tested? Dyslexia is often first noticed by parents 

and teachers who recognize the child’s natural intelligence, but are 

puzzled as to why there is a difficulty with reading, writing or spelling. 

If any of the following statements appear true, further testing 

for Dyslexia should be considered for Grade 3 to 12 learners: 

- Your child appears intelligent but is unable to read, write or spell 

at grade level. 

- Your child does not test well in writing but does very well orally. 

- Your child has low self-esteem towards academic tasks. 

- Your child is easily frustrated and emotional about reading at 

school or tests. 

Wendy Stone, registered Dyslexia and Dyscalculia 

Diagnostician 

Supporting Dyslexic superheroes in our 

community 

As a qualified educator and psychologist, Wendy trained 

at the Stark Griffin Academy and became a registered 

Dyslexia Diagnostician in 2017. The Stark Griffin Dyslexia 

Academy is the first company in South Africa to develop 

a standardized Dyslexia assessment (also approved by 

the Health Professionals Council of South Africa) to meet 

the specific needs of Dyslexic children and adults in our 

country. Wendy is also qualified to administer the Stark 

Griffin Dyscalculia Diagnostic Test (Dyscalculia describes a 

Parents, teachers, psychologists, therapists and other medical 

professionals are encouraged to refer learners from Grade 3 to 

12 if the child presents with reading and spelling difficulties 

which do not appear consistent with the underlying intellectual 

ability. Depending on the severity level of the diagnosis, Dyslexic 

learners can access support for tests and exams, including a reader, 

a spelling concession, additional time and a scribe (subject to 

review by relevant exam and school board). Psychologists who 

assess learners for the purpose of application for high school 

accommodations/concessions will still be required to complete 

the required battery of testing as stipulated by the DoE or IEB but 

are encouraged to refer the learner for a Diagnostic Dyslexia Test 

so that they can include an official diagnosis in their report, with 

the Stark Griffin Dyslexia Academy’s official recommendation for 

specific concessions. 

Testing days offered each month in Hillcrest, Umhlanga and 

Ballito. Wendy Stone: info@wendystone.co.za, 071 608 1191 

(email communication preferred) 


Scrunchie 

with bow 

in a pretty 

Summer 

fabric, R59 from 

peoniepienk.co.za 

HAIR 

HIGHLIGHTS 

Beauty-wise, if there’s one thing 

lockdown taught us, it’s the 

importance of how to manage our 

locks. We’re embracing the 

undone bob, the grown-out 

fringe, and the importance of 

exceptional at-home tools, 

quality products and glam-it-up 

hair accessories. 

This Inoar Kálice Oil is loaded with vitamin E and seven precious vegetable 

oils. It’s moisturising, nourishing, restorative, antioxidant, softening, 

protective, and penetrates and absorbs immediately into the hair. Bonus 

… it’s multifunctional, so you can use it on your face and body too. R950 

(or R130 for the small 8ml version – great for travelling). • Résistance Lotus 

Flower Oil – also with plant ingredients that penetrate deep into the hair 

fibre and give back its natural moisture – strengthens, repairs, realigns, 

reduces frizz, and, since your hair will be healthier, adds shine. R130 for 7ml. 

Inoar products are cruelty-free, vegan and sulphate-free. Details: inoar.co.za 

Watch your back. This 

rectangular mirror is perfectly 

sized to keep on your 

dressing table. Not only is it 

great for when you’re doing 

your make-up, but also to 

check the back of your hair – 

to admire or fix. R299 

from home.co.za 


Letting her soul shine 

Talented traditional dancer and mother of four, Verushka Pather recently took an 

exciting step in a new direction when she launched her unique, elegant and truly 

South African clothing line, Khanya Designs. 

Text: Leah Shone | Photographs: Barry Bowditch | Shoot location: The Grand Exotic 


A skilled classical Indian dancer, 

Verushka’s exquisite shweshweinspired, 

‘Indo-African’ clothing range 

is as bold and graceful as the designer 

herself. 

Veruskha, her husband, well-known 

Ballito paediatrician Dr Kamendran 

Pather, and their four children have 

lived on the North Coast for the past 

10 years. 

It was when she travelled to India 

after school, Verushka says, that her 

passion for art, music, design and 

culture was fully ignited. She didn’t 

know then that this would be the 

catalyst towards her one day creating 

her own clothing range. 

While in India, Verushka received 

a fellowship from the Indian 

government for her research and 

learning of the classical art of Bharata 

Natyam dance (a classical art of 

South India, which originated in the 

temples). “In India, the true ‘Verushka’ 

began to come alive. I learnt from 

everyone I met. There is something 

special about the hidden treasures 

there. Its silk, its gold, it’s array of 

spices and the oceans of knowledge 

of scriptures. It was an awakening of a 

whole new world for me.” 

Returning to South Africa five 

years later as a young performer 

and qualified creative movement 

therapist, Verushka travelled the 

country performing her art of Bharata 

Natyam and working as a creative 

movement therapist. She married her 

husband (who she met in India) in 

2002 and the couple now have four 

children. 

Although she has always loved 

fashion and experimenting with 

different textures and fabrics, Verushka 

says her love for fashion evolved in 

India after being exposed to the finest 

silk, pure indigo and French linen and 

the best natural, organic fibres. Her 

inspiration to create her own range 

was sparked when she was pregnant 

in 2018, she says. 

“I was walking the streets of central 

Durban trying to find comfortable 

and beautiful clothes and a hidden 

treasure. I discovered the cotton wax 

print and shweshwe and I loved it. I 

started buying fabrics and making 

cute shift dresses, then parallel pants 

and some other designs for my evergrowing 

tummy.” 

When she realized the robust colours 

would merge well with the elegance of the raw silk, Verushka started making 

sari blouses in shweshwe for her silk saris. “I was awarded by our then minister 

of art and culture, Bongiwe Sithole-Moloi, for my art contribution out of India 

and I wore a shweshwe sari to meet her. She was blown away and said that I 

should continue designing clothes that truly showcase ‘social cohesion’. So, I did. I 

believe that moment was the start of a whole new journey for me.” 

Friends and family started looking forward to seeing Verushka’s newest design 

and then started asking her to tailor items for them. “Seeing my clothes on other 

women gave me a great sense of joy and fulfillment. It was a creation born of 

Africa. It showcases powerful women, compassionate mothers and trend-setting 

young adults.” 

Entirely locally manufactured, the Khanya range includes jackets, umbrella skirts, 

capri pants, tops, dresses (shift, ball gown, wrap, maxi), sari blouses and saris, 

kurthi tops a lovely range of baby doll dresses for girls and waistcoats for men 

and boys. 

What appeals to people most, Veurshka says, is the fact that they are wearing a 

truly South African design. “When I created the range, I envisioned the average, 

everyday women looking and feeling phenomenal in the bright, flamboyant 

colours and fabrics that really make a statement when you enter a room. The 

working professional, university student, local doctor, artist, home executive or 

store cashier can be dressed to feel their best, as I do.” 

Asked where the name of her line, Khanya, come from, Verushka says it is the 

merging of her love of both her cultures. “Inkanyisi in IsiZulu means ‘shining light’ 

and khanyakumari is the Southern tip of India. Khanya Designs is about letting 

your soul shine to the world.” 

Details: Verushka: 074 270 0037, FB & IG: @khanyadesigns 


Crafting loaves with love 

There is no ‘secret recipe’ for the little wood-fired oven bakery in Sheffield having 

become such a popular place to stock up on sourdough loaves, croissants and pastries. 

