You know you need instant gratification, so the don’t-have-time-to-make-lunch / grab-a-meal on-the-go attitude reigns, and so you choose the nearest option.  The nearest option often being an oily, fat-laden, non-nutritional and almost always unappetising taste-choice.

Well, what if we told you that you could order (online) or walk in and order a high quality, wholesome and delicious meal that wouldn’t set your wallet on fire?

And, to boot, they are local and lekker!

Jar Bar, situated in the heart of the CBD, 12 Spin Street to be exact, are doing just that!

For a reasonable price you can order a meal in a jar – yes! Literally! – a jar filled with tasty food, ready for you to pop on a plate or bowl and simply enjoy. And, if you can’t get there (i.e. stuck at your desk or in another meeting) you can order online and have it delivered. (Jar Bar delivers within a 5-10km radius from Spin Street).

What’s on offer?

A wide range of seasonal salads, soups, curries and sweet stuff – all in a reusable jar!

Check out their range here or pop into their quaint little sit-down café on Spin Street.

And, if you return your jar, you will receive R15 off your next order by way of a coupon!  You can either return the jar in person or order online and receive the coupon by hand.

Get the office onboard!

Many times, in an office situation, there is a mix of people bringing their own lunches or ordering in, the former because they want to be in control of their nutrition, the latter because it’s just easier.

If you get the entire office in on the Jar Bar way of eating, then you all can be eating healthy and contributing to a sustainable way of living.

Jar Bar offers deliveries to offices within their 5-10km radial area from Monday to Thursday (11am to 4h30pm) and Fridays (11am to 4pm), closed on weekends.

Additional services to businesses are:

1. Ordering regularly
2. Catering for a corporate event
3. Stocking Jar Bar at the office

To enquire, simply send them some info here!

We can only tell you so much here so we really do encourage you to give Jar Bar a try.

And, be sure to follow them on their social platforms – Facebook – Instagram – to keep up with their specials and new meal additions.

15% off your first order too!!  

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow RNews on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

The post Healthy in a Jar! Try Jar Bar in Cape Town! appeared first on RNEWS.

There are many reasons to have a professional take your portrait photos. Marike Herselman of Marike Herselman Photography gives us 5 reasons you need a professional portrait photo.

1. You have 4 seconds to impress

When someone pops onto your professional profile, they first look at your photo. If they see a very “FaceBook” style photo, they are going to hesitate about checking you out further. Photos that are cut off from a group pic or have an odd background, just don’t look good. A simple head and shoulders with a plain background are what works best, and a “normal” face on.

2. Matching your headshot with your brand is key

Whether you are representing your own business, that of your employers or you are seeking employment, ensure your portrait headshot matches the brand. For the latter, your personal brand. Should you be outdoors? Should you be wearing a suit? Should you smile? All these factors come up when I schedule a portrait shoot.

3. Outdated just doesn’t cut it

Many times, when meeting someone for the first time, all we have to go on is their portrait picture, either from LinkedIn, their WhatsApp profile, or their website. If that picture was taken 20 years ago, there is a good chance they won’t look like that anymore. Sure, you were slimmer. Sure, you had fewer wrinkles? No matter. We want to see you as you are now. And, that is a good reason to have your portrait photos regularly updated.

4. Body Language speaks volumes

When I first engage with a client for their portrait shoot, I have a look at how they sit and what their posture is like. Most of us slouch, especially tall folk, and I try to get them to straighten up, without looking overly formal. The way you hold your head, the angle of your face, and many other factors, are all spoken about and directed, during a shoot. It is possible to find that quiet confidence within every person.

5. Its all in the eyes

Have you ever been caught off guard when a photo was taken of you? Compare it to when you had to do the “cheese” thing and actually pose. Look a little closer at your eyes. You will see that the “off guard” shot will render a more natural look in your eyes. That is what I try and achieve with all my portrait shots. I want to see a calm and natural connection in the eyes. It can take a while, but there is that moment when my subject lets down their guard and I am able to capture that perfect look. People relate better to a genuineness that resonates from the eyes. This can be obtained when working with a professional photography agency.

At the end of the day, you want to look your best and most receptive. The chances of a good connection with someone else all starts with that first impression moment – the profile picture.

For all your portrait photography needs get hold of Marike. 

