Cape Point Route offers a wide range of Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Restaurants, Venues, Shops, Tours and Packages on the CAPE PENINSULA, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

:: Hout Bay :: Noordhoek :: Kommetjie :: Scarborough :: Cape of Good Hope :: :: Simon’s Town :: Fish Hoek :: Kalk Bay :: St. James :: Muizenberg ::



Thursday, September 30, 2010

The Endangered African Penguin



In May 2010 the African Penguin Status was changed from "Vulnerable" to "Endangered".

The African Penguin (Spheniscus demersus) is also called the Jackass Penguin due to the donkey like braying sound they make.

African Penguins grow to 68 – 70 cm tall and weigh between 2 and 5 kg.

In looks the black and white critters have a black stripe and black spots on their white breasts. The pattern of spots is unique for every penguin – just like a human fingerprint.

The only spot of colour is the pink gland above the eyes. The hotter a penguin gets, the more blood is sent to these glands so it may be cooled by the surrounding air, thus making the glands look more pink.

Males are generally larger than females and have larger beaks but other than that males and females are indistinguishable by their external markings.

The penguins colouring is a vital form of camouflage – white for underwater predators looking upwards and black for predators looking down onto the dark water!

100 years ago there were approximately 1.5 million African Penguins and it is estimated that there is less than 10% of that population left. Help save the endangered African Penguin by supporting the Simon’s Town Penguin Festival this weekend 1- 3 October at Boulders Beach.

IMAGES courtesy of Jacques Marais

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

The Road to Penguin-ville




From Table Mountain to Cape Point – Cape Town has it all. Every year, thousands of visitors flock to the shores of the “Mother City”. Whether it has been through advertising or word of mouth, Cape Town has gained popularity amongst holidaymakers, adventure addicts, businessmen and women, as well as overseas property investors.

Many of the most sought-after attractions, including the penguins, are situated along the Cape Point Route, traditionally a day’s journey from Cape Town City Centre. Indeed, the “must see”, “must do” activities are along this great road trip, causing visitors dismay as they whiz past in a tour bus.

So for the active traveller who wants to go shark cage diving, snorkelling or kayaking; for the knowledgeable traveller who wants to visit historical monuments and museums; for the creative traveller who wants to see unique art and artists; for the cultural traveller wanting to access the people and their lifestyles, and for nature enthusiasts who want to see flora, fauna and fabulous vistas - it is the road to penguin-ville on the Cape Point Route you need to explore.

With 24 beaches along the Route, each with its own unique characteristics and quaint villages– you can well imagine why cruising the coastlines is so popular. The awe-inspiring views alone make it a fantastic journey…

Another great attraction is the migration of Southern Right Whales to False Bay every year. These spectacular creatures come close to shore during the spring breeding season (September). You are bound to see the playful cavorting of the whales in the bay and the distinguishing v-shape of the Southern Right whales blowhole, and if you are one of the lucky onlookers you may even see a full breach.

Boulders Beach in Simon’s Town is home to the penguins – the quirky, curious birds that have woven their magic through the old Naval Town and affected everyone with their spirit. The community is at once old-world and fiercely cosmopolitan, enriched by both the hip and the hippy.

Boulders Beach Lodge, is just a stones throw away from the entrance to the beach, and was built with passion by its owner. It has grown from a tourism accommodation establishment to the centre of a revitalising drive to conserve the beautiful nature of the home in which they find themselves. Renovated old buildings, have been adapted to cater for hungry visitors, weary travellers, shoppers, niche conference groups and romantics wanting that “unforgettable” wedding.

They have committed themselves to environmental sustainability practices and to projects aimed at increasing visitor interest in the area, whilst raising funds to support work done by various conservation organisations. The most exciting event is the “Simon’s Town Penguin Festival”, happening this weekend outside Boulders Beach Lodge (1- 3 October 2010). The festival is an annual fixture that sees Simon’s Town come alive to celebrate equal rights for penguins and save this endangered species.

