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The Lazy

Chef shares

flavours

& stories

Sow shades

of colour

Bloem’s

perfect

staycation

spots

WIN

a bottle of

Roberto

Cavalli

Celebrate local living

OCTOBER 2025



GET IT

Mahareng Media & Advertising

Central Media Park

7 Christo Groenewald Street

Wild Olive Estate

051 5050 900

Instagram: @getit_bloem

Facebook: @getitbloem

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

Chief Executive Officer

Nick Efstathiou: 051 5050 900

nick@centralmediagroup.co.za

Editorial

Sazly Moses: 072 536 3228

sazly@mahareng.co.za

Clement Matroos

Warren Hawkins

Gypseenia Lion

Business Team Leader &

Production Manager

Nita Lloyd

Layout Artists

Brigida Mohlathe

Elmarie Venter

Les-Leigh Douberend

Musa Khumalo

Sales

Nettie de Beer (Sales Manager)

Chrezelda de Jager

Dale Neethling

Judy Barnard

Lucielle Kreling

Marelize Dunlop

GET IT NATIONAL

National Group Editor and Sales

Kym Argo

kyma@caxton.co.za

Facebook and Instagram:

Get It National Magazines

Distribution

Get It Bloemfontein is distributed free

of charge. For a full list of where it is

available visit getitmagazine.co.za/

bloemfontein

Published by CTP Limited

contents

WHY DON’T YOU

2 Take advantage of a variety of events. There is so much to do in

and around Bloemfontein this month!

WISH LIST

6 Celebrate Garden Day... and all things blooming

PEOPLE

8 Savouring South Africa: The Lazy Chef’s flavours and stories

10 Chasing the shot beyond limitations: A local’s journey through

the lens

BEAUTY

16 Collagen o’clock: Collagen banking – saving youth for later use

FASHION

18 Must-have travel essentials

FOOD

20 Experience the world through coffee

DECOR

24 Travel-themed study

SPOIL

40 WIN a bottle of Roberto Cavalli

12

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 Mahareng Media & Advertising

within 10 days or it will be forfeited.

Prizewinners’ names are published on our

Facebook page monthly.

Cover

Photographer: lonerpixels

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025


Out & About

There is so much to do in and around Bloemfontein this month!

Take advantage of a variety of events.

02

Join Klara du Plessis as she unveils her first

Afrikaans poetry collection, Ek’t Act, on Thursday, 2

October, at the National Afrikaans Literary Museum

and Research Centre (Naln). The launch starts at 6

pm and includes a conversation with Dr Mathilda

Smit. RSVP at vriendevannaln@gmail.com.

Compiled by: Warren Hawkins

02 03 03

Enjoy a night of fashion, art, and

comedy at Lemo Fest. Join the

fun at Lemo Green Park from 6 pm on

Thursday, 2 October, for a celebration

of creativity, culture, and heritage

under the theme “Nostalgia”. Tickets

available from Ticketpro from R350

per person.

Get ready for the Standard

Bank Business Relay, taking

place at 7 am on 4 October. Powered

by OFM, enter your four-person team

at relay4x.co.za for R680 per team

before 29 September, whether you

are walking or running.

Music lovers can experience

the Lemo Fest Afro Soul and

Jazz event at Lemo Green Park from

1 pm on Saturday, 11 October. Tickets

start at R350 per person, and are

available from Ticketpro. No under-18s

permitted.

Experience the vibrant energy

of the Westdene Street

Market at Victoria Park, from 4 pm

on Friday, 3 October. With an entry

fee of R10 per adult, the market offers

live entertainment and craft liquor,

clothing, and arts and crafts stalls.

04 09 10

Join the Winemakers Dinner

with Nitida at De Oude Kraal

from 6:30 pm on Thursday, 9 October.

(will get more details by tomorrow.)

11 23-25

25

Join the

IntervarsityBrew

from 7 am on Thursday, 23 October,

until 25 October. Hosted by the CUT

Centre for Applied Food Security and

Biotechnology, the event recognises

the future of brewing science and

innovation.

The Bloem Night Market 2.0

will be taking place at Urth on

Friday, 3 October, from 5 pm. Enjoy

good food, live music, and a great

atmosphere. The entry fee is R30 for

adults, and R10 for pensioners and

children.

Enjoy comedian Craig Jackson

on the Aasvoël Klub stage for

Defending the Caveman from 8 pm

on Friday, 10 October. Book your

tickets at 084 559 8991 from R150 per

person.

Be part of the Bloem-Familie-

Trekkerfees taking place

from 8 am on Saturday, 25 October.

Hosted at the Ferreira Museum, the

day includes stalls, tractor parades, a

children’s braai, demonstrations, and

live music. Call Rudie at 082 815 1727

for more information.

2 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


24

25

With free entry, moms and dads, grandparents, and

guardians can enjoy the Pretty Gardens Baby and

Toddler Fair from 9 am on Saturday, 25 October. The event

features stalls, educational talks, and great food.

29

Hunters and outdoorsmen can

look forward to Ommivuur

with Julian Theron on

Wednesday, 29 October, from 5:30 pm.

Join the conversations at Be Human

Middelwater Farm, and come wearing

your favourite hunting cap. Tickets

available from Be Human at R150 per

person, including dinner.

Catch Chris Steyn live at Be Human

at 6 pm on 24 October. Tickets are

R150 per person, with food stalls and a

bar available. Get your tickets now via

Computicket for an evening of great

music and farm-style vibes.

Samba accepted

Tuesday Breakfast

Buffet R80

Scrambled Eggs

Bacon

Cheese Grillers

Potato Wedges

Grilled Tomato

Pancakes

Flapjacks

Fruit Salad

Yogurt

Rolls

Muffins

Regular tea or

coffee

Wed/Thurs/Fri

Breakfast Buffet R80

Fruit Salad/Yogurt

Pancakes/Waffles

Scrambled Eggs

Spinach/Potato Wedges

Pap & Relish

Bacon/Wors

Rolls or Muffins/Butter/Jam

Saturday Breakfast

Buffet R100

Fruit Salad/Yogurt Savoury Mince

Pancakes/Waffles Rolls/Butter/Jam

Pap & Relish

Muffins

Mielie Tert

Scrambled Eggs

Spinach/Potato Wedges

Bacon/Wors/Pork Sausage

Sunday Brunch Buffet

R150 08:00-13:00

Pork Sausage

Scrambled Eggs

Wors

Vegetables

Creamed Spinach

Mixed Veggies

Potato Wedges

Pap & Relish

Rice

Cocktail Buns

Fruit Salad

Pudding

Mielie Tert

Muffins

Pancakes/

Waffles

Yogurt

Bacon

Beef or Mince

Chicken

Fish


Book club

New on the shelves... books to enjoy with a glass of wine on the side!

