Kirfara

Kirfara Nature

2014-09-17T13:50:00.001+02:00

As a nature guide I find it enjoyable to share a little experience through pictures. I hope you like them. Some were taken through a binocular lens and all were taken with an iPhone 5. My last proper camera was a Nikon F4 in the days of film. When I grow up I want to use fancy cameras again, but in the mean time this is still a hobby that one can practice even with a smartphone.

"So, do not look for the soul of Reinhold Rau among the dead - he is not to be found there; rather look for him among living things, whether these are people or tortoises or frogs. Or better still, search for his spirit in some place like the Karoo National Park, when in the cool of the evening, quaggas, which were once thought to be extinct, come to drink at the waterhole - as they were always meant to do" Butch Hulley. Please see the Quagga Project at http://www.quaggaproject.org/index.htm if you would like to know more about Quagga and Zebra.

Oplinophagy - feeding on snakes. This is the Brown snake- eagle with the waxing moon. " Snake eagles (Genus Circaetus) differ from 'true' eagles by having unfeathered legs with heavy scales, loose feathers on the head giving rounded appearance, and a very upright stance" Trevor Carnaby - Beat about the bush, Birds.

A zulu friend told me they believe the Nyala (Tragelaphus angasii) to be one of the most beautiful antelope of all. The creator "marked" this antelope with two conspicuous white spots between the eyes to celebrate and confirm his beauty. Perhaps the white chevron between the eyes is also useful as it reflects light into the eyes that may improve nocturnal vision, or a cryptic marking that may confuse predators.

It makes sense that Homo erectus learned to walk upright on elephant pathways. Elephants are experts at creating contour paths that cross the mountain ranges of the continent.

In the Western Cape, the last wild elephants were seen in the Franschoek valley (previously Elephants valley) around one hundred and fifty years ago. Elephants are now kept at some safari destinations close to Cape Town where they are fed with invasive species such as black wattle and sleep in an elephant stable.

Darryl Dell of &Beyond calls this lion the largest wild lioness on the continent. This picture was also shot through a binocular lens limiting the depth of field and blurring the giraffe further down the road.

In the Caprivi strip elephants and humans live side by side. The Chobe National Park in Botswana on the southern banks of the river by the same name, is home to the largest remaining elephant population in Africa.

White backed vultures in Phinda Game Reserve. Vultures have anti-bacterial agents in the gut that allow them to digest rotting material. In this way they perform a crucial cleaning service in keeping disease from spreading to other species.

The falls at the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia. The locals call it Musi-oa-tunya that means the smoke that thunders. Visitors call it Victoria Falls, who's Victoria?

"The high slopes are hard to reach so the environment is fairly undamaged. However, tourism in the Drakensberg is developing, with a variety of hiking trails, hotels and resorts appearing on the slopes. Most of the higher South African parts of the range have been designated as game reserves or wilderness areas. Of these the UKhahlamba / Drakensberg Park was listed by UNESCO in 2000 as a World Heritage site." http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drakensberg

It is imperative to protect and conserve nature around us. We must be the voice of the voiceless and show the world what is happening in the environment. Most people do not have the opportunity to travel to areas where nature is protected, so they do not realise the repercussions of our so called "development" and everyday actions. Development is destruction of nature if the impact of our actions is not taken into consideration. In order to prevent destruction (and us humans with it), development must be done in a sustainable manner where all life and ecosystems are considered in decision making. We have to learn to improve our relationships with the other life forms and environments that we share the planet with. Earth does not belong to us, we belong to earth.

" I go to nature to be soothed and healed, and to have my senses put in order " John Burroughs.

Ugandan Dreams

2014-02-02T13:41:00.000+02:00

We set out from Entebbe in our rental RAV. Visiting the Mt. Gorilla Nest at the UWA (Uganda Wildlife Authority) in Kampala to buy permits for Gorilla and Chimp viewing. We knew already the permits were costly, and soon learnt that this authority was serious about protecting natural heritage. We had no idea what a life experience traveling Uganda would turn into.

Dreamy lake Bunyoni with distant vistas of the Virunga volcanoes. It took a pinch to make sure it was real. Sensory stimulating dramatic landscapes all around Uganda calling for immediate internal reflection. There was no choice but to smell, see, hear, taste, feel and be with totally open senses. We found the tropical Africa we yearned for.

Bwindi was as mystical and secretive as impenetrable. Forests obscuring horizons and international boundaries. The last stand of Gorilla gorilla, and home to the unique Batwa people. We were relieved to find local authorities and guides serious about the conservation of the forest and its inhabitants. Ruhija and Rushaga were great departure points of exploration.

On our way north to Kihihi, a winding road through the highest slopes of Bwindi Forest. We saw Pordocarpus Yellow Wood type trees. I wondered how many primates there were in Africas Primate history, and about all of us today.

Stark differences await those who leave the forest. We had no choice, the way to Kihihi where the (in hind sight terrible) "modern supermarket" awaited.
But the destination was Ishasha, a southern section of Queen Elizabeth National Park. On our map it grippingly marked in red: "Tree Climbing Lions". Linda has some fixation with cats, so much more huge lions lounging and sleeping in Ficus trees as if they were born in the branches. Little did we know how lucky we would be.

Camping on the banks of the Ishasha river, with hippos andDefassa Waterbuck walking freely around day and night. On the second day of scanning, searching, tracking lions, we get a tip off with details of a certain area (and always look in the fig trees). Arboreal prides often rest in large trees when temperatures soar in the middle of the day. The lions are as comfy up there as a cat on a couch. We spent five hours with the Tree Climbing Lions of Ishasha.

Branch Manager

Long-crested Eagle (Lophaetus occipitalis) Uganda boasts arguably the best birdwatching in Africa.

Both Queen Elizabeth and Murchison Falls National Parks teem with wildlife. Although the Amin-type slaughter of humans and other animals have left it's mark of destruction and extinction, perhaps tourism can boost the surviving radiating populations and species. If we can for example save the rhino, the veld in Uganda is prime for reintroduction.

As we drove into Kibale Forest, we spotted a community of Chimps (Pan Troglodytes). The next two days we spent in both the wild and habituated primate communities of Kibale. The most diverse primate communities in the world. The amount of life changing experiences left us in awe and respect of our relatives.

Touring Uganda is the deep end in the pool of Africa's landscapes. One can depart a mountainous forest and arrive a few hours later in perfect savanna. A myriad of biome definitions can be drawn from incredibly compact natural diversity.

Loxodonta africana

Timely research taught us the insecurities of Kidepo Valley. And it didn't help much that war had just broken out again in the Sudans to the north. Passing Kitgum, we held our breaths of what we would find. We found the Karamojong. We fell in love with the land of the Karamoja people.

Kigelia africana, Sausage Tree

Driving in Uganda is notoriously interesting. Get a trustworthy driver and take your time. Distances can be deceiving and one rapidly learns to measure in time rather than distance. TIA, you know. If you are on a self drive, good luck. Roads range from footpaths to tarred and new. Public transport "death busses" swoop down tiny roads which they hardly fit on, so pull over and do bird-watching. Boda-bodas are amazing scenic coffins on wheels. Tragically we also encountered a freshly smashed up RAV, and met the naïve survivors the next day. Phew.

People are super friendly and helpful, and everyone speaks English. Make an attempt to learn some Swahili and Buganda.

Akorongimoe and Linda, new best friends

Have you heard of a shy stork called Shoebill (Balaeniceps rex)? Out in the open, three sightings in two days on the Nile Delta. Praise the Shoebill.

Travelling Uganda involves a criss-cross of the Equator. This is at Paraa Ferry in Murchison Falls National Park.

Ankole cattle. We got into trouble for not asking to take pictures. I said: mooo…and sorry.

Wilderness Camping was at the order of the day. Linda preparing dinner, and two buffalo guarding the camp sight. Fruits and vegetables were delicious and abundant. Nile Delta, Queen Elizabeth National Park.

The perfect navigator, travel and life companion. Wife, I love you.

After rafting the White Nile and a visit to the Botanical Gardens, it was time for us to depart Entebbe and Uganda. We thought of our families and parents Leon, Moksie, Bessie and André who supported us in our wedding and this travel dream. Our sadness of leaving Uganda slightly waned as we thought of Biko and Clara. Ugandan dreams changed our lives for ever.

Kirfara: Peninsula Days

2013-03-18T11:20:00.001+02:00

Kirfara: Peninsula Days

Guests from Uruguay

2012-11-08T08:28:00.001+02:00

Hola, soy Dora Beatriz Maurin, una de las tres turistas Uruguayas, que estuvimos paseando contigo por Cape Town, los primeros días de octubre. Pasamos momentos maravillosos: Tus relatos de la ciudad, y alrededores, nos dieron una idea magnífica de la ciudad y su historia. Los recorridos por las montañas, senderos, y costas, nos enseñaron todo lo maravilloso que tiene tu país.

