Innholdsfortegnelse for 2025-04-26 i Weekend Argus Saturday

Cape Town’s summer usually means packed beaches, fully-booked short-term lets, and tourists trying to hike Lion’s Head in flip-flops. But as the festive season winds down, the big question remains: did the Mother City truly enjoy a bumper tourism season, or was it more subdued than expected? Cape Town Tourism CEO Enver Duminy reports 5.2 million arrivals at Cape Town International Airport, with international visitors up 8%. But the CBD saw a dip – proof that traveller spending habits are evolving. “Domestic travel, however, continues to form the backbone of our tourism economy, accounting for over 3.6 million arrivals, while regional travel posted the highest growth rate at 21%, albeit from a smaller base,” Duminy says. From the front lines of hosting, Nick Sadleir, a professional Airbnb host who helps…

At first glance, Dying for Sex might appear to be nothing more than provocative clickbait. Yet, this newly released Disney+ original series is a profoundly human exploration of terminal illness, sex and female friendship – so much more than its title suggests. The eight-part series features Michelle Williams in a compelling role as Molly, a woman whose terminal breast cancer diagnosis becomes a catalyst for a wild emotional and sexual rollercoaster. As Molly embarks on a journey of self-discovery, the series deftly navigates themes of intimacy, trauma, and the reclamation of one’s body in the face of cancer. Williams delivers a masterful performance, portraying Molly’s life-altering pivot with exceptional depth. The emotional weight of the series is established during a couple’s counselling session in which Molly receives the heartbreaking call…

We live in a world where perfectionism is often celebrated. From social media filters to #hustleculture, striving for flawlessness is constantly framed as a sign of ambition and success. But what happens when those high standards begin to weigh you down, leaving you feeling anxious, inadequate, and constantly falling short? Perfectionism and anxiety often go hand-in-hand, feeding off each other in a cycle that can feel impossible to escape. Signs of perfectionism: • All-or-nothing thinking: Believing that anything less than perfect is a failure. • Negative self-talk: Harshly criticising yourself for not being “good enough.” •Procrastination: Delaying tasks because you fear they won’t be perfect. • Fear of asking for help: Worrying that needing assistance makes you look incapable. • Sensitivity to feedback: Taking even constructive criticism personally. Harvard Health…

World famous Russian saxophone player Igor Butman is thrilled to be serenading festinos at the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF). Together with his quintet, which includes Nick Levinovsky (piano), Evgeny Pobozhiy (guitar), Sergey Korchagin (double bass) and Eduard Zizak (drums), Butman and his team are set for an electrifying performance at the Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC) on Saturday, April 26. The programme will feature hits from more than 10 of his albums and ahead of his performance, the globally renowned musician explained in an exclusive interview with Independent Media that performing at the gathering is a “dream come true.” “Thanks to (Dr Iqbal) Survé, we are here,” he exclaimed. Having always admired the CTIJF, this will be Butman’s first performance at the event and only his second…

Various civil society organisations have cautioned that while the government’s decision to scrap the 0.5% VAT hike is a victory, it should not come at the expense of austerity measures and budget cuts that threaten public services and social support systems. In a joint statement, the Alternative Information and Development Centre (AIDC), Amadiba Crisis Committee (ACC), Back 2 Work Campaign, Botshabelo Unemployed Movement (BUM), Cry of the Xcluded (CryX), PE Amandla, South African Green Revolutionary Council (SAGRC), and Unemployed People’s Movement (UPM) expressed their relief and disappointment in the government’s recent actions. While they welcomed this development, they emphasised that VAT is a regressive tax that disproportionately impacts the working class and low-income people. They also criticised the government’s plan to respond with spending cuts, which they argue would worsen…

An abalone poacher has been sentenced in the Khayelitsha Priority Court in Cape Town. Ernst Hendrik Theunis Muller, 67, was convicted on charges of possession of fish, possession of abalone not in a whole state, and selling, delivering, or acquiring abalone without a valid invoice. The provincial spokesperson for the Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation (known as Hawks), Warrant Officer Zinzi Hani said on November 24, 2024, members of the Hawks’ Economic Protected Resources team (EPR) and the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) followed up on information regarding two vehicles that were suspected to be transporting illegal abalone. “The team followed up on the information and identified the said vehicles which were driving into the Island Club in Century City, Milnerton. “The team stopped the vehicles…