It’s simply about good, slow food, made sustainably, served with love. 

Text: Leah Shone | Photographs: Mary-Ann Palmer 

“There is something romantic about 

going to your local bakery or butchery 

and buying food from someone who 

knows your name. I like that. Isn’t that 

what food is all about?” 

It was a combination of necessity and 

a passion for imparting knowledge 

with others that led to Swiss-born 

David Henry launching his bakery, 

Breadologie, on Claremont Farm near 

Sheffield Beach at the end of last year. 

With years of management 

experience in the hospitality industry 

under his belt, David initially set out 

to open a training centre (something 

he still plans to do) on the site where 

the bakery now sits. “The bakery 

seemed like a good place to start. It 

was always going to be a part of the 

‘live learning centre’, and if we do go 

back into a hard lockdown, we will 

be able to stay open because we are 

considered an essential service.” 

Although born in Switzerland, David spent most of his life in Mozambique, 

having moved there with his family when he was 9 years old. The youngest of 

four children, David says he had an idyllic childhood in Mozambique, attending 

an international school where he learnt English and Portuguese and was 

exposed to wide variety of cultures. 

It was this experience, he believes, that guided him towards his career in 

hospitality. “I always loved to cook from a young age and learned a lot from my 

mom who is an amazing cook.” 

After graduating from hotel school in Switzerland in 2008, David returned to 

Africa. “Most people were going to Dubai, but I liked the idea of working in a 

smaller hotel or lodge with a sustainable ethos, rather than a golf course in the 

middle of the dessert!” 

Back in Mozambique, David and his fiancé Monica found a job as the 

management couple of a small, eco-lodge in a remote part of Mozambique. 

After three years (and contracting malaria more than 10 times each!), the couple 

headed back to Switzerland for a while. It was there, while working as a food and 

beverage lecturer at a hotel school, that David discovered his passion for training. 

“I fell in love with teaching and training and we both missed Africa. We returned 

to Mozambique and set out to start a professional hospitality training company.” 

Things didn’t go as planned, and they decided to move to South Africa, and 

Ballito. 


Soon after arriving David found two 

great job opportunities, putting 

together training and management 

programmes at Prince’s Grant and 

Fairmont Zimbali. But then Covid-19 hit 

and everything changed. 

“We had to put our heads together and 

come up with something unique and 

sustainable. When the site at Claremont 

farm became available I jumped to it.” 

David sees the location as the ideal spot 

to open his hospitality training centre 

– and in the meantime, it’s a bakery! 

“We thought it was a good idea to start 

with the bakery, because we could work 

towards our goal while still running a 

sustainable business.” 

Breadologie’s appeal lies in its 

uniqueness, including the fact that 

everything is made with David’s 

sourdough starter (live culture) as a 

base and that they work on a property 

with no electricity, which means 

everything is baked in a wood-fired 

oven. “People really seem to like it. Not 

just our bread, but the space that we 

are trying to create here. It’s sort of 

an organic concept that evolves and 

changes all the time. I love collaborating 

and working with people and hearing 

all their ideas. There are so many 

possibilities and we are open to them,” 

he says. 

Sustainability is important to David 

– both in terms of being kind to the 

environment and also teaching people 

to live organically and help them feed 

and sustain themselves. He also believes 

in the ‘slow food’ ethos. “If you want to 

start a wood-fired bakery and earn a 

living, the recipe is right here and I don’t 

mind telling you how. I love sharing 

information. There are no ‘secret recipes’,” 

he laughs. “If you want my sourdough 

starter, I’ll give it to you. I also don’t want 

to run a bakery where I am stressed out 

and always running around with no time 

to sit down and chat to the customers 

who go out of their way to come buy 

their bread here. The real reward is in the 

human connection for me.” 

Breadologie is open from Wednesday to 

Sunday, 8am to 4pm (they close at 12 on 

Sundays). They sell wholewheat, white 

and 100% rye bread and their croissants 

(chocolate, cheese and custard) and 

chelsea buns are insanely popular! 

Details: Breadologie, Claremont Farm, 

Sheffield Beach Road, @breadologie_sa 

David’s simple (yet delicious) sourdough recipe 

(yields 2 large breads) You’ll need: 800g Stoneground, GMO-free white flour, 

460g water, 10g salt, 320g sourdough starter To make: Mix the flour, water 

and sourdough starter in a bowl using a wooden spoon. Mix until a ball of 

dough forms, then let the dough rest (or autolyse) for 1 hour. Once autolysed, 

add salt. Make sure to mix well and then begin kneading, preferably by hand 

so you get a feel for the dough. (For me this is crucial ... understanding the 

dough. It’s also a great workout! You will know you can stop kneading when 

the dough passes the window pane test. This is done by putting some oil in 

your hands and gently stretching a piece of dough, as if you were blowing 

a bubble with a chewing gum. If it breaks and tears, keep kneading. If it 

stretches and is elastic you are good for the next step.) Cover and rest at 

room temperature for bulk fermentation. Time will be reduced to around 3 

to 5 hours when hot and humid. Keep an eye on your dough - once it has 

doubled in size, it is ready. Split into two equal parts and shape both into 

large balls. If you want round bread, place it directly in a round bowl. Use a dry 

cloth with plenty flour on it to ensure the dough does not stick to the bowl (if 

you have a banneton or shaping basket, use that), and let it rise a little more in 

the bowl so it take shape nicely – around another 2 hours. 

Once you are satisfied with the size of your bread, cover it and let it sit in your 

fridge overnight. 

In the morning, crank your oven to its highest setting (bread enjoys high 

temperatures of 250C). Remove from fridge and place them on a baking tray. 

Score put in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes. Add more time, if 

you feel it needs it. Remove from oven and rest for at least 20 minutes before 

slicing (if you can ... the smell will be hard to resist!). Enjoy freshly baked bread 

with cheese, preserves, a good glass of wine and good company! 

March 2021 Get It • Ballito Umhlanga 21

Bottles & bouquets … 

the perfect pair! 

A gift of wine and flowers 

makes most women giddy with 

happiness. Now imagine being 

gifted a bottle and a bouquet 

that have been thoughtfully 

and carefully curated and 

intentionally paired up. What a 

special gift that would be! 


The word ‘ballyhoo’ means to ‘give 

praise extravagantly’ and ‘make a fuss’. 

And that’s exactly what Kim Roberts 

and Teraza Blair had in mind when 

they came up with the concept 

of pairing wine and fresh floral 

arrangements to create beautiful, 

lavish spoils. 

Their new wine and flower store, 

called Ballihoo, which recently 

opened at the Umhlanga Arch, offers 

customers the perfect space in which 

to choose a very special gift for 

someone in a unique, thoughtful way. 

Both young mothers, Umhlangabased 

Kim and Teraza, who lives in 

Morningside, met at their church a 

few years ago and have been working 

together ever since. Their wedding 

décor rental company called Crystal 

& Vine started in 2015, after Kim 

relocated to KZN from Johannesburg. 

Kim, originally from Zululand, met 

her husband Jarred while studying 

in Cape Town and the couple lived 

overseas and in Johannesburg, where 

Kim worked in marketing, before 

settling back in KZN. Kim stepped 

away from corporate life and started 

Crystal & Vine. She now has a threeyear-old 

son, Jack, and is pregnant 

with her second child. 

New Zealand-born Teraza moved 

to South Africa 10 years ago, after 

meeting her pastor husband Gary. 

The couple have a two-year-old son 

named Judah. 