To keep up to date with all local news, be sure to follow us on social media – links below. Or if you want to advertise.

The post The Top 5 reasons a professional portrait photo is important appeared first on RNEWS.

Today, you will find Big Five game reserves in the Valley Bushveld of the Eastern Cape, the Karoo of the Western Cape and throughout the Highveld areas of South Africa’s higher altitude provinces.

These private game reserves offer opportunities and luxury that our world famous National Parks cannot. Rhinoceros, wild dog and cheetah would be in far more danger if it were not for the conservation efforts of private game reserves.

They may be expensive for our local pockets, but, in my experience, they still offer value for money when you consider the fantastic food, luxury accommodation and great game viewing.

At Home Food and Travel, we visited private game reserves throughout the country to see what each has to offer.

Aquila Private Game Reserve – Cape Town; Tel 021 430 7260

By Maritsa Beattie

Aquila Private Game Reserve is an easy two-hour drive from the Mother City through the Huguenot tunnel on the N1. The two hours just fly by thanks to the breath-taking scenery of the Hex River Valley and, despite the worst drought in 100 years, the Karoo. 

Aquila is a 10 000 hectare conservancy set in the breathtakingly beautiful Karoo and home to elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino amongst a host of other wildlife.  Acclaimed for service excellence, renewable energy, social responsibility and conservation programmes, Aquila is one of the leading game reserves in the country.

I found this game reserve to be more than just an unforgettable wildlife outing; it was an experience in luxurious African hospitality, traditional culinary flair and service excellence. It left me feeling proud of our wonderful country and its many cultures.

The accommodation is luxurious and can be taken at the lodge itself or in the more private, wood and stone-built cottages.

The lodge offers a spa, restaurant, infinity pool, various bars, a curio shop and children’s entertainment area.

I found the staff to be extremely helpful in catering for my every need, my dietary requirements and my busy schedule.

Having visited game reserves in other parts of the country, I found the game drive in the Karoo to be very different and very interesting. The scenery, the plants and the animals’ habits are very different to those of the Highveld and Lowveld.

Safaris may be enjoyed on horseback or on quad bike as well as from the traditional open game vehicle.

Dinner was a medley of mouth-watering South African dishes set around a fire pit. To be outdoors in the Karoo on a cloudless night is an experience all on its own. I will never forget the stargazing.

For more information, visit www.aquilasafari.com online or email [email protected] or phone 021 430 7260..

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve – Little Brak River; Tel 044 696 6055

By Linda Barnard

On arrival at The Village Lodge at the 4 200 hectare Botlierskop Private Game Reserve on a recent Saturday afternoon, we were warmly welcomed by Shamolene, the manager on duty.

We were booked into their amazing Watermill Cottage, which consists of two smaller private bedrooms, with 180-degree views over the adjacent valley. We had a private entrance, a patio and parking close to our room.

Our room was elegantly-decorated and equipped with air-conditioning, coffee/tea/bar facilities, an indoor fireplace, electric blanket, mosquito nets, an electronic safe, an en-suite bathroom equipped with guest amenities (even bathrobes and slippers) and free Wi-Fi.

We took some time to enjoy the views of the valley against the backdrop of the majestic Outeniqua Mountain Range, before going out on a late afternoon game drive.

It turned out to be one of the most exciting game drives that we’ve ever experienced. Our guide, Jade, made sure we enjoyed every moment as we encountered lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, giraffes, rare black impalas, bird life, zebras among many more species. To end it off, we were treated to drinks, biltong, nuts, chips and even chocolate brownies.

Back at the Lodge, we enjoyed supper at Bellevue – with its warm and welcoming atmosphere, surrounded by a cheerful group of visitors and friendly, competent and well-trained staff members. The menu has a huge variety of mouth-watering wood-fired pizzas, steaks, roosterkoek buns, etc. to choose from, at very reasonable prices.

After a peaceful night’s rest in our luxurious cottage, we enjoyed breakfast, walked through the expansive veggie garden, which supplies the lodge with freshly-picked herbs and vegetables, and started packing.

We just couldn’t leave the place behind so quickly – took a drive through the nearby situated Friemers’ Heim settlement, and went back to Bellevue for the best pizzas ever!