So whether your choice is arty or earthy, adventurous or historic, natural or cosmopolitan, family or luxury the road to Penguin-ville on the Cape Point Route will fit your bill perfectly. Let’s talk penguinese!

Cape Point Route offers a wide range of Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Restaurants, Venues, Shops, Tours and Packages on the CAPE PENINSULA, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA.
Contact us on 021 782 9356 or info@capepointroute.co.za for all your requirements.

IMAGES:
Courtesy of Peter Haarhoff

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Calling all creatures great and small to Simon's Town for the Penguin Festival





Calling All Creatures GREAT and small!
Visit Simon’s Town on the weekend of 2 – 3 October 2010 and join in the fun at the annual Penguin Festival

Dates: 2 – 3 October 2010
Location: Boulders Beach Lodge parking area, Simon’s Town

The Simon’s Town penguin festival promises a weekend of fun for kids and adults alike in celebration of a group of very special ‘Capetonians’ who, sporting their black and white tuxedo’s, charm the crowds with their endearing mannerism.

To remind us all that 2010 is the International year of Biodiversity – the festival theme is ‘All Creatures Great and Small’. Come dressed for the occasion and stand a chance to win a prize for your outfit.

The highlight of the weekend is the release of rehabilitated African penguins back into the wild to celebrate African Penguin Awareness Day on the Saturday morning – to officially declare the festival open. Times and the location of the beach release will be announced in the press closer to the time. It is truly a day of celebration as penguin lovers across the globe host their own activities to celebrate these wonderful creatures and to raise awareness about their fragile status in the wild.

For the 10th consecutive year Boulders Beach Lodge and Restaurant continues to raise funds for SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) at an annual auction. SANCCOB is the sole beneficiary of this prestigious event where business people and individuals bid with their hearts in a show of generosity - to raise funds for the conservation of these precious penguins.

Educational Weekend provisional program –Co-hosted by SANParks and SANCCOB’s Education Department.
Location: Boulders Beach Lodge and parking area, Simon’s Town
The weekend is aimed at children primarily and SANParks puts up a great show for the kids. SANParks and SANCCOB’s Education Department, are joined by their partners in conservation, to provide innovative educational entertainment.

The 2010 line-up includes -
• African Penguin Awareness Day – 2 October 10am : SANCCOB releases rehabilitated African penguins back into the wild
• Meet SANCCOB’s African penguin ambassador
• DIY for kids with ‘Dit Nutsman’ Riaan Venter
• Snake show
• Raptor show
• Jumping castle
• Games i.e. pop a balloon
• Food stalls
• And more...!!

SANCCOB saves seabirds 365 days a year. Since they started in 1968 SANCCOB has admitted more than 86 000 seabirds. To find out more about the valuable rehabilitation and emergency services which they provide, visit www.sanccob.co.za. SANCCOB runs educational programmes, with a special outreach to children in the poorer communities in and around Cape Town, offers centre-based tours for groups, is actively involved in research, contributes towards advocacy on seabirds and has a Training Institute.

Should you wish to donate towards the auction, or to support SANCCOB financially, please contact the SANCCOB Fundraiser, Margaret Roestorf at 021 557 6155

Cape Point Route can book accommodation for a weekend away in Simon's Town. Availabilty at Moonglow Guesthouse in Simon's Town; the Winston Guesthouse in Simon's Town and Avian Leisure in Simon's Town. Additional availability at Moonbay Guesthouse in neighbouring Fish Hoek or contact Cape Point Route directly with your requirements.

Wednesday, September 22, 2010

Heritage Day Weekend Parties on the Cape Point Route






Heritage Day Long Weekend: 24 – 26 September 2010.It’s a long weekend and its’ PARTY time on the Cape Point Route…braai’s, live gigs, full moon parties, wine evenings and more….