Dinner plans were cancelled (and it was promising to be a great dinner). Steve

Cavanagh’s Two Kinds of Stranger is an edge-of-your-seat read, and there was

no chance of putting it down for a dinner date. The story of a woman who has

it all... dreamy husband, perfect apartment, the ultimate job. She’s an internet

celeb, known for her random acts of kindness. #RAK. But then she’s betrayed, live

on social media, millions of people are watching. She’s already lost everything...

then an apparently chance encounter with a stranger and one of her #RAK

plunges her into a nightmare. Featuring Cavanagh’s Eddie Flynn, it’s a nail-biting

thriller. Headline • In Last Chance, Stephen Leather has Spider Shepherd infiltrate

a group of professional killers, known as The Office, who’re carrying out hits for

the Iranian government across the European continent. The targets are wealthy

and privileged, and after a slew of murders in London, MI5 has had enough. The

Office must be destroyed. And obvs Spider - the secret services’ most dangerous

weapon - is the man to do it. Hodder & Stoughton

Compiled by: Kym Argo

Syrah is one of the most compatible wines to enjoy with food and one of the

most generous wines to enjoy with friends. Launching this month, the 2022 La

Motte Syrah was matured in 300-litre French oak barrels for 15 months... the

violet red-hued wine has aromas of ripe mulberries, black olive and a subtle hint

of aniseed, while the palate has a fresh and juicy profile with a smooth, mellow

texture, brimming with vibrant cherry fruit. The medium-bodied wine character is

wonderful with rich, flavourful dishes, grilled foods (including grilled vegetables),

game dishes (particularly those incorporating stewed fruit and sweet aromatic

spice components), peppercorn-crusted steaks and barbecued meat in a sticky,

sweet marinade. The wine’s abundant fruit also latches on to the sweetness in

jelly, chutneys and berry sauces. Details: la-motte.com

4 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Adore Shari Lapena’s books. In She

Didn’t See It Coming, Bryden and

Sam have it all. Thriving careers. A

smart apartment in a luxury condo.

A cherished daughter. The perfect

life for the perfect couple. Until Sam

receives a call at his office. Bryden –

working from home that day – has

failed to collect their daughter from

daycare. After collecting her, he

races home, where he finds Bryden’s

car in the underground garage, her

laptop open on the table in the

apartment, her cell phone nearby, her

keys in their usual place in the hall.

Everything’s normal... except Bryden is

nowhere to be seen. It’s as if she just

walked out. But how can she have

disappeared from her own home?

And did she even leave the building

at all? Twists and thrills from start to

finish. Penguin Random House

Also ...

Let The Bad Times Roll by

Alice Slater. When her brother

goes missing, his worried sister

Caroline hosts a dinner, hoping

to gain some insight from

those who knew him best.

There’s just one stranger at the

table, a psychic who claims

to have met the missing man

some time before. Before the

dinner’s over, doubt blooms,

tempers fray and secrets spill.

Hodder & Stoughton • Never

Flinch by Stephen King.

The police receive a letter

from someone threatening

to ‘kill 13 innocents and 1

guilty’. A women’s rights

activist’s events are being

disrupted. Two unrelated

events converge in a chilling

and spectacular conclusion.

Hodder & Stoughton

For these and more brilliant reads,

visit exclusivebooks.co.za

Starting at the end, and ending at the

beginning, Kill Your Darlings is the

story of Wendy and Thom Graves. He’s

become a bit of a disappointment

to her – what with his drinking,

flirting, and knowing too many of the

couple’s deadly secrets. So Wendy

thinks it best she get rid of him. That

way she’ll also bury the secrets that

bind them. Peter Swanson’s mystery

will have you speed reading... anxious

to find out what the secrets are that

make Wendy so desperate to kill

Thom off. Faber

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

The Woman in Ward 9 is Laura. One who has no idea why she’s lost her

memory, or why she was found covered in someone else’s blood. And Emma

is a psychologist – the only person Laura will talk to. Emma has six days to

help unlock Laura’s memories – and to find out what she’s hiding! Headline •

Nightmare stuff. A bus driver and ten pupils – ranging from first to sixth grade

– are hijacked and kidnapped, then put into a shipping container buried

underground. Not a great day for driver, Jessa, who’s trying to stay under the

radar since she lied on her job application about her past, or for 12-year-old Sage,

exhausted after looking out for her younger sister all afternoon. The kidnappers

promise everyone will be let out once a ransom has been paid. But it’s dark. It’s

cramped. And it’s getting more and more difficult to breathe. Such Quiet Girls

by Noelle W Ihli... a massively suspenseful read. Pan Books

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 5


Wish list

Celebrate Garden Day... and all

things blooming!

Floral tablecloth, R379, and porcelain

cup, R149, from H&M at superbalist.com

Compiled by: Kym Argo

At our garden party we’ll be enjoying

the De Krans Premium Moscato Perlé

range. With delicious fruit flavours of

muscat, litchi, apricots and hints of

honey and exotic spice, as well the

slight fizz and balanced acidity, the De

Krans Premium White Moscato Perlé

is the perfect light white. The De Krans

Premium Red Moscato Perlé has 15

per cent Pinotage added to give it the

red shade, and changes the fruit profile

considerably to flavours of berries,

litchi, soft prunes and muscat, with

strawberries, blackcurrants and exotic

spice on the palate. And the De Krans

Premium Rosé Moscato Perlé dazzles

with a beautiful, pink blush colour – a

result of a touch of Pinotage added

to the Muscadel and Hanepoot. This

natural sweet wine is packed with fresh

tropical fruit, strawberry and candy floss

flavours, with exotic spice and muscat

aromas and a balanced, fresh acidity.

With the fresh new labels launched last

year, this trio is a delightful choice for

your garden party, date night, brunch

with the girls. So well-priced – R89 from

dekrans.co.za – and you’ll also find

them at your local wine stockist. And if

you fancy winning a case, pop over to

@getitnationalmagazines on Facebook

or Instagram, find the post and follow

the prompts.

6 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


This sheer floral applique dress stunner comes

with a nude slip dress ... it’s the perfect dress

for a Summer wedding, a sundowner

cocktail event, a garden party. Glorious!