Although the Umhlanga Arch only 

recently opened, Kim tells us they 

have been working on site with the 

developers for two years already. “We 

worked on interior project offering 


full turnkey furniture packages for the 

Arch apartments. It’s been amazing to 

watch the development go up,” she 

says. 

Because they were the only two 

females on the team, when a retail 

space opened up for a florist, the 

developers asked Kim and Teraza for 

some ideas. “We sort of always knew 

what we wanted in the back of our 

heads, but we couldn’t find anyone 

to execute it. So, we decided do it 

ourselves!” 

The concept is simple and very 

unique. Kim explains, “we wanted it to 

be more than just a florist, we wanted 

different and exciting. We both 

know about flowers and love wine 

(although we aren’t experts) and we 

really wanted to do something with 

these two passions, which we believe 

make people the happiest!” 

So how does the pairing work? Kim 

says the wine and flowers are ‘paired’ 

in two ways. The first is simply that 

they are paired - or coexist - in the 

same space at Ballihoo. You don’t have 

to buy them together – can buy one 

or the other. 

In the other way, the wine is actually 

‘matched up’ with the flowers. “Wines 

traditionally have floral notes, so we 

pick up on those and the colour or 

character of a specific wine, and pair it 

with a beautiful bouquet. The result is 

a carefully thought-out gift that gives 

someone a truly sensory experience, 

allowing them to possibly learn 

something new along the way.” 

Not designed to be too technical or 

intimidating, the pairing of the wine 

and flowers is aimed at allowing 

people to explore and try new 

products, Kim says. 

When it comes to choosing the wine, 

Kim and Teraza have teamed up with 

a Cape Town based expert, named 

Jono Le Feuvre. “Jono is the head wine 

buyer for the Ballihoo team, while 

also heading up wine education and 

elements of content creation. If you 

see him in the wild, do not approach! 

Unless you have half an hour to have 

your ear chewed over the topics like 

the misuse of the term ‘minerality’ 

and the ironies of lab-produced ‘wild 

yeasts’. Jono is a committed beverage 

enthusiast, has spent a decade 

founding and building speciality 

coffee outfit, Rosetta Roastery and has 

spent almost as long publishing his 

Ballihoo founders Teraza and Kim 

left-field brand of wine writing on platforms like JancisRobinson.com, Timatkin. 

com and HanDrinksSolo.com. Whether it is coffee, wine, or the occasional 

bubblegum steri-stumpie, the man does nothing in half-measures (unless he’s 

driving).” 

The true heart behind Ballihoo though, is a strong desire to bring happiness to 

people. “What drives us most is the bringing of joy to others. Wine and flowers 

make people happy and we want to encourage people to go out and enjoy life, 

be bold and lavish and really spoil someone, just because.” 

Details: Ballihoo, Umhlanga Arch, 1 Ncondo Place, Umhlanga, @ballihoo_shop, www. 

ballihoo.co.za 


& Bold sleek 

What happens when a young, dynamic team of architects who like pushing design 

boundaries meet a young dynamic couple looking to build an unusual, exceptional 

home? This ... is what happens. 

Text: Leah Shone | Photographs: Chris Allan Photo 


here is nothing dull 

or ordinary about this 

bold, unique home, 

which sits on the border 

of a protected greenbelt 

in a boutique estate just 

outside of Ballito. 

The beautifully positioned abode 

in Brooklyn Estate was designed by 

David Nelson and his team from 

Umhlanga-based Bloc Architects, 

which was started eight years ago 

and has since become one of the top 

architectural firms on the North Coast. 

Daring, modern and discreet (on the 

outside anyway), the home presents 

a wonderful balance of privacy and 

carefully planned open areas and 

courtyards, allowing for maximum use 

of all the available space. 

“It is an absolute dream to work with 

clients like this,” says David. “They are a 

young couple who were completely 

willing to push the boundaries and 

just wanted ‘a really cool house’.” 

Situated in what appears to be a 

classic, family-orientated boutique 

estate, the entrance to the house is as 

original as the rest of the residence. 

In keeping with the owners’ desire 

to have maximum privacy, the 

entranceway and garage doors are 

tucked away behind a massive, black 

steel sliding door. If it sounds quite 

dramatic, it is ... but in an enticing, 

classy way, that makes you want to 

take a peek at what’s going on behind 

it. “So often in estates you just see one 

garage after another, often all looking 

the same. This home stands out. It 

was built first and foremost for privacy 

and the oversized screen door was 

integrated into the entire design.” 

We wanted to maximise the use of all the 

space we had by blending the outside with 

the inside as much as possible. 

The lounge opens up to a 

manicured garden and pool 

This quaint courtyard area allows natural light 

into the home while maintaining its privacy 

There is a strong emphasis on tactility 

and the use of raw, natural materials, 

and it’s a theme that is seamlessly 

carried through from the outside to 

the inside of the home. 

There isn’t really a ‘front door’ as 

such, but rather, as you enter the 

steel exterior door you are led, via a 

marvellous, quaint European-styled 

courtyard, through glass sliding doors 

into the open-plan lounge, kitchen 

and bar areas. 

“We were working with quite a narrow 

site, so we wanted to maximise 

the use of all the space we had by 

blending the outside with the inside 

as much as possible,” says David. “All 


David Nelson is one of the 

partners at Bloc Architects 

the sliding doors open into cavities 

in the walls, so you literally use every 

inch of the home and it becomes a 

completely flexible space.” 

Courtyards are very on trend at the 

moment. Not only are they wonderful, 

serene spaces, but they often allow 

you to bathe your home in natural 

light without compromising on 

privacy. When the sliding doors are 

all open, the courtyard provides a 

lovely link between the bar, kitchen 

and outside area. When lit up at 

night, it also becomes a stunning 

entertainment area. 

In keeping with the natural, raw 

theme, the ceilings are all off-shutter, 

which are not only low maintenance 

but also add to the industrial chic look 

and feel of the home, and the kitchen 

counters are a matt rugged concrete 

Ceasarstone. 

While most of the soft furnishings 

were done by the owners themselves, 

David’s team provided guidance and 

input wherever possible. The backyard 

is immaculate and the house opens 

up onto a swimming pool finished 

off with beach sand and half-polished 

concrete. 

The house has four bedrooms, with 

The interior of the home manages 

to be bold and quirky without 

being gaudy and over-the-top 


The entranceway and garage doors are tucked 

away behind a massive, black steel sliding door 

a guest bedroom and bathroom downstairs. A steel 

staircase leads you upstairs where the other three 

bedrooms are situated. A bridge with large glass 

windows on either side separates the main bedroom 

from the nursery and second guest room. 

The dark colour palate is striking without being too 

much and is complimented by the large windows, 

which allow natural light to drench the interior. 

Speaking of which … the interior is bold, bright and full 

of prints and quirky pieces, but somehow manages to 

have all of this without being gaudy and too over-thetop. 

It’s a wonderful, easy-to-be-in space that makes you 

want to curl up with a cup of coffee or a glass of good 

wine, look around and take it all in. 

“This really was a dream job for us. We love pushing 

boundaries and experimenting as a firm and we also 

love working with natural materials, clean lines and 

open spaces. It’s very important to us that we work 

closely with our clients as well, because ultimately they 

are the ones who have to live in the space we design. 

Our team is passionate about architecture and we really 

just want to have fun,” says David. Details: Bloc Architects, 

www.bloc.archi, 031 566 3320, @blocarchitects

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Design with meaning 

Talented Salt Rock interior designer Lisa Twyman has always been a creator at heart. 

Despite having an honours degree in psychology, she found her true calling in creating 

beautiful spaces and now furniture and homeware décor pieces. She shares a few 

design tips with us. 