Crimson live @ Polana
Venue: The Polana, Kalk Bay, Cape Town
Date: Friday 24 Sept 2010
Time: 10pm – Sat @ 2 am
Tel: 021 788 7162

CRIMSON is a Cape Town based band, the duo consisting of Darren Oelofse (vocals, rhythm guitar) and Nathan Giloi (lead guitar). CRIMSON’s music falls under the acoustic-rock genre. The majority of our performances consist of classics and contemporary covers. R20 entry

Braai and Paul Q live
Venue: The Red Herring Restaurant and Skebanga's Sunset Bar, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Date: Fri 24 Sept
Time: 2pm – 6pm
Tel: 021 789 1783

Join us for a braai on Heritage Day (Friday, 24th September) in the pergola area at The Red Herring. Paul Q will be entertaining us live between 14H00 and 18H00. See you there!

The Under Covers @ FARMHOUSE ROCKS:
Venue: Cape Farmhouse Restaurant, Scarborough, Cape Town
Date: Sat 25 Sept:
Time: 3.30pm – 6.30pm
Tel: 021 780 1246
Email: info@capefarmhouse.co.za

Nu-Folk Rock band fronted by Scarborough artist/vocalist Charisse Gardiner.
They perform an eclectic mix of songs by the likes of Fleet Foxes, Polly Jean Harvey, Coldplay and Neil Young amongst others, as well as their own material.
The music can best be described as influenced by progressive '70's Americana folk with a touch of 2010's Brit psychedelia sonic vibes and rhythms.

Farmhouse Rocks: open air music concerts in summer and weather protected in winter- this is an all year round entertainment venue... we supply food and drink, so you don't have too! R50 adults/ R40 student and under 12's free. Shows always start 15h30 +/-

The Foodbarn Winter Wine Evening:
Venue: the Foodbarn Restaurant, Noordhoek Farm Village, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Date: Sat 25 September 2010
Time: 7.30pm
Tel: 021 789 1390
Email: info@thefoodbarn.co.za

the Foodbarn Restaurant in association with Newton Johnson’s wines presents their September 2010 winter wine evening. Franck has put together an awesome menu and paired each course with a Newton Johnson wine. Cost R250 pp excl service. Dinner and wine included.

The Original Full Moon Extravaganza Round 2
Venue: Southern Right Hotel, Glencairn, Simon's Town
Date: Sat 25 September 2010
Time: 8 pm ‘til late!
Tel: 021 782 0314

It's YOUR right to PAARTY! 3 dance floors, top DJ's and plenty of attitude. R30 cover + free shooter. Zone 1 – house and dance with DJ Warren Lissack and DJ Special K; Zone 2 – 80’s Pop and rock with DJ Paul and DJ Shane ; Zone 3 – Ambient Grooves, electro and Dup Step with DJ Craig Wilson and DJ Liam

Full Moon Dance:
OVER 30 Clubbing: Barocca Lounge At Rioja Restaurant in Kommetjie
Sat 25 Sept from 8pm – Sun 26 Sept at 2.30am
Tel: 082 4574133

3 Dancefloor Extravaganza to dance under the Full Moon....one dancefloor with the Over30s team and the usual mix of anthems from Rock to Pop with Disco and House.....the second Dancefloor this time due to lots of requests fully Trance and Psytrance with Djs Buechse, Gandalf and Mark.....and to take a breath and relax in style Ambient Chill out tent - there will be a bedouin tent outside with trippy lights and Ambient,Dub and Worlmusic by Djs Tanith and Buechse....25 R Entance fee INCL a Shooter until 9 , then 50 R incl a shooter.....come and celebrate in style with us!

Sunday Crayfish Braai
Venue: Black Marlin Restaurant, Main Road, Millers Point, Simon's Town, Cape Town
Date: Sunday 26 Sept
Time: 10am – 10pm
Tel: 021 786 1621
Email: info@blackmarlin.co.za

Sunday is crayfish day at The Black Marlin. The ½ Crayfish Braai, which is prepared to perfection and served with rice and salad. R75p/p – R120p/p

Corona Earthwave After-Party
Venue: Brass Bell, Kalk Bay
Date: Sunday 26 Sept
Time: 5pm
Tel: 021 788 5455

The Corona Earthwave After-Party will showcase the newly revamped Brass Bell in Kalk Bay where surf band the Little Kings, promo-girls, surf movies from the Wavescape Film Festival and more prizes and auctions, including five cases of Mexico’s favourite beer, will ensure a riot of fun and mayhem from 5pm until late on the Sunday evening!