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve has a reputation for outstanding service, cuisine, and hospitality.

For more information, visit www.botlierskop.co.za or email [email protected] or call 044 696 6055.

Amakhala Game Reserve – Addo; Tel 021 424 1530

By Katherine Grewar

Feet up, drink in hand, soaking up the sun while watching a group of Zebra drinking from the waterhole a few metres away is how my stay at Hlosi Game Lodge started.

Hlosi Game Lodge, an hour’s drive from Port Elizabeth, is situated in the malaria-free Amakhala Game Reserve in Addo in the Eastern Cape.

Accommodation on offer at Hlosi includes four double suites, four luxury tents, four family tents and two double-roomed family suites, all accessible via a wooden walkway a short distance from the main lodge.

The Main Lodge with its lounge, dining areas and bar, offers a refined setting of dark woods and interesting African decor on display. Guests are also able to enjoy the large deck outdoors overlooking the waterhole nearby. There is also a pool for those hot summer days.

During my visit, I experienced something truly special; an intimate stay in the African bushveld in a luxury safari tent. The luxury tents are tastefully decorated and offer all the modern conveniences including full en-suite bathrooms, an air conditioner, electric blankets and a minibar.

The tent opens up onto a wooden deck offering not only panoramic views of the valley, but immediacy with nature. The cry of a pair of Jackals late in the evening and waking up to Impala grazing just outside was testament to this.

From full continental breakfasts, lunches with tea and delectable sweet eats on the deck to fine dining in the evenings, the food was truly exquisite.

With our fantastic game ranger, Lucky, we were able to encounter lions, elephant and rhino amongst many other antelope on our game drives. Hlosi also offers night game drives, stargazing, birding, bush walks, archery, spa therapy and fishing.

After a stay at Hlosi Game Lodge, you will leave with a new love and appreciation for the African bushveld.

For more info, visit www.hlosilodge.com, email [email protected] or call 021 424 1530.

Komati Gorge Lodge & Wildlife Reserve – Machadodorp; Tel 017 843 3920

By Linda Thunemann-Faasen

Mpumalanga lived up to its name as the place of the rising sun during my memorable safari adventure at Komati Gorge Game Reserve.

Komati Gorge is located between Machadodorp and Carolina. I had decided to stay in one of their River Lodge Suites, which are surrounded by breath-taking mountain views. There are seven different suites to choose from, each offering spectacular and unique views of the surrounding landscape.

They offer a variety of activities – of which one is the safari tours that start either at 8:00 am or at 4:00pm. The safari van can take about nine people at a time, and the tour costs R180 per person.

The safari lasts one-and-half hours and allows one to explore this 25 000 hectare wilderness and its beautiful sights, animals, birdlife, flora and magnificent waterfalls on the Komati River.

A safari tour at Komati Gorge offers a chance to see kudu’s, zebras, eland, blesbuck, red hartebeest, blue wildebeest, impala, warthog as well as carnivores like jackals, caracal and bush cat and leopards in their natural habitat.

The afternoon safari is also accompanied by sundowner snacks that include a platter of biltong, nuts, cheese and a drink of your choice.

Besides game drives, the many other activities Komati Gorge offers is 4×4 drives, canoeing, rock climbing, fishing, hiking, horse riding, rafting, mountain biking, paintball, a rejuvenating spa, archery, and the popular Jungle Bush Gym.

For more information, visit www.komatigorge.co.za, email [email protected] or call 017 843 3920.

Plumari Private Reserve – Magaliesberg; Tel 028 313 2306

By Evann van Resnburg,

At the Plumari Private Reserve, you will not want to just stay a while; you will want to stay forever.

Nestled between two of Gauteng’s most scenic regions, Hartebeespoort and Magaliesberg, the reserve is a dream destination for nature and animal lovers.

Animal lovers can expect to see up to 20 species of larger game while on game drives, including the Big Five, as well as the different species of antelope and plains game. Some of the rarest animals can be seen and include: Sable antelope, King Buffalo, Nyala, Black Impala and a Golden Wildebeest.

The reserve also has an abundance of birdlife and is crossed by the Hekpoort River, which is where Hippos can be spotted.

For your accommodation, you have the option of staying at any of the two sister properties, Askari Lodge and Warthogs Bush Camp, which are basically located 2km from one another. Both properties are highly recommended and offer a unique service experience.

