Category: culture

Your weekly horoscope for 9 to 15 March

Avoid those unwanted surprises, and rather be in the know. Read your weekly horoscope here.

Everything you need to know for your upcoming week

ARIES

Now that the celestial game changer Uranus has left Aries, the prospect of more settled activities and projects will begin to appeal to you. You can make so much progress this week, although legal, study, long-distance and spiritual matters will require focus.

TAURUS

With Uranus in Taurus now, expect to see change both in your personal and work life. This week, the key to happiness lies in careful talks with organisations and friends. Then all your lovely activities and plans will fall into place.

GEMINI

This is a power-packed week for you, so aim to succeed! Success will entail co-operation and perhaps even compromise, as long as the playing field is even. Make your best efforts, and you should get the results you want by Friday.

CANCER


You should begin to see more clearly how well your plans and actions are coming together for you, especially if you are bold during the week and aim to collaborate and co-operate at work, with travel plans, study and in your personal life.

LEO

There’s a choice this week. One is to stick to the tried-and-trusted; and the other, to try something new, despite potential teething problems. The bolder and more adventurous you are (while maintaining standards), the happier you’ll be.

VIRGO

New collaborations, projects and ventures; and the sense that your duties and ideas can have more breadth and scope, will be exciting. But much of your happiness will revolve around relationships, so ensure you nurture these too, especially domestically.

LIBRA


The better your domestic circumstances the better you will function at work, and results along these lines should arise. Good communication skills will foster good relationships. A trip or meeting towards Friday could be a catalyst for something new.

SCORPIO


Some great relationships, contacts and interactions this week will feel truly satisfying and should promote your work interests, too. So take the initiative and push yourself forward. Just be careful to avoid grandstanding. Finances may require focus.

SAGITTARIUS


You’ll enjoy a boost in self-esteem and happiness. Be bold and work towards your goals both at work and in your personal life. If you encounter tension or even a disagreement, take the time to defuse this before it becomes serious conflict.

CAPRICORN


There is so much progress this week, it would be a pity to be dragged down by matters from your past. Aim to boost health; be progressive and positive, and you could scale mountains now. Avoid disagreements, especially towards Thursday.

AQUARIUS


Your hard work has every chance of success; you are due a positive outcome for all your hard work from the past, and may even be surprised by a financial or an ego boost. Avoid needless conflict with a group, organisation or friend.

PISCES

As the Sun and Mercury align in Pisces, expect important developments. You should experience an upturn socially or at work. You’ll enjoy an ego-boost as a result. Avoid biting off more than you can chew, as this could put pressure on.

By Patsy Bennett

Nikiwe Dlova: ‘Creativity is blossoming like never before in Africa’

Creative hair stylist Nikiwe Dlova shares her inspiring journey to self expression and hair success.

Soweto-based hair artist Nikiwe Ndlova has changed the way we think about hair with her visionary creations. We asked her about her inspiration and what the next generation of young African creatives is doing differently.

Graduating from the University of Johannesburg in 2013 with a diploma in clothing management, Nikiwe went on to work in retail as an intern and was promoted to assistant in the buying department. In 2016 she went on her own and started her a hair street culture blog called ownURcrown, which elevated her career to what it is today.

What shaped your aesthetic? 

I don’t really remember when the creativity ‘hit’ or kicked in, and I can’t pinpoint where it comes from exactly. But I remember that as a kid I was always inspired by everything happening around me – the newspapers and magazines, the activity out on the street. Eventually, when I was a little older at school, I started letting some of that creativity out, and I would sing and act as much as I could. But for the most part, my creative side was a little shy.

Was there a moment when something just ‘clicked’ for you? 

For a long time, you wouldn’t even have noticed me. I didn’t really express myself on a visual level. It took a while for me develop who I am today and how I portray myself to the world. It only happened after I left university, and more significantly, when I cut my Afro and I suddenly had short hair; it changed everything for me. That was actually such a defining moment and one that really started my relationship with hair. I suddenly felt like my true self.

What was it about cutting your hair that made you feel this way? 

I think that it takes a lot of confidence to be completely who you are. It’s easy to underestimate what it takes to be your true self. And unfortunately it’s something that most of us take a long time to learn. One thing I can say though is that people are finding their individuality and sense of self a lot quicker these days … Maybe because there is a greater sense of belonging?

How do you think creativity in Africa has evolved?  

Creativity is blossoming like never before in Africa. And platforms like social media are helping it along, especially for the younger generations – Millennials and Gen Z. Suddenly people are seeing proper representation, and it helps shed some of the fear or uncertainty of being who you truly are or how you want to present yourself. We’re learning that we don’t have to look across the ocean at places like USA to tell us what to wear and how to look. Suddenly we can stand back and say wait, we don’t need anyone else defining us.

How do you think that’s shaping the next generation of creatives?  

The next generation of creatives is going to change the narrative of society. They’re discovering things most of us never had the chance to learn. But one of the most important things they’re learning is deep-rooted self-love. It’s such a valuable and powerful lesson to learn.

What have you learned through your own creativity?  

I learned that generally, we don’t celebrate ourselves nearly enough. We have this culture of waiting for others to celebrate or recognise us. We shouldn’t wait for those moments. We should just celebrate ourselves because we are worth celebrating.