Es una mezcla exacta de naturaleza, océanos, flores, pájaros, sonidos, colores, y sobre todo gente tan única, amable, y cariñosa...

Fue una experiencia inolvidable, que nos movilizó los sentimientos hasta las lágrimas: como la visita a Robben Island, creo que yo tengo un antes y un después, luego de ese día: como hemos reflexionado sobre el sacrificio de tanta gente.....

Y creo que todo salió EXCELENTE: POR TU PRESENCIA....

Realmente reconocemos tu don de guía, tu cultura, y tu buena disposición para todos los momentos.

Que nadie se pierda tu compañía: Eres de lo mejor de Sudafrica.

Con todo cariño desde Uruguay. Sudamerica, hasta pronto y buena suerte!!!

Dorita

Peter Jelley reunited with his camera.

2012-10-26T09:01:00.002+02:00

Hello Kirsten,
All is well! The camera has found it's way home, thanks to the wonderful people at SAA.
They have gone to a lot of trouble but they made it happen.
It was sent to the Australian manager last week and I had a parcel delivery company pick it up and send it on to me.
It took a bit of time but I am extremely grateful to everybody who offered help, including you.
Hope all is going fine in SA and you my visit Australia some day for the surfing at Bell's beach.
Kind Regards,
Peter Jelley

Jan Grobler's take on being down under.

2012-10-03T21:08:00.002+02:00

Uhm ja, not quite sure where this is coming from - maybe all the travelling and thinking along the way and being surrounded by people missing home. I'm probably writing this mostly as a note to myself though I thought I'd share it with you...

Over the past year or so in Australia, I've often had conversations with ex-South Africans who are either negative about Australia as they keep comparing it to South Africa (guilty as charged) or people who are negative about South Africa in order to justify their decision to leave South Africa.

When I first arrived in Autralia, I stayed in Broome for about two months to work on a project. During this time, I had the opportunity to exlore the Ausie Outback, amazing contrasting colours where the red soil meets the turquois ocean, where rough guys sit on the porch outside the Roebuck bar and sheilas serve you drinks in their underwear... Where I met hippies protesting against the project which we worked on, and yet they reminded me of my friends back home.. Later when I moved to Perth, I moved into Blencowe 25 sharing a house with two French girls and a crazy Italian, enough material to write a book about... Appreciating the 'luxury' of not having to lock my door, running around Lake Monger under the moon lit sky, travelled around Margaret River, tasted some of the best wines in the world. Diving at Carnac Island. Flying to Sydney, admiring the beauties on Manly beach and checking out the Sydney Opera House. Hiring a car and driving along the coast towards Melbourne, breathtaking scenery... Spending an awesome few days in Melbourne, pub crawling with South African friends, going to the Melbourne Grand Prix, great times which I'm truly grateful for...

When I recently went back to SA, I visited the Kruger with my family, went to the Piet Grobler dam - named after my great grandfather who had a vision for nature conservation (yes I'm very proud), travelled to Cape Town, the fairest cape in the world... partied with great friends till the early morning hours 'cause you only live once', and somewhere along the way unexpectedly fell in love.. When I went to Uganda, my appreciation for deepest darkest Africa deepened yet again. With hippos and fish eagles as alarm clock, exchanging corporate boardrooms for village meetings under the 'wisdom tree'... Being reminded that there are people who travel 40km a day to collect water, most common causes of death not being high blood pressure, suicides, car accidents or senseless murders, but people dying because of malaria, old age or croc attacks... Being reminded that elders have a place in society, looking after the children while parents fish, graze lifestock or cultivate their fields. Noticing the complete absence of retirement villages, mental hospitals, or the need to have Virgin Actives. A crazy beautiful (and different) world. The world where I personally feel I can breathe, where I can wear my sandals and pee under a tree, where I can cross the street when there's no car and not have to wait for a light to tell me what to do, where I can make a fire and not have to use gas or find a designated 'barbeque area', where people still hug and smile when they walk past you...

So where am I going with this? It's just this, you have to make the grass greener where you are, now! Whether the grass is green is very closely linked to your attitude. If you're pesimistic where you are now, you are most likely going to find sometihing to be pesimistic about on the other side... In South Africa, people feel angry and conerned about the situation of crime, the degrading education system, the looming economic recession, and quite rightly so! But, remember that we have managed to prove the world wrong since the early 90's, where people have been buying canned food, over and over and over again, to the dismay of poor old Spottie who can't stand the taste of baked beans anymore! Malema is an arsehole, but so is Julia Gillard - They Are Politicians, they can't help it! And I also have to tell you, my housemates from France and Italy are not keen to return home as the economic recession has hit them hard and it sounds like the red wine is no longer providing the same vava voom feeling as before...

From the second last paragraph, it's probably clear where my heart lies, which made it all the more difficult at times to make the grass green here. But today when I went for a run on the beach, I was mesmerised by the sunset and felt ashamed for taking this travelling opportunity for granted at times, because I was longing too much for the other side. I've got a couple of decisions lying ahead, but until I make them, I've decided to appreciate this part of the world for what it is and live in the moment. It requires a change of mind and not merely a once off decision and I want to urge you do the same wherever you may be, cause life's too short.

Tomorrow I can die when breaking the law jaywalking... and so can you, but then at least you have lived without having waited for the promises of that one day when you're on the other side...

Ps... if you have emigrated, the grass is where you are now so make it green or go back... if you plan to emigrate, to Uganda... make the grass green in the meantime... if you plan to travel and explore.. the grass will be green all the way, and if you're content where you are, well then just read this as a g'day from downunder!

2012-09-22T14:52:00.000+02:00

Dear Kirsten,

It was nice to hear from you. Marie and I had a fantastic holiday in your country and in East Africa, which was made even more enjoyable by your very professional leadership. Your colleague, Joseph, whilst very different was just as good and I have enclosed a copy of his photo. Marie and I also spent a week with friends in Knysna after our safari adventures, and I must say we fell in love with the area - certainly could be described as paradise.

In addition to the photo of Joseph, I have enclosed your photo with Marie and me.

Warmest regards, and again, many thanks for a most enjoyable time. We wish you well.

Graham (& Marie)

Linda getting her Mzansi on.

2012-09-19T20:21:00.002+02:00

Chanse Le SA?– Linda Maré

After University I took 3 years to travel and see the world. I thought I would try and see as much as possible and then find the perfect spot somewhere put down roots and settle down. Perhaps a little island where the beaches are sandy, the men are strong and where the billionaires hide their money free from tax and the maddening hand of the law. A life of adventure awaited me filled with old cathedrals designed by geniuses long dead, art, music, secret missions to do secret things and incredible food. During my travels I did see many of these things I thought I longed for. Most of the time however after the initial hoo-ha, I was left with a feeling of disappointment. I’m not taking anything away from majestic Sagrada familia and Sacré-Cœur – but something was missing...

Australopithecus africanus, Australopithecus sediba,

Miriam Makeba, Khoikhoi herders and Madiba.

Xhosa, Zulu, Swazi ,Ndebele, Tswana, Sepedi,

Rooivalk, Jan van Riebeeck, Cecil John Rhodes and Mbeki.

Table Mountain, Bafana-Bafana, Shaka and Tutu,

The Voortrekkers, Rhino , Braaivleis and Sotho.

Chakalaka, Kudu, Soweto, Drakensberg and the SAP,

Mrs Bols, Zambuck, Helen Zille, Pofadder, we are free.

Chris Barnard, Percy Fitspatrick, Jock and Saartjie Baardman,

Clegg, District 6, Liewe Heksie, Boabab and the XhoiSan.

Panthera leo, Winelands, Steve Biko, the green and gold,

Pilgrims Rest, Oliver Thambo and seeing a democracy unfold.

This is what was missing…

Nowhere on God’s green earth will you find a more diverse culture, more colour, better music or more exquisite food.

The most important thing I have learnt from travelling is that I don’t want to live anywhere else in the world than right here, squeezed to the tip of the dark continent between the Atlantic and the Indian.

Street Running

2012-05-23T16:32:00.001+02:00

In line with theory of exposing guests and clients to a fresh realistic life experience in stead of a stale, flat tourism tour, I have to share my last two street running experiences here. Life in South Africa is volatile, and we sometimes run the streets away from-, or in pursuit of- burglars and criminals.

As we finally found a house and an approved mortgage, we toasted in our garden and chatted excitingly about the prospect of becoming home owners. A tall order to me as I usually avoid the tiresome ideal of ownership of anything, and believe that it is at least partially a nonsensical human endeavor.

At that moment a window shattered and peeping over the wall, I saw a possible criminal exiting the neighbor's house. I grabbed my phone and called the police, and as I hastily ran after the fleeing criminal he yelled: "I will shoot you". He pretended to fiddle in his pockets as we ran down the street but it was clear he had nothing to "shoot" with.

