Winter Fine Dining:

Winter is one of the best times to try out some of the fine dining restaurants in Cape Town. Many of them offer a winter menu, for a reduced price, you can sample some of the finest food in the world.  To celebrate a good friends birthday, who happens to be a foodie, we took the opportunity to try La Colombe’s winter special.

Location, Location, Location:

The estate lies within the Table Mountain National Park. Nestled in the Constantia Nek area, high on the slopes of the Constantiaberg mountains, surrounded by wine valley, is where you find the Silvermist Estate.

First Impressions Last:

Our experience started in the estate car park when we arrived. The exceptional friendly security guard, opening our car door for us and directing us to the entrance was, as it was our first visit to the estate. Stepping in at reception, my reservation was confirmed, and I was swept away to the entrance hall for a small surprise. Guest are invited to pick a palette cleanser from a little ‘enchanted forest’. This was a small sign of the theatrical dining experience we were going to have. The white chocolate palette cleanser, bursting with lychee, cleanses the palette and awakens your taste buds.

La Colombe Simplicity:

Stepping into the main dining area, the area is light and open. The space is divided into 2 areas, the main dining area and a smaller section with large glass windows to allow uninterrupted views of the vineyard below and the mountains beyond. The dining room has simple décor, which does not compete or detract from the star, the food!  We were seated in the main dining area, but we had views into the vineyards from where we were seated.

Winter Tasting Menu at La Colombe:

After our waiter introduced himself, he explained the lunch menu and our options. We could choose four tasting plates from the menu.

Complimentary course: The bread arrived with a stylist flair, with a side serving of green moss, continuing with the enchanted theme. It consisted of warm sourdough bread, pork flavoured lard and hand-churned butter.

Plate 1:  

One of La Colombe’s signature dishes, is the Tuna La Colombe, came highly recommended. This light dish, is served in a custom La Colombe tuna can, is peeled back to reveal bite size chunks of seared yellowfin tuna. The ‘Alice in Wonderland’ offering in an umami broth with avocado, sesame and shiitake. The tuna was as soft as butter and melted in your mouth and the flavours were energetic and complimentary. I loved this dish so much, I could have gladly had this for all my courses.

Plate 2:

Another beautifully presented dish. A Mozambican prawn served with kerala style sweetbreads, a snoek dressing, coriander and just enough small dollops of sweet potato not to weigh this dish down. I loved the combination of flavours, textures and portions, all complimenting and not overpowering the prawn.

The surprise:

A palette cleanser consisting of lemongrass, ginger, pomelo and kalamansi. This dish took us by surprise. We were completely wowed by this palate cleanser, served in enchanted forest with a bed of flowing dry ice. Everything from the presentation, flavours and small finishing details, created a theatrical dining experience and transports you to an enchanted world for a few minutes.

Plate 3:

Cauliflower risotto. This creamy risotto was al dente and cooked to perfection. It was accompanied by marinated burrata, salsa verde and winter vegetables. I really enjoyed this creamy risotto and brought to live with intense flavours and fresh herbs.

The final course, Plate 4:

The final course and pièce de résistance, was desert. I chose the roasted namelaka, pineapple, chamomile, sesame and honeycomb, which was a desert with white chocolate. I was hesitant when I heard this desert contained white chocolate, as I normally don’t eat. Everything in this deconstructed dish, textures and flavours, worked so well.

All good things must come to an end:

We ended our meal and birthday celebrations with hot drinks, delectable truffles and biscuits. Andiswa and I had an experience that changed the way we look at food. It was fresh, original, innovative, playful and swept us off our feet. We arrived at 12h30pm and were the last to leave at 4pm. I can see why foodies across the globe head here and keep coming back when they visit Cape Town.

Passion made visible:

The staff at La Colombe are exceptional and well trained. The service they provide is what adds to an unrivalled dining experience. They appeared to be quite passionate about the brand and were very knowledgeable. We could ask any staff member for details on any of the dishes and they answered without hesitation. They knew when to assist and when to give you space.