What shapes your personal style?  

It’s difficult to describe it because there are so many things that inspire and shape me. Some days I’m simple with a twist; other days I’m a burst of colour. There are days I’m a mix of African eclecticism, and others when I’m quite ‘out there’.

You’re known first and foremost for your hair. What does hair mean to you?  

Hair is a powerful thing. Especially in our country, where many people still can’t fully embrace or express themselves through their hair. Hair is fun and it can be interesting. But it’s also political and powerful. It can be a tool for social commentary and for making a statement. What I want most of all is for kids to be inspired by what they see.

Do you think your relationship with hair has a particular future?  

What’s really important for me is that the narrative of hair changes. So I would love to start an academy or production company that will help change the way people look at hair. I want to train people to take hair styling to the next level and push creative boundaries.

FUN FACTS

Favourite accessory? 
Can I say my hair? Because it’s definitely my hair!

All-time favourite style icon?
Without a doubt, Erykah Badu.

Bucket list destination? 
I can’t pick only one: Ghana, New York City and Amsterdam.

A wild party or a quiet night in? 
I’ve had my wild days, so I’d have to say a quiet night in.

Check out Nikiwe’s Instagram & Nikiwe’s Blog

Words: Edwain Steenkamp. Photography: Instagram

Latest & Greatest: March edition

Learn more about the latest releases in tech, literature, motoring and entertainment.

From intelligent ovens that make cooking a breeze, to VW’s new monster Golf R, here’s what’s dropping this month.

Streaming series

Turn Up Charlie 

(Netflix, 15 March)
Forget Luther and the James Bond rumours – Idris Elba’s new gig is playing ‘manny’ to his famous best friend’s problem-child daughter, while trying to make it as a club DJ in the Netflix Original Turn Up Charlie. Starring alongside him are Covert Affairs’ Piper Perabo as Sara and young actor Frankie Hervey as ‘problem child’ Gabrielle. Sara is a superstar DJ, feminist icon and vivacious trendsetter, who abandons the exciting life she lived in America to put down roots in London, in an attempt to give Gabrielle more stability and normality. Spoiled and savvy, Gabrielle is wise beyond her years. Neglected by her career-driven parents, she pushes the boundaries – and the sanity of her nannies – to the extreme, in order to get her mom and dad’s attention. Her spiky retorts, mischievous adventures and epic tantrums hide a lonely young girl with a distorted view of reality.

Book

Gingerbread by Helen Oyeyemi 

(5 March)
Perdita Lee and her mother Harriet may appear to be just an average British schoolgirl and working-class mom, but they’re not as normal as they appear to be. Apart from sharing their gold-painted, seventh-floor walk-up apartment with verbal vegetation, they also make gingerbread their fellow Londoners aren’t particularly wild about but is hugely popular in faraway Druhástrana, the (potentially imaginary) land of Harriet’s early youth. Harriet’s charismatic childhood friend, Gretel Kercheval, is their biggest fan – and also seems to have had a hand in everything, good or bad, that has happened to Harriet since they met. Decades later, when a teenage Perdita sets out to track down her mother’s long-lost friend, Harriet’s story is retold in a new light, including encounters with jealousy, ambition, family grudges, work, wealth, and real estate as the headlines – though gingerbread seems to be the constant.

Gadget

Intelligent Oven

We’ve heard of smart ovens before, with one-touch cooking for set dishes – but we’ve never seen anything like Whirlpool’s Connected Hub Wall Oven Concept, which uses augmented reality to teach you how to cook. A transparent 27-inch LCD screen replaces the traditional glass on the door, and becomes the interface which gives the user the chance to discover, learn and control the cooking process from a central hub. It integrates family calendars and analyses schedules to suggest the ideal family dinner time – then also prompts a quick recipe suggestion, based on the time and ingredients available, as well as learned family food preferences. Connected to the Yummly platform, the screen displays step-by step video instructions on how to prepare each meal, while Coordinated Cooking schedules the cooking of different dishes to ensure that everything is ready at the same time. The Whirlpool Connected Hub Wall Oven Concept debuted at CES2019, with production details, a release date and costs not yet announced.

Motoring

SuperGolf on Steroids!

Golf’s monster R model just got more aggressive, thanks to the addition of 15 extra kilowatts and new exterior design highlights. The revised model sees the power output rise from 213kW to 228kW, propelling it to 100km/h in just 4.6 seconds in conjunction with the snappy 7-speed DSG and standard Launch Control. On the exterior, optional R Performance Titanium exhaust and optional R Performance brakes with brake calipers painted black with the ‘R’ logo add extra sports appeal. Standard features include the ‘R’ designed bumpers, LED headlights and taillights. Exterior mirror housing caps come in matte chrome or optional carbon, with various 19-inch wheel choices. The revised 2.0 TSI 228kW DSG Golf R retails from R676 000 and includes a standard five-year/90 000km service plan, three-year/120 000km warranty and 12-year anti-corrosion warranty.