R1449.50 from meandb.shop

October 12 is Garden Day ... the annual movement

for green fingered folk to take a break from the

planting, watering and weeding and instead

celebrate the fruits of their labour with family and

friends. Whether you have a rolling lawn, volunteer

at a community garden or have a few plant boxes

on your balcony, everyone is invited to participate

... throw a lavish lunch, have a picnic on the lawn,

hide in a green corner with a great book. For

fabulous ideas, step-by-step guides for creating

a flower crown, invite templates visit gardenday.

co.za. And share your Garden Day photos on social

media, using #GardenDaySA or send them via

WhatsApp to 074 288 1487.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 7


Savouring South Africa

The Lazy Chef’s flavours and stories

Text: SAZLY MOSES photographs: Lonerpixels

8 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Private chef and content creator Makhiba Modupe

invites us into her world of comforting childhood

meals, bold global flavours, and the soulful

connection between food, memory, and travel.

Makhiba, better known by her fast-growing online

following as The Lazy Chef, has always had a deep, undeniable

love for food. Born and raised in Botshabelo, the now 31-yearold

recalls being completely obsessed with flavours from a

young age.

“I figured if I love and enjoy food so much, I should probably

learn to cook so I can make all those yummy meals for myself,”

she says.

That early passion eventually turned into something much

bigger: a personal brand, a growing community, and a

platform that celebrates both the simplicity and richness of

cooking. The Lazy Chef started as a fun name for a content

page where Makhiba showed “lazy”

people how to cook delicious meals

in a fraction of the usual time. But

once the page grew, the nickname

stuck. “Everyone started calling me

The Lazy Chef, and now here we are.”

Although her culinary training began

at Cellars-Hohenort Hotel in Cape

Town, and her career has taken her

to a range of local establishments,

Makhiba’s cooking style is proudly

South African at its core. “I’m pretty

obsessed with food and simple

flavours that I grew up on as a child,”

she shares. Dishes like pap and milk

or samp and tripe aren’t just meals,

but they’re memories, rooted in

nostalgia and love.

When asked what

dish best represents

her life, she answers

without missing a

beat: “Potjiekos. It’s

a mixture of a lot of

things happening at

the same time.

But like any good traveller, her tastes have evolved with

experience. From Cape Town to international influences, she’s

found herself drawn to the bold, fresh notes of Moroccan and

Mediterranean cuisine. “Sometimes when I do dabble in other

cuisines, I gravitate a lot to those because I enjoy the fresh

and bold flavours.”

One of her most memorable food memories comes from her

time in Cape Town. “My friends and I used to enjoy restaurant

hopping,” she recalls. “We once went to Eagles Nest Wine

Farm, and it was some of the yummiest fresh seafood I’ve had

to date.” It’s the kind of sensory moment that sticks with you, a

perfect intersection of place, flavour, and feeling.

If there’s one dish that defines Makhiba’s connection with her

audience, it’s samp. “I’m obsessed with samp. As soon as it’s

cold, everyone starts asking for a samp recipe.”

It’s these hearty, traditional meals made approachable and

accessible that have made her such a relatable figure in the

local culinary space.

Her absolute favourites? “Pap and milk is my number one

comfort meal, and samp and tripe is a meal I grew up on and

love with my entire being.”

Her kitchen essentials are just as down-to-earth: onions, olive

oil, lemons, salt, and pepper.

When asked who she’d cook for if she could choose anyone in

the world, living or passed, Makhiba doesn’t hesitate.

“My father. He enjoyed the food I made so much… He once

said he doesn’t eat chicken but would eat it and ask for

seconds when I made it.” These are the moments that keep

her going even on the “lazy” days. “My love for food… and my

followers threaten me if I don’t create more.”

Her audience is everyday South Africans who miss the dishes

they grew up on, and that is at the heart of what she does. “A

lot of people don’t always know how

to make those meals, because it was

business?

always the aunts and grandmothers

cooking.

“I hope they take away confidence in

trying those meals themselves. Meals

that mostly connect them to certain

nostalgic parts of their lives.”

She’s even received DMs from

followers who say her recipes

reminded them of their late parents

or grandparents. That’s the kind of

emotional connection she hopes to

keep nurturing.

Despite her growing success,

Makhiba is refreshingly honest about

the realities of building a brand. “How

do I balance creativity and running a

“Honestly, I don’t. You take it one day at a time and just keep

showing up.”

She draws inspiration from figures like The Funny Chef, whom

she admires for being an all-rounder in the industry.

But even chefs have their quirks. One surprising fact about

The Lazy Chef? “I don’t like chocolate or cake.” And her guilty

pleasure? “Wors and apricot jam BUT together.”

Looking further ahead, her five-year vision for The Lazy Chef

brand is exciting. “I want it to be a household name, with

recipe books, TV shows, and most importantly, I want to be

advocating for South African food globally.”

With her heart in the kitchen and her feet on the move, The

Lazy Chef is cooking up something far bigger than meals;

she’s sharing stories, sparking memories, and taking South

African soul food on a journey of its own.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 9


The founder of GalaxyCreations is ready to

take on any challenge in the world of content

creation, and he does not mind travelling to get

the best shot. “Working outside of Bloemfontein

broadens my perspective. It challenges me to

do bigger and more exciting things outside my comfort

zone – which transitions into exploring trends which I can

then integrate into local content such as the ‘Hidden Gems’

series.”

The 25-year-old creative said it is all about work when he is

travelling for a project. There is barely enough time to enjoy

the scenery, but being exposed to a world outside of the

small town he grew up in, Tweespruit, is quite fulfilling.

“Travelling has taught me that the sky is the limit. There is

so much more out there in the world, and how each person

and place has its own story to tell,” he says.

Despite planning in advance before leaving for a project,

Bradley says working in different locations does come with

its own set of challenges. These include signal interruptions

and a lack of familiarity with the terrain they need to work in.

But his aspirations to be one of the best video and

photography agencies in motorsport is what keep him

going. It requires discipline and focus; even if it keeps him

awake at night, he makes sure that everything is in place. “I

never forget to pack my camera gear – I always run through

the gear four to five times before we leave for the project.”

Bradley has always been intrigued by technology. He

produced EDM music when he was only 15 years old. He

did not complete school, so he had to work his way to

success by turning his curiosity into a career.