A few streets further the agile fast criminal jumped over an electric fence and onto a roof. Perhaps his adrenaline or tik high carried him over rooftops as he scurried away from police, who were by now in the area.

The second street run came a week later, I was alerted by a sound from our own bedroom window. Carefully looking around the corner, a person was trying to force himself through our window and into our house. I yelled strong words and he ran down the street perhaps not expecting me to follow. This time the alleged intruder stood out like a sore thumb, wearing a brightly colored sweater.

Once again grabbing my phone and alerting the authorities, I ran after the suspected criminal and the man was arrested a kilometer away. I asked him why he wanted to break into my house, he denied knowing anything about it.

As the police pushed him into the back of a police van, a security guard passed by and entered the van. I heard a sound as if the guard was violating the suspect and insisted to the guard to get out of the van and away from the arrested person. I felt sympathy for the criminal.

This is not what tourists want to hear, and not the stories we would like to share. Reality is that we live in a hazardous society. Our country's president is allegedly involved in corrupt activities and police leaders are exposed one by one as criminals.

Can our democracy help improve education and work prospects desperately needed to uplift individuals from the lucrative or desperate measures of a criminal lifestyle? Can the honesty and dedication of the average policeman override the corrupt elements in the forces leadership?

Let us hope that we can indeed expose our guests, visitors and friends to real life experiences, without running the streets after criminals.

Peninsula Days

2012-05-15T10:38:00.002+02:00

A kirfara production of the last days of Philip's mission from Cunene to Cape

2012-04-28T20:13:00.000+02:00

Freedom day, autumn, Elands with no swell and this special friends wanderlust.
Linda's gift of a GoPro camera opens a new door now.
Have a look:
http://youtu.be/p-9AWMtznXg

My HR assignment towards my MBA is due today. You can read and comment!

2012-04-02T12:39:00.001+02:00

Human Resource Management Assignment
Surname	Keun
First Name/s	Johan Willem Kirsten
Student Number	116909
Module Name	Human Resource Management
Assignment Number	1
Examination Venue	CT
Date Submitted
Submission (√)	First Submission	Yes
Postal Address	NCC Environmental Services
	Linda Mare
	Po box 30223
	Tokai
	7966			7708
E-Mail	kirsten.keun@gmail.com
Contact Numbers	(Work)
	(Home)
	(Cell) 0824140671
Course/Intake	MBA Year 1 - January 2012
Declaration: I hereby declare that the assignment submitted is an original piece of work produced by myself.
Signature: K. Keun			Date: 20 March 2012

Table of Content

Question 1 p3

Analyse City Lodge’s talent management and development strategy in terms of the five priorities, namely leadership development, diversity, employee engagement, learning and development, and succession planning.

Question 2 p5

As is evident at City Lodge, benefits account for a large share of employee compensation. Critically analyse City Lodges reward and compensation system, discussing the role that compensation plays in creating a motivated workforce.

Question 3 p7

Discuss the recruitment policy of City Lodge that is making them an attractive employer to the Labour Market.

Question 4 p9

Evaluate the extent of strategic integration of the human resource management function at City Lodge within its own policy areas and the integration of employees with the goals of the organization and its future.

References p12

All references listed on page 12

1. “Talent thus needs to be managed strategically and both HR and leaders need to ensure that they partner to identify and invest in the critical talents that will ensure current and future business success.” Boninelli and Meyer (2011:339)

The Collins Dictionary defines a leader as “a person who rules, guides, or inspires others; head” (2009:441)

City Lodge has taken a leading role through challenging employment paradigms in the hospitality industry. Leadership development is critical to organizations with ambition of industry leadership. City Lodge effectively search, discover and nurture leadership talent in its ranks. As the Mancosa Case Study (2012:38) points out “ the group has established the City Lodge academy with a three-year hotel management qualification…while the Accelerated Development and Deployment Program aims to nurture black management talent” While many organizations seek management talent elsewhere, City Lodge realise that the talent may often lie within their current staff, as the case study further indicates (2012,39) “a number of staffers have joined the group as General Services Attendants, and have climbed the ranks to General Manager Positions” City Lodge nurtures and develops their own staff and believe in them, creating sustainable opportunities for their staff and producing great leadership for their organization. Defying the industry standard of high turnover in staff, City Lodge deserves leaders through playing a leadership role in the industry.

One of South Africa’s most attractive assets is the diversity it harbors. From the wildlife and geographical features to the myriad of cultures and languages of all South Africans. In the Service and hospitality Industries this diversity can be embraced and utilised to the benefit and sustainability of business. In the Case Study we note (2012:38) “diversity is fostered through the employment equity plans”

With South Africa’s history of cultural and racial discrimination, it is imperative for ambitious organizations to implement equity and equality strategies. Talent exists- and can be stimulated in all peoples and cultures. The service industry represents the beauty and productivity of this diversity, presenting it to it’s own diverse clientele. The guests experience is enhanced by the diverse nature of the people of the Rainbow Nation. Visitors are educated and remain in awe of the functionality and interaction between peoples from different cultures and languages unified in one nation, peacefully. City Lodge’s executives and board represent an example of the cultural landscape and diversity of Southern Africa.

Employee Engagement is a sign of an open and trusting relationship between the organization and its employees. The organization values the input and opinions of its employees. “ City Lodge’s induction program plays a key role…with each employee undergoing an intense process to familiarise itself with the group’s values, credo and vision…to engage with the organisation’s culture.” Mancosa (2012:38)

Employee Engagement assures the employee of the organizations trust and support, every employee a unique asset. An effective and easy to use communication channel between employees and all structures of the organization is critical to functional employee engagement. City Lodge’s flat structure automates and enhances traditionally challenging communication between the strategic functions of the company and the employee. At City Lodge Monthly Staff meetings, Intranet and Feedback Fridays stimulate and accommodate efficient communication between all staff structures and staff members.

Learning and Development is at the epicenter of staff development and retention. Employees may originate from a modest background with limited opportunity, and this is where the organization can turn the recruited talent into a dedicated lasting workforce. City Lodge shows dedication to learning and development of its employees through a program in conjunction with a university and a program to stimulate previously disadvantaged talent. They recognize the importance of education and skills development and assist the employee in skills development and acquiring qualifications. This is to the benefit of the organization and the employee. The organization recognizes the essence of developing and nurturing the employee through learning and development. The needs of the individual are aligned to the needs of the organization improving the potential of the individual and the organization.

Succession Planning:

“Succession plans take a longer-term career development approach. They effectively ‘earmark’ employees for development through the hierarchy. They therefore show something of the longer-term internal supply situation.” Gregory (2011:171)

At City Lodge the industry norm of high staff turnover has been turned over into high staff retention. Talent is scouted, identified and nourished through training, trust, communication and a flat organizational structure. It is uplifting and encouraging that a Service Attendant can become a Manager in a traditionally top heavy industry. City Lodge throws the top over and builds their organization organically from the grass roots level. This effort and trust will ensure successors who are dedicated to the well being and sustainability and success of their organization. Successors will be experienced and equipped with skills in sync with the culture and vision of their organization. The organization takes a long-term interest into the members that forms the organization. This reduces recruitment costs and ensures a unique talent- and skills retention to the organization.

As City Lodge grows in an ever-competitive market, their talent management and development strategy ensures their place in the hearts of their clients, and in that of their staff.

Question 2

As is evident at City Lodge, benefits account for a large share of employee compensation. Critically analyze City Lodges reward and compensation system, discussing the role that compensation plays in creating a motivated workforce.

Rewards and compensation are exchanged for the employee’s commitment and performance. Adequate and sustainable rewards and compensation attract quality talent; keeps talented employees content in the workplace, and motivate employees in career building with the inspiration and in care of the organization.

The organization studies and research labor markets in order to determine pay structures for specific occupations and provide the employee with an attractive and motivating value proposition. The value proposition is the total package and mental association the employee accepts from the organization:

Says Boninelli and Meyer (2011:327) “the challenge to attract, develop, deploy, engage and retain the top talent continues to provide opportunities to think out side the box in order to deliver innovative human capital strategies that deliver the right results.”

City Lodge offers an above average remuneration to their employees: “at the 75^th -and in some cases the 90^th -industry percentile” (Mancosa 2012:39)

Industry percentiles can give job seekers an idea of what an organization offers compared to alternative organizations. For example the median percentile or 50^th percentile of remuneration is the average pay in a specific industry, population or profession. Therefore City Lodge pays between 25% to 40% more than the industry average. Although current HR theory suggests that there are many more factors than numbers attracting people to- and keeping employees in their jobs, this is a successful remuneration strategy that City Lodge follows. At first glance expensive, but in the long run economical and sustainable. Staff turnover is expensive in many ways to a company.

City Lodge’s reward and compensation system forms part of their employee-driven customer focused corporate culture. This means employees at all levels think and act like owners and take personal responsibility for the organization’s success.