The reserve offers plenty of fun-filled activities for families, these include: two daily game drives (two hours), 4×4 trails, hiking and birding, clay pigeon shooting, horse riding, Plumari Museum visits and much more! As if all of this isn’t enough, they also offer elephant experiences – where you can get up close and personal with two of the resident elephants, Damara and Nzewe.

Daniela McCormick, Director at Plumari Private Reserve, says; “Our beautiful Reserve offers a Big 5 experience, spa-treatments, conferencing, dining and 4-Star accommodation on a reserve exceeding 5 000 hectares. The best part – we’re only one hour away from Johannesburg and Pretoria!”

So what are you waiting for? Go and discover this hidden gem and trust me you won’t just want to stay a while.

For more information, visit www.plumarireserve.co.za, email [email protected] or call 011 431 4092.

Premier Resort Mpongo Private Game Reserve – East London; Tel 043 742 9000

By Darren John

An easy 20-minute drive from East London, the Premier Resort Mpongo Private Game Reserve offers a fantastic experience to both locals and international visitors alike. With its rolling hills, river valleys and luscious surroundings, it caters to the heart of even the keenest eco-tourist.

This exquisite 3 500 hectare conservancy can cater for all needs, from romantic settings for couples, to luxurious options for corporate visitors and up-market dormitory facilities.

Mpongo offers game drives, safari walks, team-building and conference facilities while the Huberta Restaurant will keep you well fed with fantastic cuisine and a variety of wines – all with the view of an array of wildlife at the adjacent waterhole!

Accommodation settings include the Huberta Lodge, with its beautiful African-colonial style rooms; the Indlovu Lodge, with unhindered hilltop views of the reserve; the Umthombe Bush Villa, offering luxurious, secluded, full service exclusivity for private or corporate guest groups; and, of course, the River Lodge, with spectacular views of the Umpongo River and a choice of deluxe rooms, suites and chalets.

Throughout, buck, bird and hog roam freely, undaunted by guests and adding to Mpongo’s unique relaxation experience – I can highly recommend a care-free weekend away!

For more information, visit www.premierhotels.co.za/hotels/eastern-cape/east-london/mpongo-private-game-reserve  or email [email protected] or call 043 742 9000/2/4.

Manyoni Private Game Reserve – eThekweni; Tel 086 111 4789

By Alison Kirk

Situated in the rolling hills of northern KwaZulu Natal, Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge is part of the amazing Manyoni Private Game Reserve.

This 23 000 hectare wilderness is home to the Big Five and a fantastic variety of bird life – manyoni being Zulu for “the place of birds”.

There are seven different lodges within the game reserve and it is to Leopard Mountain that my husband and I have paid several visits.

This is a very comfortable 4-Star lodge with nine stone chalets nestled in the cliff tops with magnificent views of the Msunduzi River below.

My favourite aspect of this lodge is the private pools on the veranda of each chalet. The chalets are well-spaced and completely private and the pools are just wonderful for a refreshing plunge after time spent in the bush.

The chalets are well-appointed with bushveld décor, thatched roofs, crisp linen and sparkling bathrooms.

At the Main Llodge, you will find the lounge, restaurant boma and an Africology Spa.  Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge is all about relaxation and one of the main reasons why we visit.

The meals and picnics are excellent and are another of the reasons why we have visited Leopard Mountain Safari Lodge more than once. The whole atmosphere in the dinner boma is wonderful.

The game drives depart just after sunrise and a hot mug of coffee and the odd rusk or two. No game reserve guarantee’s that you’ll see all of the Big Five, but, to my mind, the anticipation and hopefulness are all part of the experience.

We have had some great sightings, particularly of the black rhino and wild dogs. There is another game drive in the late afternoon.  Their guides are knowledgeable and entertaining.

For more information, visit www.leopardmountain.co.za, email [email protected] or call 086 111 4789.

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The post From the Karoo to the Lowveld, there is a game reserve near you appeared first on RNEWS.

My girlfriend talked me into a resort holiday and, because I love her very much and trust her advice, we jetted off to Mauritius for a seven-night stay Hotel Riu Le Morne on the south west corner of this amazing island.

