Plebs with Kids

Drakensberg Sun Hotel, Central Drakensberg, KZN (Champagne Valley)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 20 Dec 2016 20:06:00 +0000

This one is a little further out than most of the reviews we have done before - think approx. 4 hours out of Johannesburg :)
The Drakensberg is of course well-known and much-loved among seekers of tranquility all over the country.
It's a (largely) unspoiled wilderness where you can break away from the tension of the city for a few days, and it's not too far to go if you live in Jo'burg.

Cathkin Peak as seen from the dam at the Drakensberg Sun

Date last visited:

August 2016

Location and setting:

Heading from Johannesburg southwards on the N3, the Northern Drakensberg starts to peek over the horizon before Warden already, on a clear day that is.
The closer you get to the KZN border, the more the scale of this awesome mountain range becomes apparent.
On our last trip, it had recently snowed, and the entire range was covered in a thick layer of white, right across the horizon - quite a sight to behold.

The Drakensberg Sun is situated on the R600 in the Central Drakensberg, near Winterton.
Directions are present along the route, so once you are in the Champagne Valley, it's pretty easy to find.
A tip on which offramp to take, if you are coming from JHB on the N3 via van Reenen's Pass - we have found this to be the most direct and convenient route:

After the bottom of van Reenen's Pass, you will go through the Tugela Plaza tollgate.
Continue on, passing the Engen One-Stop. Approx. 16km on, take exit 230 - R616 Bergville.
Turn left, and continue for approx. 4km, then turn right onto the R600 - Winterton, which will take you back in the right direction.
Continue for approx. 31km, passing the Spioenkop Dam, until you get to a T-junction.
Turn left into Winterton, then at the robot turn right and continue on the R600.
From here it is straightforward - stay on the R600 for approx. 25km. You will pass Kwazulu Candles, Thokozisa, The Nest, and Champagne Sports Resort.
Just after Champagne Sports Resort, at the bottom of the hill, take the right turn (signposted) - continue for 4km and you will arrive at the gates of the Drakensberg Sun.

Still unsure? There's a map on their website here:
https://www.tsogosun.com/drakensberg-sun-resort

For the kids...:

Playtime for the kids at Valley Bakery

I'm not really sure where to start here - the hotel itself is an absolute goldmine in terms of things for kids to do, and that's not even touching on the activities a few km's out, in the rest of the Champagne Valley - more on that later.

There's a good old jungle gym type structure of course, complete with mandatory trampoline alongside. There's also a beach volleyball court, swings, slides, seesaws, all of the usual keep-them-busy-for-a-while type kit, and a maze to get lost in for a while :)
If you're after traditional games room type activities, they have you covered as well, with arcade games, table tennis and a climbing wall to keep the young ones well occupied.

The Drakensberg Sun Hotel overlooking the pool

There are 2 swimming pools - one for the timeshare units, and one for the hotel residents and general use (bingo and other poolside games).
We were told that the hotel pool was heated, but I wasn't convinced... 'twas a tad chilly!
You can of course order food and drink from the poolside menu, and I have to say that we were always impressed by the food quality at the hotel.

I could continue on endlessly here - tennis courts, horse riding, and of course a nice selection of hikes into the surrounding mountains and forests, but I'll stop here to leave some content for the next section... :)

For the adults...:

Perhaps the one thing that should really be highlighted, is the fact that the hotel affords the kids and adults some real switch-off time from the endlessly busy slog of modern city life.
The 'Berg is a truly magical place, and setting off on one of the many hikes available, just allows you to truly appreciate what a special place this is.

The peaks emerge after an afternoon downpour

Obviously, hikes will only be appealing to older kids, say 4 years and up - younger than that and the logistics can get a bit more complicated, unless your child is super adventurous :)
We also routinely saw a variety of wildlife on our hikes - for example, on the Blue Grotto hike we saw several buck a few times, and they were not in the least bit fazed by our presence.

You will likely also see monkeys (close your windows when they're around!), a ton of birdlife, baboons (beware...), vultures (awesome to see in flight) and a host of other animals that call this beautiful place their home.
For a bit of an adrenaline rush, you can take a short walk across the dam wall to where the old Cathkin Park Hotel once stood - here you will find the Drakensberg Canopy Tour, which allows you a thrilling birds eye view of the of the forest, while suspended high above on a zip line - put that on your bucket list ;)

If you feel like exploring a bit, there is no shortage of fun in the valley.

One of the "generic buck" that we spotted on a hike :)

I won't go into too much detail, but here are some highlights:

you will find putt putt at KZN Candles (The Waffle Hut);
gift shops galore at Thokozisa;
supreme eats and treats at the Valley Bakery;
chocolate and coffee tasting at Chocolate Memories (The Oaks Supermarket);
an 18 hole Championship Golf Course at Champagne Sports Resort;
birds of prey at Falcon Ridge;
some awesome tea and scones at Champagne Castle Hotel, accompanied by stunning views of Cathkin Peak and Monks Cowl.

Venture a bit further to the end of the R600, and you will find yourself at the Monks Cowl campsite, from where you can set off on a number of hikes, or just enjoy a light snack at the tea garden.

Head back to the hotel and round off the afternoon with a laid back row on the hotel's very own Nkwankwa Lake.
Then after a long day of eating, exploring, hiking, golfing or just relaxing, there is no better way to spend the evening, than firing up a braai and cracking open a cold beer (or some Old Brown Sherry in winter ;))
Even the cold 'berg air in winter is crisp and fresh, as opposed to the dry, harsh cold winter air of the city.
Light up the fireplace to get things cosy and warm, and the experience is complete.

Anything else?:

It must be noted that we stayed in the Timeshare accommodation during our visit, which is a short distance from the hotel itself.
I doubt that the actual hotel rooms will have fireplaces :)
For a full rundown of the hotel facilities, check out their website at the link below.

Final words:

For a proper timeout from the rat race, the Drakensberg has to one of my personal favourite getaways.
The "Drak Sun", as it is affectionately known, offers a wide array of activities for the whole family to enjoy, in tranquil surroundings which offer something for everyone.
Google a bit and you will find many other accommodation options in the Central 'Berg, if hotels aren't your thing.

Getting in touch:

Website:
https://www.tsogosun.com/drakensberg-sun-resort
Phone:
+27 36 468 1000
Email:
drakensbergsun.reservations@tsogosun.com

For general information on the Central 'Berg and the Champagne Valley, click here:
http://www.cdic.co.za/index.htm

Valley Bakery fare...

Inside Valley Bakery

Travelling with the Whole Family – Kid-Friendly International Airports

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 30 Jul 2013 12:50:00 +0000

Time for something a little different here at Plebs with Kids...

If you are one of our regular readers, you will know that we traditionally fill this page with reviews of kid-friendly venues in and around Johannesburg.

Thanks to Angie Picardo (a writer for TravelNerd - go check it out!), this post touches on something that parents often overlook.

When was the last time you went overseas, and you thought about just how kid-friendly your destination airport was?

Well this should give you a few ideas for that next overseas trip... :)

Travelling with the Whole Family – Kid-Friendly Airports

Travel can be tough on families, especially with children in tow. Long layovers and endless delays are frustrating enough, but entertaining the little ones presents a whole different challenge. Luckily, a number of airports have recognized this difficulty and begun to offer entertainment and amenities specifically for children.

To help ease your travelling blues, here are some of the most kid-friendly airports around the globe.

Boston Logan International:

Boston’s airport boasts two separate play areas for kids, called “Kidports.”

The first, located in Terminal C, was designed by the children’s museum of Boston and includes a number of kid-sized replicas of airport features.

There’s a baggage-claim slide, a climb-able airplane, and a number of educational, hands-on exhibits. Soft, spongy floors allow for safe playtime, and a separate play area for infants and toddlers keep them entertained as well.

The second Kidport – near Gate 18 in Terminal A – is similarly designed, featuring a miniature air traffic control tower, a child-size replica of Terminal A, colorful slides, and climbing structures.

Boston has also thoughtfully included several amenities for families travelling with babies, including rocking chairs placed throughout the airport, diaper changing stations, and private rooms for nursing mothers in Terminals A, C, and E.

Chicago O’Hare:

Chicago O’Hare is infamous for its crowds and delays.

So to ease the stress on families, the airport has designed a number of kid-friendly amenities.

While traditional play stations allow kids to relax and play with LEGOs, Chicago O’Hare’s main attraction for the kids include a number of educational, hands-on activities that reflect the strong presence of museums within the city.

The Children’s Museum of Chicago designed an interactive exhibit called “Kids on the Fly” that features a helicopter’s cockpit, a cargo plane that needs refueling, and an air traffic control tower.

These exhibits allow children to explore and discover, using their natural curiosity to learn more about the inner workings of an airport.

In addition, a restored F3F-4 World War II fighter plane is on exhibition in Terminal 2, and a life-size Brachiosaurus skeleton looms over B concourse in Terminal 1.

Paris Orly Airport:

Paris has designed a lounge exclusively for kids, much like the first-class lounges elite business people enjoy.

This private area allows kids to play, chill out, or nap, and entertainment includes PlayStation 3s, flat-screen TVs, and board games.

Complementary snacks are provided, but parents must wait outside while kiddos enjoy all of the amenities.

For parents with younger children, dozens of baby-changing stations are located around the airport, and loaner strollers are available for families needing to trek across a terminal.

Hong Kong Airport:

Hong Kong’s airport has two extensive play spaces for kids, featuring the traditional slides and equipment as well as a six-seater helicopter and a large-scale model of an airplane.

The airport has recently begun offering a four-hour city bus tour to travelers with lengthy layovers.

The tour departs from Arrivals Hall B, where travelers board an air-conditioned bus and journey past a number of sites including Lantau Island, Man Mo Temple, the impressive Central skyline, and the Victoria Harbour.

In fact, a number of organizations have supplemented the attractions offered within the airport itself and instituted ways to get families with long layovers out and about.

For example, the US Fish and Wildlife service has provided low-cost and easy excursions to National Wildlife Refuges for families stuck in airports in Philadelphia, Baltimore, Minneapolis-St. Paul, Denver, or San Diego. Interested travelers can simply log on to the US Fish and Wildlife Service website to research options.

Angie Picardo is a staff writer for NerdWallet, a personal finance site that helps people tackle the challenges of parenting, from flying with kids to college tuition planning.

D' Ouwe Werf @ Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, Fourways

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Fri, 03 May 2013 07:38:00 +0000

We have posted a review at Broadacres Lifestyle Centre before, when we reviewed Mugg & Bean - on that occasion we did not elaborate much on the other restaurant facilities nearby.

Lately though, D' Ouwe Werf @ Broadacres Lifestyle Centre has deservedly made its way onto our radar, and we felt it should get a mention here on Plebs with Kids...