Film

Captain Marvel 

(8 March)
Captain Marvel finally gets her own stand-alone film in the Marvel Cinematic Universe. The film tells the story of hot-shot US Air Force officer Carol Danvers who signs up for a deep space mission with Starforce and finds herself up against her toughest-ever adversary, the Kree empire. In the process of joining Starforce, Danvers’ biology melds with Kree DNA, turning her into a hybrid, erasing her memory and setting her on a path to rediscover her true self. Set in the 1990s, Captain Marvel is an all-new adventure from a previously unseen period in the history of the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Brie Larson stars as Danvers and is supported by, among others, Samuel L. Jackson, Djimon Hounsou, Lee Pace, Ben Mendelsohn, Annette Bening and Jude Law. After Captain Marvel, Brie Larson will reprise her role in Avengers: Endgame, out in April.

Film

Hotel Mumbai 

(29 March)
Hotel Mumbai is based on the gripping true story of humanity and heroism which played out when a group of terrorists laid siege to the famed Taj Hotel in Mumbai in 2008. Among the dedicated hotel staff is the renowned chef Hemant Oberoi (Anupam Kher) and a waiter (Dev Patel) who choose to risk their lives to protect their guests. As the world watches on, a desperate couple (played by Armie Hammer and Nazanin Boniadi) is forced to make unthinkable sacrifices to protect their newborn child.

Catch all the latest movies!

If you’re an Edgars Club VIP or Club Life member you save on two movie tickets every day at Ster-Kinekor – get 2D movie tickets from R27 – R48* each, 3D movie tickets from R30 – R60* each, IMAX for R93* per ticket and Cine Prestige for R96*! You bring a friend, we bring the entertainment. See the latest movies and prices at edgarsclub.co.za. Ts and Cs apply.
*Prices & dates were correct at the time of publication.

Game

Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice 

(22 March)
In Sekiro: Shadows Die Twice, players assume the role of the ‘one-armed wolf’, a disgraced warrior rescued from the brink of death. Duty-bound to protect a young lord, descended from an ancient bloodline, Sekiro becomes the target for scores of vicious enemies. When the young lord is captured, nothing can stand in the way of Sekiro’s perilous quest to regain honour and save the life of his liege. Set in the late 1500s Sengoku Japan, the game gives players the chance to unleash an arsenal of deadly prosthetic tools and powerful ninja abilities in visceral head-to-head combat that can only end in a bloody confrontation.
Available for Playstation 4, XBOX One & PC, from R799 via www.store.steampowered.com

By Trevor Crighton

Your weekly horoscope for 23 February to 1 March

Avoid those unwanted surprises, and rather be in the know. Read your weekly horoscope here.

Everything you need to know for your upcoming week

ARIES

You’re ready to put some of your long-term plans and ideas into action; and you may even be surprised by a change of direction that arises from your projects. A reunion or the chance to boost your work situation will arise.

TAURUS

A social event, or opportunity to take a new direction at work, will be enjoyable. The key to a happy week lies in keeping everyone in the loop and managing communications well. Get that right and you’ll be in the position to make the most of a reunion or work progress.

GEMINI

Key discussions relating to shared duties are likely to point to a new direction. Keep talks clear for best results. You may enjoy a favourite activity or get-together this weekend. Towards Friday, a networking or social event should prove beneficial.

CANCER


Discussions and developments this week could signal a new agreement, especially if you were born mid-July. Avoid allowing idealism to get in the way of a practical plan. For some Crabs, this week will entail a fresh work or health incentive.

LEO

Plan ahead this week to ensure you are happy with the practicalities of a busy work schedule, else you may find yourself distracted by some intense feelings. You’ll appreciate the opportunity to get down to basics with a colleague or business partner.

VIRGO

A romantic and creative time is signaled this weekend; plan a treat! But if you are feeling exhausted, take time out for yourself. Take the initiative and collaborate with a colleague on joint plans, it could work out well for you.

LIBRA


Developments at home, with a property or family, could signal change. If you’re interested in DIY or home improvement this could be an ideal weekend to get ahead.  If making agreements, ensure you are clear about the details to avoid mix-ups.

SCORPIO


You’ll enjoy a fun-loving and creative weekend; meeting with like-minded people and indulging in your favourite activities. If making financial agreements, ensure you avoid making assumptions. You’ll feel ready to get ahead at work.

SAGITTARIUS


Key financial investments deserve careful thought; and so do decisions that affect your emotional life. A trip, discussion, meeting or event will put the focus on your values. Are you ready to re-evaluate these, or stand up for them?

CAPRICORN


As Venus aligns with Pluto, don’t be surprised if intense emotions or dramatic events arise this weekend, especially if you were born on 12 or 13 January. All Capricorns may feel strong motivation this week; and this could drive considerable change.

AQUARIUS


It’s a good week to inform yourself about your best path forward. A reunion or news from your past may bring about a sense of progress. A debt may be repaid; and health should improve. A group or organisation may be helpful.

PISCES

The Sun, Mercury and Neptune in your sign will put the focus on your communications and plans for the future. A trip or development could boost the dynamics of some of your relationships, both at work and at home.

By Patsy Bennett

The Interview: Tsitsi Chiumya

Comedian Tsitsi Chiumya tells us about his rise to fame, and how his sense of style has evolved along the way.

Growing up in Lebowakgomo, a small township in Limpopo, and only learning English in his teens, Edgars’ creator of culture and local influencer, Tsitsi Chiumya, might never have imagined a career as a comedian. But in just a few short years he’s set stages alight all over the country with his shows, raking up awards along the way. He tells Edwain Steenkamp how he got there.