Natasha Meister Live @ Skebanga's
Venue: Skebanga’s Sunset Bar at the Red Herring, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Date: Sun 26 Sept 2010
Time: 5pm – 8pm

Natasha Meister will be entertaining us again this Sunday. Last week was absolutely great so, don’t miss Natasha’s performance this week.
Guitarist and singer songwriter, Natasha Meister has been hitting up the music scene from a very young age. Although inspired by the blues, she has been capturing the attention of a broad audience including young and old. Natasha has gained recognition for her powerful yet controlled vocal and her mastery on the guitar at just 19 years of age.
Born in the small town of Thorndale, Ontario, Canada, to a butcher and a butcher’s wife, Natasha started out singing in a local church choir just at the age of 8 and has been performing ever since!
Being less than a year in a brand new country, Natasha has already achieved so much. She performed alongside some of South Africa’s finest including, Piet Botha, Tim Parr, The Boulevard Blues Band, Dave Ferguson, Dan Patlansky, and The Jack Mantis Band. Natasha currently plays solo and fronts “Natasha Meister Band”, with Roger Bashew on bass and Paul Tizzard on drums.

Earthwave Beach Festival in Muizenberg





It's all happening in Muizenberg this weekend with the Earthwave Beach Festival and Guinness World Record Attempt to get more than 110 surfers to ride the same wave for more than five seconds. If you can surf (or think you can) - get down to Muizenberg for the festival. More details below.

EARTHWAVE BEACH FESTIVAL
Guinness World Record attempt + Longboard and SUP contests
Surfing and sustainable lifestyle event
Saturday & Sunday, 25 & 26 September 2010

Momentum builds for Guinness World Record attempt at Earthwave Beach Festival

Momentum is building for the Guinness World Record attempt for the ‘most surfers riding the same wave’ that will be staged at the Earthwave Beach Festival in Muizenberg on the weekend 25 & 26 September.

The festival offers a full program of events over the two days including a nationally rated Longboard surfing contest, Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP) races in the waves, plenty of beach activities for all ages, talks and demonstrations on environmentally sustainable topics and products, with the highlight being the attempt to get more than 110 surfers to ride the same wave for more than five seconds.

Supported by Loaded Smoothies, who will be dispensing their range of nutritious health drinks to participants and spectators, Earthwave also provides a forum for organisations such as Spin 4 Charity, the Sunflower Fund and the Shark Spotters program to raise awareness and funds for their worthy causes.

Tens of thousands of Rands of branded products will be given away, raffled, auctioned and won in activities like the popular Dig for Gold, beach cleanups. Prizes include Kustom footwear as worn by Joel Parkinson and other world and world-class surfers, environmentally friendly furniture items designed by TV personality Aidan Bennetts, Derevko Wetsuits, Hemporium products, New Balance shoes, apparel and accessories by O’Neill and Caves Surfwear and many more.

The Corona Earthwave After-Party will showcase the newly revamped Brass Bell in Kalk Bay where surf band the Little Kings, promo-girls, surf movies from the Wavescape Film Festival and more prizes and auctions, including five cases of Mexico’s favourite beer, will ensure a riot of fun and mayhem from 5pm until late on the Sunday evening!

The SUP races, organised and run by Coreban International, will use an ‘M’ shaped course that sees competitors paddling in and out through the waves twice in each heat, a first for Muizenberg. With valuable prizes at stake, the entire event will be completed on the Saturday.

The longboard surfing event, run by the WP Longboard Club, is stop No. 3 of 5 on the inaugural SA Longboard Tour and features a number of the country’s top performers. Starting on Saturday morning, the finals will be held on Sunday morning with the awards presentation staged just before an expected 500 or more participants line up to break the Guinness World Record at 12.30pm.