Bidders Choice is hosting the online auction of a deceased estate in Bloekombos, Worcester. The property is situated at 21 Amersfoort Street and has an erf extent of ±1002m². The home features: Four bedrooms (main en-suite) Family bathroom Open-plan kitchen with scullery Laundry room Dining area Lounge area Entrance hall Study Entertainment area with built-in braai Jacuzzi Double garage with remote doors Two carports Viewing is on Tuesday, April 29 from 10am to 2pm. Bids open on May 7 at 8am and close on May 8, from 11am. For more information, please visit www.bidderschoice.co.za or call Casper on 082 459 8877. | Auctions Writer…

On GlobaL Recycling Day, Tiger Brands’ premium bread brand, Albany, officially launched the Albany Collect-A-Pack (CAP) programme, which will see more than 900 000 learners across 500 primary schools in South Africa learn the importance of recycling. Albany Collect-A-Pack is a school curriculum-aligned programme that blends practical and theoretical learning to inspire learners from Grade R to Grade 7 to engage in recycling. Developed by Albany, South Africa’s leading bread brand, in collaboration with an accredited South African school curriculum educationalist, Albany Collect-A-Pack is a comprehensive Life Skills/Life Orientation learning module. Albany Collect-A-Pack encourages learners and educators to collect plastic bread packaging for recycling. Top-performing schools each term will receive R100 000, which will be used to fund much-needed upgrades to their school facilities. In addition to recycling, the…

Beloved South African theatre company KickstArt Theatre, in a vibrant partnership with the Baxter Theatre, is set to mesmerise Cape Town this winter with its award-winning pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk. Running from 3 to 27 July 2025, this delightful production promises a magical theatrical experience for families, friends, and theatre enthusiasts alike. After nearly three decades of captivating audiences in Durban, KickstArt Theatre aims to establish a cherished new tradition in the Mother City. With shows scheduled on Tuesdays to Sundays throughout the school holidays, this pantomime invites families to swap screen time for story time and enjoy one of Cape Town’s most enchanting seasonal activities. This year’s production, directed and written by the acclaimed Steven Stead, boasts the creativity of a talented team known for their work on…

Co-Producers Moja Multimedia and Zoetic Management have announced the release of a powerful new documentary Legacy of Hope – From Colonialism to Liberation. The 43-minute documentary explores the interwoven histories of anti-colonial resistance, the global Cold War Struggle, and the enduring legacy of apartheid in shaping today's geopolitical tensions. The film draws a direct line between the liberation movements of the past and the new global contests of power in a multipolar world. Featuring compelling interviews with SACP leaders like General Secretary Solly Mapaila (pictured), Ronnie Kasrils, COSATU, former MK combatants, and ANC’s Khalid Sayed, the film delves into the Angolan war, the solidarity of the Soviet Union and Cuba with African liberation movements, and the ideological clash that defined a generation. Accompanying this first release is an exclusive clip…

Yes, the headlines are bleak. Yes, scientists are sounding the alarm. Yes, a growing pile of studies warn that the world is “on the brink of irreversible climate disaster,” as a recent “State of the Climate” report put it. It’s easy to feel like the planet is on fire – because, well, sometimes it literally is. But even amid the floods, droughts and devastating forecasts, it’s not all doom: Innovators are reimagining how we power our lives, nature is pulling off surprising comebacks, cities are cleaning their air, and nations are opening their wallets. This Earth Day, take a break from the doomscrolling. Here are five reasons to hope – and maybe even feel a flicker of optimism. Breakthroughs The future isn’t just solar panels and wind turbines anymore. Innovations…

Just more than a year into the Matches on the Map inter-continental stem cell recruitment drive, a donor match was found in East London for a patient requiring a bone marrow stem cell transplant. This is the first donor match that has been identified for a patient on the 64-country, 10-year voyage, which started in September 2023 when Robin Lewis, former stem cell transplant survivor and his wife, Jolandie left Mpumalanga on their epic journey. To date the campaign has garnered more than 1 000 eligible stem cell donor sign-ups to the South African Bone Marrow Registry (SABMR). Bradley Peters, a 23-year-old apprentice mechanic from East London, signed up with the Matches on the Map team at an awareness drive last year. Nearly six months to the day…