Growing up, were you the funny kid? 

No, but I was definitely the naughty kid! My mom had me when she was very young, so I was raised by my grandparents who were strict but very loving. I think, with me, they had their hands full.

So comedy wasn’t something you dreamed about? 

As a kid I didn’t even know it could be a career. Living in such a small place, I had other dreams. At one stage I wanted to be an athlete more than anything. But I always knew that I wanted to live a happy life. That was something my small village taught me too: what’s most valuable in life.

What was the next major chapter of your life?

I went to study video design at Wits University. So my life nearly took a very different turn. There weren’t many kids like me on campus at that time. I felt different, but it didn’t stand in my way. In fact, I realised that somehow it allowed me to reach people.

Was it during this time that you discovered your gift of entertaining? 

Yes, that was when I started telling stories from my childhood and from where I grew up. I knew that my classmates loved the stories I told, and so I started preparing and rehearsing them in the evenings. I might have added a few embellishments here and there, but they loved the stories. It was like a whole new world opened up.

Was that when you decided on your future career path? 

Actually, it happened very slowly. I was always drawn to comedy; I remember my friends and I watching comedy shows till three in the morning. So right after university I moved to Cape Town and spent all the money I had – and also money I didn’t have – to watch every comedy show possible. From there, I started participating in any show that would have me. I eventually landed a segment on the Expresso Morning Show and added as much of my comedy into it as I could. I was travelling up and down, trying to make this all happen … getting as little as four hours sleep a night.

How did you manage all of it? 

I honestly don’t know! I was so exhausted all the time, but it felt right. I knew it would all be worth it.

What do you think is the most important aspect of your comedy? 

I think a lot of people expect the same formula from South African comedians, that is, comedy based on the hardships of the country’s past, and the struggles we face today. You know, politically heavy content.

Do you try to stay away from that? 

I mean it enters my comedy of course. But I want to tell different stories too. Stories that everyone relates to. And for me, that’s powerful comedy – the kind where the humour is universal. And I draw from some of my personal experiences.

What kind of experiences? 

I was a kid from Limpopo who could barely speak English, and then suddenly I was in a big city – there’s something about that situation everyone can relate to. Being the awkward kid, unsure of themselves and not really fitting in anywhere. Looking for acceptance, inspiration and guidance.

Speaking of inspiration, who has influenced you the most? 

More than individual people, there are moments in different people’s careers that have inspired me so much. And through these moments in many of the most legendary comedians’ careers, I have learned different techniques and styles. Drawing from that I have been able to develop my own sense of comedy.

You’re known as a smart dresser. Has this also developed over the years? 

Since I was a young boy I was aware of style. Both my grandparents were so stylish. My grandmother always dressed impeccably, and my grandfather always had the best suits. I definitely learned what style is from my family. But I was always a little shy and unsure about what looked good on me.

When did you learn to let go of that uncertainty? 

It was actually when I worked with one of the stylists at Edgars. He handed me the nicest botanical printed shirt and told me that when I go shopping, I should always look out for at least one item of clothing that’s outside my comfort zone and incorporate it into my closet. It was the best style advice I’ve ever received. To this day, that shirt is my favourite item of clothing and I take it everywhere I go.

FUN FACTS

Favourite fashion items? 
A nice shirt, and definitely a good pair of sneakers.

Favourite food?
Pap and wors. It’s a classic.

Guilty pleasure? 
Mangoes. I can eat them any time.

How do you unwind? 
I play video games; I’m still very passionate about gaming.

Some of your favourite comedians?
Trevor Noah, Robby Collins and Kevin Hart.

Check out Tsitsi’s Instagram
Photography: tsitsi.co.za, Instagram, Shutterstock

8 smart ways to make the most of sale season

It’s the time of year that our favourite stores start spamming us with their end-of-season sales. Use these tips to spoil yourself without the regret.

It’s that time of year when your willpower is tested by sale posters in mall shop windows screaming 20%, 50% and 75% off! Here’s how you can make the most of sale season without blowing your budget unnecessarily.

Tip 1: Become royalty with loyalty

Rewards cards have great benefits such as free flights or insane discounts on pricey things. The trick is to get rewards cards from the stores you would normally visit throughout the year, and as you purchase your monthly cosmetics or fill up with petrol at Engen with your thank U card you’ll be earning points that you can use once sale season arrives. In some stores, loyalty card members get additional discounts.

Tip 2: How to feel like you’ve won

There are two fashion tribes in the world: the fad fashion tribe and the timeless fashion tribe. Make the most of the two by having a timeless fashion foundation with a sprinkling of fad. Siyanda Bani (@SiyaBunny), style influencer and founder of online platform Glow Up, schooled me on how to get true value from sales. ‘My philosophy, when it comes to sales, is to buy only what you would be willing to pay full price for, as that limits you from overspending on items you won’t like in six months’ time. Sales are great for scoring on items you’ve been eyeing for a while; you walk away with a sense of fulfilment, as if you’ve won.’