Easy travel for a Mauritius holiday

The flight from Jo’burg took just four hours. It’s almost the perfect flight time – enough to have a meal, a couple of drinks and watch a movie.

The time zone difference is hardly noticeable and because you’re staying at a resort, who cares if you go to sleep at two in the morning and get up at ten.

We had booked an all-inclusive package – all drinks, meals, accommodation and use of most of the sporting and leisure equipment was included.  No cash, really, no cash needed.

Our hotel had seven restaurants and as many bars. Food and drinks were available 24/7. Time became irrelevant.

To be honest, I expected mass produced mediocre meals. I’m a foodie – I appreciate taste, texture and presentation. I like to dine in a pleasant environment conducive to good conversation and the service must be good. Yip, my standards are very high and I am frequently disappointed.

Hotel Riu Le Morne

Well, Hotel Riu Le Morne exceeded every expectation I had. The quality and variety of the food was simply amazing. The resort holiday became a gastronomic experience too.

The hotel catered for guests from Europe, India, China, Africa and the Americas. So, the restaurants served Italian pasta and pizza, an array of delicious Indian curries, English and Continental breakfasts, seafood of every kind, an amazing assortment of fresh pastries and breads, eastern noodles and stir fries, fresh fruit and more cheeses than I have ever seen in one place.

The waiting staff served wine and Champaign on request and the delicious Mauritian Phoenix Beer was constantly on tap. Soft drinks and freshly-squeezed fruit juices abounded.

The restaurants themselves were incredible. There were three speciality restaurants that required a reservation and the other family restaurants were happy places to be.

Our room was huge with simple décor. No problem walking beach sand into the room with a dripping costume. The bathroom was elegant, sparkling and large.

Yes, I did spend many hours around the pool and lounging on the beach. It was awesome! I don’t think I have ever relaxed so much on a holiday.  The hardest decision of every day was what cuisine to try at the next meal.

Lots to do on a Mauritius holiday

And to top it all I had plenty of adventure. I spent hours every day snorkelling on the amazing reefs. My girlfriend and I went out on the SUPs and we hiked up the Le Morne Mountain. In fact, judging by our fitness watches, we did as much exercise each day like we do on a busy day at home, including a strenuous session at the gym.

I should point out though that quite a lot of the walking involved trips to and from the bars!

We hired a car for two days and visited historical Port Louis as well as the sophisticated interior and stopped at a few quaint restaurants and shops in the small villages that dot the coastline.

All very enjoyable, but we were most happy at the resort.

Mauritius is a truly beautiful island. The dense green tropical foliage contrasts with the brilliant white beaches, which in turn compliments the azure ocean. The mountains are spectacular. The birdlife is fascinating and the reef fish mesmerising.

I almost always end my articles by saying “I can’t wait to return”, but with Mauritius, I am already planning and saving for my next trip!

The post Mauritius gave me one of the best holidays ever! appeared first on RNEWS.

I’m here to review The Mussel Monger Oyster and Mussel Bar and while I wait for my partner to arrive, I take in the Mojo Market vibe.  Having never experienced the market, I am pleasantly surprised by the activity at 7 pm on a Friday night, and sorry that I haven’t tried it before.

Finding your Mojo is easy, as the market caters to a variety of foodie preferences.  Whether you fancy some Thai or have a super sweet tooth, the sky really is the limit here.  As I wait, I can smell earthy pizza to my right and I am sure there is a savoury whiff of macaroni cheese hitting me from the left.  Besides food, you can wander about and buy all sorts of local clothing, beads, skincare products, swimwear and jewellery, just to mention a few.

But, I am not here to get my retail therapy on, I’m here to SHUCK!

What is Shucking?

Shucking is the art of removing the oyster meat from its shell, and while that may sound simple, you only have to watch the ladies at Mussel Monger to know that it is an extremely delicate procedure.  A firm hand, the right tool and an appreciative attitude for the beauty that lives within, will produce a fresh oyster and yummy sought-after oyster nectar.

A Warm Mussel Monger Welcome

Once my partner arrives, we head straight to The Mussel Monger Oyster and Mussel Bar, the seafood experts, which is ideally positioned near the entertainment stage and bathrooms. (two essential ingredients for any normal female).