WHEN it comes to the new-generation Continental GT, Bentley is bringing out the big guns first. The local importer pulled the covers off the new Continental GT Speed in Johannesburg recently, as this will be the first version of the new model series to grace local shores. The order books are now open, with Bentley South Africa announcing a starting price of R6, 534 000 for the Coupé and R7, 083 000 for the GTC open-top variant. The ‘regular’ Continental GT models are expected to make landfall towards the end of the third quarter of 2025, the importer said. So what can buyers expect from the new flagship model? A great deal of speed, as its name implies. The new Conti GT Speed is officially the fastest road-going Bentley ever…

In today’s unpredictable and fast-paced world, achieving financial success requires more than just saving money or investing in the latest trends. A truly secure financial future is built on a holistic approach that integrates various aspects of financial planning. Where to start? With many things in life, building a strong foundation is fundamental to achieving success, and your financial journey is no different. The foundation of a holistic financial plan should incorporate your needs, goals, and objectives. Start by defining what you want to achieve and what is most important to you. These objectives will differ for everyone, as we all have unique circumstances and want to achieve different goals. Having specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART) goals will help provide direction and motivation. A holistic financial plan should…

THE dream of the second star lives on! Mamelodi Sundowns are going to play the ultimate match of African football’s premier club knockout competition – the CAF Champions League – courtesy of an away-goals aggregate victory over Al Ahly in Cairo on Friday night you would not associate with the aristocrats of South African football. The Brazilians ground out this success, the 2016 African champions progressing via the away-goals rule thanks to an own goal by Yasser Ibrahim, which saw the second leg of the semi-final end 1-1 after 90 minutes and on aggregate. They were celebrating it like they had scored it themselves, though, substitute Iqraam Rayners running wildly after his shot had deflected off the Ahly defender to beat Mohamed El Shenawy. The Cairo Stadium was reverberating to…

In a shocking display of discontent, the Portfolio Committee on Sport, Arts and Culture have turned their critical gaze towards Netball South Africa (NSA), its president Cecilia Molokwane and the South African Sports Confederation and Olympic Committee (Sascoc). The committee’s unrestrained critique highlighted a series of failures in governance, transparency, and accountability that its alleges jeopardises the future of netball in the country. The heated session, which took place earlier this week, saw members of Parliament express their mounting frustration, with some even going so far as to label themselves “enraged” at the perceived inadequacies of the governing body’s officials. As the session progressed, it became increasingly evident that the NSA officials came ill-prepared to address probing questions. Committee members were left visibly exasperated by the lack of coherent answers,…

Some years back, I happened upon The Curious Case of Natalia Grace, a documentary about a Ukrainian girl who was adopted by an American family, only to be abandoned two years later. There was nothing ordinary about this story, as there was uncertainty around Natalia’s real age. Suffering from spondyloepiphyseal dysplasia congenita, a rare form of dwarfism, she looked much younger than certain physiological changes that were observed by her adopted mom. However, Natalia’s behaviour presented as a little girl prone to tantrums. Disney+ has revisited this true-life story in an eight-part dramatised series. The narrative is drawn from allegations, court proceedings, as well as what has been publicly reported on the story. Of course, some creative liberties have been taken to ensure it’s an engaging story. The writers employed…

DA leader John Steenhuisen said President Cyril Ramaphosa’s meet-up with US President Donald Trump would be a chance to clarify that “terrible things” are not happening in South Africa. Steenhuisen stressed that this would be a moment to show that the country was not a picture that was painted to him by “some”. “There’s no mass expropriation of land. There’s no genocide taking place at all. I am very glad that the two presidents have spoken,” he said. Steenhuisen, who is also the Minister of Agriculture, spoke to IOL on Thursday on the sidelines of the official working visit to South Africa by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy at the Union Buildings in Pretoria. On Thursday, President Cyril Ramaphosa announced imminent talks with Trump to address critical US-South Africa relations. “We…

This past Easter weekend, law enforcement agencies across South Africa took a significant step towards road safety, arresting over 500 drivers for driving under the influence (DUI). As the nation approaches another two consecutive long weekends – which notably coincide with many people's payday – the urgent call for attention to the threat of drunk driving remains greater than ever. Despite the success of apprehending such a large number of unsafe drivers, the statistics starkly indicate that drunk driving continues to plague South African roads. Eugene Herbert, CEO of MasterDrive, urged policymakers and the public alike to prioritise the strategies that proved effective over the Easter weekend. “Authorities should replicate measures taken over Easter weekend to keep these reckless drivers off the road. “Additionally, as we face another two weekends…