Originally a Zululand girl, Lisa started her interior business in 2007. Design is 

much more than just a job to her, she says. “I see it as a vocation that saved me 

because it brings me such purpose and joy.” The homeware side of her business 

came alive when Lisa started ceramics about eight years ago. “It didn’t come 

naturally to me at first,” she says, “but then suddenly it seemed like overnight 

my mind was saturated with ideas for objects and then later for bigger pieces 

like lights and furniture.” After years spent refining her ideas and finding the 

right craftsmen and manufacturers for the job, she finally launched her range in 

October 2020. 

Please tell us about your range. The range includes all sorts of 

materials - wood, textured glass, concrete, metal, ceramic, stained glass and 

textile. Colour is pivotal. I would say the collection has a bold femininity and 

worldly sensibility. The furniture range is comprised of pieces that are made 

to order and one-off pieces that will never be repeated. I see the one-off 

pieces as functional art, statement pieces that will become modern day family 

heirlooms. I also add some of my hand-crafted ceramic pieces to the online store 

occasionally and am currently designing some smaller objects for the home. 

What are some common interior mistakes people often make in 

their homes? Too much stuff! Too many pieces of furniture. A good interior 

has negative space, just like a good painting. You need a place for the eye to rest. 

What is your biggest interior design must-have/nonnegotiable? 

A well thought out colour palette. Colour can make or break a 

space. It needs to be sensitive to the surroundings, the architecture, the quality 

of light, and, mostly, to the emotional effect it will have on those in the space. I 

love using pared back colours and unexpected combinations. 

What homeware or furniture 

trend can we expect to see 

emerging in the year ahead? 

Buying once and buying well. I think 

the pandemic has shed light on 

reckless consumerism. People are 

going to make more considered 

decisions and connect with the 

stories behind the products. I think 

people are going to want their 

furniture and homeware to reflect 

who they are, and they will no longer 

want what is mass-produced. They will 

especially buy locally produced items, 

and support local small businesses. 

Resins, recycled plastics and other 

innovative materials will be seen more 

and more in furniture and homewares 

in the coming years. 

Details: lisa@lisatwyman.com, 

079 931 6902 


2021’s delicious new 

favourite hue 

Never before have our homes - their atmosphere, 

aesthetic and ambience- been so important. 

With people spending more time within their 

four walls than ever before, the need to feel good 

in general has become essential. 

Plascon, with its finger on the pulse and its ear to the ground, has looked 

at both this global imperative to ‘nest’ as well as the need for something 

to look forward to. This, in combination with the overall generosity of 

spirit and outpouring of empathy that bubbled up in 2020, is what 

paved the way for choosing 2021’s top hue, Plascon Golden Syrup, which 

they describe as a warm, sunny yellow that encapsulates positivity, 

confidence and joy. To inspire you to further update your space, we’ve 

gathered a list of luscious décor items suited to this heart-warming hue. 

Complement your living 

room with this beautiful and 

stylish Flowers Patterned 

Scatter Cushion. R350 from 

takealot.com 

This Royal T Pineapple Night 

Light can be placed on your 

mantelpiece or on your table 

this summer to brighten up 

your celebrations. R199 from 

www.zando.co.za 

Text: Bronwyn forbes-hardinge 

Add a pop of colour and texture to your space with 

this Chenille Basket Weave Throw. R499 from www. 

woolworths.co.za 

Keep your flowers fresh and 

statement-like in this Ceramic Paint 

Splash Vase that’s available in different 

sizes. Priced from R179 to R309 from 

www.uniqueinteriors.co.za 


A semi-solid balm, which can be applied or 

massaged onto anywhere on the body, this 

Lulubee Botanique Massage Bar, handcrafted 

by the women of the H18 Foundation women’s 

empowerment organization in Cape Town, 

makes a great addition to any guest 

bathroom. R295 from 

madebyartisans.co.za 

Who said functional can’t be 

fun? Made from durable PVC, 

this Maxwell & Williams Placemat 

is perfect for indoor and outdoor 

use. R49 from homeetc.co.za 

Le Creuset’s Signature Oval Casserole is ideal for 

preparing classics like coq au vin, or a simple roast 

chicken. For an unexpected dish, bake and serve noknead 

bread or a marble cake in this elongated casserole. 

R 4999 from www.lecreuset.co.za 

This Mustard Yellow Cotton Crochet 

Ottoman, handcrafted by the women of the 

H18 Foundation women’s empowerment 

organization in Cape Town is perfect for any 

room in the house, decorative and functional. 

R660 from madebyartisans.co.za 


Naturally 

beautiful 

Designing your baby’s nursery can be daunting. 

Colours, themes, accessories … it’s easy to get 

wrapped up in the ‘Pinterest’ of it all and miss the 

actual point: to create a warm, happy space for your 

new little human, and yourself! We asked Baby 

Couture owner Courteney Viljoen for some tips and 

trends for decorating a simple, neutral nursery. 

Text: Leah Shone| Photographs: MICHIGAN BEHN PHOTOGRAPHY 

If big, loud colours and bold prints 

are not your thing, then it’s time you 

met Courteney. As the founder of 

Baby Couture – a bespoke modern 

nursery boutique brand – Ballito mom 

Courteney is inspired by her love of 

textiles and belief in the importance of 

remaining true to yourself, even when 

you are bringing your new little addition 

home. 

Courteney is passionate about helping 

new parents maintain their own design 

sense with modern nursery elements 

that offer a stylish alternative to the 

sometimes overly sweet stereotypical 

nursery or child’s room. “Our designs 

are high-quality creations for styleconscious 

parents, designed to 

enchant and engage children without 

compromising quality or respect for the 

environment.” 

One of the most important things to 

remember, she says, when designing a 

room for your baby, is to create a space 

that will grow with both baby and 

parents. Here are a few more great tips: 

Natural nurseries … 

tips and trends 

• Grey is the new pink and blue. When it 

comes to decorating the baby nursery, 


Baby Couture founder 

Courteney and her baby boy 

avoid anything too ‘theme’ orientated. Close friends and family 

members are more likely to get carried away, and you’ll be seeing 

teddy bears and bunny rabbits for years to come. 

• Baby nurseries are adopting a cleaner, simpler look, following 

popular interior-design trends seen globally, such as minimalist 

décor and modern furniture. This means creating a room that will 

outlive its initial purpose and adopting furniture styles and colour 

palettes found in and around your home. 

• Parents also like furniture that grows with their child. Choose a 

cot that will transition into a toddler bed, daybed, or full bed. The 

concept does however extend beyond the cot - rather than using 

a compactum that is strictly a compactum, I always recommend 

using a chest of drawers and placing a changing mat on top. 

• As a new parent, you’ll spend countless hours here. It needs to 

be a tranquil, beautiful space where you can put your feet up and 

truly relax. Ask yourself how you want to feel in the space. What 

would you like to see? This should help guide you in the right 

direction, towards setting up the Pinterest nursery of your wildest 

dreams! 

Details: info@babycouture.co.za, www.babycouture.co.za, @ 

babycouturesa 

more and more families are opting for soft, neutral, 

natural tones over bright, frilly, themed, stereotypical 

gender-specific designs of the past. 

• Parents want a space that will grow with their child. 

Often, they would also like a nursery with a genderneutral 

colour scheme, because, later on, the room 

may be used for a second child. 

• Layered rugs over a hardwood floor can add 

warmth and texture and gold drawer handles on a 

white compactum give the room a grown-up, luxury 

feel without any of the typical baby animal decals or 

ABCs wall art. 