He started with a Nikon D3200 to capture meat products

at a local butchery for marketing. “I learnt everything I

possibly could while I had the camera, using images from

Shutterstock as inspiration for angles and lighting when

capturing the products. When people could finally see the

real product, the demand increased, and I realised how

important it was to know this skill and how it could increase

my value at the company,” he reflects.

The self-taught photographer continued to build

a reputable name for himself by taking on various

opportunities, until he eventually decided to take a leap of

faith and focus on his passion on a full-time basis.

“With only enough cash flow in my bank account to pay for

one month of living costs, I had 30 days to figure out where

my next client would come from. This is the phase that

challenged me in all aspects, not having a support system

in place or a plan B. It was either I make this happen or I end

up back at another job or perhaps worse, no place to stay.”

Years went by, and he now has an established, reputable

company that specialises in documentary-style filmmaking

and high-end short-form content.

As part of his bucket list, Bradley hopes to capture the entire

season of the World Rally-Raid Championship.

His advice for other young creators who want to travel and

do what they enjoy? They need to first figure out how to

create a demand for the product they offer. “This can easily

be done by doing projects for free to build interest. Then be

disruptive with your product in the industry – be the fastest,

be the best, and base your price on the value that your

product provides the end user.”

He encourages them to think beyond their limitations to

achieve success in the ever-changing media landscape.

“Broaden your network, make content that creates ripples in

your industry, and you are bound to be successful.”

Text: GYPSEENIA LION

10 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Chasing the shot

beyond limitations

a local’s journey through the lens

Bradley Jones, an adventurous photographer and videographer based in

Bloemfontein, is known for the content he produced for local businesses

free of charge through his “Hidden Gems” series. He has, however, also made

a name for himself with the intriguing action shots he captured at the World

Rally-Raid Championship’s South African Safari Rally 2025 in North West.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 11


Your perfect

staycation spot

The City of Roses is a surprisingly perfect destination for a relaxing staycation,

a holiday spent at or near home. It offers the ideal blend of small-town charm

and city convenience. With its tranquil atmosphere, rich cultural heritage, and

warm local hospitality, Bloemfontein invites visitors to slow down and unwind.

Free State National Botanical Garden

Looking for a peaceful family outing? The Free State National Botanical Garden, just outside

Bloemfontein, offers scenic views, gentle – and less gentle – hiking trails, and plenty of space

for picnics. Set between rocky dolerite koppies, it’s perfect for garden inspiration or simply

slowing down and enjoying nature. Now’s the ideal time to visit and take in its quiet beauty.

De Oude Kraal Country Estate & Spa

Situated on a 3,000-hectare Merino farm, 35 km south of Bloemfontein, De Oude Kraal

offers the perfect countryside escape with luxury accommodation, fine dining, a spa, and

outdoor activities. Its serene setting is matched by gourmet four-course meals, and it is even

recognised internationally by American Express Fine Dining. Served daily from Monday

to Sunday, these meals form the heart of De Oude Kraal’s farm-gourmet experience. It’s a

special blend of Free State charm and world-class hospitality.

Seven Dams

Conservancy

In the north of

Bloemfontein lies the

86-hectare Seven Dams

Conservancy, a natural

haven with grasslands,

some wetlands, and rare

Karroid shrubland. Ideal

for hiking, mountain

biking, dog walking,

or picnics, it’s home

to 120 bird species,

small wildlife, and

archaeological treasures.

Easily accessible from

several suburbs, this

serene escape offers

wild beauty just minutes

from the city centre.

12 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Oliewenhuis Art

Museum

Set in lush gardens,

Oliewenhuis is

Bloemfontein’s

only art museum,

showcasing South

African art in a

grand Neo-Dutch

mansion. Explore

thought-provoking

exhibitions, stroll

scenic trails, or relax

at picnic spots

beneath century-old

trees. With free entry,

it’s a peaceful blend

of art, history, and

nature – perfect for

families, art lovers, or

anyone seeking quiet

inspiration.

Maselspoort Holiday Resort

Just 23 km from Bloemfontein,

Maselspoort is a peaceful riverside

escape along the Modder River.

Perfect for day trips or weekend

getaways, this historic Transgariep

resort offers fishing, swimming,

and family-friendly water fun.

Surrounded by nature, it’s an ideal

spot to unwind, cast a line, or

simply relax beside the water in

this unexpected Free State oasis.

Modenso Park

Modenso Park is a family-friendly escape in Bloemfontein, offering

charming miniature train rides every Sunday. Next to a public park, it

also has a café-style shop with tasty treats and a small museum of steam

engines. The club is also available for parties and school groups. Lots of

community charm in one delightful setting.

Zanchieta Wildlife Rehabilitation

Centre & Sanctuary

Zanchieta Wildlife Rescue and Lodge is a licensed

wildlife rehabilitation center and sanctuary dedicated

to caring for a wide range of species, including

monkeys, meerkats, and porcupines. It is located 22

km outside of Bloemfontein. Families can access the

picnic/braai area, a playground for kids, and a guided

feeding tour at 16:00. Beyond animal care, Zanchieta

is a largely female-run organisation, proudly

championing women’s empowerment – a core value

that drives their work. The sanctuary is open seven

days a week, including weekends and public holidays.

Franklin Nature Reserve, also

known as Naval Hill Nature Reserve

Naval Hill offers panoramic views of

Bloemfontein, wildlife sightings, and

the city’s iconic white horse landmark.

Home to the tallest Nelson Mandela

statue, it’s perfect for runners, cyclists,

and photographers. Spot giraffes on

scenic trails or enjoy peaceful moments

surrounded by nature. With free entry,

it’s where history, wildlife, and city views

beautifully converge.

Bat Hill Royale Indoor Golf Centre

For a fresh twist on a local getaway, head to Bat Hill Royale Indoor Golf Centre in

Bloemfontein. This all-weather hub is perfect for families, friends, and corporate groups,

offering state-of-the-art Trackman simulators, driving ranges, short-game areas, and sand

bunkers. Whether you’re a complete beginner or a seasoned golfer, professional coaches

make the game accessible and fun. With its stylish lounge, competitions, and family-friendly

atmosphere, Bat Hill Royale turns golf into a lifestyle experience all year round.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 13


Franshoek Ad


She said Yes!

Shop L8, Mimosa Mall, Bloemfontein - Tel. 051 444 6940

hdl@hdljewel.co.za | www.hdljewel.co.za | Whatsapp: 072 9505 314


Collagen o’clock

Collagen banking: saving youth for later use

If you have ever wished you could ‘pause’

your skin’s ageing clock, collagen banking

might be the closest thing you’ll find to

an aesthetic time machine. Think of it

as saving for your skin’s future, building

and preserving your collagen reserves

now so that your complexion remains

firm, smooth, and luminous – combating

natural decline.