The SUP and longboard competitors and participants in the Guinness World Record attempt, who can include anyone who can stand up and ride a wave for five seconds or more, will be fueled by Monster Energy who will also be providing stickers, tattoos and other promotional items for all attending the festival.

Registration for the GWR starts at 10am on the Sunday and those wishing to be part of record breaking attempt are advised to check in early to prevent parking hassles and avoid the rush before the lineup. Entry costs R50 and all participants need to sign an indemnity form (signed by a parent/guardian for those under 18) and provide an email address to which an official certificate of participation will be sent.

The Earthwave Beach Festival at Muizenberg provides unlimited sponsorship opportunities for companies and organisations keen on promoting their environmental credentials or simply wanting to showcase their products and services to a receptive audience and through the saturation media coverage.

For further information see www.kahunasurf.co.za/kp/earthwave and the Facebook group Earthwave Beach Festival 2010.

The fourth annual edition of the event is produced by Kahuna Promotions and proudly supported by Wavescape, the official online and surf forecasting partner for Earthwave.

Contact kahunasurf@mweb.co.za for details on how to become part of this sustainable lifestyles initiative.

ALL IMAGES: Photographer Lee Slabber
1. Over 100 surfers riding the same wave at Muizenberg to set a new Guinness World Record in 2009
2. Some of the 440 surfers who lined up on the beach before heading out to break the record at Earthwave in 2009.
3. Crowds lined the beach at the 2009 Earthwave Beach Festival


If you would like to stay in the peninsula for the festival and a great weekend there is still accommodation available at Sundollar Lodge in Noordhoek; Moonglow Guest House in Glencairn,Simon's Town; Sonnekus Guest House in St James; Sacred Mountain Lodge in Noordhoek; The Winston Guest House in Simon's Town; Colona Castle in Lakeside; De Noordhoek Hotel in Noordhoek and Moonbay Guest House in Fish Hoek.

Reservations via Cape Point Route - call 021 782 9356 or email info@capepointroute.co.za

Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Chapman's Peak Drive Road Closure







Planned Maintenance for TWO WEEKS from 04/10/10 - 15/10/10

Chapman's Peak Drive will be intermittently closed from Monday, 04 Oct 2010 to Friday, 15 Oct 2010 during the hours of 09h00 to 19h00. Access to the drive will be managed by traffic controllers. On Monday, 11 Oct 2010 full road Closure will be implemented between the Look Out Point and the Noordhoek side from 19h00 - 06h00.

The closure is necessary to conduct routine maintenance on the Catch Fences in order to ensure the safety of road users. Day time passes and access to picnickers will be unaffected as far as the control point from the Hout Bay side only.

Motorists are advised to proceed with caution:

Entilini Operations, thank you, for your patience while we ensure that Chapman's Peak Drive offers a safe driving experience.

021-790 9163 Hout Bay Office
021-791 8220 Plaza

IMAGES:
1. Courtesy of Jacques Marais
2. Courtesy of Chapmans Peak Drive
3. Courtesy of Chapmans Peak Drive
4. Courtesy of Jacques Marais
5. Courtesy of Jacques Marais


Cape Point Route offers a wide range of Accommodation, Activities, Attractions, Restaurants, Venues, Shops, Tours and Packages on the CAPE PENINSULA, CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

Monday, September 20, 2010

Heritage Day Events on the Cape Point Route






Friday 24 September is Heritage Day in South Africa. This public holiday is relatively new in South Africa but the day is set to encourage South Africans to celebrate their cultural heritage and the diversity of their beliefs and traditions.

Whilst this may be hard to define – there are many aspects of South African culture that make all members of our rainbow nation unique – be it language (we have eleven official languages), be it social, historical or even food – we are South Africans despite our differences! Here are some of the events happening on the Cape Point Route this Friday 24 Sept 2010.


1. Friday 24 Sept 2010: eMzantsi Carnvial Launch

Don’t forget the eMzantsi Carnival 2010 Launch and AGM is this Friday 24th September at Fish Hoek High School. Entrance is free, tea and coffee provided.
Bring your family and come celebrate the Heritage Day public holiday with us.