On explaining to the smiling lady behind the bar that I am there to review, she acknowledges that she knows who I am and that we can take a seat right there on the corner of the bar.

The manager instantly comes over and welcomes us warmly, asking us what we would like to begin with.  A menu is slid under our salivating mouths, and we scan.  It is clear we are oyster virgins, and so she makes a few suggestions.  While we wait, we sip on our drinks and chat.  A band starts up and we are entertained with soothing sounds and the surrounding chatter.

Before we know it, we are presented with little glasses filled with what looks suspiciously like an oyster floating in a syrupy liquid.  I gulp and so does my partner, giving each other the “oh my goodness” eye.  But, as it were, those were not the last Oyster Shots we had that night.  Delish!

We move through a variety of seafood Farm to Fork dishes that night.  The fresh oysters in the shell with lemon and Tabasco sauce are a real treat and we are taught the correct way to eat them.  Don’t just chuck the oyster down your throat, actually give it a little chew to ensure you take in all the flavours and juices.

The Game Changer!

Our favourite was The Game Changer!  And, what a game changer it was!   Mussels cooked up with crunchy goodness and served with sesame seeds, onions and a mayo-style sauce.  So good!!

As we work our way through the amazing seafood menu of fresh delights, we befriend a local couple across the way, also indulging in the Mussel Monger offerings.  A war of “who can buy the other more Oyster Shots” ensues, and we make nice with our new friends.

We learn that mussel meals come in many forms and our taste buds are attacked by a smorgasbord of steamed mussels in a veggie mix, paired with Vetkoek rolls.  What a treat!

A Huge Seafood Thank You!

Wow, what an evening of tongue titillating seafood, great service and a wonderful atmosphere!

Thank you to the ladies of Mussel Monger and we will definitely be back to get our Shuck On again!

The Mussel Monger Oyster and Mussel Bar can be found at the Mojo Market in Sea Point and online, where you can order to be delivered too.

For more local delights, be sure to check in here.

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The post Get your Shuck On – Seafood with Mussel Monger Oyster and Mussel Bar appeared first on RNEWS.

10 MINUTES WITH CRAIG LUCAS

We were privileged enough to get an exclusive interview with Craig Lucas, the up and coming young SA star.  The Elsies River boy has come a long way since his The Voice SA 2017 win and with one album, Restless, under his belt and a string of singles doing phenomenally well, we are looking forward to what more he can bring to the locals.  His “Heart’s Exposed” song is a dedication to his coming out and the video even features him romantically connected with his current partner. Quite controversial but it’s not the first time a newby singer has come out openly – Will Young, UK Idols winner comes to mind.

Craig had this to say about winning The Voice SA and the years that have followed, “Everything has been so new, of course, and so I still get goosebumps thinking about the win and all that has happened since then.”  We got a little deeper and asked Craig what he would tell the 12-year-old Craig if he could go back in time.   With a heavy sigh, and hand swipe across his face, Craig said he can hardly remember that boy, but he does remember that he didn’t seem to ever be 100% happy. “12-year-old Craig was constantly trying to find happiness through achievement, excelling in academics but failing socially.” He would tell that boy that it really isn’t that bad and to just look to be happy with the simple things in life.

We spoke about other famous singers, such as Luther Vandross, who once stated that his ultimate venue to sing at would be the Royal Albert Hall in London, which he eventually achieved, loving both the intimacy and expanse of the iconic building.  On asking Craig where he would like to perform, he gave a little laugh and admitted that he hadn’t given that much thought as he was still so overwhelmed with the local performances.  He said he wasn’t quite sure yet whether he preferred big stage and big audience shows or the more close and personal gigs.  Well, Craig, we will definitely ask you that question in a year or so and look forward to your answer.

MORE ON THE JAZZ FESTIVAL

FRIDAY’S LINE-UP

As for the Jazz Festival, besides a kick-ass line-up, the event was a resounding success, bringing in jazzy fans from all around the world.  Friday saw Curiosity Killed the Cat, a long-standing UK band who began in the ’80s, giving us some sweet tunes, oldies and covers both.  Knower, an American electronic duo, who played jazz-funk, had the crowd stomping and jiving for a good hour.  What followed, on the same stage, was Shekhinah, the Durbanite, who made her mark in the 2011 SA Idols and again in 2012, oddly not winning, but clearly winning wasn’t necessary.  She has climbed to international fame with her distinctive sound and voice, and we know we haven’t seen the last of her.