Maroney (2004) points to five key factors to successfully motivate employees:

Satisfaction, Appreciation, Recognition, Inspiration and Compensation.

By Satisfaction we understand that any employment can cause an employee to be satisfied or dissatisfied with their commitments, relationship and association with an employer or organisation. The value that the employer presents or bestows to the worker is relative to the thoughts and state of mind of the worker. Valuable talent is treated with respect and sustainable monetary and psychological compensation in order for the organisation to capitalize on its human resources of capital. City Lodge strive to satisfy their employees in exchange for dedicated work, capitalizing on low staff turn over and scoring high on staff equity.

To feel appreciated is a morale boosting and productivity increasing state of mind. Workers who feel appreciated are likely to appreciate their organisation in turn boosting productivity, growth and sustainability. Strengthening the company brand identity.

Rewards could be intrinsic or extrinsic. Intrinsic rewards are the feelings of the worker such as satisfaction and feeling recognized, while extrinsic are the salaries and bonuses or opportunities to ownership of the organisation. City Lodge sees the importance of intrinsic and extrinsic rewarding.

Recognition strengthens relationships boosting trust between recipients. City Lodge looks for opportunities to celebrate recognition of their staff’s achievements: “the company celebrates employee achievements through Long Service Awards, Gotcha Awards…and a number of awards that are presented on the awards evening” (Mancosa 2012:39) Recognition is a good example of non-monetary ways to stimulate staff morale and productivity.

The company can inspire its staff in order to strengthen the bond. For example City Lodge takes a leading role in employment equity and their value proposition to their staff. People are inspired to associate with City Lodge and their staff stays inspired, since they are aware of the employment challenges in the industry such as high staff turnover and diminutive value propositions and remuneration.

Although monetary compensation has been pointed out to be one of many ways for the organisation to attract and keep talent, the importance of a fair, equitable and market leading salary cannot be underestimated. People use money to pay for living expenses, housing, transport, schooling and holidays.

City Lodge’s share ownership scheme enables staff to become shareholders as it strives to be at the helm of employment equity, talent management, development and retention. Although stock options have recently become a popular way of a responsible business, Noe et al (2010) note “the Golden age of stock options may be coming to an end”. This is because of economical fluctuations and in some cases people need cash, not stock especially if the stock is not valuable or obviously favorable to the employee.

In the South African context it is imperative that the leading organisation assist previously disadvantaged groups through development and equity. This cements the place South Africa holds on the continent and worldwide as a leader in innovative Talent and Human Capital Management and Development.

City Lodge contributes and nurtures the labor market through transformation strategy, Black Economic Empowerment, skills development and a social investment program.

Benefits are integrated into the employee value offering, “Remuneration packages include a thirteenth cheque...generous leave…maternity leave and study leave (as well as assistance)…pension and provident fund, medical aid…” Although it is interesting to note that “Secondary Benefits and Working Conditions “

is the only area where City lodge gets only three stars form Best Employers. There may be some work ahead for the HR dedicated director.

Organizations in the Southern African hospitality industry can learn from City Lodges committed investment in their Human Capital and Human Resources. Their staff follows suit with attitudes of ownership, responsibility and self-improvement, believing in their organisation and becoming long time employees in an industry that needs exactly that.

Question 3

Discuss the recruitment policy of City Lodge that is making them an attractive employer to the Labour Market.

City Lodge is attractive to the Labour Market with it’s motto: “People caring for People”, and also the more recent: “I’m kind” These mottos typify the relationship the group foster with its staff (and clients) If City Lodge cares for their staff and are kind to them, that is very attractive to the Labour Market.

“The Group considers its people to be its greatest asset;…many team members have remained with the group throughout its 25 years of existence” (Mancosa 2012)

City Lodge’s recruitment policy aims to select and place staff that embodies their care for each other, the organisation and its clients. The Recruitment policy makes it easy for the company to reach candidates that fit their need of people with specific characters and ambitions, both inside and outside the company.

Recruiting candidates who invest in themselves, and care for their employing brand, the policy is in line with legal requirements that provide equal opportunity to all, and specifically people from previously disadvantaged groups. In the South African context, this is imperative to the Recruitment policy of all organisations.

The policy is to advertise opportunities internally and externally, and in line with development of individuals into the “family”, they seek to recruit candidates who are likely to stay with the group for many years, improving their experience, skills and qualifications, and in line with company culture that develops careers.

Service and hospitality organisations require a variety of staff at different skills and experience levels in a variety of fields. The Recruitment Policy and strategy provides the company with the necessary people filling the particular roles in the functioning of the organisation.

Today’s competitive Hotel and Tourism industry demands a well-defined recruitment policy timely providing quality human resources.

City Lodge boast their career development and seem to provide unique opportunities to suitable individuals that has the groups priorities of taking care and being kind at heart. This is a culture where individuals from diverse backgrounds and qualifications may live out their ambition and make the contributions necessary to see their organisation succeed. One specific management position is dedicated to “…Orientation and Management Development that oversees the recruitment, on-boarding, development, progression and retention…” (Mancosa 2012) This shows that City Lodge spends resources in building up a recruitment policy and strategy that can provide them with necessary leadership in this demanding industry and field. By the time such leadership positions arise, blooming candidates are developed and prepared in the company development program, ready to become managers.

Although staff growth have stabilized in the last year “Total number of employees of 1 530, compared with 1 555 in 2010…”(City Lodge Annual Report 2011) Gabriel Mothiba says: “Over the last decade or so we have witnessed a spectacular growth of the sector. It is generally accepted that the hospitality sector is one of the fastest growing sectors of the economy” The same report indicates that 7.6% of National employment is covered by the sector taking care of over one million jobs.

The sector is growing strongly, and although South Africa faces a skills shortage, the hospitality sector demands mostly unskilled labor. In the bigger scheme anyone can therefore start up a hospitality venture in South Africa but it takes initiative and corporate responsibility to establish a successful sustainable organisation that thrives on it’s human capital. It is in the training, development and trust of their work force that City Lodge is rewarded with growth and success. While some companies may follow a route of utilizing affordable labor to penetrate the hospitality sector, the secret is to invest in the workforce and develop it into the organisation’s care- taking force of the future. This is the most attractive City Lodge characteristic to the labor Market: they recruit, employ and compensate talent, utilizing their human capital to grow business sustainably.

City Lodge is cemented as a modern responsible hospitality brand with thousands of employees in the family. Acknowledging the importance of transformation and social responsibility; re -investing in the communities they source talent from; and growing by educating and developing the skills and qualifications of their staff.

Marcel Kobilski Human Resources Director says:

“ … we hope that in time we can use this to draw a correlation between the development of our employees and our profits” (Investors in People South Africa 2009)

Question 4

Van der Westhuizen highlights five broad guidelines stipulated as ideal Recruitment policy and procedures for public sector companies. These guidelines are highlighted in italics in the following text (Van der Westhuizen 2011: p206):

Secure a pool of acceptable candidates for vacancies

With a culture of career development for entrants in the company, City Lodge should find managers and leaders in it’s own ranks. This pro- active and bold talent development saves costs in finding experienced leadership, in that it coaches and grows it’s own leaders.

“Thirty percent of labor in the hospitality sector is classified as unskilled. While there has been a steady increase in the number of employees in this sector, general workers dominate the industry by 72%. Most of the employment opportunities remain labor intensive.” (Mothiba 2010: p11)

The bulk of service industry employees start in quasi-skilled jobs as cleaners, porters and assistants. An effective way of scouting potential is to measure how candidates meet the demands and challenges in their work. Talented beginners are channeled into training, coaching and studying, assisted to qualify in their own right and also in the work force of the organisation. Ideally this provides City Lodge with economic, fresh and young talent from within it’s own ranks.

In City Lodge’s transparency, equity and responsible practice claims they should also state this aggressive growth of the particular sector partly responsible for creating the opportunity for their Human Resources function to thrive. Today Human Resources are more challenging to manage in a gold mine that in a Southern African Hotel.

Ensure all recruitment efforts establish a positive image for the institution

Recruiting staff markets the organisation to potential employees, giving the potential candidates an idea of their intended duties and roles in the organisation. Compensation and the role the organisation can play in their lives is discussed and explained. City Lodge’s “people caring for people” (Mancosa 2012: p40) advertise to potential employees to join a family and not just a job.

The challenge for the recruitment function is to treat all applicants fairly and equally, filling its human resources needs and leaving both successful and unsuccessful applicants with a positive image of the experience.

Miss Linda Mare, Human Resources Manager of Nature Conservation Corporation in Cape Town stipulates in her Policy: “unsuccessful candidates will be given feedback from HR”

Recruitment Activities are efficient and cost effective

The expense of finding people for specific jobs can be much more than meet the eye. The company employs or contracts Human Resource professionals to perform the tasks efficiently and economically. Within an aggressive growth sector organisation, more and more hands are needed since expansion requires more Human Resources. Resources are spent on a function that is critical and part of the growth of the company.