Date last visited

December 2014

Update - December 2014:
De Ouwe Werf recently upgraded their kiddies play area, adding an awesome new jungle gym and slide, and a new kiddies bike track - we have added some new photos below.
In addition, they have paid more attention to security of the kids, by fencing off the entire outside eating area so that the little ones stay close by.

Location and Setting

D' Ouwe Werf is situated within Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, which can be found just off Cedar Road in Fourways.

The centre hosts a garden shop, nursery, a Spar, a Woolworths, a Mugg & Bean, a great toy / hobby shop and more.
Alongside you will also find the beautiful venue Buitengeluk.

You can view a map here.

For the kids...

Playtime is what it's all about here.
A large play area takes centre stage at D' Ouwe Werf, featuring several jungle gyms, slides, plastic bikes for the kids to ride on, a jumping castle, sandpit and even a mini maze for the kids to puzzle their way through.

The play area is fenced off to keep things safe, and there are even a few tables within the play area, in case you want to keep an extra close eye on the kids at play.

A special kiddies menu ensures that your little ones won't leave with grumbling tummies - fish fingers, chicken nuggets, pastas and more - enough to cater for even the most fussy appetite :)

Opposite the main outside area, you will also find Outrage R/C - a really cool model / toy shop, so be prepared to entertain a wish list from the little ones once they head inside... credit cards beware!

For the adults...

D' Ouwe Werf has a relaxing vibe - seating is either outside alongside the Cape Dutch style building, in the garden setting outside the restaurant, or if you are feeling brave, in the kiddies play area itself :)

You can keep a beady eye on the kids from wherever you are seated, and the menu offers a decent selection for breakfast (including all the classics - continental, full English and more).

If it's lunch you're after, D' Ouwe Werf offers a variety to suit any taste - from toasteds, to quiche, chicken dishes, fish, burgers and more.

Food quality and quantity has been consistently good on all of our visits to D' Ouwe Werf - something that is hard to come by nowadays in the world of fly-by-night franchises and fast food.

Anything else?

What more can be said - all in all D' Ouwe Werf scores high on our charts for a pleasant morning / afternoon out, offering decent food at a competitive price (can't forget about that one...!), while providing facilities that keep the kids well entertained.

Operating hours are 8am - 5pm, 7 days a week.

Final words

Next time you head north (or perhaps you are already out that way :), pop in at the Broadacres Lifestyle Centre.

You won't be disappointed by what you find - D' Ouwe Werf allows a peaceful respite from the mad city rush, and the garden setting is perfect for our characteristically obliging warm Jo'burg sunshine.

Bring the kids along for a treat - they will leave with their tummies full, having worn themselves out on the swings, slides and bikes, but keenly looking forward to their next visit.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
+27 (0)11 540 1538

Email:

brdacres4foodemporium@yahoo.com

Rynfield Bunny Park review - Benoni (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 19 Mar 2013 14:15:00 +0000

If you are headed out to the east of Johannesburg, or the "East Rand", as it is fondly known among locals, why not stop in at the Bunny Park in Rynfield, Benoni.

The Bunny Park is a large farmyard where you can see a variety of animals, feed them by hand, and let the kids spend a good amount of time and energy on the playground equipment there.

Date last visited

May 2011

Location and Setting

The Bunny Park is situated on Pretoria Road, Rynfield, Benoni in Johannesburg.

Approaching on the N12 highway from JHB, take the Snake Road offramp (M44), turn left and continue on Pretoria Road for approximately 2.4km.

Look out for the Bunny Park on your left.

You can find a map here.

For the kids...

The name kinda gives it away - bunnies are just the cutest, fluffiest little creatures and kids love nothing less than to feed them carrots, or chase them about (not advised though - we don't want to traumatize the little guys now!).

At the park you will also see ducks, geese, chickens, sheep, goats, peacocks, pigs, donkeys and maybe a few others that I have forgotten about :)

All in all, kids love it when they get to see animals up close, and the Bunny Park delivers big time on this front.

You can buy a bag of carrots or bird seeds from the kiosk near the entrance to feed the animals by hand, or you can bring your own food to do the same.

When the kids tire of all the animals, it is time to head over to the playground, where you will find swings, slides, an old tractor and a whole lot of other rides for the little ones to try their hand at.

For the adults...

A morning out to the Bunny Park is a great way to let the kids run around in a lovely park setting. Townhouse and complex living often mean that gardens are scarce, so this is a great alternative if you have kids who need something to do outdoors.

Now I can't speak for everybody, but personally I enjoy any opportunity to see animals, and the Bunny Park is a great way to do this.
I listed the variety of animals above, so you won't be stuck for choice here.

Onto the really important stuff - food :)
The Bunny Park is really more of a picnic venue, than somewhere that you can kick back with a cappuccino in your hand.
There is a tuck shop / kiosk near the entrance where you can buy snacks and drinks such as chips, chocolates and cold-drinks.
There is also a hot dog stand nearby, but that's about where it ends.

Not that I want to take business away from the kiosk, but it probably makes more sense to pack a decent picnic basket for the family, find a shady spot under a tree and enjoy your lunch that way.
Just watch out for the geese... they might just want a taste of your lunch as well :)

Anything else?

Entry is free - I have no idea how they keep it free, when the place is so clean and well maintained.

There are also pony rides near the entrance, a small train for the kids, and a mini fairground where they can get their adrenaline pumping :) (for a fee, per ride).
The toilets were fairly clean for a public place, but as always, bring along those wetwipes just in case!

Final words

For something cheap and fun to do on a sunny day, the Rynfield Bunny Park makes a great destination for the family.
The kids will love it, and there are plenty of great photo opportunities to be had when the bunnies start creeping up on them for carrots!

Getting in touch

The Bunny Park operates from 08:00 - 16:00, 7 days a week.
If you want to visit on a Public Holiday though, it might be a good idea to call first and confirm.

Telephone:
(+27) 11 422 3651

or contact Gideon on:
(+27) 83 391 8184

Pet Masters review, Boksburg (JHB East)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 14:00:00 +0000

Date last visited

February 2012

Location and Setting

Pet Masters is situated at 7 North Rand Road, Boksburg (next door to Flora Farm).

It is fairly central for those who are on the East Rand of Johannesburg, while also being close to OR Tambo International Airport and East Rand Mall.
You can view a map here.

For the kids...

The selection of pets and animals on offer here is really amazing - starting inside the pet shop itself, there are dogs, gerbils, parrots, fish of all sorts, different kinds of doves... the list just goes on.
There are also snakes and spiders... cool!
These are of course, all for sale.

Step outside though, and you are greeted by a lovely bird park. Here you can see ostriches, emus, owls, flamingoes, ducks, geese, black and white swans... even vultures!

Animals never fail to amuse and entertain those little folk among us - the looks of sheer delight are evident on all the kiddies faces.

After a lesson in bird spotting, what better way to spend all that excess child-energy, than on a jungle-gym or 2...

There are several cool jungle-gyms, slides and other kids rides on the premises that will keep the kids busy for a while, while the adults attempt to find ways to refuel... roll on the next section!

For the adults...

Sure, bird life is a treat for any visitor to Pet Masters, but many ostriches and emus later, after controlling the ankle biters and keeping them in check, the appetite beckons and a sit-down and refuel is much-needed.

Pet Masters boasts its own tea garden - aptly named the Blue Crane Tea Garden.

The setting is pretty, the layout is clever with both inside and outside areas (the play area is close by so you can keep the young ones in sight), and the service is generally swift, friendly and good.

The menu is also fairly comprehensive, offering all the usual beverages, toasted sandwiches, scones, pancakes, breakfasts, burgers and more - you can view it here.
Our culinary experience last time though was rather average, although this might just have been a once-off occurrence.
We have not yet tried their food again, but as soon as we do, we will update this post :)

Anything else?

You won't only find animals inside the pet section... Need a gift for an animal-loving friend?
Then you are at the right place - you will find all of the usual pet accessories here, as well as a great selection of gifts for pet-lovers and their assortment of pets :)
Cages, baskets, chew toys, leashes, feeders, fish tanks and lots more are on offer here.

Let's also not forget that this is a pet shop, so you may end up taking an animal home as a new member of your family :)

Final words

If your kids want to see birds, and the East Rand is convenient for you, then Pet Masters is a great place to visit.
You can easily spend a morning here enjoying the great variety of pets and birds, and letting the little ones expend those boundless energy stores on the jungle-gyms and slides.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
+27 (0)11 894 2359

+27 (0)11 918 3144

Fax:
+ 27 (0)11 918 3145

Email:
info@petmasters.co.za

Website:
www.petmasters.co.za

Da Vincenzo Restaurant review, Kyalami (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Fri, 10 Feb 2012 11:06:00 +0000

Dotted all around Johannesburg you will find family restaurants which offer amazing food, along with lovely surroundings.
Da Vincenzo in Kyalami achieves all of this and brings along with it fantastic authentic Italian fare, all the while keeping the kids in mind as well.

Date last visited

December 2011

Location and Setting

Da Vincenzo Restaurant is situated at 29 Montrose Rd, Barbeque Downs, Kyalami, in Johannesburg.
From the gardens of the restaurant, you get a great view of The Castle, which sits up on a hill and overlooks Kyalami racetrack.

You can view a map here (Google Maps) or here (PDF).

For the kids...

First off, some history.

Da Vincenzo was recently rebuilt, after a fire which all but destroyed the amazing venue.
Thankfully, business is booming again, and the newly rebuilt restaurant now features a kiddies play area, a lovely garden, and even a small aviary complete with white doves freely flying in and out.

The combination of swings, slides, open space to run around, and great food all adds up to contented kiddies :)
Speaking of great food, on our last visit we had 5 kids in our group, and they all loved the food that was served - pizza, pastas, juice, and ice cream for dessert.

For the adults...

To put it plainly, the food at Da Vincenzo is simply fantastic.
Vincenzo himself (the owner), sees to all the dishes personally, and no meal leaves the kitchen without getting past him.

This all adds up to a fantastic culinary experience - from the antipasti (starters), to pizza, pasta and meat dishes, to desserts and coffees.
There is also plenty of space if it's a large group that you need to feed - 3 exclusive venues are available for hire.

Anything else?

There are changing facilities for babies, and the toilets are clean and well-maintained.
Please note that children must be supervised by an adult at all times.

It is also probably a good idea to book a table in advance on weekends and public holidays.

Final words

Many people have supported Da Vincenzo for many years, and it is easy to see why.
Their kid-friendly facilities, consistently great food and wonderful hosts will keep customers coming back again and again.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

+27 (0)11 466 2618 / 42

Fax:

+ 27 (0)11 455 3925

Email:

info@davincenzo.co.za

Website:

www.davincenzo.co.za

Garden of Lights @ Emperors Palace review, Kempton Park (JHB East)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Fri, 16 Dec 2011 09:07:00 +0000

This is a bit of a different review, because it pertains only to the Festive Season.
Even so, it is a seriously worthwhile one to check out with the kids these holidays - guaranteed to be a fun evening out for all.