‘Collagen banking’ is the latest buzz

term that focuses less on chasing a

quick fix and more on building your

skin’s long-term health and, with it,

developing forward-thinking, positive

skin behavioural traits. It’s a proactive

prevention and skin protection, and

the dividends can’t be ignored. For

those juggling everyday aggressors that

accelerate collagen loss like high UV

exposure, stress, lifestyle choices, and

environmental aggressors, the thinking

behind this concept is simple – the earlier

you start, the better the payoff.

The science behind collagen banking

Collagen is the protein made by

fibroblasts that gives skin its structure

and bounce. In our twenties, collagen

production starts slowing down by about

1 per cent per year, a rate that accelerates

in our thirties and forties. By the time we

notice fine lines, sagging, or dullness, a

significant portion of our collagen stores

are already depleted.

“Collagen banking means taking a

proactive approach, stimulating the

production of the protein before it

declines early. The more collagen you

produce and preserve now, the better

your skin will look later,” explains Dr Alek

Nikolic, renowned aesthetic medicine

specialist and founder of the Dr Alek

Nikolic practice.

“There are nearly 30 different types of

collagens in our skin, but the two types

we should be focusing on are type I and

III, as these two types spearhead tissue

regeneration and are responsible for the

skin looking tighter,” he says.

These are some of the most effective options for collagen banking

1. Microneedling

Also known as collagen induction therapy, microneedling uses ultra-fine

needles, which includes Dermapen, to create tiny micro-injuries in the

skin. This triggers your body’s wound-healing response, flooding the

area with growth factors that help produce fresh collagen and elastin.

Over time, this leads to improved texture, reduced fine lines, and a more

youthful glow.

• Best for: Early signs of ageing, uneven skin tone, and acne scars.

• Frequency: Every 4 - 6 weeks for best results.

2. LED light therapy

LED light therapy uses different wavelengths of light to stimulate

cellular repair. Red light penetrates deep into the skin to boost collagen

production and reduce inflammation, all without pain or downtime.

• Best for: Sensitive skin, post-treatment recovery, and ongoing

collagen maintenance.

• How often: Weekly sessions or as a post-treatment booster.

3. Chemical peels

Chemical peels remove the outermost layers of dead skin cells, revealing a

smoother, more even complexion beneath. This controlled exfoliation also

signals the skin to produce new collagen, especially when done regularly.

• Best for: Pigmentation, sun damage, dullness, and textural concerns.

• How often: Every 4 - 8 weeks, depending on peel strength.

4. PRP therapy

Popularly referred to as the ‘vampire facial’, this uses your own plasma,

which is rich in growth factors, to speed up regeneration. This is then

reintroduced into the skin via microneedling or injection, accelerating

collagen production and skin regeneration.

• Best for: Significant collagen boost, post-acne scarring, and early sagging.

• How often: 2 - 3 sessions a year.

5. Biostimulator fillers

Injectables like Sculptra, Profhilo, Skinvive, gradually stimulate collagen

formation over months due to the time needed for the body to stimulate

collagen production. This injectable renews the skin by improving the

appearance of wrinkles for up to 25 months after the last treatment.

• Best for: Gradual, reliable volume and firmness boost

• How often: 2-3 sessions a year for maintenance.

When to start

The best time to start collagen banking is before deep wrinkles and sagging

set in, ideally in your mid-to-late twenties or early thirties. But it’s never too

late to begin; even mature skin can benefit from treatments that encourage

collagen renewal.

Collagen banking isn’t about looking ten years younger overnight; it’s

about building a strong and healthy foundation, so your skin looks healthy,

resilient, and radiant for the next decade and beyond.

Details: www.dralek.co.za

16 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Institut Esthederm Intensive

Pro-Collagen+ Cream is ideal

for people aged 30 and over

combating loss of firmness

and definition of facial

contours. R1,535 online at

Skinmiles, Ederma, Lasermed,

SkinSmart or Cosmetology.

Restore youthful skin, hair and nail health.

One heaped teaspoon of The Laser

Beautique Skin Food Collagen Amino

Acids mixed into your coffee, smoothies,

yoghurt, or water daily stimulates

fibroblasts and boosts collagen.

R495 from thelaserbeautique.co.za

Like a daily vitamin

dose for your skin,

Sh’zen Collagen

Boosting Serum is

a silky, nourishing

serum which

supports and

enhances collagen

production to

visibly restructure,

firm and plump

up the skin.

R589 from

shzen.co.za

Nuxe Merveillance Lift

Oil Serum is infused with

an ultra-corrective Micro-

Algae Oil. Just 3 drops

and you’ll see smootherlooking,

more supple and

toned skin helping firm your

skin every day by stimulating

collagen production. R1,055

from woolworths.co.za

Revive tired-looking eyes with a

lightweight Gatineau Collagene

Expert Eye Cream. Visibly reduces

under-eye bags, puffiness and dark

circles. R1,195 from Dis-Chem.

New Leaf Marine Collagen

Tablets with a blend of Type 1

collagen peptides, enriched

with Vitamin C and hyaluronic

acid, designed to support

your body’s natural beauty

and strength R380 through

faithful-to-nature.co.za

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 17


Must-have

travel essentials

Say hello to Spring with our handpicked travel must-haves. Whether you’re

jetting off on vacation, heading out on a family trip, or simply taking that

much-needed break, these style-forward essentials will guarantee comfort

and effortless flair while you explore and unwind.

Shell Top: Your seasonal

wardrobe just got easier.

With its longer length,

round neckline,

tie-back straps,

back buttons, and

side slits, this

remastered-fit

shell top offers

both comfort and

style. Pair it with

matching pants

and sandals for

an easy, breezy

look. R139.99

from Mr

Price

Senna Mixed Media

Dress: Made in

South Africa from

breathable cotton

poplin, this Rare

Earth dress

combines a

flattering fit

with all-day

comfort.

Perfect

for sunny

days and

warm

nights.

R799.00

from Cape

Union Mart.

Panel Fitted Mini

Dress: Turn heads

around with this

tailored green mini

dress featuring panel

detailing and a sleek

collar. Perfect from

day to night.

R199.99 from

Legit.