Low staff turnover is the reward to sustainable, efficient and cost effective recruitment. The better staff are selected, recruited and induced, the longer they stay with the organisation and develop themselves under the umbrella of the employer. Efficient recruitment chooses talent that is dedicated, faithful and productive.

The Recruitment process is fair and equitable

Fair recruitment exposes a broad range of applicants from diverse backgrounds and demographics to a possible position within City Lodge. This ensures that minority groups are invited, welcomed and fostered by the organisation. There can be no discrimination other than legally required affirmative action.

Equity brings equal opportunity to all regardless of culture, sex and orientation. City Lodge boasts a female Manager of Orientation and Management development. (Mancosa, 2012: p38)

Linda Mare at NCC stipulates in their Recruitment Policy: “In particular it is recorded that no person may unfairly discriminate, directly or indirectly, against an employee on one or more grounds, including race, gender, sex, pregnancy, marital status, family responsibility, ethical or social origin, colour, sexual orientation, age, disability, religion, HIV status, conscience, belief, political opinion, culture, language and birth.” (Mare, L: 2011)

Enable the Institution to attract those potential employees who have the necessary knowledge, skills, and competencies relevant to the requirements of the post

“Tourism has become the lifeblood of the South African economy and has injected R350-billion in foreign direct spending since 2003” (Mothiba 2010: p10)

This sector’s formidable growth has set the stage for a doer of the right thing in Human Resources. While some players have assisted the industry in becoming known for it’s shortcomings in career development, City Lodge has done the right thing and used this growth to nurture an effective, efficient, sustainable and ground breaking Human Resources function. The rewards are huge, and evident in the role it plays as the benchmark it sets in the industry. Current growth beyond the borders of South Africa indicates the success of the organizations Human Resources and in the marketplace at large.

Human Resources align and integrate with top management functions of the modern successful sustainable organisation around the boardroom table. It is refreshing that City Lode invests a Divisional Director position to their Human Resources (Marcel Kobilski) as well as a Management position for Orientation and Management Development functions (Maxine Muir) These professional’s roles include finding, sourcing, recruiting, inducing, managing, growing and inspiring the workers, leaders and directors of their organisation, the intellectual capital of City Lodge.

Conclusion:

The function of Human Resources management has grown and evolved from an administrative function attempting to manage, control and direct staff into the provider of human intellectual ability, all the talent and skills required to start and grow a successful sustainable organisation.

The HR Director and Manager dedicate their time and strategically prepare and plan the work force, the human resources, the skills and talent, the intellectual capital of the enterprise.

As a responsible corporate citizen, City Lodge strategically aligns their Human Resources functions to the laws of the country. Providing equal and equitable opportunities to all.

“…Finding innovative communication channels” (Mancosa 2012) shows their serious attitude towards keeping all staff involved and close to the strategies, policies and goals of the organisation. Internal communication is boosted through online resources such as a planned Intranet called “CityPedia” and the information website: “GetAbstract”

Regular meetings between head office and managers ensure strategic alignment with all hotels. A horizontal structure of communication in an organization brings it closer to integrated strategic policy through the whole organization. In this case of City Lodge, the dedicated director and manager ensures effective communication and interaction between the organisation and all of its leaders and staff. Brand days and an annual conference is used to “discuss issues and trends affecting their brand” (Mancosa 2012: p 40)

Communication channels between all structures in the organisation should be secured, nurtured, reinvented and stimulated to grow.

Company Goals should trickle down into the goals of units or hotels / lodges and in turn down into the goals, objectives and Key Performance Indicators of individuals.

Key Performance Indicators are used to clarify goals and objectives and measures progress towards company goals into the future.

Policy clarifies and sets guidelines or “rules” to all employees to understand processes and promote transparency. This stimulates the synchronization of the individual’s goals, with that of the organisation.

References

Best Employers South Africa (2012) Identifying Best Employers since 1991.[Online] Available: http://www.bestemployers.co.za/BESTEmployers/BestEmployers20112012/C/tabid/5678/C/707/CityLodgeGroup.aspx Accessed [3 February 2012]

Boninelli, I. and Meyer, T. (2011) Human Capital Trends. Randburg: Knowres Publishing

City lodge Annual Report (2011) Integrated Report 2011.

Available: https://www.citylodge.co.za/annual_reports/annual_report2011.pdf [Online]Accessed: [5 February 2012]

Collins: Paperback Dictionary. 6^th Edition. 2009.Glasgow: HarperCollins Publishers

eHow.com(2012): What Is a Percentile Salary? [Online]

Available (http://www.ehow.com/info_10032733_percentile-salary.html#ixzz1lGOzhrjc Accessed [1 February 2012]

Gregory, J.L. (2011) HR Metrics. Randburg: Knowres Publishing

Investors in People South Africa (2009) City Lodge Achieves Recognition [Online] http://www.iipsa.co.za/manageContent.aspx?object.id=40792&param.1=&param.2=&param.3=&art.c=53593 Accessed: [8February 2012]

Mancosa (2012) Course and Assignment Handbook MBA year 1. Management College of Southern Africa

Mare, L (2011) Nature Conservation Corporation’s Recruitment Policy in a letter to the Researcher.

Maroney, J.P. (2004) Employee Motivation - The 5 Master Keys for Success. [Online] Available (http://www.jpmaroney.com/Free-Articles/employee-motivation.htm) Accessed:[2 February 2012]

Mothiba, Gabriel (2010)

Report by Employment Conditions Commission on Hospitality 2010 [Online] Available:

http://www.labour.gov.za/contacts/statutory-bodies/HOSPITALITY%20%20REPORT%202010%20FINAL.doc/view?searchterm=hospitality Accessed [4 February 2011]

Noe, R.A., Hollenbeck, J.R., Gerhart,B. and Wright, P.M. (2010) Human Resource Management: Gaining a Competitive Advantage 6^th Ed. Mcgraw-Hill

UCT (2011) Writing the report / assignment: Harvard Referencing Style [Online]Available (http://www.lib.uct.ac.za /infolit/harvard26.html) Accessed: [1Febraury 2012]

Van Der Westhuizen, E. and Wessels, J. 2011 (eds.) 2011. South African Human Resource Management for the Public Sector. Cape Town: Jutta

2012-02-25T22:46:00.001+02:00

Dusk at the Waterfront, and north of here so much to explore. Although this is the most popular tourism location in all South Africa, I often avoid it.

Two days drive to the north, a pathway in a forest on the edge of the Great Escarpment. My formative years were spent in these forests of Graskop and the Blyde River Canyon.

The lovely red flowers of the Clivia. Many plants find a perfect habitat in the mist belt forest of the Escarpment.

On the Escarpment we explore multiple waterfalls of the area.

Leshiba Wilderness is my new favorite Lodge. Nestled in the Soutpansberg Mountains five hours north of Johannesburg, this is a homecoming to me. Horse Rides, Hikes, Bird Watching and Rock Art. This is a magical destination: www.leshiba.co.za/

Monday thunder and lighting.

2012-02-06T23:19:00.000+02:00

I love sleeping in on a Monday. My "special" work schedule occasionally
lets me rest when things may be blue for someone else.

In my sleep-in morning today, I got woken before sunrise by the sound of approaching thunder. An exciting way to start any week.

Famous for it's adverse and stormy weather, Cape Town is not known for thunder and lighting.

A magnificent occasion and picture taken by Four Rosemead Guest House.

Barry and Pauline in love with Africa

2012-02-02T22:46:00.000+02:00

Kirsten Pauline and i enjoyed this trip as you can see. The Victoria Falls option is a must,,,,Roger was our guide on the first portion and Miles was the driver. I asked both of them to give you our best,,,planning Plains of Africa for Jan 10 2013 which looks pretty extensive tour of the Kenya Game Parks. Ps got a minor clawing of my right arm by a Cheetah at the Elephant Game Park. I guess he didnt like my outfit. Hoping this e mail finds you and Biko well and busy. Barry and Pauline

Kirsten K's Profile on GuideHop

2012-02-01T12:31:00.000+02:00

Kirsten K's Profile on GuideHop

Rachel at ZipSetGo asked me a few questions. Thank you Rachel.

2012-02-01T12:30:00.000+02:00

Blyde River Canyon

Thank you for being a Destination Expert! We appreciate you taking time out to dish about your favorite place. Please answer the questions below and send along pictures if you have them. If you would like, include a few sentences about yourself and we will share that too. We will post on ZipSetGo and link to the site of your choice and then start spreading the good word!

Smoke that Thunders

1. What makes you an expert on Southern Africa?

Riding in the Cape Winelands

My father was a headmaster at something called a veld school. This was an institution providing school children with Wilderness Experiences preparing them for the challenges of the world out there. Since my formative years I learnt about this land and its peoples.

