Portfolio Collection Travel Blog

Happy Human Rights Day

2010-03-19

Learn more about the history of this day (previously Sharpeville Day) and why we celebrate it on 21 March each year here.

Wishing all South Africans a safe, peaceful Human Rights Day.

Cape Town Carnival Set to Go

2010-03-19

The Mother City is set to host its first fully-fledged multicultural, costumed and choreographed carnival on Saturday, March 20.

The entire length of Long Street, from Shortmarket Street to Buitensingel, is to become the playground for the inaugural Cape Town Carnival (CTC).

With the central theme ‘Rhythm, Roots and Boots’, this spectacular event aims to mirror the city’s cultural and artistic diversity. More than 2 000 costumed singers and dancers are to fill the street, performing six new Cape Town songs in unison, with sound relays and large screen viewings.

According to Alderman Felicity Purchase, the City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Development and Tourism, the CTC will be an additional platform to distinguish Cape Town as the ‘party capital’ for the forthcoming Fifa World Cup tournament.

"Strategically timed between the Cape Argus Cycle Tour and the Two Oceans Marathon, the event will promote economic growth and development, boost tourism, as well as strengthen social cohesion," she says.

Community groups, local artists, designers, theatrical performers and volunteers form the backbone of the event. The festivities kick off in Greenmarket Square at 18:00 with a pulsating concert, starring popular performers such as Loyiso, Emo Adams and new age hip hop-electro group, Locnville. This will be followed by the dazzling two hour carnival parade from 20:00 to 22:00.

"The Cape Town Carnival is all about partnerships, taking hands and creating a platform for the entire Cape Town to come together," says CEO, Isabel Meyer.

"Inspired by carnivals of the world, participants range from the celebrated minstrels, to ballet dancers, Xhosa artistes and oriental performers. Other participants include various choirs, drum majorettes, belly dancers, soccer players, marching bands, marimba bands, drag queens and pantsula dancers," she says.

She welcomed the City’s strategic partnership in the new venture. "The plan is to create an annual event, which will grow organically into a major international tourist highlight on Cape Town’s events calendar for the benefit of all Capetonians".

"The parade will tell the typical Cape Town stories through costumed participants, a number of massive costumes, some measuring four by two meters, men in very large harnesses crowned with feathers, stilt walkers, interesting characters and wonderful props. The event promises to be a feast for the ear and eye.

"The crowning glory will be a giant float, which is 12 metres long, 4 metres high and 3,5 metres wide. The acclaimed urban artist, Mak1One and a team of illustrators and designers collaborated on the float project.

"Entrance to the carnival is free and we expect thousands of Capetonians to congregate at Greenmarket Square and Long Street to share in the excitement," says Meyer.

Several large projection screens will be installed on Greenmarket Square and along Long Street to ensure that revellers can follow the kaleidoscope of colour and sound.

"Once the parade is over, the party will continue at Greenmarket Square until midnight, with the DJ duo Circuswing, performing in full carnival costumes, with jugglers and dancers," says Meyer.

Cape Town Traffic Services will announce road closures and traffic arrangements closer to the time.

Book luxury Cape Town accommodation through Portfolio Collection.

KDay at Lourensford

2010-03-19

Last year, local radio station KFM put on an incredible day of live local bands and the tickets were sold out!

This year the line-up's bigger and better. Some cool things about this one-day festival are:

no need to camp
you can come and go as you like throughout the day
the big name bands are scattered throughout the day, not saved til the end as is usually the way of concerts.

Check it out for yourself...

Need to Know

Date: 20 March 2010
Times: 11h00 - 19h00
Location: Lourensford, Somerset West (map below)
Tickets: Adults: R160 Kids: R80 Buy online at Computicket

Tourism Radio is the Local in your Hired Car

2010-03-18

Ideally, when visiting any country for the first time you’d have an English speaking local in the car giving you interesting tidbits of information about the areas you’re visiting from an ‘insiders’ point of view.