Tip 3: Make online shopping your BFF

Most online stores have a convenient sale section, so you don’t need to sift through everything to see the handful of things you might get for a bargain. Online stores show you absolutely all products in stock nationwide. Also, shopping online allows for free delivery or if you prefer you can collect your parcel from the store closest to you. Edgars.co.za offers free delivery on all orders over R650. Here’s a professional tip worth remembering: when you buy your make-up and skincare online, you often automatically qualify for free samples. Bonus!

Tip 4: Your junk could be someone else’s treasure

Make your own sale before hitting the mall. In the world of OLX, Gumtree and the likes thereof, there are easy and smart ways to earn a little extra cash. Clear your house of the items you no longer wear or use in order to get a little bit more money to spend on the things you do want.

Tip 5: If it’s nice, buy it twice

Many stores have discounts if you buy more than one of the same item – so make a deal with a family member or a friend with a similar taste to you so that you can both score bargains together.

Tip 6: Do this hardcore budgeting trick

Leave your bank card at home, and leave the house only with an envelope of the money you’re prepared to spend to ensure you don’t go over budget. But good luck to you if there’s SnapScan or Zapper.

Tip 7: Shop for next season

If it’s the end-of-summer sales you’re attending, buy classic summer pieces that are unlikely to go out of style (think summer dresses, sandals and T-shirts) for next year. The same goes for end-of-winter sales.

Tip 8: Don’t lie to yourself

Never (I repeat, never) buy incorrect clothing sizes in the hopes of either losing or gaining weight for them to fit. We both know that item will be forgotten and a waste of money, so rather embrace your current size and spend your hard-earned rands on clothes you’ll enjoy right now.
By Thandeka Mali
Images: Getty Images

What’s happening in your city this march?

Find out what exciting events are taking place in your city this march.
From cycling events and music festivals to classical music and cooking masterclasses, here’s what’s happening this month.

CAPE TOWN

Huawei KDay 2019 (2 March)
Soak up the last of summer at Meerendal Wine Estate to the sounds of South Africa’s biggest artists. Huawei KDay is one of Cape Town’s most popular music festivals, and with a line-up that includes the likes of Mi Casa, Goodluck, Craig Lucas, Kurt Darren, Lady Zamar, Youngsta CPT, The Kiffness, DJ Kent and many more, it’s not hard to see why. There’s a Kfm Chill Zone for those looking to upgrade their KDay experience, as well as a Kids’ Zone for the little ones. Tell me more

Cape Town Cycle Tour (10 March)
This will be the 41st edition of arguably the most beautiful race in the world. Entries are closed for cyclists, but there are no restrictions for spectators who want to enjoy the electric vibe from the sidelines. Come and show your support as cyclists from around the world take on the tour’s scenic 109km route. Tell me more

Cape Town Carnival (16 March)
Engage with the arts and celebrate diversity at the annual Cape Town Carnival. Rachel Jafta, chairperson of the Cape Town Carnival Trust, describes the carnival as a way of bringing people together and building social cohesion, while offering an extraordinary visual and creative feast and a skills development hub for a wide array of skills. The carnival brings people together from all over the metropole for a day of artistic expression, unity and fun. Get there and be part of the action. Tell me more

Chicago The Musical (15 March – 14 April)
The hit musical Chicago returns to South Africa with a multi-talented, all South African touring cast, band and crew. Based on true events that unfolded in the 1920s, the musical follows the story of two murder-accused women who put up a fight to keep from death row with the help of a smooth-talking lawyer. Set against the backdrop of 1920s jazz, you’ll be tapping your feet to the likes of ‘All that Jazz’, ‘Cell Block Tango’ and ‘Mister Cellophane’. Showing at Artscape Theatre Centre. Tell me more

JOBURG

Ultra South Africa (2 March)
If you like to party, you’ll want to head to the Expo Centre for one of the world’s biggest all-night electronic dance music festivals. The event features a blockbuster line-up of local and international DJs, including The Chainsmokers, Martin Garrix and DJ Black Coffee, with over 30 000 festivalgoers taking part in the fun. Book your ticket to make sure you’re one of them! Tell me more

The Field Market (9 March)
Local produce meets artisinal foods at the Field Market in the beautiful green surrounds of Sandton’s Field & Study Centre. Sample the food on offer, relax along the banks of the Braamfontein Spruit, and explore the park’s walking trails, to the sounds of local music floating on the airwaves. Pony rides, jungle gyms, scavengar hunts and other kid-friendly activities will keep the little ones entertained while you get your chill on. Tell me more

Masterclass with MasterChef Australia’s Ben Ungermann (11 – 13 March)
Aspiring chefs take note – ‘ice-cream king’ Ben Ungermann – runner-up of MasterChef Australia 2017 – returns to South Africa in March for a nationwide series of Masterclasses. The Joburg leg of the tour takes place at the Capsicum Culinary Studio campuses in Johannesburg. Ungermann will be presenting three classes: The Whole Chicken Masterclass; The Dessert Masterclass and The Fish Masterclass. Cost is R950 per class. Masterclasses are also running in Cape Town from 15 March and Durban from 25 March. For more details call Keirisha at 086 111 2433 or email chef@capsicumcooking.co.za. Tell me more