Students at the University of the Western Cape (UWC) are taking charge of their future with the relaunch of the Ikamvalethu Fund, which aims to raise funds to assist the university’s students facing financial difficulties. The iKamvalethu Million Campaign seeks to raise R1 million by June 16 – Youth Day, 2025 – which will be used for student financial aid at registration, and emergency relief, and. Addressing students at the launch of the Ikamvalethu Million Campaign in front of the Jakes Gerwel Hall, Student Representative Council (SRC) President Mcntosh Khasembe said the launch was not a publicity stunt but a turning point. “The Ikamvalethu Fund was born out of a dream. A belief is that the children of the working class, single mothers, and those from rural schools and…

Proudly South African fuel brand, Sasol highlighted the importance of reducing the economic barriers to education as part of its Sasol Mzansi Tour 2.0 road trip, which took place earlier this month. During this seven-day adventure, the Sasol Mzansi Tour 2.0 competition winners and influencers experienced how the Sasol Friendly Neighbour Campaign is making a difference. The Sasol Mzansi Tour 2.0 took five Sasol customers and their plus-ones on an unforgettable adventure along South Africa’s coastline, celebrating the country’s beauty, culture, and heritage. They experienced top tourist attractions, local cuisine, and premium accommodations, highlighting the richness of South African travel destinations. As part of the experience, Sasol donated 1 200 school uniforms to students from underprivileged backgrounds in KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape. This forms part of Sasol’s commitment to…

The beauty and majesty of leopards (Panthera pardus) play a crucial role in the ecological balance of their habitats. However, as the world marks International Leopard Day on 3 May, conservationists urged a collective commitment to combat the threats leopards face, including habitat loss, human-wildlife conflict, and poaching. In South Africa, leopards are classified as vulnerable by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), with their population steadily decreasing. Once roaming vast areas, their habitats have been diminished to a mere 25% of their historical range. The alarming decline of these iconic apex predators signals an urgent need for concerted efforts to protect them. Four Paws South Africa and Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary have joined forces to highlight the significance of safeguarding leopards. “South Africa can and must set…

As the African Growth and Opportunity Act (Agoa) faces uncertainty over its renewal in September, South Africa’s automotive industry is bracing for turbulence, with experts on Tuesday warning of significant repercussions if the preferential trade programme is allowed to expire. The Agoa has been a cornerstone for the country’s automotive sector, providing duty-free access to the lucrative United States market. Without it, the local automobile landscape could face dire consequences. Renai Moothilal, CEO of the National Association of Automotive Component and Allied Manufacturers (Naacam), stressed the critical role that Agoa has played in not just boosting export growth, but also attracting vital investments into South Africa’s automotive sector over the past two decades. “Agoa provides South African automotive component and vehicle manufacturers with preferential, duty-free access to the US market.…

Given the prevalence of potholes, sometimes craters, that dog South Africa’s roads, perhaps Waze should stop warning drivers about them and let those behind the wheel know that the next stretch of road doesn’t require a 4x4 to navigate. The sheer extent of the problem is shown by how many potholes are being filled. The latest information, from 2022, shows that the government’s Operation Vala Zonke has filled almost 200,000 potholes: almost two-thirds of these are in Johannesburg. As Tando Ngibe, senior manager at Budget Insurance, said: “Dodging potholes has increasingly become a professional sport, but doing so can, and sometimes does, result in car accidents. Even if hitting a pothole doesn’t cause an accident, the damage incurred is significant.” Ernest North, co-founder of Naked Insurance, explained that the combination…

Over five years to the end of 2024, multi-asset retirement funds with an offshore component fared only marginally better than funds invested wholly in South Africa, showing that, although there has been a significant shift towards offshore investments in that time, the domestic market has managed to provide solid returns. The annual Alexforbes Manager Watch™ Survey of retirement fund investment managers tracks trends in the industry that are relevant to both retirement fund trustees and members, looking at investment performance, investment strategies, the B-BBEE credentials of asset managers, and environmental, social, and governance (ESG) integration, among other things. And although the survey applies only to institutional funds, which are different in many respects from retail investment funds, parallels can be drawn, and the trends tend to apply across the asset…

Continuity in selection could be what fires the Stormers to a win over Benetton in their third-last United Rugby Championship (URC) encounter at the Cape Town Stadium today. The Cape side currently occupy eighth place on the URC log, but a win over their Italian opposition could propel them into a more favourable knockout spot With that in mind, director of rugby John Dobson opted not to tweak too much with the winning combination that triumphed over Connacht a week ago. Only Leolin Zas steps into the starting line-up, replacing Suleiman Hartzenberg for the critical encounter at the DHL Stadium (6.15pm kick-off). While Zas will add some needed fireworks on the attack, it’s his defensive work that will come under scrutiny against a Benetton side packed with outstanding attackers. In…