SATURDAY’S LINE-UP

Saturday’s jazz festival artists featured a real icon, Jonathan Butler, who got the crowd going with many classics.  The Gypsy Kings created quite a stir getting us to swing our hips and raise our hands up.  Local artists like The Lady Day Big Band were a real hit and Reza Khota Quartet warmed our hearts with their soulful sounds.

There were 5 stages to choose from and amazingly you couldn’t hear the music from one stage to the next.    Craig Lucas ended the night off the jazz festival on the Bassline stage and one could see that no one wanted to go home.

We are always proud to report on local talent and even more so on local events.  We hope that if you were there, you had a ball and that we will see you next year for another star-studded and jam-packed line-up.

A warm thank you to Craig Lucas for the intimate interview and wish him well this year!

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The post The 20th International Jazz Festival – interview with Craig Lucas appeared first on RNEWS.

unite

/juːˈnʌɪt/ 

verb

come or bring together for a common purpose or action.

“they called on the world to unite” 

The Giving is Living Initiative

And, when given the opportunity to be involved in this amazing love affair with animals and give back, we jumped at the chance.

Giving is Living is an initiative striving to protect and help those little beasties that cannot help themselves.  Backed by the Equestrian Tack business, Savara, which started back in 2013, the love for animals, in general, was quite clear when they liaised with their clientele.  The stories of horse and dog rescues came flooding in and it was clear there was a need.

Savara started setting up small volunteer events with clients.  They visited various charities and helped out where they could, donating old tack so that these charities could raise funds for the abandoned horses and dogs.

This year will be Savara’s first Giving is Living major event, their Pieces for Paws Charity Art Auction.  3 organisations were chosen, Mdzananda Animal Clinic, Wolwerivier Outreach Work and SANCCOB. Savara started reaching out to local artists to donate, and before they knew it, they had received over 70 pieces of art (sculptures and paintings).

Further, to their surprise, they received donations from world-renowned artists such as Anton Smit, Richard Scott, JD Ross, Wilma Cruise, Tony de Freitas and other up and coming artists such as Tendai Dlamani, Frans Thoka, Themba Mkhangeli.   To say the least, they were overwhelmed and inspired by the support.

One of the unique things about Mdzananda and Wolwerivier Outreach Work is that they involve the community that they help. As such, children from the townships volunteer and learn (through experiences with the animals) all about animal care.   Because of this, Savara decided to get the children involved in the Art Auction and they set up Art Workshops. To date, they have hosted 2 in Cape Town, 1 in Khayelitsha at Mdzananda Animal Clinic and the other at Richard Scott’s house in Melkbosstrand with the children of Khayelitsha and Wolwerivier. Together with the artists, they made art from trash and these pieces (these unique collaborations) will be up for auction alongside the others.

How can you give back?

On the 16^th of March, this Saturday, at the Atlantic Beach Country Club in Melkbosstrand, Cape Town, the next Pieces of Paws will be held.  This will be an extravaganza art and experience auction, where you can hobnob with other animal and art enthusiasts.  In addition, you will enjoy the talented mentalist and illusionist, Russell Fox, as well as live music, canapes, wine and Gin treats.

All you have to do is click through to Quicket and book your tickets.

Pull out that little black number and bow tie – this is going to be a fancy jol, people!  And, of course, you get to give back!

For more info, simply go through to Giving is Living’s website or Facebook Page.  And, to check out what stunning art will be on auction – link through here.

We look forward to seeing you there!

The post Give a little, why don’t you? – The Giving is Living Initiative appeared first on RNEWS.

There are two common types of air pollutants found in South Africa, namely smog that occurs when emissions from combusting fossil fuels react with sunlight, the other is soot, which is made up of tiny particles of chemicals, soil, smoke, dust, or allergens in the form of gas or solids that are carried in the air.

The big city regions of Gauteng are cited as having the highest levels of air pollution and also due to it being at a much higher altitude the air can very drying to the skin. Extra care needs to be taken to ensure your skin is kept hydrated and free from air pollutants that can come into contact with your skin.