Date last visited

December 2011

Location and Setting

Emperors Palace Hotel and Casino, 64 Jones Road, Kempton Park, Johannesburg.
You can find directions and a map on the Emperors Casino website here.

For the kids...

As Christmas approaches, kids just love all the lights and decorations that go up to celebrate the season.
Driving around at night, it is great to see South Africans getting into the spirit by lighting up their houses and gardens... sometimes in the extreme!

Emperors Palace cottoned onto this idea in a huge way in the past, and thankfully they have done it again this year - we heard a lot about the Garden of Lights from friends, so we had to check it out for ourselves.
Don't be put off if the queue is long - it moves quickly and the wait is well worthwhile.

Once you are inside (entrance is free, donations are welcome and go to charity), you are greeted by a fairytale night garden filled with thousands of coloured lights, reindeers, elves, christmas trees and even a host of interesting folk - the kids can have their photos taken with Santa, Cinderella or Captain Hook, and even sit down for a tea party with Alice and the Mad Hatter :)

The sound of familiar Christmas songs and carols also fills the air as you walk along the garden path, something which just adds to the atmosphere of the place.

Although Emperors Palace certainly has enough in terms of food and drink when everyone gets hungry, the Garden of Lights itself has stalls where you can pick up eats, drinks, novelties, lights and other goodies that will have the kiddies begging you to buy :)

For the adults...

We enjoyed the lights probably as much as our little one did - even adults can appreciate good old Christmas cheer, especially when it is done as well as Emperors Palace have done it.

Make sure you take the camera along, as photo opportunities are all over the place - it feels a bit like a traditional scene from an American Christmas movie... minus the snow and the American accents :)
Speaking of photos, if you are one of those people who carries a half ton DSLR camera around your neck, then bring your tripod while you are at it - you will get some awesome long exposure night shots in the garden :)

A walk through the Garden of Lights will take at least half an hour if you take your time and enjoy it.
Once you are done exploring, you can always head into Emperors itself - there are a host of restaurants where you can sit down for a good meal, and the kids can head to the games arcade if the Garden of Lights has not depleted all of their energy reserves :)

Also, be sure to check out the amazing bronze statue at the entrance to the D'oreale Grande Hotel, which depicts a victorious Roman Emperor.
The statue, which weighs in at 8640kg, was sculpted in Arizona and is believed to be the largest, one piece horse sculpture ever created in bronze.

Anything else?

Entry is free, with donations welcome (to go to charity).
The Garden is open from 03 December 2011 - 03 January 2012, daily from 19:00 - 22:00 (weather permitting).

Final words

This is one of the must-do activities for the Festive Season, if you get the chance.
I would imagine that Emperors Palace will continue to run the Garden of Lights in years to come, because of how hugely popular it has become, but even so, get there while it is on now, just in case!

Getting in touch

Telephone:
(+27) 11 928 1000

Fax:
(+27) 11 928 1001

Email:
info@emperorspalace.com

Website:
Click here.

Mushroom Farm Park (also Hyundai Sky Park) review, Sandton (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sat, 10 Dec 2011 10:37:00 +0000

When last did you go shopping at Sandton City?
Did you have the kids with you...?

If it was a weekend or a public holiday (or even better, Christmas shopping like now :) , then chances are that it was pretty crazy, as the mall tends to get from about 10:00 onwards!

It is at times like this that the Mushroom Farm Park (or Hyundai Sky Park) is ideal for a welcome break, away from the madness of the mall.

Date last visited
August 2011

Location and Setting

It is fairly hard to miss the Mushroom Farm Park in Sandton - just look for the huge Hyundai helium balloon!

The Mushroom Farm Park is situated just off Rivonia Road on Daisy Street, in Sandown, Johannesburg.

Click here for a map.

For the kids...
Shopping-drained kids are greeted by a huge sandpit, containing a wide variety of colourful jungle gyms, slides, swings and other play equipment, all guaranteed to excite the little ones and keep the adults exercising as they supervise playtime :)

If it's a walk (or a run) that the kids are after, then there is more than ample space for them to scoot about and use up those energy reserves.

There is a very picturesque setting as you walk down towards the dam in the park, and as you cross the wooden footbridge, you might be forgiven for thinking you were somewhere far off in the country, and not right in the middle of Sandton!

The Hyundai helium balloon (similar to the one at Montecasino) is also sure to attract attention, wide eyes and fascination from the kiddies.
The balloon is operated by Aerial Displays in partnership with Hyundai - for more info on balloon rides click here.

For the adults...
The Mushroom Farm Park reminds me of what parks in Johannesburg used to be like when I was a kid.

Bombela have done a fantastic restoration job, after the park was used as a temporary shaft during construction of the Gautrain - it is beautifully landscaped, and it incorporates a walkway that takes you around the entire park.

For the bird watchers out there, there are also about 80 different species of birds who flock around the dam.

According to the Hyundai website, we should also soon see a coffee shop on the premises, but in the meantime, a good old picnic basket will do the trick!

Anything else?

Access to the park is controlled by security guards, and entrance is free.

The toilets are clean and well maintained - always important!

Final words

For a reprieve from the craze of Sandton shopping, the Mushroom Farm Park is high up there on my list.
The fact that the park balloon is sponsored by Hyundai, and the presence of the Radisson Blu Hotel right next door, ensure that the Park is definitely on the up and up.

Getting in touch

One of our readers got in touch with us recently and sent us this number as the primary contact for Mushroom Farm Park:

Telephone:
+27 (0) 11 784 6881

We gave them a call to confirm, and it is indeed the right number.
@Anonymous - thank you!

Montecasino Bird Gardens review, Fourways (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sun, 23 Oct 2011 15:54:00 +0000

"The parrot with the blue feet"...:)

Traditionally in Johannesburg, if you want to see wildlife, you head off to the JHB Zoo (which is very cool itself).
If you feel like something a little different though, why not pay a visit to the Montecasino Bird Gardens.
While you may not see quite the same variety of animals as you would at the zoo, it is a different kind of experience and well worth it, especially if you have little ones in need of a really cool bird show :)

Date last visited

June 2013

Location and Setting

Montecasino is well known in Johannesburg - it sits on the Cnr of William Nicol Drive and Montecasino Boulevard in Fourways, Johannesburg.
Once you are in Montecasino itself, simply follow the signs to the Bird Gardens.
Once you reach the huge Hyundai helium balloon (which you cannot miss), then you are just about there :)

You can get directions and a map on the Montecasino site here.
You can also find a Google map here.

The cool thing is that the Gautrain Bus network has a drop off point directly in front of the Bird Gardens entrance - super convenient.

For the kids...

The biggest kid attraction here is definitely the animal factor.

The name is deceptive though, as the Bird Gardens are home not only to birds, but to mammals, reptiles, and some other rather unusual species as well.
As you explore the park, you will spot all kinds of creatures - toucans, parrots, flamingos, storks, meerkats, snakes, tortoises, frogs, spiders and many more I'm sure, if you keep your eyes peeled closely enough!

The highlight however, has to be the "Flight of Fantasy" Bird Show.
You can catch the 40 minute show in the Tuscan Amphitheatre - click here for show times.

The show is included in your ticket price and is great fun for young and old, so make sure you catch one while you are there.
We saw the show over 2 months ago, and our 2 year old is still asking about the mascot of the show - a guy dressed up in a giant, colourful toucan outfit, whom she fondly refers to as "the parrot with the blue feet" :).

When the tummies start to rumble and grumble, it's time to make a beeline for Cafe Flamingo.
Here you can sit back and enjoy a meal and a cappuccino or something cold, while the kiddies clamber about on the jungle gym or play in the sandpit and on the swings.
Cafe Flamingo also caters for kiddies birthday parties (max. 30 people) - click here for further info.

For the adults...

Parents will love the wide variety of creatures here, and the Bird Show will definitely put smiles on all faces.
On our last visit, after the show we were allowed to go down and meet some of the bird-stars of the show (including "the parrot with the blue feet" :), and get photos taken with them.

The food at Cafe Flamingo is reasonably priced, and of good quality.
All of the meals we have had there have been great, and their offerings range from breakfasts, to tramezzinis and other coffee shop-type fare.
The place does get busy though, so either get there early for breakfast, or wait until a show is on - this tends to be a quieter period with lots of tables available.

Also try get a table close to the play area so you can keep a close eye on the little ones, while enjoying the sights and sounds of the nearby Flamingo Pond.

Anything else?

When purchasing your tickets, be sure to buy a small container of nectar to feed to the Rainbow Lorikeets - they live in one of the first enclosures as you enter the park, and they will land on your arm or shoulder and literally eat out of your hand. The kids just love it, as do the adults :)

The toilets are clean and well maintained (always a biggie!), and there is a baby-changing fold down table in the ladies toilets.

For current ticket pricing and Bird Park hours, click here.

When you have had your fill of the Bird Gardens, you can always head over to the Hyundai Helium Balloon, which carries 30 people at a time and offers breathtaking views, or why not head into Montecasino, where you get an ice cream and take a stroll over to the Piazza, with its colourful musical fountains which the kids are sure to enjoy.

Final words

The Montecasino Bird Gardens make for a fun and memorable day out, especially as we head into the beautiful summer months up here on the Highveld.
The variety of bird and other species, a wonderful bird show, and the Gautrain Bus convenience factor make it something that you will want to do over and over again.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

(+27) 11 511 1864

Fax:

(+27) 11 511 0477

Email:

mbirds@mweb.co.za

Website:

Click here.

Primi Piatti Fusion review, Stoneridge Shopping Centre (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 20:59:00 +0000

I am a firm supporter of the Primi Piatti brand, mainly because every visit has been a pleasure.
Their food is consistently great and their menu offers a good variety for all.
Top it all off with their ability to keep the kids in mind, and it earns them a spot right here, on Plebs with Kids.

Date last visited

July 2011

Location and Setting

Primi Fusion
Shop 24A
Cnr Hereford & Modderfontein Rd
Stoneridge Lifestyle Centre
Modderfontein

Click here for a map - scroll down and look for "Location Map" on the right side of their page.

For the kids...

While you wait for your meal to arrive, Primi Fusion makes sure that the little ones are kept occupied.
Near the back of the restaurant you will find a kids activity area, which Primi calls "Primi Pods".
Here they can sit in front of the colourful mosaic counter, and engage in some enjoyable entertainment, in the form of pizza making and biscuit baking :)

Caregivers are present to assist the young ones, and also to facilitate the process of baking, once the kid-masterpiece-creations have been prepared :)
When the baking is all done, the kids get to try out their very own creations - super cool!

The area is visible to parents, so you can keep an eye on the kids as you enjoy your starter / drinks / coffee / whatever it is that you order :)

Primi also really scores high when it comes to the kids menu.
They offer a colourful and funky "Spaghetti and Ladders" menu, which resembles a game board.
It offers a great choice, and you will be pleasantly surprised by the pricing too.