Slot believes Liverpool have a “big responsibility” to clinch the Premier League title in front of their own fans when Tottenham visit Anfield tomorrow. Slot’s side will be crowned English champions for a record-equalling 20th time if they avoid defeat against struggling Tottenham. Liverpool have five games left to seal the title, and need just one point to do so, making it only a matter of time before they get their hands on the trophy. The Reds’ last title five years ago was slightly anti-climactic as it came during the Covid-19 pandemic, meaning Anfield was empty when the trophy was presented due to lockdown restrictions. And, with Liverpool travelling to Chelsea for their next league game after the Tottenham clash, Slot acknowledged there is extra pressure to seal the title…

The iconic Totalsports Women’s Race, South Africa’s largest celebration of Women’s Month, will feature three 2025 races in three major cities, over three consecutive weeks. The first race starts in Durban on Sunday, August 3, followed by Cape Town on Saturday, August 9, and ends in Johannesburg on Sunday, August 17, 2025. For the past 13 years, the event has attracted elite athletes and social runners. It offers athletes a unique opportunity to compete in a world-class, women-only race on South African soil. Michael Meyer, the managing director of Stillwater Sports, convenes the event, which attracts 30,000 women across the country. “We are proud to convene the race, which is South Africa’s largest Women’s Month celebration. Each year, this iconic event unites over 30,000 women across three major cities –…

He’s a student of the game, and the day Warrick Gelant stops learning new skills to add to his impressive arsenal on the rugby field will likely be the day he plays his final match. After impressing for the Stormers with his magical attacking skills in the very first season of the United Rugby Championship (URC), Gelant has strived to develop his abilities over the last couple of seasons to not just add a different dimension to his gameplay, but also to what the Cape side brings on a game day. And while he admits that sometimes he hasn’t been on the same wavelength as his teammates with his attacking abilities, the mercurial fullback has a newfound appreciation for his role within the side. Often seen as the go-to guy…

Renowned for its diverse ecosystems, from the savannahs of the Serengeti to the pristine beaches of the Seychelles, Africa offers a unique blend of adventure and relaxation. Luxury travellers can indulge in exclusive safari experiences, where they can witness the majestic wildlife in their natural habitats, or unwind in opulent resorts that provide world-class amenities. The continent’s vibrant cultures and culinary delights further enhance the luxury experience, making Africa a premier destination for those seeking both adventure and sophistication. The much-anticipated annual It List from Travel + Leisure is out, showcasing the height of luxury in travel with a focus on newly opened or recently renovated gems across the globe. This year’s list serves as an indispensable guide for the discerning traveller, spotlighting remarkable accommodations that exemplify excellence in hospitality,…

The George Municipality’s Labour Court bid to have a now-retired employee’s appointment declared lawful following an arbitration sanction has been dismissed when the court upheld that the appointment flouted fair labour practices. This was after the municipality appointed a woman as a Human Resources manager in 2015 without having the minimum qualification requirement. A commissioner of the South African Local Government Bargaining Council found that the municipality committed an unfair labour practice in shortlisting and appointing the woman without the NQF Level 7 qualification. This prejudiced two other employees who applied for the same position and held the required qualification but ranked lower in the interviewing process. The employee has since retired. The municipality sought the arbitration sanction to be reviewed and set aside, and for it to be heard…

On April 27, collectors and history enthusiasts will be mesmerised as the “Pilgrims Rest Coin,” officially known as the 1902 Gold Veldpond, takes centre stage at Bassani’s Auction House. This rare coin, struck in the wilderness of the Mpumalanga region by Boers fleeing British forces during the Second Anglo-Boer War, is revered as the ‘holy grail’ of South African coins, and this auction presents a rare opportunity for numismatic aficionados. Landon Coleske, a representative from Bassani’s, said, “the 1902 Gold Veldpond that we have up for bidding is an uncirculated (MS61) and valued at R450 000.” The coin, created on a makeshift press and hidden away from British sight, carries a rich history that exemplifies South Africa’s tumultuous past. The Signature Auction 13 is set to commence at 7pm, and…