• We’re designing with a lot of wood tones and 

natural materials, such as a wicker basket that gets 

used for toy storage, a natural rattan baby cot and 

soft, neutral linens. We also love adding a touch of 

greenery to a nursery, such as a Fiddle Leaf placed in 

a wicker basket, which softens a room so beautifully. 

• Whilst it’s a great idea to let a favourite print or 

accent colour inspire your overall design, you should 

We welcome International Professional 

Architect, Giuseppe Soffietti to our 

beautiful slice of heaven, Ballito. 

It is great having him as part of our 

studio team at Eden Village, Salt Rock. 

Contact us for an initial free 

consultation to assess your 

architectural requirements. 

+27 (0)87 460 0254 www.jdarch.co.za dene@jdarch.co.za

Promotion 

Small change 

big difference 

Nothing says ‘new beginnings’ quite like a little refurb in your home or garden. Why not smash 

down a wall, erect a new fence or simply add a fresh coat of paint or some new décor pieces? 

ZAO CREATE 

Zao Create is an interior 

design studio that focuses 

on creating spaces that 

are tailored to the design 

needs of the individual. 

Their services are all about 

designing your home to feel 

like an extension of yourself. 

Details: Contact Shelly on: 

076 732 1224, 

hello.zaocreate@gmail.com, 

www.zaocreate.com 

PrintWild 

Beautiful interior artwork 

are PrintWild’s specialty. 

They offer high quality 

canvas prints, Faceblocks, 

photoboxes, framed 

prints and photo magnets 

at affordable prices, 

delivered to your door. 

Details: info@printwild. 

co.za, 087 057 2790, FB 

@PrintWild, IG: @printwild 

JUST INTERIOR DESIGN 

Just Interior Design (JID) offer 

professionally qualified interior 

design services, specialising 

in residential and commercial 

design as well as custom 

joinery and furniture. 

Details: 072 137 4093, 

justin@justinteriordesign.co.za, 

www.justinteriordesign.co.za, 

FB: @justinteriordesignsa 


Promotion 

Autumn lawn love 

We’ve had a wonderful summer in our gardens at home … and now it’s time to start preparing 

lawns for winter. While we are extremely fortunate to enjoy very mild winters on the North Coast, 

there is no denying that most of our gardens take a knock as the sun path changes and our lawns 

are subjected to more shade. The clever team from Living Earth have compiled some tips to get your 

lawn in tip top shape before winter comes, allowing it to survive the season’s changes and look 

great when spring comes! 

Autumn tips for lawn care: 

• Scarify – scarifying is when you rake your 

lawn to reduce the layers of thatch. Autumn 

is a great time to scarify as you can rake 

a little deeper than if you were to do it in 

spring, when you would have to be more 

delicate due to young growth. 

• Aerate your lawn – aeration is a cornerstone 

to having a well maintained lawn. The 

process of aerating is basically spiking the 

lawn to allow for more air (and nutrients, 

including water) to get to the grass roots. 

Aeration will also help your lawn to survive 

through more extreme conditions such as 

waterlogging or drought. 

• Fork compacted areas – areas of the lawn 

that get heavy traffic during summer will 

be very compacted and will need forking to 

break up the soil and improve drainage. 

• Apply lawn dressing – once the lawn 

is aerated and forked, it is time to apply 

Living Earth Lawn dressing. Our blend of 

premium Compost and Umgeni sand is 

ideal for improving the soil structure and 

encouraging strong root development. The 

Umgeni will also assist in levelling those 

areas that have become bumpy over time. 

• For larger areas that have been worn down 

through summer fun in the garden, purchase 

some Living Earth Instant Lawn rolls and fill 

in the gaps. 

Before treatment 

After treatment 

Living Earth compost is great 

for growing your veggies too! 

Details: Living Earth is situated near Holla 

Trails on the Esenembe Road, 083 655 3019, 

www.livingearth.co.za 

(Tips sourced from: www.lovethegarden. 

com) 

About Living Earth 

Living Earth are renowned instant lawn and compost specialists on the North 

Coast. Founded by well-known farmer Nic Jordan, the farm produces the best 

compost in KZN, as well as the finest quality instant lawn. Living Earth compost is 

available in bulk (making it environmentally friendly and cost effective) and the 

range includes potting soil as well as lawn dressing. The instant lawn varieties 

are Buffalo and Berea Shade 


Garden tasks for March 

• Plant new shrubs and trees this month. 

They will settle in before Winter and get 

off to a quick start in Spring. 

• Take cuttings of pelargoniums, dusty 

miller, argyranthemum, hydrangeas, 

and fuchsias. 

• Fertilise your Autumn flowering 

shrubs and perennials. 

• Divide agapanthus, arum lilies, 

bergamot, day lilies, Shasta daisies, 

gaillardia and penstemon. 

• Continue to regularly water and 

mow the lawn. 

• Trim hedges, and shape and trim 

the Summer shrubs that have 

finished flowering. 

• Water and fertilise Summer vegetables, 

and harvest regularly to encourage them 

to keep on producing. 

• This is the last month to sow broccoli and 

Brussel sprouts in Summer rainfall gardens. 

Our veggie of the month ... 

Kohlrabi White Vienna 

Kohlrabi White Vienna is an heirloom veggie from 

RAW seed, a lesser-known member of the brassica 

family, which is easier and quicker to grow. It 

produces tasty ‘above ground’ bulbs, with 

the flavour of broccoli … but a little milder 

and with hints of apple. The leaves are 

also edible, like kale, but also milder. It is a 

quick crop, with the ‘bulb’ being ready for 

harvesting within 50 to 70 days when it should 

be 5 to 7cm in diameter. This grows best in full sun, 

in well-composted fertile soil, and you’ll need 

to water regularly, as drought-stressed plants 

will not produce tender bulbs. To eat, peel the 

bulbs and then roast, boil and mash, or cut 

into slivers for adding to stir-fries. It is 

delicious in a potjie and can be added 

to soup. Peel, shred and eat raw 

(it’s mildly spicy like a radish) with a 

vinaigrette dressing, mix with carrot to 

make a slaw, or add to salads. 

Details: rawliving.co.za 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO and ALICE Coetzee. 

Most gardens have shady spots, but some gardens have so much 

that gardening becomes a real challenge. Shade plants are not 

necessarily tropical, although many of them thrive in shade. 

Some delicate leafy plants will scorch and burn in hot sun, some 

plants like shady conditions but not damp soil, while others grow 

happily in damp, boggy ground that receives minimum sunlight. 

In Gardening in the Shade in South Africa, Allan Haschick 

examines the different types of shade and the effect it has on 

plant growth. So there are solutions to common problems like 

feeding, watering and mulching shade plants, as well as how to 

deal with exacerbating factors such as wind, frost and soil type. 

Popular shade plants – think clivias, bromeliads, fuchsias and ferns 

– are given special features, and there’s a directory of species that 

lists plants under headings like ground covers, tropical-looking 

perennials, and succulents. R200. 


Grow 

Sparkling stars and new trees and unusual 

veggies … how does your garden grow? 