10.30am Puppet show of the eMzantsi 2010 story STEP UP, TAKE HEART, GIVE LOVE!
11am-12 Press launch celebrating eMzantsi community-building milestones over the past year.
12-3pm eMzantsi 4WAY LIVE concert showcasing local musical talent including collaborations written by the eMzantsi intercultural music groups from Fish Hoek, Ocean View and Masiphumelele.
For more information see the new website www.emzantsi.org.za or call the eMzantsi office 021 785 1515.

2. Friday 24 Sept 2010: TEARS Pet Day and Doggie Dawdle

At Noordhoek Cricket Grounds and including the Doggie Dawdle Walk-A-Thon; Face Painting and Black Nose Competition and the TEARS/Hill’s Pet Competition which includes the Cutest Crossbreeds (adult and puppy); Best pedigree; Look-A-Like Dog (pet & owner); fancy dress; smallest dog and largest dog. Lots of fun for the family and the family pets.

For more information contact TEARS on 021 785 4482 or visit website.

3. Friday 24 Sept 2010: Fish Hoek Historical Hunt

Run by a Whale of A Heritage Route. Clues for the historical hunt will take the form of photographic images and will run from 08h30 – 13h00. Contact a Whale of A Heritage Route on www.awhaleofaheritageroute.co.za for more details.

4. Friday 24 Sept 2010: Muizenberg Historical Conservation Society talk on Thomas Bain

You are cordially invited to a meeting of the Muizenberg Historical Conservation Society at The Stables (behind Het Posthuys) at 17h30 on Wednesday 22 September. The meeting marks Heritage Day, and the guest speaker will be Dave Cowley, who will do a presentation on Thomas Bain, famous Scottish pioneer and genius road engineer of Queen Victoria.

He constructed some twenty-three mountain passes in South Africa between 1880 and 1890, including the scenic Prince Alfred mountain pass near Plett. He also took an interest in plants and had a keen eye for rock-art. The talk will give an overview of the construction and difficulties of some of his mountain passes. Drinks and snacks will be served from 17h30, and the presentation will commence at 18h15. Entrance is R20.

Please RSVP to George Hill on 021 788 5542, or at music@lindbergh-arts.co.za

IMAGES:
1. eMzantzi Carnival- courtesy of eMzantzi Carnival
2. TEARS Pet Day and Doggie Dawdle - courtesy of TEARS
3. Fish Hoek - Historical Hunt - - Image from Google Images
4. Het Posthuys - found on Google Images


Contact Cape Point Route for Heritage Day weekend accommodation . Availability at Moonglow Guesthouse in Glencairn; The Winston guest house in Simon's Town; Sundollar Lodge in Noordhoek; Colona Castle in Lakeside; Sacred Mountain Lodge in Noordhoek ; the Beach House in Hout Bay; Sonnekus Guest House in St James and Tarragona Lodge in Hout Bay

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Whales by Rail







Parents, holidays are looming and you must be wondering what you can do to keep your kids busy. Think no further because we have a wonderful solution for you. Join us on the “Whale of a tale journey” by train.
Take a trip from Cape Town Station to one of the following destinations: Muizenberg, Kalk Bay or Fish Hoek. Sit and relax while we entertain your kids with story telling about whales and play games.

At any of these destinations, you can enjoy fun filled programmes covering many topics, where learning is a discovery. Watch while the Southern Right Whale enchants us in False Bay.

To book your ticket, contact us on: (Seating is limited!)

• Tel: 021-4492366
• E-mail: railtourism@metrorail.co.za
• Fax: 021-4492055

• Price: R45 Adults; R25 Kids (under 12 years of age)

The price includes: A return train ticket in a secure coach with security and a rail tourism ambassador.

Programme Information:

Monday 27th September: Muizenberg

Tuesday 28th September: Kalk Bay

Wednesday 29th September: Fish Hoek

Thursday 30th September: Fish Hoek

Time: Departure from Cape Town Station at 09h32 and returns at 14h28.