However that isn’t always possible. And come 2010 there are going to be plenty of first time visitors to our beautiful country driving around in their hired cars unsure of where they’re going, what they’re seeing and who may well leave at the end of the month not much the wiser about South Africa than they were on arrival.

Enter Tourism Radio. The local in your car who doesn’t take up space, require feeding or toilet stops, and who talks or keeps quiet at the touch of a button.

International visitors in the Western Cape will be able to tune in to this unique, location-based radio station while exploring the province for both education and entertainment.

Using GPS technology, Tourism Radio will be able to feed listeners information on the areas they’re driving through – from just R59 a day arranged when they hire their vehicle.

The radio station will be found at 91.4 FM in cars fitted with a special device. Listeners will be able to find out about the history and culture of the places they’re passing through as well as updated events and things to do nearby.

Fun extras such as local slang, quizzes and plenty of South African music will keep the whole family entertained. And during the 2010 FIFA World Cup, there will be an extra focus on soccer – matches and results included.

South African luxury accommodation: www.portfoliocollection.com

South African Car Hire: http://www.portfoliocollection.com/car_rental

Locnville, Emo Adams and Loyiso part of Line-up for Cape Town Carnival

2010-03-18

The New York born and South African raised twins, Andrew and Brian Chaplin, who are related to Charlie Chaplin, rocked to fame with their hit single, Sun in my Pocket. They will form part of the free concert line-up, which precedes the 2 500-strong Cape Town Carnival parade.

Other big stars who will take part in the concert, include acclaimed performer and radio announcer, Soli Philander as the MC, You magazine’s most stylish male R&B singer, Loyiso, and the mesmerising Emo Adams.

After the parade in Long Street, DJ duo, Circuswing, dressed in carnival costumes, with jugglers and dancers, will keep the after-party on Greenmarket Square pumping until midnight.

According to Cape Town Carnival CEO, Isabel Meyer, the parade offers a unique experience. ”For the first time in Cape Town, the entire parade of about 2 500 artistes will perform six specially written carnival songs in unison. The songs will be broadcast over speakers along the 1km parade route from Shortmarket Street to Buitensingel.

Each song tells a different story about Cape Town. Acclaimed music producer, Gabi le Roux, wrote the carnival’s theme song, Rhythm, Roots and Boots. The other five songs The Sea, Postcards from Cape Town, The Streets of Cape Town, Puzzle Pieces, and Children of the Winds of Change were composed by 19 musicians in collaboration with the Cape Town School of Songwriting under the direction of Clive Ridgway.

“The carnival offers Capetonians and visitors a true taste of the Mother City’s unique, diverse and vibrant cultures, creativity and performing arts. Although presented in a spectacular format similar to other renowned world carnivals, this event will maintain a distinct Cape Town flavour,” she says.

The singers who recorded the songs include rising local stars such as Monique Hellenberg, Blaq Pearl and Lu Chase.

“We have distributed the CD with the songs to all the participating groups which include hundreds of minstrels, choirs, bands, ballet dancers, stiltwalkers, Xhosa artistes, oriental performers, and soccer players.

“Some 80 000 Capetonians also received a free CD with their You, Huisgenoot and Drum magazines. We hope that everyone is learning the songs to be able to sing along,” says Meyer.

Apart from the stage and huge screens at Greenmarket Square, several giant projection screens will be installed along Long Street to ensure that revellers can follow the kaleidoscope of colour and sound.

The carnival festivities kick off in Greenmarket Square at 18:00 with the pulsating concert, followed by the dazzling carnival parade from 20:00 to 22:00, and an after party until midnight on Greenmarket Square. Entrance is free.

Refreshments will be on sale at bars, pubs, restaurants and cafes along the parade route.

“The Cape Town Carnival offers an additional platform to distinguish Cape Town as the ‘party capital’ for the forthcoming Fifa World Cup tournament. It will promote economic growth and development, boost tourism, as well as strengthen social cohesion,” says Alderman Felicity Purchase, City of Cape Town’s Mayoral Committee Member for Economic Development and Tourism.