In today’s fast-paced, hyper-connected world, there’s a quiet revolution happening – one that doesn’t make headlines but is quietly shaping communities, minds, and futures. It’s the act of volunteering, and it is proving to be far more than just charity. For many, volunteering has become a powerful journey of personal growth, skill development, and meaningful connection. The Volunteer Now platform (www.volunteernow.co.za) is at the heart of this movement, opening doors for people of all ages – especially children and teens – to engage in service while learning skills that will last a lifetime. When we think of volunteering, the first thought often goes to giving time and energy to help others. But what’s often overlooked is how much volunteers themselves gain from the experience. The act of serving builds empathy,…

The 28th St John’s College Easter Rugby Festival yet again showcased a thrilling weekend of the best in schoolboy rugby, sportsmanship, and community spirit. With more than 40 schools from across South Africa, this year introduced a fresh twist in the festival format as the U16s made their debut on Burger Field, complementing the traditional U19 and U13 fixtures. There were no league tables, trophies, or medals at the Easter Rugby Festival. It was all about the love of rugby, school spirit, and community. “We are proud to once again host this prestigious celebration of schoolboy rugby, where skill, sportsmanship, and camaraderie take centre stage,” said Stuart West, Executive headmaster of St John’s College. In the U19 age group, we welcomed strong showings from Bethlehem Voortrekker Hoërskool and Welkom-Gimnasium from…

Artscape Theatre will be screening Lief en Leed Mamre: We are what we are by director Yazeed Kamaldien. This poignant documentary captures the essence of the Artscape Rural Outreach initiative that took place in Mamre last October, in collaboration with Lief and Leed, an NGO dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities by those who understand the challenges first-hand. Artscape has been committed to bringing theatre to rural communities for over 20 years, and this commitment has only strengthened over time. “Over the years, we have partnered with local NGOs, municipal bodies, and schools to transform venues into mini-Artscape theatres,” said Artscape CEO Marlene le Roux. “Last year’s initiative was especially meaningful after a four-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.” The outreach programme this year once again reached the…

The National Zoological Garden (NZG) in Pretoria has taken a step towards enriching its marine life collection with the arrival of three Blacktip Reef Sharks and over 200 vibrant marine fish. In a bid to foster greater appreciation for biodiversity and marine conservation, the additions underline NZG’s commitment to educating the public about the ocean’s diverse ecosystems. Tracy Rehse, Director of Animal Collections at NZG said: “The arrival of these animals not only adds to the diversity of our exhibits but also helps us tell a bigger story about ocean ecosystems and the threats they face.” The Blacktip Reef Shark (Carcharhinus melanopterus) is known for its striking black-tipped fins and hunting agility. Native to the shallow waters of the Indo-Pacific, these sharks are not just beautiful; they play a vital…

Are you an empty nester looking to downscale? Maybe you feel the need to be part of a community. Or maybe you just want to feel like you’re on a seaside vacation for the rest of your life. At the St James Retirement Hotel we tick all the boxes, we just need you to check in. With St James Beach and tidal pool practically on our doorstep, and the mountains as our backdrop, there is just one thing we don’t have...you. Why not take a moment to take it all in over a cup of tea at our terrace coffee shop and hear what the locals have to say about us. At The St James Retirement Hotel we offer you retirement living with a hotel lifestyle. Call today to book…

You’ve probably seen that meme with a turtle on a fence post and wondered how it got there, followed by a politician’s face asking how they got into the position they occupy. That’s pretty much the same way I feel about SUVs. When did the world decide that saloon cars aren’t a thing anymore, and turned its attention to ubiquitous boxes? Perhaps I’m just being old-fashioned, but an SUV should be a rugged vehicle used for adventures and exploring - not a flashy wannabe Camel-man transporter. This was the discussion I was having with my mate around a braai fire while I had the BMW 740i on test. He’s a long-time BMW fan, having owned a couple of 3-Series and was fortunate enough to have owned a fifth-generation 7-series with…

IF you’re curious about how South Africans are coping financially, ditch the dramatic headlines and take a closer look at the numbers. The SpendTrend25 report by Discovery Bank and Visa doesn’t just skim the surface; it digs deep into the nitty-gritty of how we’re swiping cards, saving cents, and navigating the economic chaos. Spoiler alert: what it uncovers is sobering, layered, and undeniably real. Now in its third edition, the SpendTrend25 isn’t just data for data’s sake. It’s a reflection of our resilience, choices, and sacrifices, a snapshot of wallets under pressure yet brimming with innovation. Let’s talk tech. Over 80% of South Africans prefer card or digital payments. It’s a clear sign that we’re embracing a tech-forward lifestyle, where even the most unlikely corners are going cash-free. But while…