WHALE WATCHING BOAT TRIPS:
For a seriously incredible experience book a boat based whale watching trip which operates from Simon’s Town. It is spine tingling, jaw dropping stuff to be within metres of these massive creatures of the sea where you can see the barnacles clinging to their skin and hear the whale song. Boat based whale watching requires a special permit to ensure that the whales are viewed without being harmed so be sure to use a licenced operator.

Whale Watching Trip details:
Daily departures (weather dependent): 09h00; 12h00; 14h30
Cost: R800 adults; R500 children
Duration: 3 hours
Departs: Simon’s Town
Bookings: 021 782 9356
Email: info@capepointroute.co.za

IMAGES: All images found on Google images
1. Southern Right Whale Tail in False Bay - photographer Dave Hurwitz (Portfolio Collection travelblog)
2. Southern Right Whale - Baleen in False Bay - photographer Dave Hurwitz (Portfolio collection travelblog)
3. Southern Right Whale Breaching in False Bay, Cape Town - on capetown.travel
4. Southern Right Whale - found on oceanwideimages.com
5. Southern Right Whale breaching in front of Roman Rock Lighthouse in Simon's Town - photographer Chad Chapman (Portfolio collection travelblog)

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Simon's Town Penguin Festival 2-3 October 2010



Simon's Town Penguin Festival - Save the Date 2 - 3 October 2010

Every year during the Simon's Town Penguin Festival there is a Benefit Auction and Dinner - this is an invitation only event on the 2 October 2010 but SANCCOB needs your help for auction items.

Cape Point Route received a letter from SANCCOB CEO Venessa Strauss with an appeal...

Calling everyone GREAT and small, BIG or thin, FAT and tall, short and square.

You see - this year we really are asking YOU to help Boulders Beach Lodge raise R100 000 to help SANCCOB to save our precious penguins.

SANCCOB (Southern African Foundation for the Conservation of Coastal Birds) is a well-loved nonprofit organization that has been saving penguins (including the tuxedoed- tykes that hang out at Boulders) and other vulnerable seabirds for the past 42 years.

African penguins have recently been reclassified as ENDANGERED on the IUCN (International Union of Conservation of Nature) Red Data List. This makes SANCCOB’s attempt to save each and every penguin vital to the survival of the species. SANCCOB’s dedicated staff work 365 days a year to save our oiled, injured and sick seabirds.

You can help SANCCOB to save a true South African icon - the African penguin.

On the evening of 2 October penguin-lovers will yet again gather at a glitterati evening in Simon’s Town to outbid each other at the All Creatures Great and Small auction to support SANCCOB.

Together with the hosts of the 10th annual Simons Town SANCCOB Benefit Auction, Boulders Beach Lodge, SANCCOB is asking you to assist us with this fundraising drive by donating items to be auctioned on the evening.

The driving force behind the festival, Janine Genade, GM Boulders Beach Lodge, has set the target at R100 000…. which translates into a lot of goodwill, a lot of auction and a lot of GREAT items.

This year we are again privileged to have Michelle Garforth-Venter MC the evening. A new and exciting development in 2010 is that her husband Riaan Garforth-Venter (Die Nutsman) will join her up on the stage. The evening is themed ‘All creatures great and small’ to pay tribute to 2010 as the International Year of Biodiversity. With canapés and welcome drinks on arrival, the 100 selected guests will be served a 3-course dinner, paired with wines selected to complement each dish. We are confident that the Garforth-Venter team will get them reaching deep into their pockets in support of SANCCOB.

This year we have been blessed with a generous donation of an education tent from Nomadik Tents. Which means that our education festival for children will be bigger and better than it has been for years. More children equals more prizes, so please folks, if you do have gifts the SANParks staff, who is kindly organizing a great week-end of fun-filled activities, can do with your donations.

Kick off this year is on Saturday with the annual African penguin Awareness Day beach release. So why don’t you waddle on down and join us this year and see what the fuss is all about.