Johannesburg International Comedy Festival 2019 (14 – 16 March)
It’s a weekend of laughs with Africa’s largest comedy festival taking place from 14 to 16 March at the Joburg Theatre. The festival kicks-off with a comedy extravaganza, followed by world-class stand-up acts and comedy sketches from numerous local and international comics. Rounding off the weekend is a no-holds barred comedy show, probably not suitable for TV (consider yourself warned). Bring on the funny! Tell me more

Ed Sheeran Live in SA (23 March)
One of the biggest highlights in entertainment this year has to be Ed Sheeran’s SA tour. Sheeran comes to SA fresh from his UK tour, which sold over 1.1 million tickets and included four sold-out nights at Wembley Stadium, making it one of the biggest tours the UK has ever seen. His Joburg performance takes place at the FNB Stadium, followed by two shows in Cape Town on 27 and 28 March. Talented, successful and incredibly likeable, Ed Sheeran is not be missed. Tell me more

DURBAN

Royal Moscow Ballet (9 March)
Fancy a night of elegance, grace and beauty? If so, you won’t want to miss the Royal Moscow Ballet’s SA tour. Artistic Director Anatoly Emelianov, former principal dancer of the US Metropolitan Classical Ballet, has prepared a special programme for South African audiences, with the Durban performance taking place at the Playhouse Opera Theatre. Tell me more

Decorex Durban (21 – 24 March)
Africa’s premier décor, design and lifestyle exhibition takes place at The Exhibition Centre in Durban. Offering design inspo, the latest décor trends and beautifully curated spaces, Decorex is a treasure-trove of excellent finds that will transform any space into a stylish sanctuary. Don’t miss the Pop Up market taking place on Friday 22 March from 10am to 8pm. Tell me more

The Wonder Years (29 March)
Retro food, music and cocktails are what this night out at The Oyster Box is all about. But if the thought of 80s-style jelly salads and dodgy meatloaf leaves you cold, fear not; dinner is a top-notch three-course meal with no jelly in sight, followed by an 80s-inspired show to round off the entertainment. Includes prizes for the best dressed, so look the part and you might just bag one. Tell me more

PORT ELIZABETH

Gods of War 3 (16 March)
Fighters from all over South Africa come together to participate in this mixed martial arts tournament. If you appreciate the skill of martial arts and the thrill of cage fighting, then head to The Barn on fight night to show your support as the participants determine who is the ultimate fighting champion. Tell me more

Watershed 20th Celebration Tour (20 March)
Okay so it’s not exactly in PE, but for roughly an hour’s drive to Cape St Francis Resort you’ll be rewarded with a performance from one of the most well-loved and successful bands ever to come out of South Africa. Watershed’s national tour celebrates 20 years of awesome as one of SA’s iconic and legendary bands – don’t miss it! Tell me more

BLOEMFONTEIN

Fine Dining Charity Event (15 March)
Gallery on Leviseur/59 Plenty and Engo invite you to join them for a culinary journey that will delight your senses and raise much-needed funds for Engo, a non-profit and non-governmental organisation that focuses on the care of children, the elderly, families, people with disabilities and patients in need. Enjoy an evening of fine dining and light entertainment, and support an incredible cause at the same time – it’s a win all round! Tell me more

3 Mountains MTB and Trailrunning (21 – 24 March)
Smash your fitness comfort zone with the only four staged event in the Free State catering for MTB and trail running. Expect great routes, tough climbs, stunning landscapes, mountain views and sore legs for days as you participate in an event that’s challenging and rewarding in equal measures. Tell me more

Your weekly horoscope for 16 to 22 February

Avoid those unwanted surprises, and rather be in the know. Read your weekly horoscope here.

Everything you need to know for your upcoming week

ARIES

Now that Mars is in your money zone your finances should flow more easily. The good news is: you could boost your savings! The bad? You could spend more. Good news at work or regarding a fun venture is on the way.

TAURUS

Mars in Taurus should boost your energy, but you may also appear more feisty. Aim to channel the fiery Mars energy into favourite activities over the next few weeks. You’ll get a lot done with productive talks or meetings.

GEMINI

This is a good week for negotiations, meetings and commitments, especially if you wish to make changes in your career or general circumstances. Avoid allowing your vulnerabilities to dominate. Key news midweek could be a turning point.

CANCER


You’ll appreciate getting your feet on the ground after recent changes. The other good news is that this week you could make great progress with your partnerships, both business and personal, so take the initiative. Romance could blossom.

LEO

Developments at home, at work or in your relationships will enable you to plan ahead with more certainty this week. Decisive developments could also boost health, beauty and wellbeing. Plan romance; singles may be ready to commit.

VIRGO

There is a healing quality to events this week. Plan to improve your circumstances, and the stars will help you! This is especially the case with relationships, work and domestic matters. Romance could soar this weekend; plan a treat.

LIBRA


A new and stabilising approach to someone who can be unpredictable will be beneficial. You may find that events give you a new understanding of someone, be this at home, at work, or regarding health and wellbeing.

SCORPIO


You’ll appreciate the opportunity to make formal agreements or contracts this week. These could be binding or involve financial obligations. Your creativity will flow and you may increasingly invest in family, your home, beauty and romance.

SAGITTARIUS


You may be surprised by developments, especially those that concern your home, family or finances. You may be ready to make new arrangements in all of these areas, and these could be decisive changes, so ensure you get the facts.