Would I go back to La Colombe?

Absolutely yes! We visited La Colombe on the last day before they closed for renovations. They have since reopened after a short winter break. I am keen to go back to see the new interiors and try the new menu! The Winter Special Menu is R465 per person and runs until 31 August 2018. It is valid for weekday lunches only.

We will have to choose our next dining experience wisely, as it will be a tall order to meet this experience. Until next time. Adventure awaits!

The post La Colombe: Winter has never tasted this good appeared first on .

It’s 9am and a group of enthusiastic grade 7’s are briskly walking towards the beach. Excitement beaming from their faces, they start running toward the I AM WATER Foundation camp. For some, this is going to be a first, swimming and snorkelling in the ocean, even though the sea is within walking distance from their homes. While this is hard to believe, this is the reality for a large percentage of under privileged children in the Western Cape.

How it all started:

It all started when I attended a talk about Ocean stories. The talk focused on ocean conservation and human interaction. This is where I first learnt of the I AM WATER foundation and what they do. These stories and this programme really resonated with me, as someone who grew up in the Cape Flats, our only visits to the beach as a child, were few and far in between occasions.

I contacted Hanli Prinsloo, former South African freediving record holder and the founder of the I AM WATER foundation, to volunteer and see what the programme was about.

The I AM WATER foundation initiated this outreach programme and are actively working with communities in South Africa. They run workshops which are specifically aimed at low income communities to provide more opportunities for those schools and community members.

Why this programme resonated with me:

I know so many people living close to the ocean who cannot swim and are fearful of deep water. I too only learned to swim properly a few years ago. For me these workshops are not only about awareness of ocean conservation, it gives the children the opportunity to experience the magic of the ocean in a safe environment. It exposes them to different hobbies and career choices they may not have known of.

Breaking barriers:

These two-day workshops combine ocean conservation and human development in under-served coastal communities. I feel the I AM WATER foundation is breaking social barriers and gives everyone the opportunity to experience the ocean and sea life at its best.

The I AM WATER foundation coaches are passionate about the ocean and about giving the kids an experience that impacts them not just for a day but hopefully for a lifetime.

Where the magic happens:

The workshops take place in the False bay area, a marine protected conservation area. This is the largest bay in South Africa, rich in diverse marine life and perfect for exploring.

The Workshop Day 1: When uncertainty and fear turns into braveness and excitement:

The first day combined awareness of the ocean with discovery. The first part of workshops includes relaxation and breathing to prepare the learners before they are taken into the water. There was excitement and apprehension for their first-time snorkelling in a tidal pool. Bravery prevailed as even the most apprehensive explorers mustered the courage to overcome their fear of the water to snorkel. The excitement after the snorkel and what they experienced, made a big impact on me.

There were also other activities such as a beach clean-up and the negative impact of single plastic use. Furthermore, some shark myths were dispelled in the ocean chats before the first day ended. Exploring rock pools and rocky beaches were educational and it allowed the kids to have closer encounters with some sea life. All encounters happened under supervision.

The Workshop Day 2: Apprehensiveness, courage and a lifetime of possibilities:

Day two was about connecting with the ocean, conservation awareness and making changes for life. It also involved putting into practice what they learnt the previous day, by snorkelling in the sea this time. For this, they were taken to a sheltered area in the ocean, no more than a meter deep. Some snorkelers were fortunate to see an octopus and a baby shy shark.

Overall, two beautiful days spent ended with a sharing circle where they shared experiences of the day. The kids bonded, assisted and built one another up. The sense of comradery they had, ensuring that no one was left behind in whatever they did, was commendable.

From my perspective:

These workshop takes the learners on a journey filled with curiosity, discovery and the courage to conquer their fears. I could already see the impact the workshops had on the kids experiencing nature first hand and not just through a text book. Being in nature not only connected learners with the ocean, but also themselves as a community. The seeds of conservation were planted and a few more eco-warriors were born from this experience!