Kaizer Chiefs coach Nasreddine Nabi has called for a complete mental focus from his players at FNB Stadium on Saturday when they host the ever-improving Marumo Gallants (3pm start). The call for heightened concentration comes at a pivotal moment for Chiefs, who have faced various challenges this season. Nabi believes that the psychological aspect of the game can significantly influence the outcome. Last weekend, the Soweto giants faltered at Chippa United, dropping much-needed points after a promising run marked by their impressive Nedbank Cup semi-final victory over the formidable Mamelodi Sundowns. The inconsistency displayed has sparked questions about the team’s resilience as they navigate the difficult path of the Premiership campaign. “We took lessons from last week’s game against Chippa United. We even discussed all week about this game that…

Stellenbosch FC defender Fawaaz Basadien remains optimistic about his side’s chances of reaching the CAF Confederation Cup final, despite trailing Tanzanian giants Simba SC by a single goal heading into tomorrow’s second leg semi-final. The Maroons will welcome Simba to the Moses Mabhida Stadium in Durban at 3pm, hoping to overturn the 1-0 loss from the first leg and continue what has already been a historic campaign for the club in their debut season of continental football. Stellenbosch shocked many by progressing this far, especially after eliminating Egyptian heavyweights Zamalek in the quarter-finals – a result that made the rest of the continent take notice of the South African outfit. Their rapid rise has earned them admiration not just at home, but now across Africa, and Basadien believes there is…

Newcastle boss Eddie Howe admitted he does not feel “100 percent” after returning to work following his serious bout of pneumonia. Howe went into hospital on April 11 after feeling unwell for several days, and missed his side’s Premier League fixtures against Manchester United, Crystal Palace and Aston Villa. The 47-year-old, who led Newcastle to their first major trophy in 56 years earlier this season, is not completely recovered, but was keen to get back to work with the League Cup winners. “I’m okay. I’m not 100 percent in my body, but I’d like to think I’m very close to 100 percent in my mind, which is the most important thing,” Howe told reporters on Friday. “I tried to take a positive from every experience. I think that’s really important…

As the sun sets over Cabo Beach Club at the V&A Waterfront on Saturday, boxing enthusiasts will be treated to what promises to be a thrilling showdown in the junior featherweight division. Undefeated rising star Kaya Mlata (6-0) from Khayelitsha will face veteran pugilist Sabelo Ngebinyane for the Western Cape junior featherweight title. This bout, scheduled for 10 rounds, will be an electrifying clash of styles: Mlata’s technical precision versus Ngebinyane’s relentless pressure. A product of South Africa’s vibrant boxing scene, Mlata approaches the ring with an impeccable record and a fan-base that believes he could be the next big name in the sport. He is trained by former Zimbabwean boxer Felix Venganayi, and the duo have become a hit with local fans. Mlata has grown immensely in stature and…

Earlier this week, the Vatican announced the death of Pope Francis, head of the Catholic Church and sovereign of the Vatican City State. Pope Francis, 88, died on Monday, April 21, from heart failure. His death follows a memorable appearance at Saint Peter’s Square on Easter Sunday, where he inspired a crowd estimated at over 35 000 people. Tributes have poured in from around the world as the estimated 1.4bn Catholics mourn the loss of a leader known for his compassion and progressive views. Today, the Vatican is set to hold a funeral liturgy in St. Peter’s Square. Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, the dean of the College of Cardinals, will preside over the ceremony, honouring the life and legacy of the man who devoted his life to serving others. In…

The travel industry is undergoing a significant transformation as a recent McKinsey survey has revealed that modern travellers are no longer satisfied with traditional leisure packages. Rather, their expectations have shifted towards seeking authentic engagements with local customs, cultures, and a diverse array of activities. As such, the call for a more personalised and curated travel experience has never been louder, signalling a new era in the tourism sector. Industry insiders have taken note of this shift, with an emphasis on the importance of emotional connection in hospitality. “The days of one-size-fits-all packages are over. Travellers expect more,” asserts Kruger Gate Hotel Manager Miguel Farinha, highlighting the need for hospitality providers to respond to evolving consumer demands. Those who truly understand this sentiment and who invest in crafting unique experiences…