Get a PDF version here, or a JPEG version here.

For the adults...

This one is all about the food, and in our experience, Primi always gets this very important aspect right.
Their breakfast menu offers great variety - from good old traditional eggs, bacon and the trimmings, to eggs benedict, to health breakfasts, check it all out on their breakfast menu here (PDF) or here (JPEG).

Their main menu offers pasta, pizza, chicken, fish, burgers and of course a decadent selection of desserts.
Download it here (PDF) or here (JPEG).
While I have not yet had the time to try out all of their menu offerings, everything that I have had was of a consistently high quality.

I trust that you will enjoy the same experience :)

Anything else?

The other great thing here, is the staff. From the managers to the waiters, to the kitchen staff and caregivers for the kids, they all just do what they do, with a big smile on their face.

Just look up on the wall as you walk in, and you will see the quote "Work is love made visible...". Clearly these guys practice what they preach.

Keep up the great work guys!

Across the parking lot there is also an Adventure Golf course - something to help you either work up an appetite, or walk off a meal :)

On weekends when we visited Primi Fusion, there was also a jumping castle inflated in the square in front of the restaurant, and we even saw a few clowns walking around entertaining passers-by - it all made for good fun :)

Final words

Primi Fusion @ Stoneridge Shopping Centre is a great idea if it's mainly great food you're after, but with the knowledge that your little ones will also get some educational fun out of it, and a great kids meal to top it all off.

Sometimes you just want to enjoy great food, but you don't really want to venture out to a kids theme park or a place where kids are just bouncing off the walls (sometimes literally :) - and that's where a place like Primi Fusion fits in perfectly.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
(+27) 11 452 2732

Fax:
(+27) 11 452 2732

Email:
fusion@primi-piatti.com

Website:
http://www.primi-piatti.com

Mugg & Bean @ Broadacres Lifestyle Centre, Fourways (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Thu, 30 Jun 2011 19:25:00 +0000

The Mugg & Bean brand can be found all over South Africa - you will spot it in most of the major centres, and with it comes the mark of a good quality meal and great coffee, at an affordable price.
It is not normally the type of establishment that would appear on Plebs with Kids, but this branch is one with a difference.
Read on...

Date last visited

June 2011

Location and Setting

Broadacres Lifestyle Centre is situated on the corner of Cedar and Valley Roads, Broadacres, Fourways, In Johannesburg.
It contains a variety of restaurants, shops and venues, one of which is the Mugg & Bean about which this post is being written.

You can view a map here.

For the kids...

Mugg & Bean is not usually all about the kids.
Sure, the new branch in Harrismith (at the Bergview Engen One-Stop) gives out crayons and drawings for the kids to colour in, but this is not common for the franchise, at least not in my experience.

Mugg & Bean Broadacres though, is totally kid-oriented.
Make your way through the inside area, and beyond lies an idyllic outdoor playground for the little ones.
Taking centre stage is the giant plastic jungle gym, with its twisty slides and giant ball pool.
There is also a really cool riding track that encircles the play area - ideal for kid-racers on plastic ride-on bikes.

Moving to the back of the playground, you will find an old favourite - the ever-popular jumping castle.
If that doesn't do it for the tots, then they can head over to the other side of the playground where there is a huge wooden jungle gym type structure.

Add some animals to this already successful mix, and it's all starting to look like a winner - there are some geese and rabbits who live near the playground in an animal enclosure, and they make for great entertainment for the kid who demands a lot from their Sunday outing :)

As for the kids menu, Mugg & Bean offers a great spread which will likely satisfy even the most fussy eaters - you can view their menu online here.

During our visit, the restaurant was setting up for a kids party in their own private party venue behind the playground - for details about hiring the venue, please contact them directly using the details at the bottom of this post.

Just as you walk out of the Mugg & Bean, be sure not to miss the kids fancy dress costume shop on your right.
Here you can get anything from a kids cowboy outfit to a fairy princess costume - they really do have a lot on offer, so be prepared to spend a good few minutes in there once your little ones realise what a goldmine they have just stumbled upon... :)

For the slightly older kids, there is also an awesome model shop just a few steps away from the Mugg & Bean, offering a wide variety of radio controlled toys.
Aircraft, helicopters, cars... I almost didn't get out of the shop myself... ;)

For the adults...

I tend to think with my stomach before all else - whenever we need a place to go to, I am thinking about the food and coffee offerings before we even set off :)

Mugg & Bean is great because their standards are consistently high - I cannot think of a time when I have had a bad meal at any of their branches, and the Broadacres branch is no exception.

From a great breakfast spread, to a decent menu for lunch and dinner options, to their extensive coffee menu, Mugg & Bean have a wide variety of meals to cater for just about anyone.
If you want to check out the menu right now, you can view it online here.

After a great meal, you can head out of the Mugg & Bean and take a walk around the Lifestyle Centre itself.

Outside you will find a well-stocked nursery, a large indoor Garden Shop (where you can buy gardening equipment, some novel kids outdoor toys, decorations and more) and several other restaurants (one of which also has a very nice kids play area of its own).

Walk a bit further and you will come across the beautifully manicured gardens of Buitengeluk - a traditional Cape Dutch style venue and restaurant - you can view their website here.
The Broadacres Lifestyle Centre also offers convenience, in that you can bring your shopping bags along and stock up on groceries at the Woolworths or Spar in the centre.

Finally, the Barnyard Theatre on the premises offers some evening entertainment options, that is if you still have enough energy after a day out with the kids :)

Anything else?

If you want to get in touch with the actual Lifestyle Centre for more information about the other stores and restaurants onsite, you can call them on (+27) 11 467 2070.

There are also child-minders on the playground, and a baby changing room at the Mugg & Bean - just 2 things less to think about :)

Final words

Sometimes you just want to go somewhere without having to second guess the kind of food you will get, or what condition the kids play area will be in.

The Mugg & Bean in Broadacres is a great way to do this, with the added benefit of being within the Lifestyle Centre itself.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
(+27) 11 465 0155

Fax:
(+27) 11 465 9223

Website:
http://www.themugg.com

Circus Allegria review, Park Meadows, Bedfordview (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sun, 01 May 2011 19:51:00 +0000

This one is a little different from places that would normally appear on Plebs with Kids, but we feel that it deserves a spot here because of the obvious family and fun element that a circus brings with it.

Unfortunately this review comes a bit late, as the Circus Allegria has already moved on to Festival Mall in Kempton Park.
You can still catch up with them there until 22 May 2011.

Date last visited

May 2011

Location and Setting

For the past few months, the large multi-coloured circus big top of the Circus Allegria has dominated the parking lot at the Park Meadows Shopping Centre, opposite Eastgate Mall, in Bedfordview, Johannesburg.

As mentioned above though, that won't really help much as the circus is in Kempton Park now...:)
So if you decide to pay a visit to Circus Allegria, it is now at the following address until 22 May 2011:

Corner CR Swart Drive and Kelvin Street,
Kempton Park, 1619

You can view a map here.

For the kids...

The circus is always a barrel of laughs and all round fun for the kids, and Circus Allegria pretty much brings it all.

From jugglers to clowns with crazy antics, from magic acts that will keep the little ones guessing, to colourful costumes and fire acts that will amaze them - there really is a lot going on here that the kids will get a kick out of.

The important thing to remember though, is that the Circus Allegria prides itself on being "animal-free", so you won't see tigers, monkeys or any other kind of animal live on stage, and knowing how animals in circuses have been treated historically, this is a good thing!

If it's animals that the little ones want to see, rather head on over to the JHB Zoo :)

The cast of the show also make you feel very much at home - upon leaving the tent after the show, all the artistes lined up outside in 2 lines, and you could meet them in person.

This is very cool for the kids (and adults :), and something which you probably wouldn't get at one of the larger international circuses.

For the adults...

Personally I always enjoy a trip to the circus, but maybe I haven't grown up quite enough just yet :)

Watching humans pushing themselves to their physical limits though, in the form of acrobatics, strength acts, contortion and other wow-inducing feats, is something that pretty much everybody can enjoy and appreciate.

I also found myself laughing out loudly at the antics of Macaroni the clown - he is one funny guy, and that Italian accent just adds a whole lot to his already silly character :)

In terms of eats and drinks, this being a circus and all, there is only really a snacks and drinks kiosk onsite where you can grab a quick bite before the show or during the interval.

In the specific case of Park Meadows, there were of course several choices of restaurants in the mall itself where you could get a meal before or after the show.

Anything else?

Ticket prices:

- Ringside seats - R 100 + R 5 booking fee per seat
- Unreserved seats (13+ years old) - R 80 + R 5 booking fee per seat
- Unreserved seats kids (3 - 12 years old) - R 60 + R 5 booking fee per seat

You can book online via the website, or you can book before the show - allow at least half an hour before the show starts though.

Also, bring your camera - Circus Allegria does not mind photography at all.

You can also buy red clown noses and flashing glowsticks for the kids at the circus, just to add to the already festive atmosphere :)

Final words

Circus Allegria is well worth an afternoon outing. It is well-priced, fun for young and old, and it is certainly something quite out of the ordinary. I mean, how often is the circus in town?

Sure you can spend several hundred ZAR per ticket on a large international production, but for the price you pay, Circus Allegria really is great value for money.
It's a fun-filled 2 hour show with a short interval, and you will leave with smiles all round.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

(+27) 0 76 343 3858

Fax:

(+27) 0 86 570 7075

Email:

info@circusallegria.co.za

Website:

http://www.circusallegria.co.za

Jingle Jangle Tea Garden review, Moreleta Park (Pretoria)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 08:10:00 +0000

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Luschka has been at it again, scouring Pretoria for kid-friendly places where she can get a great coffee at the same time. Thanks Luschka!

Jingle Jangle is my favourite place in Pretoria. It ticks all the boxes I need when we need some time out of the house, it's peaceful and has great coffee.

Date last visited

March 2011

Location and Setting

Jingle Jangle is located in Moreleta Park in Pretoria East. It's accessible from all major routes and pretty easy to find – there's a map here.

Jingle Jangle is set in a large area with beautiful bluegum trees and loads of activities for children. It's a perfect afternoon out, and even on the hottest of days, there's a cool breeze under those trees.

For the kids...

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

For the kids there's a costume shop and a stage for fancy dress – an additional fee applies for this. There are plastic 'motorbikes' and quad bikes (also additionally charged) on the riding circuit for older kids. There's also a play area with two climbing frames, a pole for sliding, a tunnel to climb through, a 'horse' to ride, a sandpit and swings.

Jingle Jangle's play equipment includes a trampoline and a bouncy castle as well as ride on toys such as dinosaurs, a Flintstone-style car and so on.