If you would like more information or contribute to this cause:

The last of the workshops for this season took place this week but you can contact the I AM WATER foundation for more information. Schools interested in workshops or getting involved, or if you would like to assist with funding for this cause, can contact the I AM WATER foundation at shireen@iamwaterfoundation.org. The foundation currently works with schools from Khayelitsha and Mitchell’s Plain. Their funding is directed to these areas. To learn more about the foundation, see their website here.

The I AM WATER foundation also runs pop up workshop on the beaches, in the False Bay area, you may bump into them at the beach or tidal pools. I thoroughly enjoyed these workshops as much as the kids did and learned so much in the few days spent with them.

Until next time. The ocean and adventure await!

Kim

Disclaimer: This is not a sponsored post. I volunteered at these workshops.

The post I AM WATER Foundation, Ocean conservation and Human interaction appeared first on .

Considering the water crisis in Cape Town and the looming Day Zero, I thought I would write a post on our stay at Kogelberg Nature Reserve a while ago. The structures are designed with a low impact on the environment and uses minimal amounts of water. This makes for the perfect eco getaway, whether you would like to contribute to water saving in the Western Cape or continue being a water warrior when on holiday!

Design Thinking:

Oudebosch cabins are located in a fairly isolated and remarkably unspoilt landscape within the Kogelberg Nature Reserve.

The structure were designed to have a minimal effect on the existing eco-systems. As an Snr Architectural Technologist, with an appreciation for sustainable design, I was in awe of the design and structures. The design of the cabins are so that they sit unobtrusively in the landscape with its grass roofs, timber and glass aesthetics. All the cabins are linked with wooden walkways. There is a natural swimming pool that uses no chlorine.

Kogelberg Nature Reserve Green Design:

There are only five cabins in site in Kogelberg Nature Reserve, which makes it slightly more exclusive and quiet. I booked two of the five cabins on site for our family stay. We stayed in Everlasting and Iris cabins. Everlasting Daisy is located furthest away from the rest of the cabins and pool, so it is less noisy. The cabin sleeps four and the spacious open plan living areas can comfortably accommodate four adults.

Full height glazed panels and sliding doors blurs the lines between indoors and outdoors. This allows for uninterrupted views of the Hottentots Holland Mountain Range. There is a fireplace inside and a large area outside for braai’s (barbeques). The kitchenette opens up onto a large wooden deck, perfect for alfresco dining.

Cabins are designed with (soil) self-composting toilets, so there is no flushing of water. Due to these non flush toilets, it is essential to keep the air-conditioning running in the shower room to avoid unpleasant smells. The geysers make use of solar power to heat the water.

I loved the modern yet minimalistic interiors with the use of natural materials. The interiors included slatted wooden shower floors and a light fixture and lampshades made with glass bottles.

There was no cellphone reception at the cabins, so we needed to drive closer to the entrance gate at the road if we wanted reception, but I usually prefer this when going on weekend breaks.

Kogelberg Nature Reserve Activities:

Swimming in the outdoor pools are for patrons staying in the cabins. Birds and other creatures love coming into the cabins or sitting right outside the door! If you are a bird watcher, you do so from your cabin.

There are quite a few hiking trials in the reserve, so you will see day hikers passing by during the day. On a hot day, you can go swimming in river/pools along route.

If you are a runner, the running along paths in the reserve is perfect for clearing your head or just appreciating your surroundings.

We are only visiting:

Remember,you are in a reserve and could possible encounter some animals on your stay. My father went for his Saturday morning run and was chased by a local baboon. Even though we all had a good laugh about it, baboons are dangerous, and you should steer clear of them! ( My father has run the Comrades Ultra marathon a few times, so he outran the baboon ) There are leopards in the reserve, but we unfortunately we did not see any.