Cango Caves

Southern Africa cries out to the traveller interested in Nature, Culture and Adventure. My lifestyle of Nature, Adventure and Culture is perfectly at home in Mzansi (South Africa). I am in love with the animals and peoples of this land and see it as my calling to represent them and present them to visitors from across the globe. As a Tour Guide I visit Mountains, Rivers, Beaches, Waterfalls, National Parks, Private Game Reserves, Canyons, Cities and Towns, Townships, harbors and islands. It could mean driving a car, riding a horse or catching a flight somewhere exciting. Often I construct tailor made unique sophisticated experiences for my valued experienced clients. With every travel event I aim to learn something new for myself. A new facility or destination I have not been to. The blessing is that my experience is multiplied by my work.

Elephants at Knysna

2. What makes Southern Africa unique?

The natural- and political history of Southern Africa is unique. Long before mankind brought cattle from Asia, Long Horned Buffalo (with nine feet wide horns) grazed the grasslands as Homo erectus took his first upright steps, most likely in Southern Africa. As curious man risked walking further distances often on the contours of Elephants, the survival of this task prepared him to venture further north to new lands. It feels as this is where we are from. Visitors feel a connection to this land and the more they learn about it, the more it awakens a primitive de javu, as if they have been here, and certainly cant get enough.

The modern liberation struggle, the oldest dessert in the world, the largest green canyon in the world, the Victoria Falls, meeting of the Two Oceans and Table Mountain are special and unique features of Southern Africa.

Fynbos is a vegetation type growing in Southern Africa. Fynbos is also where we find the worlds most compact and diverse Floral Kingdom, the Cape Floral Kingdom. Visitors remain in awe at the myriad of flowers in the Cape area. Welcome to the unique Cape Floral Kingdom.

3. Where are the best places to eat? What should visitors order?

Everlastings

A braai or shishinayama (barbeque) with your new South African friends is the best place to eat, around the fire. We prepare beef, lamb, pork, venison, sausage and a variety of vegetables. We also make braaibrootjies (fire toasted sandwiches with cheese, tomato and onion) With this we often serve the staple food of sub Saharan Africa, mieliepap or maize meal, similar to Italian polenta. Slow cooked cornflower served with a tomato and onion relish called sheba. The braai is accompanied by an arrangement of vegetables and salads.

Cape Town and surrounds harbors world class Restaurants. French Huguenots arrived in the 1680’s and with them their culinary expertise. Cape Restaurants often receive international awards and accolades. Make sure you get to a Franschoek Restaurant one hour outside Cape Town in the heart of the wine lands. Cape wine farms often offer excellent choices of Restaurants and wine tastings to accompany the feast.

The Cape features a unique food type called Cape Malay. Malay slaves were imported to the Southern tip of Africa and founded their unique creole culture and cooking. Order Cape Malay, rich in aromas and spices, and very unique to the Cape.

Groot Constantia

4. What are some must see/do activities in Southern Africa?

A Wildlife experience is imperative. With National Parks and Private Game Reserves offering a variety of products and modes of travel, the wilderness awaits. Sightings of wildlife are exciting and inspirational, and makes for all time photographs. We see Antelope, Predators, Whales, Raptors, Reptiles, Insects, Trees and Cycads.

Road Trips are great in Southern Africa, since most roads are of surprisingly high standard, without the first world traffic! We drive thousands of kilometers of the most scenic routes imaginable.

The influx of European culture also introduced vines and wine making to Southern Africa. Visits to the Swartland, Robertson and Franschoek digs deep into the origin if winemaking at the Cape.

The contrasting two Oceans of the Atlantic and Indian is emphasized in Southern Africa. From deserted dessert beaches of Namibia’s Skeleton Coast to the Tropical palmed islands of Mozambique and the Indian Ocean, the oceans of Southern Africa calls for a lifetime of exploration.

5. Where are the best places for nightlife in Southern Africa?

At night we often look up to the skies and sink into amazement at the sight of the dark starlit night sky. The Southern Cross guides us home, as we learn about navigation and the myths and legends of the San people. Original Aboriginal People who lived by the stars. Southern Africa has little light pollution and therefore it is ideal to study and learn about stars, planets and nightlife. At camps and Lodges in remote locations, sounds at night reveals all the unseen action in Africa’s wilderness.

If you are looking for the modern rhythms and music of Africa, try Long Street in Cape Town or anywhere you hear music. A shabeen is a local informal bar, and can be a great place to meet locals. Dancing and live music is at the order of the day and as diverse as anything else in Southern Africa.

Knysna

6. Name three/five of your favorite places to stay: High end Hotels? Budget friendly places?

Olifants Rest Camp in the Kruger National Park. Rest Camps in Kruger are popular, modest, comfortable, safe and budget friendly. Sometimes they hold the best opportunity for a complete wildlife experience. If you enjoy hiking, look for a multi day Wilderness Hike in the Kruger National Park.

Lion

Storms River Mouth is a majestic location on the south coast of the Indian Ocean, in the heart of the Garden Route. There are great hikes in the area, and it’s budget friendly. This is where numerous new aquatic insect species has been discovered in the last fifteen years.

Cape Grace Hotel – Cape Town. A five star boutique hotel. This popular hotel has a huge reputation.

Wait a Little Horse and Game Ranch. Can you ride? Can you really ride? Do you love horse riding? If you do, make sure you get here. German Style Horsemanship in the African Wilderness setting. Great people, amazing horses at a very exclusive destination.

!Xaus Lodge in the Southern Kalahari supports the San peoples place in the modern world. We owe it to them. And we can learn from these amazing and friendly people’s harmony and synchrony with nature.

Swartland Roadtrip

7. What is Southern Africa’s best-kept secret?

The Game Parks and Coastline of Northern Kwazulu Natal Province.

The best climate in the world.

Eleven official languages

Moments

8. What souvenir should everyone leave with after visiting Southern Africa?

A Vuvuzela, koeksusters (super sweet fried dough pastry), chutney and biltong (local style dried meat) and a tanzanite stone.

About me

For our Freedom

My formative years were spent in the Blyde River Canyon. After school adventures and travels led me to a career in Guiding Tourists, mainly around Southern Africa. Other areas I spent time at were Italy and Europe, United States, Hawaii, Costa Rica and St Kitts. I speak six languages and I am a specialist Nature Guide. I reside in Cape Town with my loving partner Linda, our cat Jemima and my dog Biko.

Questions? Email Rachel at Rwolery@eim-inc.com or call directly at 927-824-8363

Black Magic

2011-12-15T09:32:00.001+02:00

Detail

Black Rocks fire in Spring

Just heard my exam results, I'm crying like a baby. Studying demands concentration, I'm thankful that the hours paid off, hours of not surfing, horse riding or mountain hikes with Biko. I earned three distinctions from six subjects, for Accounting, Statistics and Marketing.

Praise to the Gods, and thanks to Mancosa my tutors and Linda. This is the first year. It really flew bye.

Swartberg Pass

Home sweet home

Biko in February

Biko in September

Vic Falls

Vygies

Our Rhino Crisis and Tragedy

2011-12-09T14:25:00.001+02:00

Knysna probably means place of Ferns. "Probably" because we don't speak the language of the Khoi people any more who lived here in ancient times, grazing their livestock on the edge of this magical lagoon.

In the heart of the Garden Route [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garden_Route], Knysna is a perfect location from where to explore the areas mountains, beaches and forest.

Some economical yet stunning accommodation includes www.panorama-lodge.com/ and www.pointlodge.com/

The Knysna Lagoon fluctuates with the tides of the Indian Ocean. This creates a unique habitat filled with wading birds. It is home to the endemic and worlds smallest sea horse: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cape_seahorse

On your next trip to Africa, visit Knysna!

2011-12-09T14:08:00.001+02:00

This is Biko. A fortunate few have met him. This morning on the beach he was ecstatic to run in the shallow waves and look for friends on the sand.

With images of trips and memories of new friends fresh in my mind, I am also ecstatic to take short brake from my day job. This morning I went for short and freezing surf at Llandudno. A land mark beach in Cape Town. I felt alive, and it's great to be home.

Safari Creations. Nature, Culture, Adventure. in Table Mountain, Western Cape, South Africa

2011-11-22T23:53:00.000+02:00

Safari Creations. Nature, Culture, Adventure. in Table Mountain, Western Cape, South Africa

India, LA, CT

2011-10-30T20:06:00.003+02:00

From India to LA to Cape Town

The Kaushal group of travelers was all born in India. They are a sixties generation group of friends who have shared experiences in Alaska, Antarctica, China and Australia.


My Indian American friends.

Rita was first to arrive, and asked me if I was available as a taxi the same evening. The www.proteahotels.com/protea-hotel-fire-ice!-cape-town.html

presents its clients with many efficient services and amenities. Their taxi service providers are reliable and economical.

After the inbound transfers our first stop was www.castleofgoodhope.co.za/

The Castle was originally a fort constructed by the first employees of the Dutch East India Company to the Cape. In reality research indicates the first fort was a wooden structure to the west of the current castle.