As with many other places in Pretoria, there's an animal farm, although it's really more of an enclosure than a farm :)

The children's menu has nice foods on it, and their chocolate and vanilla milkshakes are very yummy.

There are pony-rides on weekends and public holidays too.

For the adults...

I think about Jingle Jangle, and I feel relaxed.

I'm not kidding...For adults, there's really just the tea room – and if you don't want to be surrounded by children, there's a lovely separate enclosure too.

I love the outdoors area though. Shaded by bluegum trees, able to keep an eye on the little ones, and have a bite to eat, there's not much missing.

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Their fruit juices are fantastic, as is the coffee.

Anything else?

There's plenty of parking and a car guard on duty.

The toilets are lovely and there's a small baby-change area. You can book the area for private parties, or bring your own cake, but for that there's a 'corkage' fee.

Final words

As I said, I love this place, and it's my favourite in Pretoria.

It's one of the most relaxing spots I've found and if you visit, you're likely to find me there!

Getting in touch

Address:

Wekker street
Plot 54
Kimiad Estate
Moreleta Park

Pretoria

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Telephone:

012 997 0134

Fax:
0866 924 724

Email:
jinglejangle@vodamail.co.za

Website:

http://www.jinglejangle.co.za/

Papachinos, Crowthorne (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sun, 10 Apr 2011 20:26:00 +0000

Once in a while, you come across a venue which really just seems to do all the right things.
If you ever find yourself in the Midrand area and you need just such a place, look no further than Papachinos Continental Cafe in Crowthorne.

Date last visited

January 2011

Location and Setting

Papachinos Crowthorne is situated at 40 Whisken Avenue, Crowthorne, Midrand.
It's slightly outside of Midrand proper, so GPS it if you can, or use this direct link to Google Maps to find it.

For the kids...

Papachinos has one of the most extensive kids play areas that we have yet come across.
It stetches virtually the full length of the property, which means that wherever you are seated, you are never far from a play area.
Now if you are part of my generation (born circa 1980), then you will remember the type of jungle gyms we had back then - large multi-coloured square metal structures which were rather unforgiving on the body, should you ever lose your footing or grip...

They also had a tendency to boil in the sun, which made for a rather unpleasant time if you chose to go down the slide in your shorts...

Thankfully though, this is 2011, technology has advanced, common sense has prevailed and plastic is now the order of the day :)
By plastic, I mean the new generation of jungle gyms that are taking the kiddies world by storm - I mean just take a look at this giant chunk of playtime fun:)

Papachinos Crowthorne has no less than 3 of these, and it makes you want to be a kid all over again!
The ever-present child-minders even have races with the kids down the slides... I am envious!
Speaking of child minders, these are ones that you really don't mind tipping as they do such a great job :)

In the photo above you will also spy a bit of road - there are 2 of these tracks in different areas on the premises, along with a fleet of fancy ride-on bikes for the little tykes to practice their lap times on.

The playground also has some more traditional play equipment - swings, see-saws, ride-on animals (thankfully bolted into the ground, otherwise airborne children and injuries would be plentiful!), and of course the signature Papachinos kiddies-pizza-making facility :)

Here they can sit alongside other kiddies at a kids-height counter, and create their very own pizza from scratch, starting from a pre-cut circle of dough and adding their topping of choice.
Fun and food combined :)

If pizza won't do it for them, then there is a great kiddies menu that will definitely provide enough of a choice to keep those growling little tummies satisfied :)

For the adults...

It really is all about great food at Papachinos - all of the meals that we have had here have been fantastic, from good old pizza, to unique Mediterranean-style wraps, to a great breakfast selection, right down to a comprehensive kiddies menu, Papachinos just do great food.

As already mentioned above, all this great food can be enjoyed safe in the knowledge that the kids are well taken care of and having a ton of fun.

You also have the choice of sitting outside (alongside the play area), or if you prefer there are no less than 3 other areas in which to enjoy your fine dining - an inside area, a bar area and a small outside courtyard just next to the bar.

In our experience, even during a busy Saturday lunch, Papachinos didn't feel quite as chaotic as one may have expected with so many kids running around.
There seems to be an equal emphasis here on keeping the kids happy while still retaining the "come back again soon" factor.

Anything else?

There are dedicated baby-changing facilities on the premises, and high chairs are readily available if the little ones are not yet ready for full-size chairs.
There are also small picnic benches and tables especially for the kids to sit at.

According to their website, there are also safety officers and first aid kits onsite (which we thankfully didn't have to use :).

Booking ahead is highly recommended.
Arriving early enough on a Saturday morning might be ok without a booking, but be advised - this place does fill up quickly.
Parking is plentiful and there are car guards on duty.

Final thoughts

Papachinos Crowthorne is a great all-rounder.
Great food, smiling kids galore, and a venue which really looks out for all of its patrons, young and old.
A winner.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
011 702-1234

Website:
http://www.papachinos.co.za

Irene Village Mall review, Irene (Pretoria)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 19:39:00 +0000

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Credit once again goes to Luschka van Onselen for this review :)

While it might seem strange to review a whole mall, Irene Village Mall is no ordinary mall.
Apart from its European 'feel' and the pancake stand at the entrance, there's also so much to do, and it is extremely child friendly.

Date last visited

March 2011

Location and Setting

On the corner of Nellmapius Drive & Van Ryneveld Avenue, Irene, Irene Village Mall is another of Pretoria's shopping malls, but it is a mall with a difference. It is one of the few that is truly child friendly and can actually be a fun day out for everyone.

For the kids...

Upon entering the mall through the main entrance, there's a fountain, behind which is a mini maze (about knee high) complete with scarecrows and an upside down cow statue – or rather the udders and legs of the cow. I'm not sure where the rest of it got to!

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Behind the cow which always has children clambering all around it, is a square surrounded by restaurants and a few benches. In the centre of the square is a very large (54m²) water feature with arches and spouts.
This is the main attraction of Irene Mall. There are always children running around in and out of the water. Some parents actually come there with their children already in costumes or wet suits and the inexperienced just let their children run around in full dress or nappies.

Around the water feature are four restaurants and coffee shops where you can have breakfast, coffee or lunch while the kids play to their heart's content.

Behind the fountains is a display area – last time I went there were vehicles on display, but the time before that there was a whole children's play area complete with trampolines.
On Saturdays there is a train that drives up and down the strip-mall layout of the rest of the mall.
R15 per person per ride - it's great fun for the children.

There's also a toyshop which sells both Lego and Duplo, and there are three 'scratch-patch' tables where children can play and build and have fun.
If all of that is not enough, there are also ride-on toys dotted around the centre.

For the adults...

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Well, it is a mall. It has general shopping such as Woolworths and Pick 'n Pay, and it has boutique shops, a baby boutique and so on.
There are plenty restaurants and a Ster Kinekor movie theatre.

What makes Irene Village Mall feel so European is the hand-cut mosaic artwork that decorates the entrances, drinking fountains and water features.
There's a bell tower too, and the statues you'll find on your wanderings definitely add to the ambiance.
Two men staring at each other in the style of “The Thinker”, and large deformed horses (which also have a seat area which little ones can 'ride' on – with supervision though – the tall one is very high!)

Anything else?

Parking is reasonable – your first hour is free, second hour is R5.

If you go on a Saturday, Karoo (first on the left of the fountains) has a fantastic breakfast buffet for R69.00 including such items as biltong and beer bread, more than 10 meat dishes, vetkoek, pumpkin fritters and loads more. It's a highly recommended breakfast, and they serve from 9am.
The toilets are very nicely done up, and clean, but I didn't see a baby change – although there's ample room in the bathroom.

There might not be much for parents to do in the Lego shop, but watching the little ones entertain themselves is good enough for me.

Getting in touch

Detailed directions can be found here.

GPS:
S 25 ° 51 . 683 '
E 28 ° 15 . 044 '

Tel:

(012) 662 4446

Fax:
(012) 662 0719

Email:
Martilize Ochse - martilize@mseed.co.za

Website:
http://www.irenemall.co.za/

Kids Castle Animal Farm and Playground review, Die Wilgers (Pretoria)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sat, 19 Mar 2011 13:06:00 +0000

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Luschka van Onselen has been very busy in and around Pretoria - here is her next contribution - thanks Luschka!

The urban farm is definitely the 'thing to do' in Pretoria, and Kids Castle Animal Farm and Playground is another option if you're looking for somewhere to go.

Kids castle has a playground and farm, and is a party venue for children.

Date Last Visited

March 2011

Location and Setting

Located behind the Grove Mall just off Lynwood Road or off Simon Vermooten if you're coming on the N4, Kids Castle Animal Farm and Playground is at 21 Farm Road.

It was actually remarkably easy to find, armed with just those two street names.

You arrive in a sand car park, and being the only people there, we found ample parking (plenty of which is in the shade).

There's a restaurant to your right (which wasn't open during the day) and a nursery school, which also didn't seem to be open. Ahead is the 'farm' part and to the left is the reception for the large play park and entrance to the farm.

A map is available here.

For the kids...

Honestly, it's all about the kids. The playground has three large climb frames, a 'tractor', sand pit, various swings and slides, a roundabout swing thing and a trampoline.

The biggest problem we found was that everything was in the sun and scorchingly hot. We were able to play on some of the equipment, but a few trees around the play area would not hurt.
There are separate party areas so that two parties can be held at the same time.

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Upon arrival we were given animal food – cabbage for the goats, sheep and rabbits and corn for the chickens, geese, ducks and random other fowl. As we approached they rushed to the fence, and my daughter loved it.

The goats were the keenest for food and were remarkably gentle in taking it from my 17 month old.

For parties there is also a jumping castle, tractor rides and donkey rides, and the package (R700 for three hours venue hire, R50 per child and R25 per adult) includes party packs and entertainment.

For the adults...

There's not a huge amount for adults, other than playing with your little ones, which is probably the point. There's not a lot of shade, but saying that, as the only people there on the day, we were fine.

You can buy a small selection of soft-drinks from their shop. I paid R10 for a Fanta Grape.

Anything else?

Dawie, one of the owners was very friendly and informative. He told us details about the animals and wasn't shy of spending a bit of time making sure we were looked after.

The only real downside of Kids Castle is the toilets. There's no baby change facility, which in a place catering for children is a little strange, and there were hundreds of mosquitoes.

Hopefully management have taken note of this and will improve the facilities in the near future.

I think it would be a great place for a birthday party or to go with friends. Mums and Dads can sit and chat while the kids run themselves ragged and entertain themselves with the animals.
Day visitors are welcome – i.e. you don't have to be part of a party, and adults will pay R15, while children are R25.

With a toddler on my own it was good for about two hours, but with older children or a group, and a few snacks, it could easily be a whole day out.