How to get there:

It is located less than 100 kilometers from Cape Town. You can get there via the N2, along a scenic coastal route past Betty’s Bay, with beautiful views of the ocean. Contact Cape Nature for bookings.

The last word:

I will be looking to find more eco and water saving accommodation in future to stay at. Also refer to my post on our stay at Platbos Forest.

Kogelberg Nature Reserve is a UNESCO world heritage site and day visits are possible. Tread lightly and leave no trace. Adventure awaits!

The post Kogelberg Nature Reserve: Eco getaway appeared first on .

A few weeks ago, I decided to book a make-up course at Carla Brown Makeup and Beauty. I’ve always wanted to book a makeup course, and the timing was prefect, just in time for the upcoming festive season/holidays. On most weekdays, I prefer to go makeup free, but weekends and festive season, I like to glam it up a bit. While I have been using makeup for years, I have not quite mastered the application just yet.

When I saw Carla was offering courses, I was keen to book a space. What caught my eye was that the course included current make up trends such as contouring, highlighting and classics, like smokey eye. While there are lots of online tutorials available, I prefer the hands on approach and the bonus of a professional correcting you when you get it wrong. There are two courses, a basic and advance. I opted for the advance course as it offered slightly more techniques.

The setup:

The course is held in a make-up studio and is limited to small numbers, 6 per class, giving a more personal experience. I was quite fortunate to have a one on one session with Carla, as the group who booked had to reschedule.

When you arrive to the studio, there is a personalised station set up for each person. My station included some guidance notes and make-up sheets, which is perfect for taking notes during the session.

Back to basics:

Carla started with the basis such as the shape of your face, skincare regime and preparing your skin. Next, onto makeup brushes and how to take care of your brushes.

A professional brush set. There are so many types of brushes! I underestimated the importance of holding the brush in the correct manner and how it affects application. I learnt that I was using some of my brushes incorrectly.

It’s all in the detail: P to H.

We covered everything from primer to highlighter and all the bits in between. As I prefer a minimalist look, I was given personal tips on application of foundation according to my preference.

Filling in the gaps:

Carla identifies the gaps in your makeup and gives you some recommendations for what to buy and where to buy it. As she is in the industry, she tries various brands and recommends the ones she found works the best, without you having to.

What I loved about this course:

You are encouraged to bring your make-up along and use it while learning. We were given a set of Odbo cosmetic brushes, which was included in the price of the course. This 10 piece set is perfect for various beauty techniques such as contouring and for the basics.

As I am stickler for detail, I loved that Carla explained the method of application, why we were applying the makeup that way and the outcome we wanted to achieve.

The methods taught are current and personalised to your needs.

Don’t be afraid to experiment:

The flexibility of not having a strict course outline that we had to follow. I asked Carla to focus on certain looks more than others, as I wanted to experiment with colour. I opted to use brighter colours to create a smokey eye, instead of the darker look, which you can see below.

Carla applied makeup to one half of my face, and I practised on the other side, taking each application, step by step. By the time we finished the session, I created at least four looks. As I created different looks on either side of my face. The time went by so quickly, I almost forgot to have my light lunch, which was included in the course.

Armed with a list of essential makeup products I wanted to purchase, to spruce up my summer look, and a set of amazing makeup brushes, I am eager to start experimenting! Here are some of the looks I have been trying over the past month since doing the beauty short course.

What I took home from the course is to be bold and not be afraid to experiment. These looks I created in about 20 minutes.

One of the recommendations for my makeup kit was to add some neutral eye colours. I love this #SlaysForDaysPalette that Carla recommended.

Practice, practice, practice:

My first attempt at a classic look with winged eyeliner. This look took slightly longer, but I loved the result. Ruby Woo lipstick is going to be my Go-To lipstick this summer.

While I have not perfected the techniques yet, I am looking forward to applying my skills and creating different looks over the next few weeks! Now to master the art of applying eyeliner evenly on both eyes! I am definitely ready for this festive season.

The post A360 Makeup short course: A bit of Glam appeared first on .