Cape Point and Cape of Good Hope

From the Castle we ascend to tablemountain.net/ passing by the Parliament, Company Gardens, Tamboerskloof and Oranjezicht.

The upper station is just over 1000 meters above sea level, and on this occasion clouds were flying dramatically over the sandstone ridges. Table Mountain and the Peninsula Range consist of two groups of sedimentary rocks, namely the Graafwater Formation and the Peninsula Formation. Underneath the surface and exposed on the lower slopes and coastline we see the huge boulders of ancient Granite mother rock.

Our Peninsula Tour meanders along the Atlantic Seaboard and we spot some South African Fur seals at Oudekraal. The name suggests the original bias value of these species and a name change is overdue. These are protected mammals in South Africa.

I like to call these flowers snow.

White sand beaches decorate the 65km drive to Cape Point, and we stop to photograph Long Beach and Witsands.

From Cape Point we view Dias Beach and Cape of Good Hope. This is a dramatic and iconic location loaded with history and legend. Before the navigators Dias and Da Gama we can only guess what this landmark meant to our African ancestors. Cape Point remains one of the most visited landmarks to South Africa’s four million annual visitors.

Our next destination is Boulders Beach with its colony of African Penguins. Short boardwalks take us right to the heart of the colony. We spot blues who are young penguins in the molt from furry feathers to adult feathers. http://www.sanparks.org/parks/table_mountain/tourism/attractions.php#boulders remains an exciting, educational and interesting part of the Peninsula meander.

After visiting the penguins we enjoy lunch at www.seaforthrestaurant.co.za/.

Kirstenbosch Gardens: www.sanbi.org/index.php?option=com_content&view... is a highlight a the end of a Peninsula exploration. Walking through the gardens and searching for the national flower of South Africa [en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Protea_cynaroides] keep the guests involved right to the end of the long day and myriad of activities and sights. The Gardens were secured by Cecil John Rhodes [ http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cecil_Rhodes ] and gifted in his legacy to the people of South Africa.

Protea Cynaroides

After the days activities the sunlight over the back of Table Mountain is soothing and calming.

As we approach www.waterfront.co.za/.../NelsonMandelaGatewaytoRobbenIsland.asp... we hear the singing and chanting of the strikers. The news Papers explain that the striking www.robben-island.org.za/ workers demand a better wage and holidays over Christmas. It strikes me how the operations of the museum function normally even thought there are about forty workers striking on the steps of the Gateway building.

The atmosphere at www.bukhara.com/ is chaotic and crowded, reminiscent of Deli and Bombay. Though the dining is spectacular. Complex curries and abundant dishes compliment the Kaushal Group’s brief visit to the Mother City.


In memory of Cecil Rhodes

During the outbound transfer the guests assure me how they appreciate Cape Town and plan to return. The typical check in is complex and chaotic, with www.flysaa.com/ struggling to check the group in and connect they’re Johannesburg flight to Hoedspruit. At last we wave good by and I wonder when I will visit India. The land of color, curry and inspiration.

2011-10-25T23:40:00.001+02:00

Effi Halla Group

We met at the modern face of ORTI Airport, as I shared the stories of the World Cup with my new guests. I met 36 guests from Israel, one stood out of the crowd and seriously informed me: “Kirsten is a Jewish name..”

We drove to Mpumalanga and the guests enjoyed the grassland Highveld scenery. We stopped for lunch at Middelburg and a Supermarket in Lydenburg, before ascending the marvelous Long Tom Pass. Between Sabi and Graskop we explored Mari Shires waterfall and some refreshed their faces with the cool mountain stream, the joys of nature.

The full moon led us to Blyde River Canyon and the comfort of www.foreverblydecanyon.co.za/inde in the heart of the canyon. The unique experience of breakfast with the three Rondavels in the background is a must for any visitor to the largest green canyon on earth.

Departing early, we visited the sights of the Canyon, Lisbon Falls, Gods Window, Potholes and Graskop before descending into the Lowveld and Kruger National Park. The guests saw Kruger Park as a highlight and we saw herds of elephant, rhinos, lions, hippos, wild dog and much more. In five hours time we were fortunate with the abundance and variety of game. After another long day the luxury of www.greenway.co.za/

Leaving south towards Swaziland, we drove onto the N4 east arriving at Jeppes Reef boarder post. The Swazi crossing is a vivid reminder of the complex states in Africa’s Political tapestry.

Passing Piggs Peak and The Gogola Dam we arrived in the capital Mbabane. We enjoyed a walk in the capital around the Food Market and Traditional Medicine or “Muti” Market. In the afternoon we enjoyed lunch at Swazi Candle Factory, a great lunch stop for the route. We entered back into RSA at Golelaand arrived at Ghost Mountain Inn at eight in the evening. During the delicious dinner we excitedly chatted about the awaiting Zulu experience, some enjoyed the dancing and singing at Ghost Mountain Inn late into the night. www.ghostmountaininn.co.za is one of the accommodation highlights in the Kwazulu-Natal Province.

Umfolozi-Hluhluwe Park amazed us with its wildlife and nature integrated with the Zulu Culture and legacy. I discussed Dr ian Player’s books about his days spent in these heavenly gardens, the essence of wilderness and history of the land, the friendships and connections he mended with Zululand. We spit on a rock and add it to the pile, bringing us some necessary good fortune on our journeys.

Entertainment by singing Zulu warriors and ladies met us at Shakaland. After a traditional lunch at this movie set homestead portraying the proud and colorful history of Shaka’s people, we learnt more about the people of the heavens. Our guide was informative, educational and amusing.

I recommend www.hiexpress.com in Umhlanga for it’s comfort and views of Durban, the second most populated city in South Africa. Though the line between city and metropolis obscures the true rating of city size in South Africa.

In Durban North we visit Mitchells Park, this was once the home of an Asian gift elephant called Nellie, and today hosts a large variety of Avifauna, flora and animals such as Primates, opossums, a tortoise over a hundred years old and goldfish. A random collection of lives symbolic of Ethekwini’s ranking as a vagabond, historic, semi-tropical world city.

In the dark dangerous heart of town we explore markets with vivid Asian aromas, scary African muti imported by the diaspora of sugarcane workers, slaves and the myriad of cultures this city harbours. Downtown hustle and bustle of a tropical complex city, I guide my guests carefully through the challenges of notorious down town Durban. We walk through Victoria Street market, with a strikingly beautiful shrine obscured and hidden by the grey black intoxicating highways that snake over the taxi ranks and markets. We smell fish and stare at amputated heads of black goats in the Fish market, and we walk around the block as I nervously check the head and tail of my group snaking through a dirty urban African Eden.

After Mitchels Park and the Indian Markets, we get to the beach. An amble along the newly renovated Peers is enough to create and appitite and my guestsrequest we proceed to lunch options. (I’m forced to call this tour Buffet Destroyers..) So uShaka marine world is the setting for lunch, with an ample supply of “American Take Aways..”

We visit the Botanical Gardens hosting a rich collection of Orchids and depart for King Shaka airport.

A stand off ensues after the ground staff of the flight informs us that it is over booked.The Tour leader does not allow anyone to volunteer to miss the flight and get a hotel stay plus free domestic return ticket of choice. After some drama the complete group boards the short flight to Port Elizabeth andwww.southernsun.com/Garden-Court/Kings-Beach

The late dinner is relaxed and the foods delicious, with a night view over Madiba Bay complementing the service ofwww.food24.com/Restaurants.../Restaurants/Blackbeards-Lookout-an… The next morning we leave for the Garden Route. The guests enjoy the hanging bridges of Storms River Mouth and also lunch at the Garden Route National Park. We also enjoy visits to the Big Tree and Bloukrans River Bridge though no one options for a Bungee jump.

Dinner is presented on the Paddle Cruiser on Knysna Lagoon next to the Knysna Heads, a remarkable setting. At www.knysnariverclub.co.za/ Joe checks us in and helps us with all the questions and requests of the guests. Boogie served a delicious breakfast and was friendly and warm to our group.

The following morning we walk from the River Club to the Waterfront to start the day, observing the lagoon and it’s islands.

From Knysna we depart in the direction of George and stop over at Victoria bay. A leisurely amble takes us to where the surf breaks strongly on the rocks. We visit George and take the Outeniqua Pass over the Mountains to get to Oudtshoorn.

In the afternoon we meet the amazing residents of Cango Wildlife Ranch. Safari Ostrich Farm treats us with a delicious BBQ dinner. We check into OudtshoornHotel looking forward to the Swartberg and Caves experience.

Largely the hands of prisoners built the Swartberg Pass. Today it is an attraction that presents wonderful scenery with abundant hiking trails and birdlife in the area. Our Guides were excellent, not leaving one stone unturned in their attention to detail and service.