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Getting in touch

Website
http://www.kidscastle.co.za

Telephone
Dawie 0828046979
Marika 0837701786
Tel: (012) 8070688

Address
Plot 21
Farm Road Off Simon Vermooten

Die Wilgers

Pretoria

Safari Garden Centre review, The Willows (Pretoria East)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Sat, 12 Mar 2011 20:21:00 +0000

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Thank you again to Luschka van Onselen for this, her latest contribution to Plebs with Kids - keep 'em coming!

I'm not sure if it's all over South Africa, or just in Pretoria, but Garden Centres are glorified playgrounds that sell a few garden essentials on the side.

Honestly, I've seen garden centres all over the world, and none of them hold a candle to the ones here, and in the garden centre league, Safari is my personal first place title holder.

Location and Setting

On Lynwood Road, Pretoria, Safari Garden Centre lies on the T-Junction of Lynnwood and Rubida Street, The Willows (Pretoria East) and it is pretty impossible to miss.

From the road it looks like your average garden centre.

Parking is plentiful, free, and there's a car guard on duty.

You can find directions here.

For the kids....

Credit: Luschka van Onselen

Walk through the garden centre and you're faced with a world you didn't know was there from the road. Passing by all the plant centre things, you find a wonderland for children.

There are pony rides and a train ride on weekends and public holidays.

There's a jumping castle, and a walk in aviary / animal farm, which houses bot belly pigs, chickens, rabbits, a few goats and more varieties of farm birds.

There are also marmoset monkeys, dwarf mountain goats and rabbits.

In the centre of all this is a playground with slides and climb frames. Really, its a child's paradise.

There are also many water features, water falls, fish and a rickety looking bridge over the water, something my daughter was fascinated by.

There are ride-on machines and a large elephant for looking at, and there's plenty of opportunity for walking around, exploring and playing imaginative games.

Credit: www.safarigardencentre.com

For the adults...

There are different 'plant' sections – rose, cacti, herbs, herbaceous and indoor are only a few- and a water feature area with everything from little fountains to a roaring waterfall.

There are also plenty of opportunities to walk around daydreaming about your ideal garden.

The key to any good child's place for me, is a decent cup of coffee, and the restaurant here serves that, no doubt. There's a full restaurant, a bar, a chapel and various function rooms.

Outdoors there's a function area with a huge bonfire. The restaurant also stretches all the way to the play area, so you can keep an eye on the children while enjoying lunch or a drink.

Anything else?

Although the Safari Garden Centre is open till 17.30, the aviary is locked around 16.30, and the restaurant stops serving around the same time.

There is no entrance fee for any part of Safari, and only the rides and ride-on toys will cost you any money – and of course anything you purchase from the restaurant.

Credit: www.safarigardencentre.com

Final thoughts

The Safari Garden Centre is a free, fun-filled afternoon. There is so much to see that it caters for all ages, and it's hard to believe that beyond the King Kong - like walls, there's a whole bustling city.

It's one of my favourite places in Pretoria, and I strongly recommend it for a visit.

Contact information

Telephone:

012 807-0009

Fax:

0866 800 772

Physical Address:

Credit: www.safarigardencentre.com

C/o Lynnwood Road and Rubida Street

The Willows

Pretoria East

Business Hours:

Monday to Saturday: 08:00 - 17:30

Sunday and Public Holidays: 09:00 - 17:30

Email:

info@safarigardencentre.com

Website:
http://www.safarigardencentre.com

Papachinos, Silverlakes (Pretoria)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 13:01:00 +0000

First off, thanks to Luschka van Onselen for contributing this article to Plebs with Kids :)

...and now, onto the review!

Papachinos is a restaurant, but it is one of the most child-friendly places I've come across.

Need to sit and work, but have your child with you? Try Papachinos.

Need to have lunch with a friend? Try Papachinos.

Need some time out and want someone else to take care of the little one for you? Papachinos.

Date Last Visited

March 2011

Location and Setting

Near Lynnwood Road or Hans Strydom Road, in the Silverlakes area, Papachinos is attached to the big 'Seven' building, nestled nicely on the cool side of the building.

The physical address is: Cnr Silverlakes and Graham Rd, Silver Lakes, Gauteng 0054, South Africa
There's a map here.

For the kids...

There's a good sized, covered outdoor area, with a large-ish play area/climb frame with six slides of different sizes, heights and configurations, steps, a tunnel and a turret. It's partially shaded too – a big plus for me in the scorching summer sun.

What differentiates this from your standard Wimpy is that there are staff on duty specially there to entertain and play with the children while you can still keep a watchful eye, your kids can see you and yet you can get on with what you're there to do.

There's also a gorgeous stone-baked pizza oven, and a child-height counter where little ones can create their own pizza with help from the staff on duty. A dash of flour on the table, a pre-rolled circle of pizza dough and children can 'roll out' their pizza crust, and add the topping of their choice.

In the oven and a few minutes later, lunch is served – food and activity for just R28. A bargain in my mind.

For the adults...

Ah! For me, it's all about the coffee.

South Africa is the only place I've been where you can ask for a cappuccino with cream, so that's what I indulge in when I'm here, and Papachino's do a good one.

Lunch in a shaded area with a cool breeze, lovely music and a relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere, and someone to look after my child under my supervision – well, let's just say you wouldn't be reading this if it weren't for Papachinos.

That's right – I'm sitting here right now, sipping on my creamy coffee and watching a member of staff slide down the slides with my little girl, who is loving it.

Anything else?

Yes! The bathrooms! They are beautiful, and there's a baby change (and a very cute toddler potty) and plenty of room. The internal décor is very Mediterranean, with (admittedly fake) grapes hanging from the trellises.

The food is great, and well priced, considering your location and everything you're getting for it.

My cappuccino was R14.95, my calamari starter – I didn't need a main after it, was a very generous portion for R48.95.

Final words

Well, I think my thoughts on Papachinos are pretty self-evident. I think it's great and I wish there were more dotted around Pretoria. In fact, if they moved one into my garden that would be fine with me too.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

012 809 3539

Lory Park Zoo, Midrand (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 01 Feb 2011 12:05:00 +0000

Kids love animals.

You just need to mention the word “lion” or “tiger” and their little eyes light up with glee and anticipation
We have already reviewed the JHB Zoo, and of course it scores well as an outing for the little ones.

You can only do the JHB Zoo so many times though, before other animal-themed options need to be found.
Lory Park Zoo then, presents a refreshing alternative if it’s animals that you want to see.

Date last visited

January 2011

Location and Setting

If it's JHB and Pretoria that you are considering, then Midrand is about as central as you can get.

...Meditation time...

Lory Park Zoo is situated at 180/1 Kruger Road, President Park, Midrand, in and among other agricultural holdings.
It sits almost directly underneath the flight path of small aircraft departing from and arriving at Grand Central Airport, so if you are an avid aviation-type person, this would be an added bonus for you...
...and when the kids get bored of the animals, just look up at the sky and point out the aircraft as they fly by :)

Directions can be found on their website at www.lorypark.co.za.

For the kids...

It's a zoo - nuff sed :)
Ok that's not entirely true - Lory Park has a selection of some unique and fascinating animals, and the layout of the walkways and cages allows you to get up close and personal with some serious players in the animal world.

This allows for some awesome photo opportunities, and at times you forget yourself as you stand motionless, admiring the incredible sight of a Siberian Tiger as it paces back and forth only one or two metres in front of you... better hope that mesh in between you is made of sturdy stuff!

Lory Park is a sanctuary and a haven for many animals, including big cats (tigers, cheetahs, lions, jaguars, leopards, pumas), small cats (caracals, ocelots, servals), canines (foxes, jackals), primates (lemurs, monkeys), tortoises and birds (parrots, birds of prey).

Speaking of birds of prey, you can also get up close and personal with owls in their enclosure - you don a leather glove and head on in.
Lift up your arm and they just flock in to grab some grub off you. Drop your arm again and they're gone.
Very cool!

This is SO the life...

For the adults...

Growing older doesn't mean that you have to lose your appreciation for nature - and thank heavens for that, because the animals at Lory Park Zoo are as much a treat for the adults as they are for the kids.

As I mentioned above, Lory Park is a sanctuary for many animals, some of them on their way to larger facilities or different habitats.
That means that you are likely to see different animals on subsequent visits, which is always a good thing.
For example, the super-cute tiger cubs in the photo below were at the zoo during our visit in 2008, but are no longer there now (or they are just a whole lot larger :).

There is also a small Tea Garden at the zoo, but when we were there they were only functioning as a kiosk where you could get a colddrink, a chocolate or some chips etc.
According to the menu on their website though, they do offer a light meal or refreshment in between your fix of wildlife.

Anything else?

Depending on the timing of your visit, you can see the cats getting bottle-fed or as in the photo below, getting treated to a dose of fly-repellent :).
For R50 extra you can also go into some of the enclosures (cubs only, of course), for a hands-on experience with these incredible creatures.

Lory Park Zoo also offers other services like bird food sales, bird wing and nail clipping, bird lodging etc.
Best to contact them directly for any queries along these lines.

Final words

There isn't really much else to be said, that quite describes seeing big cats so close up.

For example, there is a jaguar at the zoo who was rather reclusive during our visit.
I always thought jaguars were pure black, but there is in fact a subtle yet discernible pattern on their skin that is visible from certain angles.
I am no game ranger (I run away from small spiders), so I do not know if all jaguars have this characteristic, but it was something quite fascinating to see.

For a refreshing animal-themed outing, Lory Park Zoo delivers a unique and memorable experience, and you will leave wanting to come back again soon.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

011 315 7307

Email:

curator@lorypark.co.za

Website:
http://www.lorypark.co.za

Fax:
011 312 2364

Pumula Beach Hotel, Umzumbe (KZN South Coast)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Mon, 03 Jan 2011 21:25:00 +0000

Taking the kids away for a holiday is a great thing to do, but there are a whole lot of extra things that you need to think about, just because the kids are with you.
You cannot just lock up and go - there are tons of extras to pack - toys, 78 changes of clothes (in case of bad weather etc.), nappies, medication... the list just doesn't seem to end.

Something also of huge importance then, is how kid-friendly your destination is.
It would seem though, that holiday resorts and accommodation are all becoming a whole lot more considerate of the entire family, kids included. Maybe I am only just noticing it now that I am a dad... :)

Pumula Beach Hotel is just such an example, of a "family" type destination.
It is the type of place to go when you want to just kick back for a few days, watching the sea, eating, drinking, sunbathing on the beach, taking the occasional dip, while the kids are well taken care of in their own right.

Date Last visited

November 2010

Location and Setting

Pumula Beach Hotel is situated on the KZN South Coast, a few km past Hibberdene and approx. 100km from Durban.

It has its own private beach with direct access from the hotel - the road and railway line run behind the hotel, so all that separates you from the beach is the hotel boundary fence encased in lush coastal vegetation.

For the kids...