*Pronounced ‘Locanville’

REVIEWED Kelly Clarkson Wows Cape Town Audiences

2010-03-18

Last night, after months of anticipation and excitement, I took my 9 year old daughter Zoë to watch her idol Kelly Clarkson in concert at the Grand Arena in Cape Town.

All I can say is WOW!

The show kicked off South African Idol winner Jason Hartman, who charmed the crowd with his smooth talking and catchy tunes. I must say that I was pleasantly surprised – he and his band rocked and got the crowd suitably amped up for the main event. After a short half hour set, Jason bade his fans farewell and the crew cleared the stage to set up for Kelly.

At 8pm sharp (wait, this is Cape Town – isn’t everything supposed to run late?), the darkened stage burst into sound and light as Kelly and her band made an energetic entrance.

The crowd, of course – went mad!

In the past week I’ve heard great things about Kelly Clarkson’s live act from various reviews of the Johannesburg and Durban shows, but I can honestly say that this lady is super talented. The moment she started singing I got chills which pretty much stayed with me for the whole show. Personally I would say that she must be one of the best pop singers out there today – her voice is amazing and she makes hitting those notes look so effortless! For someone so small, she really has a set of lungs!

In between belting out all of her well known songs, she included two great covers. One was a mash up of Alanis Morrisett’s “If I would be good” and the Kings of Leon hit “Use somebody” and the other was a hauntingly beautiful rendition of The Black Keys “Lies”. It seems as if she can sing anything and you get the feeling that she truly feels the emotion behind the lyrics.

Throughout the show she was chatty and charming, entertaining the crowd with stories behind the lyrics of her songs, making jokes and poking fun at herself. She seems so sincere and fun – the kind of girl you’d like to have in your circle of friends. She got genuinely excited when hearing the 5000 strong crowd screaming her lyrics back at her.

When it came for her final song – her mega hit “My life would suck without you” everyone in the audience was on their feet, jumping up and down and singing along. In the frenzy that followed, Kelly thanked the audience, promised to come back, said goodbye and then with just as much energy as in the beginning of the show, she bounced off stage.

I must add that Zoë (above) who has been a huge fan for years, was completely in awe from beginning to end. This was her very first “big” concert and the combination of lights, sound and seeing her hero in the flesh left her speechless after the show (well, that and the fact that she had screamed herself voiceless). I was a bit concerned that we would have a problem getting her up this morning after the late school night, but she was up in a flash and dying to get to school to tell her friends about her amazing night.

If Kelly does come back to SA - and I hope that she does, we will most definitely see her again. With that voice and enchanting personality, I am sure that everyone who was there last night feels the same.

When the Argus is Not Enough There's Always the Absa Cape Epic

2010-03-18

The Absa Cape Epic is an epic (hence the name) 8 day cycle race which includes a time-trial prologue.

The route changes each year to keep things interesting, but covers approximately 800km of unspoilt Western Cape countryside and incorporates 16 000m of climbing some of South Africa's most breath taking mountain passes. Both aspiring amateur and professional mountain bikers from around the world take part.

Check out the Absa Cape Epic 2010 route on the Cape Epic website which starts in Wellington on 21 March and ends in Lourensford on 28 March.

Supporting a cyclist during the race? If you require accommodation anywhere along the route during the Cape Epic, go to Portfolio's website for benchmarked accommodation options, or contact us directly for assistance and reservations.

Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees

2010-03-17

“The what?” I hear you say (in English). The Klein Karoo Nasionale Kunstefees (for those of us in whom the Afrikaans is a little rusty, that means the Little Karoo National Arts Festival.)It’s happening in Oudsthoorn from 01 April) all the way through to 08 April 2010) in the Ostrich Capital of South Africa.

The KKNK website, while largely in Die Taal (The Language), has the following information for English speakers.

MORE THAN JUST AFRIKAANS

Though we have over the past 16 years been South Africa’s major festival of cutting-edge theatre and music in Afrikaans, our programme also offers much to visitors who understand little or nothing of the language. Here is a guide to theatre, dance and music productions, as well as exhibitions, of particular interest to a broader audience.