Compiled by: CLEMENT MATROOS

Curved Hem Shirt: Boxy sleeves, a stylish

curved hem, and endless versatility. Wear it

with your wide-leg pants, denim, or layered

over a chic skirt. R359.00 from Foschini.

Mule Sandal: Slide

into the spring

season with fuss-free

sandals that keep you

comfortable without

compromising style.

R199.99 from Edgars.

18 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Wide Leg Pants: Effortless

elegance on the move.

These wide-leg pants

are designed for

comfort without losing

that sophisticated

edge. R499.00 from

Truworths.

Aldo Satchel Bag: Functional yet

fashionable, this structured satchel has enough

room for your travel essentials while adding

polish to your outfit. R1,299.00 from Bash.

Green Peyton Aviator Sunglasses: Classic

aviators with a modern twist, flattering on

every face and ready for any adventure.

R199.00 from Cotton On.

Nike Women’s Dunk Low: You can

never go wrong with a classic. The Dunk

Low blends timeless colour blocking

with plush padding and premium

materials, giving you all-day comfort and

that iconic edge. R 2,399.95 from Nike.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

Women’s Watch:

Keep track of

time in timeless

style. An elegant

everyday piece

that goes with

everything.

R299.00 from

Truworths.

SEE CLEARLY WITH

LASIK

COST-EFFECTIVE

LONG-TERM CLARITY

www.bloemeyeclinic.co.za

051 522 6757

FIND US AT OUR NEW HOME!

Emoya Estate | Building 4, Suite 5


Experience the world

through coffee

Let your taste buds embark on a global adventure from

the comfort of home.

How to make the perfect cup

The perfect cup of coffee strikes a balance of

sweetness, acidity, body, and a hint of bitterness,

all in harmony. “The perfect cup leaves you

satisfied and wanting another sip – never

disappointed,” says James.

Follow these guidelines for a consistently

excellent brew:

• Start with freshly roasted beans.

• Grind beans just before brewing.

• Use clean water, and get the coffee-to-water

ratio right.

James’s insider tips:

• Freshness is key – grind only what you need.

• Keep it simple; don’t overcomplicate the

process.

• Clean water and equipment make a bigger

difference than most realise.

“Whether it’s pour-over or espresso, consistency

and attention to detail are what make it perfect,”

James advises.

20 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Coffee is a passport to the world’s

flavours. Whether you’re a

cappuccino, latte, or espresso

enthusiast, the taste of coffee beans

varies by their country of origin,

offering a unique glimpse into distant lands and

allowing your senses to travel without leaving

home.

James Kilbourn, owner of Stereo Coffee Roasting,

began his coffee journey in 2011 with a dream

of roasting professionally. After training at the

London School of Coffee in 2012, he started

roasting in 2013 and opened his first café in 2014.

Who better to guide us through the story of

coffee?

“When I entered the coffee industry, I realised how

complex and fascinating coffee really is,” he says.

“After years of drinking it without much thought,

I began appreciating how origin, variety, roasting,

and brewing all shape flavour. Roasting felt like the

vital link between seed and final cup, and I wanted

to be part of that process.”

From the outset, James was driven to share his

passion for coffee, helping others see it as more

than just a morning boost.

What makes coffee beans from different regions

unique? According to James, quite a lot. “Like

wine, coffee’s flavour depends on its terroir – soil,

altitude, and climate,” he explains. “African coffees

are often bright, fruity, and floral; Latin American

coffees lean towards chocolate, caramel, and nutty

notes, while Asian coffees are typically earthy,

spicy, or full-bodied.”

While there’s no single “best” coffee origin, James

has a soft spot for Ethiopian beans for their

complexity and fruitiness, and he appreciates

the balance and sweetness of Central American

varieties. “The beauty of coffee is that there’s

something for every palate.”

When travelling, James seeks out local roasters

and cafés to explore origins, processes, and

roasting styles, describing it as the best way to

learn. “Visiting a producing country is still on my

bucket list,” he says. “Meeting farmers, walking the

farms, and tasting coffee at its source would be an

incredible experience.”

For a coffee-inspired travel adventure, James

recommends exploring local coffee farms. “South

Africa has farms in Mpumalanga and KwaZulu-

Natal worth visiting. Further afield, Ethiopia

offers the birthplace of coffee and a rich cultural

tradition, Brazil showcases large-scale modern

production, and East Africa – particularly Kenya

and Uganda – produces some of the world’s most

vibrant coffees.”

He encourages coffee lovers to taste different

beans side by side to appreciate their nuances. “At

Stereo, we host cuppings where people compare

origins directly, but you can do this at home too.

Brew a Brazilian and an Ethiopian using the same

method, then sip between them – the contrast is

striking and eye-opening.”

Text: Warren Hawkins Photographs: Zita Films

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 21


TOYOTA

STARLET

MODEL SHOWN: STARLET 1.5 XR AUTOMATIC

THERE’S SPACE FOR EVERY FUN

Meet the future of fun – the Toyota Starlet.

Step inside the Toyota Starlet and enjoy a spacious interior and comfort-boosting features like an infotainment

system with navigation via Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. It also includes enhanced safety features, as

well as an auto lock system and a reverse camera, to make every trip feel more secure. Add fuel efficiency to the

mix, and the fun never stops. Book your test drive today at toyota.co.za

* Illustrative AI-enhanced images. Visit the Toyota website for actual vehicle features.


LOADING ... LOADING ... LOADED!

Pathcare Depot & Laboratory

NOW OPEN at Emoyamed

24 hour Lab

Depot Hours: Mo. - Fri.: 07:00 - 18:00

Sat.: 08:00 - 13:00

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T: 051 400 2190

www.pathcare.co.za


Travel-themed study

Fill your at-home study with travel-themed décor

to feel the excitement of adventure year-round.

Whether framed and hung on a

wall or used as a desktop feature,

this antique-style world map adds

timeless flair – and inspiration for

your next destination. Available

on Amazon for R620.69.

While not technically a décor

item, this beautifully bound

journal fits perfectly in a

travel-themed study. It’s the

ideal companion for recording

your adventures. Get yours on

Amazon for R239.

Complement your world map with

a standing, spinning globe. It adds an

interactive touch of fun to any travel-themed

space. Find one at Takealot for R1,999.

Compiled by: Warren Hawkins

This rotating gear clock

brings a touch of industrial

charm that echoes the spirit

of adventure. Tell the time –

and your travel tales. Find it

at Makro for R1,527.