Simply put, Pumula Beach Hotel scores very well on this front:

- If your kids love the sea and the sand (and which kids don't?), then Pumula's beach will deliver a ton of fun. The beach is a pleasure to walk on (some of the North Coast beaches are a bit more coarse and not so easy on the feet if you want to walk for a long distance), and the small rocky outcrops provide a wealth of shallow rock pools in which you can find crabs, small fishes and some really interesting looking seashells.
There is also a designated swimming beach, which is supervised by lifeguards at certain times during the day.

- Once the kids have had their daily fill of beach sand, you can head up to the hotel for a spot of adventure golf. The 9 hole course is rather challenging in places, especially if your adventure golfing skills, like mine, are not quite up to scratch... :)

- During (or after) your game of adventure golf, the kids can transform themselves into little monkeys, on several jungle gyms that are neatly placed in and around the mini golf course. Either that, or they can see how high they can jump on the 2 trampolines there.

- After all the golfing, monkeying about and trampolining, there can be nothing better than a dip in the hotel's awesome salt water swimming pool (heated in winter), complete with a splash pool for the little ones.

- If all of the above haven't exhausted all that boundless kiddie energy, then hop out of the pool and get dirty on the beach volleyball court. Afterwards, you can just hop straight back into the pool anyway :)

- If the weather dishes out a rainy day, then the kids can burn some energy in the games rooms. There is an awesome huge custom-built wooden jungle gym that stretches across and between the rooms. Send your child in there and you may not see them for several hours... :)

- There are also 2 table-tennis tables in the games rooms, as well as some old style arcade game machines that you used to find at your corner Cafe - remember the ones that took a 20c coin per game...? :)
Adjacent to that is a room dedicated to Sony Playstation games, kids movies and DVD's, so there really are a load of different activities for the kids.

That's pretty much a day full of activities, or at least the better part of a day. Don't forget that you have to eat sometime as well... more about that later :)

Kids get to enjoy their dinner an hour and a half before main dinner, served in the kids dining room.

They get their own menu, which is usually a slightly stripped down version of the adult menu to be served later that evening.
It was great to note that the kiddies menu was very well thought out, as it was definitely enjoyed by all the kids there - I know that fussy eaters can be a problem!

If it's the tiny tots who are doing the eating, then there are highchairs readily available.
On that note, Pumula have got a "Tiny tots kitchen" situated next to the kids dining room - so you can make use of their fridge and microwave facilities if you need to heat up food or keep something cold during your stay.

Useful tip 1:

Bring along some small tupperware dishes with lids - then after the kids are finished eating, store their leftovers in the fridge in case they are after a snack the next day (this came in very handy for us).

Useful tip 2:

If you want to enjoy peaceful dinners at Pumula, be sure to book your babysitter in advance (book at reception, before 16:00 on the day) - that way you can chill out and enjoy the wonderful cuisine and views from the dining room, while the little ones are looked after in the playroom or in your own room, if you prefer.

For the adults...

Where to start?

There is so much to say about this place that I would probably wear the letters off my keyboard if I were to type it all, so I will keep it as short as I can :)

It doesn't get much better than this... :)

When adults go on holiday, they like to think as little as possible. I suppose one could say that a holiday is kinda like a thinking break :)

At Pumula, all you really need to think about is when the next meal is... if you are like me, that is :)

All meals are included in their rates, and their meals are certainly memorable in every way.

Breakfast is the usual buffet fare of yogurts, fruits, muesli, confectionery, cheese, cold meats etc., followed by English-style eggs, bacon, sausages, mushrooms if you are someone with a huge appetite.

Their omelettes are also awesome and super-filling... enough to keep you going until lunch at least :)

Echo Valley filter coffee (yum!) flows freely from early in the morning until late at night, along with a variety of teas and hot chocolate.

Lunch is usually a buffet of some sort, or maybe a braai on the patio (weather permitting), and the dinner menu is in a similar style to The Cavern resort in the Northern Drakensberg, offering several options for Starter, Entree, Main Course and Dessert.

Their food is truly excellent - both in quality and in portion size... it was actually too much to finish in some cases :)

Clearly Pumula have a superbly creative group of chefs and kitchen staff, as the menu will testify. I will not spoil it for you though - rather experience it for yourself :)
The kitchen staff are also very accommodating if you require something specific - for example, when our little toddler requested plain pasta (not standard on the menu), they happily boiled up some for us :)

What makes mealtimes at Pumula even more special though, is the unique ambiance that is achieved in their dining room.

It is a combination of incredible sea views, quaint seaside decor and the excellent selection of Cafe del Mar / Buddha Bar / Chill out background music, that simply completes the wonderful dining experience here.

Enough about the food then.

If you want to catch a tan (or a burn, if you are a Vaalie...), head down to the beach, or the salt water pool if you prefer.
As mentioned above, you can also try your hand at some adventure golf on their 9 hole course.

There is also a small library at the hotel if you want to settle down with a good book while watching out for whales or dolphins in the surf - we personally saw both when we were there.
A truly awesome spectacle!

If you feel like a bit of a drive along the coast, there are a host of activities and fun places to visit inland:

- 10 golf courses nearby

- Diving

- Whale and dolphin viewing
- Fishing
- Game viewing at Lake Eland
- Incredible views, gorge swings and hikes at Oribi Gorge
- Several petting zoos and animal sanctuaries along the coast - check out http://www.southernexplorer.co.za/do.html for a list of South Coast places to visit.

Enquire at the hotel reception for further details on any of these and other activities... and if you just want to kick back and do nothing, then do that! No excuses required here :)

Anything else?

I think that just about does it from our side - for any other information that you may need about Pumula (accommodation, rates, specials etc.), head on over to their website at:

http://www.pumulabeachhotel.com/htm/main.htm.

Final words

Pumula has the sun, sea, sand, excellent food, lots to do, friendly and helpful staff, and all this happens with the kids strongly in mind.

A winner all round.

Getting in touch

Telephone:

039 684 6717

Email:
reservations@pumulabeachhotel.co.za

Fax:
039 684 6303

Website: http://www.pumulabeachhotel.com/

Johannesburg Zoo, Parkview (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 21:48:00 +0000

For as long as I can remember, the JHB Zoo has been a fascinating and wonderful place to visit, both for kids and adults.

It provides a beautiful green belt where you can see a wide variety of animals, right in the middle of the concrete jungle that is Johannesburg (ok not quite the middle, but pretty close...:))

Date last visited

July 2013

Location and Setting

The Johannesburg Zoo is located at the corner of Jan Smuts Avenue and Upper Park Drive in Parkview, JHB, overlooked by the Westcliff Hotel.

It is a well-known and well-loved destination for many families and their little ones.

For the kids...

First and foremost, the JHB Zoo provides an opportunity for kids to see all of their favourite animals up close - lions, tigers, bears, birds, giraffes, elephants, polar bears... to name only a few of the amazing species that call the zoo their home.

The animals are always a hit and are guaranteed to plaster smiles all over those inquisitive little faces (alongside the bits of food also plastered there...:)).
In particular, the lion and tiger enclosures are very impressive, having been upgraded in recent years to allow the animals much more space to roam.

The zoo also offers a lot of green space for the kids to run around in - always a biggie for city dwellers who are confined to apartment living, with minimal or no gardens.

There are also several theme-park styled rides near the main entrance, in case you need a few moments of adult-quiet time while the little ones run off to make themselves dizzy...
On our most recent visit last week, we also discovered that a really nice new kids play area is being built just near the lion enclosure - we were told that it would be ready during the next few days (so expect it sometime this month - July 2013):

There are many other activities that the JHB Zoo offers for kids, but I can only really scratch the surface here - for a complete guide to what's happening at the Zoo, you really need to check out their website at http://www.jhbzoo.org.za/.

For the adults...

I cannot speak for all adults, let alone even a few of them, but I for one never tire of the JHB Zoo.

As far back as I can remember, it was always a thrill to go on a zoo outing - as a kid I would sometimes request a zoo visit on a weekly basis...!

For adults who work and operate in a stressful and busy environment every other day of the week, the JHB Zoo offers a welcome slice of nature where time slows down ever so slightly... :)

The Cafe Fino that runs at the JHB Zoo certainly know how to make a nice meal as well - they offer a varied menu, offering breakfasts, pizza, pasta, trammezzini, wraps, salads and of course the usual array of coffees, milkshakes and beverages, without which any menu would be incomplete.

Recently we decided to try the Vegetarian Tostado - a type of wrap prepared with a filling of avo, halloumi cheese, mushrooms, peppadews and topped with a mix of melted cheese... 5 stars of deliciousness awarded for this one guys!

Round that off with a memorable Danesi Cappuccino, and the day is complete :)

My only con here would be the slightly long waiting times for service and for food... but then again it was pretty busy, and I suppose the wait was well worth it in the end :)

Anything else?

The JHB Zoo also operates a tractor ferry that you can hop onto, which caters for visitors who prefer to do a little less walking - it stops at various points for viewing opportunities and does a loop of the zoo grounds, more or less.
The toilet facilities are also generally clean and well-maintained.

Final words

Whether you bring a picnic basket, or pick up a hotdog at one of the many stands at the zoo, or even just kick back at Cafe Fino, the JHB Zoo always seems to be a safe bet if you just want to get out for a pleasant day away from home, in the company of your family, friends and a little bit of "controlled" wildlife :)

Getting in touch, Facts and Figures etc...

For entrance fees, click here.

Operating hours are from 08:30 - 17:30 with last entry at 16:00.

Telephone:

011 646 2000

Email:
info@jhbzoo.org.za

Fax:
011 486 2866

Website: http://www.jhbzoo.org.za

Flora Farm, Boksburg (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Fri, 12 Nov 2010 21:37:00 +0000

Update as at November 2018:

Unfortunately, after over 40 years of operation, Flora Farm has closed down permanently.
Thanks for all the great memories guys!

If you are ever out on the JHB East Rand (passport in hand :), looking for a place to chill for a bit in pleasant surroundings, don't overlook Flora Farm.

From the outside it basically looks like a nursery. Step inside though and it becomes a nice little haven from the bustling main road just next door.

Date last visited

August 2010

Location and Setting

Flora Farm is situated at 11 North Rand Road, Bartlett, Boksburg

(Cnr North Rand & Trichardt Road).

It is a short drive away from the East Rand Mall, and only a short distance away from the end of one of the runways at JHB International Airport - so expect the occasional low-flying aircraft overhead as they land or take off.

The place is basically a decent-sized nursery - a garden centre where you can get pretty much anything that you would expect to find in a garden :) There are also a host of shops in the centre dealing with other elements such as wedding decor, unique gifts, outdoor statues and the like.

Most importantly (that's my appetite talking now), there are 2 branches of Nino's onsite - a small cafe type branch as you enter, and a larger one situated at the back of the nursery.

For the kids...

Apart from being an outdoors venue which is always great with kids, Flora Farm offers a really nice (secure) kids play area, right next to the Nino's at the back of the nursery.