Although it’s known as an Arts Festival, there’s something for the non-luvvie attendees too – a half marathon, 4x4 and motorbike trails and Township Tours.

Then of course there’s plenty of theatre, from Cabaret to Kid’s Theatre to Poetry Readings. Expect lots of visual art – photographic, fine art and sculpture will all be on display.

And then there’s the music. Every kind, from traditional Afrikaans “boere-musiek” to hard rock to classical, music will be flooding the town all week.

The venues are scattered throughout the town, with performances and exhibitions available all through the days and into the nights.

And there will be loads of food on offer from restaurants and stalls, so you’ll have plenty of opportunity to try traditional fare.

For the full week’s KKNK Programme go here.

And if you honestly run out of things to do, there’s always the Ostrich Farms and the Cango Caves!

Where to stay in Oudsthoorn:

For Portfolio’s benchmarked accommodation in Oudsthoorn – from luxurious to comfortable – contact us today.

Eat, Drink and Play at the 2010 SA Cheese Festival

2010-03-17

This gourmet gathering takes place from Saturday 24 until Tuesday 27 April 2010 at Bien Donné on the R45 between Paarl and Franschhoek.

Enjoy cheese in all its many glorious guises and meet the creators – from small artisanal outfits to the larger dairy dynasties. Discover an abundance of complementary delicacies…locally grown olives, home-made preserves, hand-crafted chocolates and award winning wines. Fancy yourself the Big Cheese when it comes to cooking up a storm? Then take part in the foodie fun in the interactive demonstration kitchen where the atmosphere is electric and the action non-stop.

The SA Cheese Festival offers a wide range of fun-filled activities for the entire family. While the adults relish the chance to soak up the laid back vibe and many opportunities to taste, eat and drink in the Cheese Emporium, Cheese Market, The Mall, Gourmet Lane or Dairy Square, kids have ample time to play in the Kiddies Corner, the Cheese Chiller or experience the magical Milk Factory.

So don’t run the risk of getting cheesed off if you miss out! Book now, as only a limited number of tickets are available at Computicket and Checkers stores (no tickets at the gates) at R110 for Saturday and Sunday and R90 for Monday and Tuesday. Senior citizens pay R70 and children 12 years and younger enter for free. The festival runs each day from 10:00 to 18:00 and closes at 17:00 on the last day.

For more information contact Agri-Expo on tel 021 975 4440 or cheese@agriexpo.co.za or visit www.cheesefestival.co.za

For divine Winelands accommodation, please contact Portfolio.

REVIEW Fant?stico Fusi?n Flamenca!

2010-03-17

It is truly special to witness a performance of pure pasión and raw talent so beautiful that it touches the very depths of your soul, dancing to the beats of your heart.

Sensually rhythmic and powerfully beautiful, Fusión Flamenca is a work of art. Intricate movements and rhythms sneak up on you, surprising you in such an unforgettable way with impeccable timing. This production, crafted by Mireille Lenferna and Joanne Bobrow, is a true ode to the incredible allure of dance and the rhythmic beats that interpret it, telling its story.

Defining the Dance

Flamenco has its roots deep in Spain’s southern region, Andalusia. Much of the details of its origins have gotten lost in history, but many clues remain as to how this art form evolved. Many say that the name “Flamenco” that was given to the dance (“Baile”), music, chanting, singing (“Cante”) and staccato handclapping (“Palmas”) of this art form, originated during the early 1500s during the reign of Spain’s Charles V. Many believe Flamenco’s origins lie with the nationality that was inappropriately given to the gypsies by the common folk of that same time. Others believe that the name originates from the Arabic “fella mangu” – the labourer who sings.

Whatever the details, it is strongly apparent that the development of Flamenco is heavily influenced by many different corners of the world. Early influences blend together the rhythms of ancient Hindu dances, the threnodies of Greek mourners, mimes of Imperial Rome, chanting that took place in Jewish synagogue services and the Gypsies who migrated across Asia and the European continent, as well as Northern Africa.