24 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Keep your travel plans grounded with this

airplane-shaped paperweight, complete with a

built-in magnet for paper clips and other small

essentials. Get yours from Takealot for R1,299.

This brass compass and sundial combo is both a charming

conversation piece and a tasteful addition to your desk or

bookshelf. Make it yours at NetDécor for R760.

Planning to journal your travels into the

night? This sleek desk lamp blends form and

function seamlessly. Pick one up at Mr Price

Home from R599.99.

Inspired by vintage aircraft design, this aluminium desk and chair

set is a striking statement piece – especially in a travel-themed

study. Get the set at Cielo for R43,999.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 25


Guest House

Across the street

from MediClinic

+258

Positive Google Reviews

Discount for Pensioners

or when

Staying 4 Nights or more

Sleep with

peace of mind

Safe & Secure

Parking

Aircon

TV & DSTV

Free Wi-Fi

Coffee Station

051 448 0523 / 063 184 4810

info@hydroguesthouse.co.za

www.hydroguesthouse.co.za

115 Kellner Street, Westdene, Bfn

26 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 27


Text: ALICE COETZEE

We’re planting ... roses. Because after

all, October is rose month! Here is our

pick of three new deliciously fragrant

roses in shades of lavender, soft pink

and lilac. Lavender Lane is a lush

shrub rose with sumptuous blooms

that exude a sweet, captivating

perfume. The old-fashioned charm

of Fortune Teller combines huge,

quartered blooms with a strong

fragrance and Twice in a Blue Moon

is an updated version of the classic

Blue Moon’ with a perfume that is just

as strong as the original.

Quick tips:

• Plant your rose bush in well-dug,

generously composted soil that drains

well.

• Water deeply once a week, and more

often in the heat of Summer.

• Fertilise once a month with a rose

fertiliser in Spring and Summer.

• Cut off dead flowers to encourage

new buds.

Details: ludwigsroses.co.za

Patio plant of the month

Did you know that hibiscus is one of the most popular commercially grown

plants - along with roses, azaleas, carnations and orchids? Compact pot varieties

are perfect for patios and small gardens. These tropical summer beauties come

in a range of brilliant colours - the firm favourite being the sunny golden-yellow

bloomer with a deep red throat. Their glossy green leaves add to the lush effect,

and as patio plants they like plenty of sun with some afternoon shade. Hibiscus

needs regular watering in summer and monthly fertilising as they are hungry

plants. To keep plants neat and bushy, trim after flowering. Once they have done

duty on the patio or balcony they can be planted out in a sunny position in

fertile soil that drains well. Details: lvgplant.co.za

28 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


SOW

SHADES

of

COLOUR

Brighten up your garden with

deliciously fragrant roses,

sweet and tangy tomatoes and

gorgeous hibiscus

Vegetable of the month

Don’t just think red when you think tomato. Heirloom Rainbow Mix from

RAW seeds includes purple, green, red, pink, yellow, black, orange and

white varieties of beefsteak tomatoes. All in one seed packet! The flavours

range from mild to sweet to tangy.

Sow a few seeds at a time in seed trays or directly into well dug-over and

composted soil. Space plants 60 cm apart and keep soil moist during

germination, which takes seven to 14 days. Water regularly and control

whitefly and other pests with an environmentally friendly insecticide like

Ludwig’s Insect Spray Plus. Stake and support plants, especially those

with large fruit. Let fruit ripen on the plant for maximum flavour and

use as soon as possible after picking because the fruit bruises easily.

Details: rawliving.co.za

Garden tasks for October

• Add colour with Summer bedding

plants like dahlias, gazanias, marigolds,

salvia and for sunny beds and begonias,

impatiens, and coleus for partial shade.

• Annuals that grow quickly and easily

from seed are alyssum, cosmos, lavatera,

portulaca, California poppy, and

nasturtium. They all do best in full sun.

• It is also a good time to plant Summerflowering

perennials like coreopsis,

gaillardia, rudbeckia, gaura, pelargoniums,

penstemon, Echinacea, Shasta daisies and

perennial verbena.

• Water regularly and spread a layer of

mulch over beds to conserve water and

keep the roots cool.

• Mow lawns at least once a week, but if it

is very hot and dry, mow less frequently

and set blades higher.

• The following Summer vegetables can

be sown: carrots, beetroot, green beans,

butternut, baby marrows, cucumber,

eggfruit, radishes, Swiss chard, sweet

peppers and chilli peppers, tomatoes,

pumpkin, sweet corn and sweet melons.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 29


30 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


Always the

LIFE OF THE PARTY

2023

2024

Westdene | 051 448 5606 - 160 Nelson Mandela Dr • Langenhoven Park | 051 446 0659 - The Park Centre

Vereeniging Drive | 051 522 0442 - Fleurdal Mall

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 31


Summer’s Calling!

Is your business Ready?

The Free State summer is packed with opportunities

to grow your business —from the bustling school

holidays to the festive season and the fresh start of a

new year. Don't wait until the "silly season" is here.

Now is the time to plan your digital marketing

campaigns and turn those opportunities into real

sales. Here are a few pro tips to help you get started.

www.digitalplatforms.co.za

info@digitalplatforms.co.za

051 50 50 900

Summer’ Marketing

Part of Central Media Group


2025

October is

Calling on Central South Africa

to support the drive to raise funds for

cancer awareness during October.

Visit www.ofmpinktober.co.za

for more information


CONTACT US TODAY

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076 066 9407

Formerly the Gariep Hotel, de Stijl Gariep Hotel is now the Upper Karoo’s most stylish hotel, offering 43 chic, contemporary and extremely

comfortable rooms. The hotel overlooks the Gariep Dam, giving breathtaking big sky views. Surrounded by the stark beauty of the Karoo, the Gariep

Dam stretches for as far as the eye can see; jewelled sunsets blaze across the African sky and the sound of silence lulls guests to sleep under the

Southern Cross. On the N1, halfway between Cape Town and Gauteng and only 180km from Bloemfontein access is easy from the Northern Cape,

Free State and Eastern Cape. de Stijl is ideally placed to make your journey less stressful and more rewarding. It is after all about the journey and not

just the destination. No need to worry about your stay being interrupted by loadshedding, we have 95% off grid solar system! Skip town and come

enjoy a peaceful and worry-free stay at De Stijl. Furthermore, we also have a reservoir that provides ample water for our guests.