The skin is a complex organ designed to protect us from external elements, so it’s important to ensure that it isn’t compromised. “Cleansing is an important first step I recommend, as effectively cleaning your skin is crucial if you’re regularly exposed to urban pollutants,” explains Mirjana Brlecic, founder of natural skincare range Nikel Cosmetics.

Nikel Cosmetics’ Cleansing Milk with Immortelle is the perfect way to cleanse the skin. Immortelle oil, known as the “elixir of youth”, has been used since ancient times to treat skin conditions. It helps the regeneration of cells, minimising skin damage, wrinkles and scars. It also stimulates the formation of collagen, which diminishes as we age.

Keeping the skin hydrated helps it to work at its optimum and be an effective barrier against airborne pollutants. “Never take for granted the importance of drinking water – it’s vital for so many functions within the body,” says nutritional expert Andrea du Plessis. Drink at least eight glasses a day to help hydrate the skin, generate cell growth and improve circulation.

Air pollution contains microscopic contaminants that help produce free radicals in the body – unstable atoms that can damage cells, causing illness and aging. Nikel Cosmetics’ Nikelhidris moisturiser helps to combat all the ailments associated with exposure to environmental factors. It contains sunflower oil, essential fatty acids and a high concentration of vitamin E and ceramides identical to the ones found in human skin, which regenerate the damaged hydrolipid barrier of the skin and prevent moisture loss.

Diet also has an effect on your skin, and eating well can help to counteract the effects of free radicals. Coenzyme Q10, an essential skin-repair building block, can be found in fish and seafoods, nuts and seeds. “Vitamin E, which is found in avocado and wholegrain cereals, is another way to help fight against damage from free radicals,” adds Du Plessis.

For more articles like this click here.

The post City-smart skincare with Nikel Cosmetics appeared first on RNEWS.

The Country Club is a mere 700 metres from the Melkbosstrand beach. This ideal location offers some of the best views of Table Mountain as well as the Atlantic Ocean, while the locally-occurring Fynbos and wildlife offer a unique golfing experience.

Avid golfers can experience an invigorating range of seasonal conditions thanks to the fact that the Country Club is open throughout all seasons of the year.

The Driving Range is a full-scale 250 metres, featuring 12 bays of either off-mats or grass, not to mention their large putting green and chipping green with bunkers – and their halfway house, bar and restaurant offer a wide variety of menu items to tempt every palette.

Atlantic Beach Country Club also has amazing offers for Corporate Golf Days, and they go above and beyond to ensure that your golfing experience is professional and memorable.

So, head on down and grab a bucket filled with top-of-the-range Srixon golf balls, enjoy a good warm-up, or the chance to hone your skills at the most beautiful golf course in Cape Town with Atlantic Beach Country Club.

To make your booking, call 021 553 2223 or email [email protected] or visit www.atlanticbeach.co.za. 

For great savings on life’s little pleasures visit Bargain Buys!  Know somebody who is getting married, Wedding and Function can assist.  Have kids, then you need to visit Kids Connection.

The post Atlantic Beach Country Club offers a 5-Star golfing experience appeared first on RNEWS.

Located in the rolling Durbanville wine valley, just outside of Cape Town, it is the perfect spot to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.

The restaurant features a light and airy dining area with a double volume ceiling, wooden finishes, earthy tones and contemporary South African décor.

There is also a large wooden deck with an incredible view of Table Mountain, Table Bay and the vineyards. Guests can enjoy a superb glass of wine while soaking up the views.

The menu prepared by head chef Louisa Greeff is simple and unpretentious yet sophisticated, offering breakfast, lunch and dinner on selected evenings.

The breakfast menu offers incredible classics such as eggs benedict and eggs Florentine. For something different, try the chef’s breakfast, which consists of coconut and seed bread, yoghurt, smoked salmon and two poached eggs.

The lunch and dinner menu has a wonderful selection of dishes from quail and duck to venison and salmon, the dishes will definitely delight your palate.

For more information, call 021 558 1300 or visit www.durbanvillehills.co.za.

For great savings on life’s little pleasures visit Bargain Buys!  Know somebody who is getting married, Wedding and Function can assist.  Have kids, then you need to visit Kids Connection.

The post Durbanville Hills Restaurant is an otherworldly experience appeared first on RNEWS.