We enjoyed lunch at Prins Albert and drove through the exposed geological formations of Meiringspoort returning to Oudtshoorn. At CP Nel Museum MrsBoshoff presents a tour of the facility and receives us warmly. At six the local community at the Synagogue welcome the guests from Israel to a service and braai.

On our journey to Cape Town we visit the Dias Museum, Swellendam and Hermanus. We watch the whales sailing in the distance.

The view of False Bay is layered with clouds as we enter the Cape Flats over Sir Louwries Pass. I explain how thankful we are for rain in the relatively arid Western Cape.

The www.southernsun.com/Hotels/Cape-Sun/ Cape Sun is an icon in the five star hospitality history of Cape Town, and ideally situated for exploring the Mother City.

The Castle of Good Hope was built on the beach by some of the first European settlers to the sub continent as a fort. Slaves were used in its construction as the Europeans feared attacks from passing ships and local cultures alike, from the onset unable to live at peace with those who they met here.

Centuries later the Castle houses museums delving into the wars and histories of all peoples that inhabited the Peninsulas shores and mountains.

We marvel at the historical Change of the Guards.

The Jewish Museum is our next stop and my personal favorite part of the museum is the Zappiro exhibition, a must see for anyone who knows about Zappiro.

After our exposure to culture and religion, we enter the nature of the South African Museum. Darwin’s theories and work was perhaps not fully recognized in his time of visiting the Cape, today we realize how ground breaking his work was. The Darwin display at the South African Museum is impressive, informative and interesting.

The San exhibit at this museum is spiritual and stimulating. We will stay poor if we don’t learn from the culture and history of the first people.

In the afternoon we visit Stellenbosch and Bergkelder that presents us with a complete cellar tour of their facility dug into the side of Pappagaaiberg.

Stellenbosch was originally called First River, as it was the first river the early settlers encountered traversing the Cape Flats.

Early evening we ascend the Cable Car to summit Table Mountain. The Khoi people called it Hoerikwaggo, simply meaning Sea Mountain. The Layers of Sandstone weathering at an even pace is the reason for the flat summit of this iconic ancient mountain.

On our last full day together we explore the Peninsula. Seals, Penguins, Capes and Oceans are few points of discussion during our 120 km drive up and down the coasts. Everyone agrees that it is one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

After our Peninsula exploration, we return to the Gardens Synagogue. It’s a special Jewish occasion as the holy books are revealed and celebrated once a year. The guests are welcomed at the ceremony and invited to the braai following the formalities.

I run to the station to catch the last train home. I think of Israel and it’s neighbors.

Every Guiding opportunity is also an educational experience. I learnt of a new culture, people’s space and how different cultures communicate.

I make the train just in time. I can’t wait to get home to my dog Biko and my space, home.

With great appreciation for the work of Jutta and Yaron.

2011-10-06T21:32:00.000+02:00

Guiding expose me to wonderful new friendships like meeting the Gonzalez family from Mexico here in Cape Town. Juan Carlos sent me a kind letter and pictures.

Maybe I will get to surf Mexico soon!

Hola Kristen! Te escribo este e-mail para mantenernos en contacto y para agradecerte por tu excelente trabajo. En verdad la pase fabuloso.

Te envio un par de fotos que espero te agraden.

Con afecto y admiracion.

Juan Carlos Gonzalez

PD: No dudes en venir a visitarnos a Mexico.

Gruppo Juan Toselli

2011-10-02T10:54:00.000+02:00

Gruppo Juan Toselli

From Argentina to Africa

Our journey started at Cape Town International Airport, upon arrival the guests were eager to share their safari stories of preceding days.

Their Cape experience started with passing by Kayalitsha and Langa, some of the intricate complex local cultures and peoples of the Cape Flats.

In the afternoons we see the youth and sporty of the shack lands practicing their football and even cricket skills on the dusty pitches next to the dangerous highway proving their passion for sport. The economical divide is intertwined with cultural diversity in the unique mix called The Cape Flats.

The guests were welcomed to www.southernsun.com/Garden-Court/de-Waal with the historic majestic view of Table Mountain in the backdrop.

Early the next day we ventured up the mountain with www.tablemountain.net/.

An unforgettable part of the Cape experience, we ventured on a hike of Table Mountain to see the vistas of the city, Lions head, Table bay, www.robben-island.org.za/ and Cape Town Stadium in the background, we were taken with the views.

Table Mountain is the only geographic feature on earth with a constellation named after it. French astrologer Nicolas Louis de Lacaille named the constellation, Mensa, after Table Mountain in 1754. The Khoi people simply called it Hoerikwaggo, Sea Mountain.

Sunday morning we set of for the Klein Karoo and Garden Route. This part of the country is special year round, but this time after some recent good rains the breath taking colors of the flowering plants of this mostly arid region took our breaths away.

We ventured and explored the www.route62.co.za/. As I often use this road, it feels more like a person I’m getting to know better, every time we meet, he shares a new story with me. Whether for magical flowering plants or ancient archaic fossils and rocks, the point is take the Route 62, you will never get off it.

Few regions match the warm hospitality of the Klein Karoo. This name Karoo may come from the word karos, and that could be a skin used as a blanket. The Klein Karoo and www.safariostrich.co.za/ embraced us with their hospitality and a delicious farm lunch.

The next morning we visited www.cango-caves.co.za/

Today the parts of Cango that is open to the public is relatively easy to access and we can choose between an easy 600 meter penetrating to more adventurous tours where a lot of squeezing and sweating is at the order of the ...darkness.

The deep Limestone and water flow of the Swartberg is the cause of these incredible caves formed over earth’s history; it hosts unique formations hundreds of thousands and millions of years old.

After Cango we were on our way to the heart of the Garden Route at Storms River Mouth. But on our way we had to cross over the Outeniqua Mountains and pass. This meant more spectacular views and photographic opportunities for everyone.

We enjoyed lunch upon arrival at www.sanparks.org/parks/garden_route/camps/storms_river/ and strolled along the cliff pathway all the way to the suspension bridges of the Storms River Mouth.

The Storms River Mouth is the start or finish of hiking trails into the Outeniqua Mountains and the coastline of the Garden Route. It accesses spectacular hiking trails like the Otter-, the Tsitsikamma- and Outeniqua Trails.

Our stay at www.proteahotels.com/protea-hotel-knysna-quays.html was the highlight of the trips accommodations. With excellent service and great breakfasts only surpassed by the best location of the Knysna Lagoon.

Some guests opted to enjoy a visit to www.knysnaelephantpark.co.za/ and some enjoyed a visit to the magnificent views of the www.featherbed.co.za/ Nature Reserve, both explores the natural significance of the Knysna area. Elephants once roamed the Knysna Forests in large numbers and this population became extinct at the hand of man. Their continued presence and conservation bears witness of our attempts to address our ignorance in our relationships with the world around us, and all it's children.

Suzy in this picture is one of the original members of the herd, Emilia made instant friends although she was sure not to get her toes trampled.

Our next destination was Hermanus and everyone was looking forward to meet the migrating whales of the Cape Province. On our way we stopped for lunch at www.tripadvisor.co.uk › ... › Swellendam › Restaurants › The Connection. We enjoyed a delicious lunch served with a creamy mushroom sauce sourced from local forests. The owner Oliviero is one of a few South Africans with the knowledge of the delicate task of mushroom harvesting.

From Swellendam followed the beautiful area of the Overberg as we drove past flocks of Blue Cranes, the National Bird of South Africa.

Upon arrival in Hermanus we noticed groups of tourists along the walkways on the lovely cliff pathways observing whales. The ease of whale spotting and relaxed atmosphere of Hermanus makes for a unique whale watching experience. All enjoyed dinner at the impressive www.burgundyrestaurant.co.za/ next to the old harbor and in the tranquil town center.

On our last overland day we drove around False Bay to Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point. Our driver Miles Titus drove comfortably and safely throughout the journey, and kept his vehicle spotless!

Our journey was interesting, educational and informative with a great program. The group members participated on every possible occasion. All guests were looking forward to a return to Mzansi and thanked Tilly Malone at www.springbokatlas.co.za/ for a great holiday.

Kirfara

Kirfara Nature

Ugandan Dreams

Kirfara: Peninsula Days

Guests from Uruguay

Peter Jelley reunited with his camera.

Jan Grobler's take on being down under.

Linda getting her Mzansi on.

Street Running

Peninsula Days

A kirfara production of the last days of Philip's mission from Cunene to Cape

My HR assignment towards my MBA is due today. You can read and comment!

Surname

Course/Intake

Declaration: I hereby declare that the assignment submitted is an original piece of work produced by myself.

Monday thunder and lighting.

Barry and Pauline in love with Africa

Kirsten K's Profile on GuideHop

Rachel at ZipSetGo asked me a few questions. Thank you Rachel.

Safari Creations. Nature, Culture, Adventure. in Table Mountain, Western Cape, South Africa

India, LA, CT

Gruppo Juan Toselli