We’re planting … Euphorbia Glitz, because it produces masses of tiny white 

flowers that sparkle like stars, and we could all do with a few sparkling stars right 

now. It is tough enough for hanging baskets, combined here with deep purple 

petunias. On its own, it fills a large container or stands out in the garden. Plants 

are easy to grow, disease-free and don’t need pinching. They are heat and drought 

tolerant, thriving in full sun or partial shade. Plant in garden soil or potting soil that 

drains well. Plants grow 35cm high with a spread of 45cm. It also ‘plays well’ with 

succulents and other drought-hardy, water-wise plants. Details: ballstraathof.co.za 


Kids car safety tips 

There is something wonderfully exciting about a road trip … especially for the smaller 

members of the family. But, while you’re planning the ‘padkos’, scouting the best spots 

to stop for a loo break and charging all the devices, don’t forget these important tips for 

keeping your kids safe while travelling... 

As families, we often spent a lot of 

time hopping in and out of our cars. 

Whether it’s the daily school run, 

popping out for groceries or weekend 

trips down to the beach, it’s always 

good to remind both yourself and 

your kids about the importance of 

keeping safe in the car, especially 

when you’re about to embark on a 

long road trip. Here are some great 

reminders and tips from motus.cars: 

Buckle up basics 

Everyone needs to buckle up for 

every trip, no matter how short. That 

means mom and dad too. You can 

set a good example for children by 

always wearing your own seatbelt and 

only start driving when all seat belts 

are done up. 

Follow the law 

Car safety for children starts with 

correctly fitting child restraints and a 

car seat is fundamental for keeping 


your baby or toddler safe on car journeys. In SA the law states that it 

is illegal for an infant (a child under 3 years) to travel without being 

strapped into a suitable car seat – and crash tests show that children 

under 1.5m are much safer in car seats or boosters. Children strapped in 

with seatbelts before they are tall enough to achieve a good fit for the 

seatbelt, were found to be three times more likely to be injured in a crash 

than adults. Ensure you get the correct car seat for your child’s age and 

weight and install it correctly (see tips below). 

Never leave children alone in a car 

Even if you’re only stepping out of the car for a few minutes, you should 

never leave a child unattended in a car. A variety of dangers can occur, 

including a child fiddling with controls causing the car to move. On a 

hot day, the temperature inside a car can also get to dangerously high 

levels and cause serious harm or even death. Children are particularly 

susceptible to overheating and dehydration, and inside a hot car, a 

toddler’s body temperature can rise three to five times as quickly as that 

of an adult, which can lead directly to heatstroke and death. 

Be prepared in the event of a hijacking 

Hijackings unfortunately remain a reality and anyone who drives a car 

needs to be aware and cautions. Being a victim of hijacking while you 

are alone in your vehicle is traumatic enough – but having your children 

with you is even more so. Never leave your children in the car alone, 

especially if you must get out to open a gate. It is advised that they 

exit the vehicle with you, so that you are all separated from the vehicle 

should an attack occur. Also, when travelling with your children, The 

National Hijack Prevention Academy recommends that the youngest 

child should be seated behind the driver and the oldest to the left. If you 

are hijacked and need to get out of the car, you can move quickly from 

the driver’s door to the door directly behind it. You can reach across the 

youngest child to unstrap the older child. The eldest child can cling to 

you as you remove them both together. Take the key with you. You need 

the key as a ‘negotiating tool’ – the perpetrators want your vehicle, and 

you want your children. If you have a central locking system, remember 

to open all doors before getting out of the car and handing the keys 

over to the hijacker. This will allow you to open your rear passenger doors 

and get your children out while the hijacker is getting into the driving 

seat. Remain as calm as possible and follow the hijacker’s instructions 

interacting with them only to make clear what movements you are 

about to make. 

Don’t be tempted to text 

We all know the temptation to check our cell phones when we hear a 

notification – but reading and responding to messages while driving is a 

huge no-no. Put your phone on silent while driving. The risk that you put 

yourself, your passengers and other road users in by being distracted by 

your phone is not worth it. 

Activate child safety locks 

To prevent children from opening the doors while the car is moving, 

activate the child safety locks on your car doors. These locks are usually 

found on the inside of the car doors. You should also lock the power 

windows to prevent your children from getting injured. Children can 

unintentionally trigger a power window, trapping hands, fingers, arms 

or even their head. At the push of a button, the driver can make the car 

much safer for children by having complete control over power windows. 

Tips for using child car seats: 

1. Always use a car seat, even on short 

trips. It’s obvious, and it’s the law, but we 

still sometimes see children travelling 

without a car seat. Accidents can happen, 

even on the shortest trips. Many children 

are taken on trips of less than 3km without 

being strapped in, therefore, if unrestrained, 

an impact can prove fatal from speeds of 

20km/h. In the event of an accident when a 

child is not restrained by a safety device, the 

risk of being ejected from the car is 6 or 7 

times greater. 

2. Avoid second-hand car seats. You can 

never be sure a second-hand car seat is 

a safe car seat. You don’t know if it’s been 

damaged in an accident, or has pieces 

missing or has been misused in any way. 

3. Use the correct size car seat. It’s best to 

buy a car seat for your child based on their 

current height and weight. Investigate and 

consider all your options when purchasing 

a seat that claims to cover multiple age 

groups. 

4. Install car seats correctly. Car seats for 

babies under 1 year or 80 cm in height must 

always be rear facing; If your car has ISOFIX 

Points, you can select any car seat with 

either an ISOFIX connection or opt for a seat 

that uses your car’s seat belt. ISOFIX Systems 

provides increased safety by eliminating 

human error when the seat is installed in 

the car; If you don’t have ISOFIX you can 

use a seat belt installed car seat.; Pull the car 

seat’s safety harness tight. If you can just slip 

one finger between the harness and your 

child’s chest, it’s tight enough. 

5. Take your child’s coat off. A thick coat can 

make the harness less effective. If your child 

is cold, use their coat as a blanket over the 

harness. 

6. Make sure the safety harness is at the 

right height and not twisted. The harness 

should always be adjusted to the correct 

height setting which is at shoulder height. 

Check there are no twists in the straps. 

7. Beware of activated frontal airbags. 

The safest place for a rear-facing car seat 

is on the back seat. This avoids the danger 

of front airbags inflating against the seat. 

Deactivate the front airbag if you use your 

car seat on the front passenger seat and 

place this seat in the further most position. 

8. Keep loose items off the rear parcel 

shelf. In an accident, even small loose items 

can turn into dangerous projectiles. Tuck 

them away safely. Information supplied by 

Child Passenger Safety 


Promotion 

Glam Up 

your wheels 

Taking your car for a wash, a new coat of paint or a repair is not what it used to be. With 

high tech car systems, new technnology, funky coffee shops and free wifi, it’s more of 

an experience (for both you and your vehicle) than ever before. 

MachineWorx 

A fun, urbane, and theatrical facility that treats both you 

and your wheels to a refreshingly different experience 

in vehicle cleaning. A trusted facility that sorts out all the 

usual hassle involved in keeping your most overlooked 

family member in the best possible showroom condition 

by personally advising and coordinating on various 

essential cleaning services including chassis cleaning, 

engine steam cleaning, valets, and polishes. A destination 

that yields the surreptitious petrolhead in you to relax, 

recharge and connect to the free and fast Wi-Fi in a 

uniquely automotive-themed beverage café while the 

necessary is taken care of. Visit MachineWorx. Open 7am 

daily, seven days a week. Details: www.machineworx.co.za 


Photography: Haze Creatives 

Ross Champion Motors 

Ross Champion Motors are the go-to auto body repair 

specialists when the unforeseen happens. Having been 

around since 1939, they have built up their reputation as 

accident repair specialists and are well known for their 

top quality workmanship, exceptional service levels and 

competitive pricing. Accredited with all major insurance 

companies and the majority of vehicle manufacturers, 

Ross Champion unites the best of the latest technology 

with the mastery of highly skilled journeymen in restoring 

vehicles to the specifications of the manufacturer. Details: 

Mount Edgecombe, Durban, Pinetown, New Germany, Port 

Shepstone, Margate (opening in Prospecton in April 2021), 

031 512 5007, www.rosschampiongroup.co.za 

Salt Rock Car Wash 

Nestled just behind the Caltex Garage 

in Salt Rock, the friendly Salt Rock Car 

Wash staff await your filthy arrival! 