CAPRICORN


As Venus and Saturn align in your sign this week, you should achieve a milestone within a work or personal matter. Key financial arrangements can be made or completed now. Just ensure, midweek, that you have all the facts, to avoid confusion.


AQUARIUS


Work and finances may be a focus this week, as you’ll get the chance to boost both areas. Just ensure you are clear about the terms of new agreements. You can truly make great progress across the board, and achieve a sense of stability.

PISCES

Your endeavours, especially relating to work, health and wellbeing, will be in the spotlight. Take the initiative, as you could make progress. Socialising and networking could open doors and will be enjoyable, especially this weekend and early next week.

Continue reading “Your weekly horoscope for 16 to 22 February” →

Top 5 romantic couples’ spas

Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a couple’s treatment at one of South Africa’s finest spas.

Set the tone for romance with a pampering couple’s treatment at one of these remarkable spas.

Mangwanani African Spa
(countrywide)

Mangwanani African Spa blends two types of ‘feel-good’ – the first, with the creation of spa packages where guests experience true head-to-toe indulgence and the second, which sees the upliftment of rural women through training to become therapists, creating jobs and helping rural families thrive.
Mangwanani African Spa is offering Edgars Club members a very special offer this Valentine’s Day – a 20% saving on two couples packages at select Mangwanani African Spas. Pay only R2 999 for a couples retreat full day spa including gift hamper or R1 999 for a moonlight night spa experience including a product gift hamper. Click here for more info. Ts & Cs apply.

de’Vara Day Spa
(Blouberg, Cape Town)

There are plenty of spas with great ambience, but few can boast this type of view. The vista that unfolds before you from the 11th floor of a Blouberg beachfront building during your pamper session can’t help but add to the feeling of tranquillity, with Table Mountain as the backdrop, across the bay.
Indulge in a couple’s treatment in one of their two double treatment rooms and then sip a glass of bubbles as you take in the views. There’s also a sea-facing manicure and pedicure room, a relaxation area with an infra-red sauna, a stylish dining area, and guests also have access to the roof-top pool and gym area.
Their two-hour Ocean Detox treatment includes detox tea, a full-body exfoliation, full-body drainage massage, detoxifying body wrap and infra-red sauna and costs R790 per person.

Life Day Spa
(Across Gauteng and at V&A Waterfront & Century City in Cape Town)

Life Day Spas are always on the cutting edge of spa wellness, often offering treatments as standard that are relatively bespoke on other spa menus. The breadth of their offering caters for just about every wellness need and the contemporary style of each of their properties sets the tone for indulgence.
Each Life Day Spa offers its own specials, like the Couples’ Getaway at the scenic Waterfront branch. For R3 700 per couple, you and your other half will be treated to a romantic mud ritual (including sparkling wine), full-body hot stone massage, 60-minute classic skincare treatment – all in a calming and private couple’s suite – and a healthy lunch, afterwards.

Shambala Wellness Spas
(Port Elizabeth)

In Tibetan Bhuddist Lore, Shambala is a mystical place of tranquillity, happiness and peace, shrouded in the snowy peaks of the Himalayas. There, people labour constantly, exclusively and selflessly for the good of humanity.
Translating that ethos to a peaceful property in Port Elizabeth, the team at Shambala Wellness Spas have a focus on holistic wellness and employ top-quality products and techniques to restore body, soul and mind.
They offer a number of couples’ packages on their Spa Menu, with the 105-minute Couple’s Bespoke treatment offering great value at R1 490 per couple. It includes a starlight Rasul Steam Chamber treatment with body mask, followed by a side-by-side full-body massage in one of their couple’s suites.

The Spa at Brahman Hills
(KZN Midlands)

The otherworldly KZN Midlands seems like the perfect setting for a spa, with its slow pace, rolling hills and moody vistas – which is probably why a number of treatment facilities have made the area their home.
Certainly one of the most stylish is The Spa at Brahman Hills, in the heart of the Meander. The property itself offers hotel or self-catering accommodation with a restaurant, coffee bar, eventing venues, a cellar and underground bar – but the spa, with its quirky porthole windows, is a destination all on its own.
For a properly romantic getaway, the Couples’ Spa Pamper Stay Over Package, includes two nights’ accommodation in the slick hotel with breakfast, detox snack on arrival at the spa and a choice of four treatments, for R4 996 per couple sharing.
By Trevor Crighton

5 unique Valentine’s Day date ideas

Break tradition this Valentine’s Day and do something out of the box. Surprise your partner this Valentine’s Day with a date to remember.

The pressure to celebrate your love – or find one – in February is always pretty intense. Also, it’s intensely cheesy. This year, think memorable instead of predictable, for a date that leaves a lasting impression. You won’t be sorry.
Rushing through a set menu dinner at a packed restaurant on a deadline for the second sitting, shooing ants off the crackers at your ‘romantic’ picnic, overpaying for a bunch of roses that won’t survive the week … hardly the date ideas they’re cracked up to be. We take a look at some out-of-the-box ideas that’ll score you mega points with your date for the night.