There are several jungle gyms and obstacles to climb on and get lost in, as well as a stack of giant toys and building blocks to keep the ankle-biters from biting your ankles for a little while :)

We noted that the kiddies changing facilities were situated within the ladies restrooms - I think this is more or less becoming a norm at venues for safety reasons.
Even so, what if you are a single dad taking your tot out for the day? Where do you change them if they decide to make use of their nappy...? :)

For the adults...

The main attraction for adults is definitely the huge selection of plants, shrubs, garden / nursery stock and equipment that Flora Farm offers, if you are into that kind of thing :)

There is even a wellness centre on the premises, although I know absolutely zero about wellness centres and you would need to visit their website to find out more about what they offer.

In fact, best you head on over to http://www.florafarm.co.za/ because there really is a lot going on there!

Nino's offer their standard (awesome) menu, which you can download here. There is lots of great stuff in there to choose from, and some decent options for the kiddies as well.

If you frequent Nino's, you will know that their standard of food is pretty high and that they tend to be consistent between branches. That's always a good thing :)
I am not entirely certain though, if the smaller Nino's at the front of Flora Farm offers the full menu - that's a to-find-out on our next visit there.

Anything else?

In the name of "going green", you can also drop off all your tin, paper and glass waste at Flora Farm.
Their recycling centre is located on the left as you enter the main gates.

Free admission.

Final words

If you want to just kick back a bit on a Sunday afternoon while the kids use up all their energy reserves, while stocking up on your garden needs at the same time, then you could do a lot worse than Flora Farm - pleasant surroundings, great food and lots of stuff for the little ones to do.

Many happy returns guaranteed.

Getting in touch

Telephone:
011 894 2377

Email:
info@florafarm.co.za

Fax:
011 918 5852

Website:
http://www.florafarm.co.za/

The Waterberry, Ballito (KZN North Coast)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Tue, 09 Nov 2010 20:21:00 +0000

a sight for sore eyes...

Update - 15 May 2015:

After some necessary downtime involving a complete rebuild, the Waterberry is now fully functional again, and much improved!
When next you find yourself in Ballito, this place is a must.

When we first drove past this little gem, I told myself I would be back there very soon, and as the review below will testify, it was a great decision :)

Date last visited

April 2015

Location and Setting

The Waterberry is located at the bottom of Leonora Drive, Ballito, KwaZulu Natal, right on the edge of a green belt consisting of indigenous trees and plants. There is a lovely walk through this "mini forest" which I would recommend you take, prior to engaging in the many culinary delights.
It will help work up your appetite :)
It is also truly a beautiful setting - a little slice of peace and quiet right in the middle of a rapidly expanding Ballito.

For the kids...

The Waterberry caters nicely for the kids, with several jungle gyms on the premises, positioned slightly away from the eating area, while still being close enough for you to keep an eye on those future Olympic gymnasts in training...
There is also a sandpit where they can dig around and get filthy, as well as some zozo-style huts with mini tables and chairs inside, where the ankle-biters can get some serious kiddie-conferencing / networking done... :)

The Forest Walk is a nice touch if you want to take a relaxing stroll before or after your meal, and also a good way to use up all of the excess energy that children are so good at stockpiling!

As for the menu, we were pleasantly surprised by the amount of effort that was put into the Kiddies section, offering a wide variety of meals for the little ones.

The menu boldly states: "Let us make you some fresh, healthy, slow food. It takes a little longer, but it's worth it.", so I guess this would be an indication that you are putting healthy stuff into those ravenous little tummies.

That little one-liner on the menu also hints at the general vibe of the place - one of chilling out, country living, peace and tranquility.

We found the kiddies nappy changing facilities clean and pleasant to use, as were the adult toilets. Always an important one to think about...!

For the adults...

For a relaxing break in a crazy day of sightseeing / business / exploring, The Waterberry takes good care of its adult patrons with an enticing menu and a wide variety of cuisine to choose from.

The Panini was really good, in particular I must say that the pesto, prosciutto and mozzarella combo worked really well.
To top it all off, who could possibly say no to a slice of decadent Bar One Cheese Cake and a cappuccino?
Me neither... and boy was it so worth it! While I expected a slice of chocolate death, in truth it was not overbearingly sweet, rather it was the perfect ending to an already lovely outing.

Another "adult" consideration would be pricing, which was about average and in-line with other establishments we have been to.

Anything else?

The Waterberry also offers a quaint little home-industry style shop and bakery, where you can stock up on jams, bread, cakes and an array of other yummy stuff that is sure to make you go back for more.

Free admission.

Final words

On every level, The Waterberry impressed us, from the food to the facilities, to the beautiful and relaxing setting.

Getting in touch

Call The Waterberry on +27 (0)32 946-2797.

Highly recommended.

Irene Dairy Farm, Irene (Pretoria)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 21:01:00 +0000

Call me biased, but I am already smiling as I type this intro...

Irene Dairy Farm just has a way of doing that - bringing a broad grin to faces young and old.

Date last visited

July 2013

Location and Setting

Getting out of the concrete jungle always scores high up on my list - after a week of traffic, stress and general JHB-craziness, a spot of trekking out of town really works wonders for the soul.

Irene is not that far off - about 25 minutes on the R21 gets you there.
From JHB - hop off at Nellmapius Drive, hang a left and continue for a few km's. Go under the railway bridge, continue through the 4-way stop street, take a left at the 2nd traffic circle and you are there.

The nice thing about Irene is that it still has that small country town feel to it - the first time I visited, it reminded me a bit of Pilgrim's Rest - it feels like it is stuck in a time warp of some sort, which is a good thing :)

For the kids...

The farmyard environment is a winner with the kids - all the sights, smells and sounds of a working dairy farm surround you as you make your way through Irene Dairy Farm.

There are cows all over the place, some grazing, some being milked and some just meandering about mooing occasionally... as cows are expected to do :)

The calves are also a hit with the kids, who just love to pat them and generally fuss over them like their very own teddies back at home.

Cows not their thing? Then pop the kids onto the old tractor that now fills its days watching over the restaurant, or if you prefer, the wooden jungle gym is another option to help spend all that youthful energy :)

Speaking of kids - changing nappies and such is always a biggie when taking the little ones anywhere.

On our first visit to Irene Dairy Farm, the restrooms did not specifically cater for tiny tots in terms of changing tables etc.

Most recently, however, we were pleased to notice that there is now a dedicated changing facility within the ladies restrooms. Clearly the management here like to keep up with the needs of their customers.

Good job guys!

For the adults...

Breaking away (albeit briefly) from the grind of city living is one of the main attractions here.

Even though the Irene Dairy Farm is tucked between more modern establishments such as the Irene Country Lodge etc., it retains the country feel of a dairy farm somewhere far out of town.

The establishment includes 2 restaurants - one up on the Deck, and one in the Barn (which was one of the original barns).
Both serve scrumptious breakfasts and lunches, while the barn also serves breakfast and lunch buffets every weekend.

Tucked away behind the deck restaurant you will also find a well-stocked farm store, complete with the freshest milk that money can buy - ready to be bottled as you wait. They also stock a wide variety of other dairy products, savoury treats, desserts, chocolates, cakes, coffees and all kinds of confectionery.

Upstairs you will find Nest Home Decor and Gifts - you can read more about this here.

Anything else?

NB NB - For security reasons, Irene Dairy Farm is a cashless establishment, so bring those credit and debit cards with you!

Final words

Irene Dairy Farm is one of those places that is just a safe bet, anytime.

You can be sure that you will come back time and time again - it's that good.

Free admission.

Getting in touch

They sport a decent website at http://www.irenefarm.co.za - head on over there RIGHT now! :)

Alternatively, you can use these contact details to get in touch:

Telephone:

Shop: 012 667 2326

Barn: 012 667 4822

E-mail:

shop@ireneestate.co.za

barn@ireneestate.co.za

Fax:

Barn: 012 667 5485

Dairy: 012 667 2634

Bambanani, Melville (JHB)

noreply@blogger.com (Tibor Szabo) — Mon, 08 Nov 2010 19:31:00 +0000

We were invited out for breakfast one Sunday morning to a little place in Melville called Bambanani.
Not expecting much, we set off hungrily, and were most pleasantly surprised by what we found.
Having subsequently returned to Bambanani (a xhosa word meaning stand together/unite) on 2 further occasions, I feel adequately qualified to give a fairly accurate review :)
So without further ado, read on...

Date last visited

August 2010

Location and Setting

Bambanani is situated at 85 4th Avenue, in Melville, JHB.

It is fairly central, if a little closer to those in the West / Central areas of JHB. The exterior of the establishment belies what you will find inside...

It was a chilly autumn morning when we visited, and the first thing to greet us upon arrival were several cosy fireplaces churning out a good amount of warmth.

Now I am totally clueless when it comes to fancy interior design terms, but I loved the look and feel of the place - very warm and welcoming.

For the kids...

Bambanani prides itself on a large kiddies play area, situated outside and behind the main restaurant.

There is an astro-turf area where the little ones can scoot about on kiddies motorcycles and clamber up on jungle-jims, and for the more adventurous little tikes out there, there is one of those huge multi-storey scaffolding type maze constructions.

Send your kid in there and you may not get them back for several hours...!

To add to this, dedicated child minders make their presence felt, so you can comfortably leave your precious little ones in their care. Tipping is of course always welcome.

The restrooms were clean and well presented, with very decently equipped changing rooms for those stink bombs that the little ones sometimes produce... :)

For the adults...

The warm, welcoming atmosphere is just awesome at Bambanani. It sure helps that all the staff we dealt with were relaxed and friendly, and fairly prompt to boot.

Food-wise, this being a breakfast, I can testify that several members in our party laid great praises upon the Eggs Benedict... :)

Over and above this, the menu is varied and caters nicely for the kids as well.

All of those in our party loved their meals - a variety of different breakfasts were enjoyed at our table :)

Several cappuccino's and an awesome slice of lemon meringue later, it was unfortunately almost time to go... :)

Anything else?

Not much else to add - an excellent time was had by the adults, the kids had a great time and we will most definitely be back in the near future.

The staff here are superb - you get the feeling that they are really happy to have you in their establishment.

Oh and there is the option to dine inside or outside - the upper outside dining area overlooks the play area, so you can keep one eye on your food, and the other on your offspring playing below :)
The lower outside dining area is neatly spread around the play area, so if you want to avoid the stairs, then this is for you.

Free admission.

Final words

Bambanani turned out to be a superb hit - great food, great vibe and kid-friendly as well.

Truly a place of many happy returns!

Getting in touch

Call Bambanani on 011 482 2900.

Their website is currently under construction at http://www.bambanani.biz/

Highly recommended.

Plebs with Kids

Drakensberg Sun Hotel, Central Drakensberg, KZN (Champagne Valley)

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