Enjoy a fresh cup of coffee and a bite 

to eat at any of the surrounding small 

business owners’ stores, take a short 

walk down to the beautiful rock pools 

next to the Salt Rock Hotel, or simply 

enjoy the beautiful weather KZN has 

to offer while sitting in their newlyrenovated, 

shaded seating area while 

they tend to your car! Details: 

071 679 1080, FB: @saltrockcarwash

Buying a used car? 

Heed this advice … 

One of the few industries that seems to have fared well in the midst of the global 

pandemic is the pre-owned vehicle market. Here are some things to keep in mind if 

you are looking to buy a second-hand car any time soon. 

Covid-19 has led to an increase in 

sales of pre-owned vehicles around 

the world. Whether it’s because 

people are downscaling and getting 

themselves more affordable wheels 

or are avoiding public transport, 

there is no doubt that people are 

buying in this space. WeBuyCars 

CEO Faan van der Walt offers some 

advice for anyone looking for a preowned 

vehicle. “While buying your 

next vehicle second-hand makes 

economic sense, buyers need to 

make smart choices. To choose the 

right vehicle and get the car of your 

dreams, it is important to keep certain 

factors in mind.” 

Needs and wants 

It is critical to know what you want 

and need in a vehicle before taking 

the next step. There are a few things 

to keep in mind. Space - if it’s just two 

of you, a small two-door car makes 

size and space sense, but if you’re 

ferrying school kids with book bags 

and sports equipment, a larger vehicle 

with more boot space is going to be 

the better option; Kilometres on the 

odometer - if you won’t be driving 

the vehicle often or far, buying a high 

kilometre vehicle is not necessarily a 

bad idea, but if you’re going to clock 

up hundreds of kilometres, rather look 

for a vehicle with lower mileage. 

Do your homework – don’t 

assume 

People are full of promises but if 

it’s not on paper, it doesn’t mean 

anything. Never assume a vehicle has 

features such as Bluetooth or good 

safety ratings - rather get your facts 

straight beforehand and ensure that 

all options or extras are there. Be sure 

that there is a car servicing centre of 

your specific vehicle in your area to prevent you having to drive far for services. 

Also, do the maths. Don’t set yourself up for unexpected expenditure. Make 

sure you understand the full picture when it comes to costs over and above 

the purchase price. Research things like insurance, the cost and availability of 

warranties and the specific vehicle’s parts. It is also important to consider the 

vehicle’s fuel usage and costs. Remember some vehicles are not safe to drive at 

all and can cost your life. Research the vehicle’s Euro NCAP safety rating to help 

you decide whether it’s safety is up to standard. 

Stay clear of pushy sales people 

Avoid being pushed into buying a vehicle by a persuasive salesman. Rather lose a 

potential great deal than being forced into a deal that you will ultimately regret. 

Have the vehicle checked out 

Don’t rely on the advice of the salesman. Get an independent assessment on 

the vehicle: this can either be a Dekra roadworthy assessment or it can be 

undertaken by someone you trust and who is knowledgeable about vehicles, 

such as your trusted mechanic. 

Read the T’s & C’s carefully 

Take your time reading the terms and conditions and ensure you understand 

everything before signing anything. 

Take a proper test drive 

Going for a test drive can help you determine the condition of the car and 

whether it’s a good fit for you, but going around the block is not enough. When 

test driving, rather drive a little farther and get a good feel for the vehicle on 

suburban roads and on the highway. If you are looking to buy a family car, take 

the family along for the test drive and make sure there is enough space for kids, 

dogs and all the paraphernalia that comes with travelling with a family. 


Promotion 

Road trippin’ 

Maybe it’s just us, but just the thought of being ‘locked down’ tends to make us want 

to get going! Whether you’re looking for a (safe) getaway right now, or are planning 

ahead for a road trip in a few months’ time, here are a couple of our favourite not-toofar-from-home 

road trip destinations … 

The Cavern Drakensberg 

Resort & Spa 

The Cavern is set in a secluded valley of the 

Northern Drakensberg. It is a site of conservation 

significance and there are guided morning hikes 

and horse rides on offer daily. A swimming pool, 

MTB trails and dams for fishing extend the offerings 

for outdoor adventure while the Forest Retreat 

Spa is a tranquil escape for complete relaxation. 

Standard or superior rooms are set in indigenous, 

landscaped gardens where you can relax in the 

exquisite mountain wilderness. Details: www.cavern. 

co.z,a 036 438 6270 FB: @cavern.drakensberg 

Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk 

Just an hour from Ballito (so perfect for a 

day trip), the Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk 

offers a magical experience. The 125m 

boardwalk is 10m high and ends in a 20m 

observation platform with spectacular views 

overlooking the 250-hectare indigenous 

forest. There are two marked hiking trails to 

enjoy the abundant bird life and fascinating 

fungi. Pack a picnic or grab a snack from the 

kiosk and enjoy secluded picnic/braai spots 

near safe and secure parking. Details: Nola 

Ladwig: 035 474 4029, www.visitzululand.co.za 

FB: @dlinzaboardwalk

GET IT DIRECTORY 

A concierge for your home; giving you peace of mind that 

your home is taken care of while you are away on business, 

holiday, or in the event of an emergency. 

My home concierge services includes, but are not limited to: 

Check-in and air-out the 

property weekly. 

Be present to accept 

deliveries/removals. 

Stock your home with food, 

beverages, and flowers, on 

request. 

Take care of children in 

emergencies. 

Take your vehicle in for 

services on your behalf. 

Coordinate and supervise cleaning and/or 

maintenance staff (pool, garden or security 

services). 

Notify you of possible repairs, as well as 

get quotes from reputable companies to do 

such repairs/maintenance work. 

Coordinate and oversee maintenance or 

emergency repairs. 

In the case of a rental property; check 

guests in and out. As well as do inventory 

checks of your belongings. 

Long term stays (house-sitting) at property 

I look forward to working with you. 

Eunice | 082 829 4060 | eunice5xe@gmail.com

GET IT DIRECTORY 

GENERAL PRACTITIONERS 

• Dr. Leon Ehlers & Partners 

• Dr. Natasha Colia 

• Dr. Rochelle Rautenbach 

031 566 7000 

We are so excited to announce the launch of the 

Get It Kids pull-out supplement in our April edition! 

CONTACT BEV 071 276 0926 | bevd@dbn.caxton.co.za 

NATALIE BERTRAM 082 434 3442 | natalie@getitnc.co.za 

Home based care now offered to 

residents of Somerset Valley Estate 

• Assisted Living for adults of all ages 

• Care of the Aged and the Infirm 

• Frail Care 

• Alzheimer and Dementia Care 

• Palliative Care 

• Step down/post Hospitalisation Care 

• 24-hour Nursing 

• COVID-19 Screening in place 

Call us for 

tariffs and information 

031 940 1601

Island style 

Magical, marvellous Maldives. 

So much more than palm trees and cocktails. 

And you could win our trip and experience it yourself. 

Compiled by: KYM ARGO 

Hands up if you’ve been dreaming about 

escaping to an island. A lounger under a palm 

tree. A fancy cocktail. A dip in the ocean when 

the sun gets too hot. 