1. Skydiving for the truly adventurous

If plummeting towards the earth at 220km/h for 35 seconds doesn’t get your adrenalin pumping, few things will. Tandem skydiving is probably about as safe an adrenaline sport as you can get, despite leaping from a plane, 3.5km up in the sky.
After a safety briefing and a surprisingly short – but comprehensive – instructional session on the ground, you and your partner will be strapped to complete strangers and bundled into a small aircraft where you have about 15 minutes for your nerves to fray completely while you climb to 11 000 feet. A countdown and a gentle nudge later, you’ll freefall half the distance back to the ground at nearly double the highway speed limit, before your new best friend yanks the rip cord and your progress slows to a fraction of what it was a second earlier.
The rushing air stills, things go oddly quiet, and you’ll be able to enjoy amazing vistas for up to ten minutes before you lift your legs and prepare to have your instructor land you safely back on terra firma. Resist the urge to kiss them, and head straight for your partner to celebrate instead. Bonus: for an extra fee, most skydiving schools will provide you with a video or pics from your experience so you can prove that you went head-over-heels for each other, up in the air.
Skydive Tandem in Gauteng, Bedfordview Johannesburg is about R1 950 (weekend rates) for a tandem jump.
Durban Skydive Centre in KZN, Durban is about R2 250 for an 8 000ft jump.
Skydive Cape Town in Western Cape, 40km from Cape Town is about R2 850 for a tandem introductory dive.
Skydive Jeffreys Bay in Eastern Cape, Jeffreys Bay is about R2 400 for a 9 000ft tandem jump.

2. Create your own perfume

Pheremones (scents of attraction) play a major role in drawing you towards someone romantically. Your sense of smell is also one of the most effective memory-drivers: a scent can transport you back to the moment you met your person, or a particular event in your life that made a major impression.
Perfume-making workshops are a great way to connect with your partner, learn something new, and have a hand in creating a bespoke signature scent that’ll remind you of them every time you spritz it on.
Fun and interactive, you’ll learn which unlikely ingredients lend your favourite note to a scent, uncover what your trigger scents say about you, and create a fragrant bond between the two of you. Some workshops lead with natural ingredients and ancient methods, while others use cutting-edge technology.

Perfume Power in Western Cape, Somerset West offers perfume-making workshop packages, from 1-hour sessions to full day workshops.
Moodsense Perfumes in Gauteng, Cradle of Mankind is offering a special Valentine’s Day Perfume Event on Sunday 17 February for R950 per person, where you can create your own scent and take it home with you. 

3. Take aim in archery

We promise we’re not referencing Cupid at all when we suggest what may initially seem like an odd date choice – archery. Every relationship needs concentration, focus, tenacity and, sometimes, a steady hand – do you see where we’re going with this?
Archery isn’t about being the strongest, fastest or smartest – but it tests you on a number of levels, including your patience! It’s a fun day outdoors as well, as you take on board your instructor’s words and battle your own wits to hit the target board – never mind the bullseye.
Once you get the hang of things, there’s a chance that a little friendly competition may raise its head, which is never a bad thing for kindling a bit of a spark!
Sentient Archery in Gauteng, Randburg offers once-off group introductory lessons at R220 per person, or a private 30-minute lesson for R230.
Kings Park Archery in KZN, Durban offers target archery and full archery courses for the brave.
Protea Sports Club in Western Cape, Cape Town has an indoor archery range and will cost you R120 for a 2-hour lesson with a qualified instructor.
Londt Park Sports Club in Eastern Cape, Port Elizabeth offers a range of sporting activities including archery for the abled and disabled.

4. Try out cable waterskiing and wakeboarding  

Water-skiing or wakeboarding used to require a boat – or a buddy with a boat – and a lot of patience. Lucky for you, the proliferation of cable water-ski parks across the country has made water sports way more accessible and cost-effective for those without boating connections.
A series of cables running above a body of water pull would-be skiers along at moderate speeds, helping you find your feet – or the water, if you struggle. It makes for a thrilling day out, and there are guaranteed to be several spills and thrills to stoke a sense of fun, and possibly that competitive spirit. Plus, nobody looks sexy in a lifejacket, so you’ll have to laugh, even if only at yourself!
StokeCity Adventure Park in Gauteng, Midrand is Gauteng’s only cable park and offers a full-day cable pass for R500 per person, which includes a helmet, lifejacket, kneeboard or water-skis.
Blue Rock in Western Cape, Sir Lowry’s Pass offers a daily rate of R460 to ski, and a further cost to hire additional equipment such as a wakeboard.

5. Trampoline your heart out

Jumping on a trampoline as a child offered hours of fun as you bounced off the mat again and again. As an adult, you’ll marvel at how fit you must have been, as you try to replicate your childhood tricks and find yourself out of breath after five minutes!
Indoor trampoline parks are popping up all over the country and offer a relatively safe way to defy gravity, improve your fitness and generally have fun. Some even have tricky obstacle courses you can race through, to get your heart racing even more.

21 Jump Street in Gauteng, Johannesburg offers 1 – 3-hour jumps from R100 to R200 per person from Monday – Sunday.
Gravity Indoor Trampoline Park in Eastern Cape, East London & Port Elizabeth charges R100 per person per hour and R60 per person for a second hour.
be.UP Park in KZN, Durban charges R130 per person for the first hour and R115 for the second.
Rush in Western Cape, Cape Town is R130 per person for an hour on Friday – Sunday, an extra charge of R100 for the second hour. 

By Trevor Crighton