GET IT DIRECTORY

* Image for illustration purposes only

Summer

Time to enjoy the

Moeder van die bruid-uitrustings, langbroeke, baadjies, bloese,

toppies asook Barrington jeans beskikbaar

Nuwe somersvoorraad nou beskikbaar

clean earth

SheCreates Image Consulting

S p e c i a l i z i n g i n b r a n d m a k e o v e r s

a n d m a r k e t i n g p s y c h o l o g y

www.shecreates.co.za

Contact: 081 505 6702

Bloemfontein


Step back in time

Graaff-Reinet. Fossils from millions of years ago. The Valley of Desolation.

And the Drostdy Hotel. This historical town is worth exploring.

The fourth oldest town in South Africa

deserves more than a stopover on the drive

down to the Cape.

Established by the Dutch East India Company

in 1786, Graaff-Reinet was originally

established as a trading post, expanding

trading inland from the Cape. This Eastern

Cape Province town was the starting point

for Great Trek groups, and here you’ll find

more national monuments than in any other

town in the country. So there’s history. And

it’s everywhere. And it makes for a fascinating

– and massively enjoyable – destination.

Base yourselves at the grand, gorgeous

Drostdy Hotel, which was built in the early

1800s and turned into a hotel in 1878. A

century or so later, it was bought by Anton

Rupert (who grew up in the town) in

conjunction with Historical Homes of South

Africa. After Rupert’s death 20 years ago, it

was refurbished and donated by the Rupert

family to the SA College of Tourism.

Compiled by: Kym Argo

36 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


The hotel is glorious... with firm nods to the historical Cape Dutch

influence and traditional Karoo aesthetics. It’s all plush armchairs and

sofas and acres of botanical and bird prints, walls of antelope skulls and

antique writing tables, and carefully curated ornaments. The gardens are

magnificent, landscaped to perfection, with sculptures in the grounds,

and many rooms – once old workers’ cottages – grouped around central,

private pools, with loungers to relax in and quiet little nooks to hide with a

book and a bottle of wine.

Talking wine, there’s an elegant cellar, The Vinoteque, lined with bottle after

bottle of exceptional wine... this is Rupert country, after all! A lovely option

is a private wine tasting with the resident sommelier... a tasting of four or

five wines takes about an hour; the charcuterie board served with this gives

added appeal.

Graaff-Reinet appears to have a good restaurant on

every corner, but we wouldn’t bother leaving the hotel.

Breakfasts (don’t hesitate to order the eggs Bennie with

salmon on a potato rosti), lunches (if you finish the

Wagyu beef burger, you’re a hungry bugger) and dinners

(the lamb curry and pearl barley risotto vie for top spot,

while the three-course set menu is fine, fine dining) are

served in De Camdeboo – a proper old-school restaurant

– or out on the pretty verandah if the weather plays nice.

If you’re feeling sociable and festive, there’s a cosy bar (if

it’s chilly, be sure to explore the warm cocktail options...

hot chocolate with Baileys went down a treat); if you’re

after a little quiet time, there’s a library and lounge, or

head to the hotel’s Africology spa, the inviting Wijnkamer

wine shop, and the Imibala Art Gallery, which showcases

local artists and has regularly updated exhibitions

featuring diverse collections for viewing and for sale.

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

A private

wine tasting.

A Wagyu

burger. And

an Africology

spa treatment.

Happy days.

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 37


After all that, you’re

exhausted... and the

bedrooms and suites

hold massive appeal.

Decorated in typical Karoo

style, they’re fabulously

luxurious... vast comfy

beds, enormous baths

that take forever to fill

(blissfully indulgent), some

smaller bachelor-size

rooms ideal for business

travellers, others more

generously sized with

dedicated relaxing areas...

all with every amenity you

could wish for, and then

some! And there are a few

pet-friendly rooms, for

those travelling with their

best friends.

Rooms from R2,400 per room (low season, two

people sharing) per night, which includes breakfast.

Details: drostdy.co.za, or 049 892 2161

Don’t leave town without...

A visit to the Valley of Desolation in the Camdeboo

National Park – one of the town’s main tourist attractions

– visited by more than 100,000 people annually. All

majestic dolerite cliffs and columns – believed to be a

product of volcanic forces that have taken 200 million

years to form. There are breathtaking views over the

Karoo, and it’s far more beautiful than its name suggests.

There are a few hikes – one an easy hour-or-so walk. The

road to the top is tarred, and here are a few viewpoints

and a picnic spot... Ask The Drostdy team to pack you a

picnic basket and spend a few hours there. Spectacular

sunsets! Also look out for the wildlife... gemsbok and

kudu, buffalo and Cape Mountain Zebra, and birds for

Africa.

Another must to add to your itinerary is a visit to Karoo

Origins - The Fossil Centre. In 1934, Dr Sidney Rubidge, a

merino farmer in the area, was asked by his 10-year-old

daughter, Peggy, what fossils were and where they were

found. The two went off searching and found a collection

of ‘bony-stones’, one of which revealed recognisable

features... three parallel bones, which eventually proved

to be the three front teeth of a large carnivorous reptile.

38 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


This discovery was the start of Rubidge’s fossil collection, one

that bought him worldwide recognition. Five months ago his

grandson, Bruce Rubidge, opened The Fossil Centre – just across

the road from The Drostdy – a no-expense-spared research

and exhibition centre with hundreds of fossils, discoveries from

rocks in the area that go back up to 300 million years ago. You

can see fossils that give evidence of a mass extinction that

happened 252 million years ago, with 90 per cent of the species

at that time being obliterated within a relatively short space of

time. It’s a mind-boggling experience... a journey into the world

a million years ago, one filled with incredible creatures that lived

long before the dinosaurs, including the ancestors of tortoises,

lizards, mammals and humans. There’s an animated video,

and visitors can watch a technician exposing fossils from the

surrounding rock. The centre is an NPO, which plans to provide

education outreach, and a walk-around or guided tour will

fascinate visitors of all ages. So worthwhile!

Not much of a weekend away without a little shopping... and

credit cards will burn at the boutiques in the town. Decor, leather

goods, delis, sensational mohair knits and throws – this is prime

angora goat farming area and is known for mohair and delis.

Hello You is highly recommended for lunch or a snack, and pop

into the Afrikanis Rum Tasting Room for a bottle to take home.

Details:

Karoo Origins The Fossil

Centre - fossilcentre.co.za

Valley of Desolation -

sanparks.org

getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein

October 2025 Get It Bloemfontein 39


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40 Get It Bloemfontein October 2025 getitmagazine.co.za/bloemfontein


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