Sounds blissful, right? But what if you want to 

do more than laze in the sun. Then you go to 

the Maldives, where there’s so much to do, it’s 

a wonder anyone has time to sit on the beach! 

Made up of more than 1 000 tiny islands, 

with an impressive collection of resorts to 

choose from, each with its own personality 

and surrounded by a private beach, and 

each with an amazing variety of activities, 

water sports, dining options and experiences. 

Think spectacular seaplane flights to take in 

the beauty from above, or scuba diving and 

getting up close and personal with creatures 

of the deep. 


Which resort? 

While all rather stylish, they’re also 

very chilled. Even in the five-star spots, 

enjoying a glass of champagne with 

your toes in the sand isn’t merely 

acceptable, it’s essential. 

Looking for a romantic escape for two, 

or something for the whole family? 

Resorts like Dhigali and Finolhu don’t 

cut any corners on luxury, but also 

have amazing kids’ clubs and plenty of 

activities that are perfect for bonding 

and quality time. 

You can opt for the tranquil route 

at one of the world-renowned 

Cinnamon resorts, or go wild … 

the Hard Rock Hotel Maldives is all 

vibrant nightlife, shopping, and live 

entertainment, and where you’ll find 

the fantastic marine discovery centre. 

If there’s an activity you have your 

heart set on, do a little investigation 

before you book … there’s snorkelling 

with whale sharks at Radisson Blu, 

sleeping in a Stargazer Bubble room 

under the night sky at Finolhu, and 

an underwater fine dining restaurant 

and nightclub at Niyama, where 

there’s also a brilliant spa. 

Overwater, garden, beach? 

We’ve all seen photos of idyllic villas 

on stilts, hovering over the sparkling 

ocean, and this is where they became 

famous. Every Maldives resort has a 

great selection of water villas, and 

there’s nothing quite like it. 

You can also opt to stay a few steps 

from the shoreline, or surrounded 

by lush gardens where kids can 

run around and play to their 

hearts’ content. 

If you’re travelling with a larger group 

of friends or family, you should opt for 

a celebrity-style suite villa with two or 

three bedrooms, sweeping sun decks, 

and swanky living areas! 

You’ll feel the freedom of fresh air 

and open spaces wherever you stay, 

but some take it to another level. 

At Radisson Blu, for example, the 

smallest room is 220 square metres. 

It’s all very romantic … many villas 

have spa baths or private plunge 

pools, some have outdoor showers, 

others are built for maximum privacy. 

(Top tip: if privacy is high up on 

your wish list, book a villa at the end 

of a jetty.) 

So much to do, so little time 

Snorkelling is a firm favourite, and 

these waters are home to some of the 

world’s most diverse sealife. 

Jet skis, kayaks with glass floors so 

you can watch the world swim by, 

parasailing, kitesurfing, wakeboarding 

… each resort has its own great 

selection of water sports. (Top tip: 

Most all-inclusive deals available 

through Priority Escapes include 

non-motorised water sports, so you 

can dive right in any time.) 

Scuba diving in the Maldives is 

legendary. Many resorts offer diving 

equipment and excursions, and some 

provide certified training courses. 

All sorts of excursions are available, 

along with island favourites such as 

sunset cruises and deep-sea fishing. 

If you’re comfier on solid ground, 

there are fitness centres, beach sports 

and games centres, and exceptional 

spa centres. 

Eat, drink and be merry 

Resorts tend to have a main 

restaurant where there are seemingly 

endless breakfast, lunch and dinner 

spreads. The quality is superb, and 

there’s so much variety it’s impossible 

to try everything (no, that’s not a 

challenge!). 

But be sure to try the other speciality 

bars and restaurants too. From 

gourmet, Michelin-starred creations 

to zingy street-food-style snack bars, 

from private beach dinners under 

the stars to glorious ice creams and 

colourful cocktails on the beach, the 

Maldives is a feast. 

You’ll also find impressive wine cellars, 

and select suites even have their own 

wine bar – Finolhu’s Rockstar Villa has 

a wine bar that needs to be seen to 

be believed! 

The dreaded C-word 

We’re a little tired of talking about 

Covid-19, but needs must. The 

Maldives government has taken steps 

to ensure the safety of visitors. While 

you don’t need to wear a mask on the 

beach or at the swimming pool, they 

are required in restaurants and public 

indoor areas. 

The resorts are designed for 

distancing, and privacy has always 

been paramount. Spacious layouts 

and strict sanitising protocols are in 

place – down to someone on standby 

to wipe down your sun lounger 

before and after you use it. 

All the resorts have all changed 

their seating plans and switched to 

table service wherever possible, to 

maximise your safety and comfort. 

The deets 

This celebrity destination is 

surprisingly affordable and easy to 

reach. Priority Escapes has secured 

unbelievable rates (from as little 

as R22 000 for a week) and direct 

flights that will get you there in less 

than nine hours from O.R. Tambo 

International. Some resorts are even 

welcoming kids free of charge! 

Whichever Maldives adventure you 

choose, we have no doubt it will be 

the experience of a lifetime. Details 

and bookings: priorityescapes.com 

Woo hoo … We’ve a week of island living up for grabs 

Fancy winning a week for you and a friend or partner in the Maldives? Ridiculous question. We’ve made new best friends 

forever with Priority Escapes, and together this is what we’re giving away. A seven-night holiday for two adults – four nights 

at the Cinnamon Dhonveli, and three nights at the Cinnamon Ellaidhoo, both four-star resorts. Breakfast, lunch and dinner 

daily are included, as are a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks. The prizes include return economy flights and 

airport taxes. There are specific travel dates for 2021 … for those, and a full list of what the prize includes and excludes, visit 

getitnational.co.za where you’ll find the entry form as well. You can also enter on Facebook (GetItMagNC) or Instagram 

(getitmagnc) pages. Entries close 30 March … go, go, go! 


Spoil 

March 

Permanent laser hair 

removal. And it’s pain-free! 

Shaving your legs and underarms every day or so. Growing 

your bikini line so you can have a (painful) wax. Dealing with 

embarrassing facial hair. We have better things to do with our 

time than worry about unwanted hair. 

And ouch. The pain! Hair removal – temporary or permanent – 

has us wincing at the often unpleasant, sore, time-consuming, 

and hair-raising experiences. Then we heard about the 

Laser Beautique’s BeauLase Remove. The Rolls Royce of laser 

technology, it offers permanent hair removal – painlessly. 

Without anaesthesia or numbing gel. Sign us up. 

The aestheticians use a new technique called IN-Motion, which, 

in layman’s terms, is technology that gradually increases the 

power, a rise that is so gentle it almost feels like a hot stone 

massage. Compare this to the constant elastic-band-snap feeling 

of the run-of-the-mill treatments, and you’ll understand why 

we’re raving. Because it’s more bearable, it means you can also 

treat each area more aggressively, meaning fewer treatments and 

fewer clinic visits … saving time and money. 

It’s suitable for men and women, and for all skin types, including 

Asian, black and tanned skin. Oh … and for those of you with 

blonde, grey, ginger or white hair, ask about the Apilus treatment. 

It’s the bomb! Details: thelaserbeautique.co.za or 0861-850-851. 

We’ve got R1000 vouchers to give away to 10 Get It readers. 

PLUS, everyone who enters will win a 50 per cent discount 

voucher off a hair removal treatment of their choice at their 

local Laser Beautique. Enter on our Facebook page GetItMagNC 

before March 25.

Mar 21 - Ballito Umhl

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