More information on the art of Flamenco and its origins can be found here:

El Rincon Flamenco Dance Company - The Cast

Fusión Flamenca features inspiring choreography by Joanne Bobrow, Mireille Lenferna, Rosana Maya, Amber Jones and Bonny Macrae. The core rhythms of Flamenco were beautifully choreographed to “join forces” with those of the production’s guest African gumboot and contemporary dancers in a way that showcased each artist’s charismatic charm, skill and style. The fused dance styles were almost seamless. Each style’s basic rhythm complimented the others’ to create a truly special production.

Music and costume designs were a wonderful blend of the past and present, combining the traditional and the contemporary beautifully. African prints and beaded necklaces, flowing chiffon, colourful shawls, skirts and props added to the wonderfully fused styles beautifully!

The cast of the El Rincon Flamenco Dance Company performed with a sparkle in their eyes, making it remarkably obvious how much they truly love to dance. Each and every dancer’s personality shone through their alluring movements. I loved, as I always have, the way in which every dancer had his and her own style and stage presence, standing out as an individual, even when performing as a group. Each is an artist in his or her own right and they were each special to watch.

A truly inspirational dancer to me personally, Mireille Lenferna has the kind of stage presence that is soulful and moving. She is a dancer who reaches into the very depths of her heart and performs such exquisitely beautiful pieces that often take my breath away! Performances by Joanne Bobrow and guest artist, Rosana Maya were equally profound and special!

Guest Artists

Rosana Maya

Rosana dances with pure heart and soul, and is a true artist. It was a special treat to watch her as she moved across the stage performing Flamenco and Indian choreography. Her love for dance, performance and individuality shone brightly and as she danced I couldn’t help but feel that I was in the presence of a very rare kind of special dancer.

Mischief Guitar Duo

Accompanying the dancers were guitarists Andre Liebenberg and Rudo van Staden. Their style is strongly influenced by Paco de Lucia, Paco Peña, Acoustic Alchemy and Lee Ritenour and it showed in this production. The pair are true masters of their art form and beautifully complimented the dancers with their mesmerising music.They are currently recording their 2nd album entitled “Woodgrain.”

Contemporary Dancers

Contemporary dancers, Amber Jones, Angelique Raposo and Porcia Kietzmann were astoundingly beautiful! Their movements were effortless, light and perfectly synchronised. Their participation in the gumboot dancing added a little fun to the production too!

Gumboot Dancers

Full of energy and fun, the gumboot dancers were an absolute thrill to watch! These young men danced with their hearts too, showcasing their remarkable talents and giving us all a performance to remember!

Olé!

Flamenco is a truly remarkable art form, so intricately unique and inspiring! It’s powerfully human, portraying raw emotions without inhibition in a rhythmic display of wonderful storytelling. This is precisely the reason I have personally been so attracted to Flamenco. Flamenco is sincere, serious, passionate and vehemently animated. Flamenco is danced, sung and musically played wholeheartedly with every inch of the soul, interpreting stories of great sadness and loss, and joy and celebration.

Fusión Flamenca thrilled from the very second that the lights went down and this incredible cast took their places. Instantly enveloped, the rhythms of Fusión Flamenca casts a fascinating spell that lingers throughout the performance. I simply didn’t want the show to end! Fusión Flamenca is a choreographed work of art that is engaging with its audience, sparking many a fascinated onlooker to mirror the emotional rhythms, feeling them with their whole hearts themselves, and shout out an appreciative Olé!

After such a wonderfully inspiring performance (we’d worked up an appetite just watching the show!), us girls (my mother, sister and I) couldn’t resist a bite to eat at the News Café Restaurant in the foyer of the Nelson Mandela Theatre. A hearty meal was had… a fitting end to a Sunday afternoon that was, too, full of heart!

If you missed Fusión Flamenca, be sure to look out for future performences by the El Rincon Flamenco Dance Company.

For bookings at the News Café Restaurant, phone (011) 877-6847 to secure a reservation.

For Luxury Johannesburg accommodation please contact Portfolio

Fusión Flamenca photographs by Blaize Pascall (Pascall Photography)