We’ve compiled a Wish List to help you, but if it’s not on the wish list and you think we can auction it, (… and the rules haven’t changed from last year, you still can’t donate your mother in-law), then by all means send it along.

It’s our sincere hope that you’ll find it in your heart to help us to reach the R100k milestone.

With your help we know we can do it!

Yours sincerely

Venessa Strauss

SANCCOB CEO

Auction Items:Anything from .....

Restaurant and holiday getaway vouchers
Wine / spirits
Helicopter flips
Wine tastings / courses
Balloon rides
Furniture
Ornaments
Rugs
Paintings
Cell phones
Gadgets
Electronic equipment
CD’s / DVD’s
SPA/beauty treatments
Jewellery
Sports gear
Sushi hampers
….. and anything in between.

Items for our junior festival-goers:

Caps
Jackets
Scarf’s
Socks
Beanies
Jewellery for teenagers
Toys (ages 2 – 10 years)
Voucher (clothing stores)
Games for teenagers (board or computer games)
Arts and Crafts items (paper, cardboard, stationary, face paint, hair spray)
Curio-type items (key rings, gadgets, interesting and fun items)

Photographic competition:
Photographic equipment or vouchers

Please contact Janine at Boulders if you are able to donate an auction item.
Janine Tel: 021 786 1758 Email: boulders@iafrica.com

Monday, September 13, 2010

International Coastal Cleanup Day






Saturday 18th September is International Coastal Cleanup day.

GEESE (Glencairn Education & Environment Support Enthusiasts) are once again participating in this world wide effort and are inviting pariticipants to help them clean up Glencairn!

DATE: Friday 17th Sept and Saturday 18th Sept
TIME: 09.00 - 10.30
VENUE: Meet at the Southern Right Hotel
BRING: Tongs and/or gloves. GEESE will provide the bags!

People will be directed out to clean the beach, the river and the wetlands in the hope that after two days, Glencairn will be spotless and even more hopefully will stay that way. Southern Right Hotel will be supporting this effort by providing coffee, tea and snacks.

In July GEESE asked for help to donate 67 Madiba minutes to GEESE and approximately 40 people turned up to help cut down alien vegetation in Glencairn. The oldest particpant Joan Wright was just a few weeks older than Madiba himself. So please support GEESE on International Coastal Cleanup Day - young and old are welcome! Images above courtesy of Geese

If you know of any other Coastal Cleanups happening in the area please let us know on info@capepointroute.co.za

OTHER GEESE NEWS:

Leopard Toads have been breeding the Glencairn Valley this year! Please share any sightings of snakes, toads, bird lists, plants or animals with GEESE to help build the database of who and what lives in the Glencairn Valley.

An Egyptian Geese pair with 2 teenage goslings seem to have acquired a "laat lammetjie" as seen with this tiny chick. GEESE thinks someone found the chick and introduced it to the foster parents. Any information would be appreciated although the chick seems to be settline in well with it's new family! Pictured above!

Other dates to diarise:
Friday, Saturday & Sunday 1st, 2nd & 3rd October: Simon's Town Penguin Festival at Boulders Beach

Weds 17th November: Western Cape Wetlands Forum is holding its last meeting of the year, in Glencairn which is a first. Amongst other things, they will be looking at the eradication of Typha Project being undertaken by GEESE in front of the Southern Right Hotel.

For more information on GEESE: Please contact the Bromleys: cilla@bromley.co.za or call 021 782 6400

IMAGES:
1. Southern Right Hotel seen from Glencairn Vlei
2. GEESE Madiba Challenge - clearing Alien Vegetation
3. GEESE Madiba Challenge - including 92 year old member Joan Wright
4. Egyptian Geese - with the gosling arrival


Glencairn is located at the beginning of Simon’s Town. Glencairn is a hidden gem with a great family beach,the beach is also popular with windsurfers and kitesurfers, a wetlands area and a meeting place for most activities on the Cape Point Route. There’s an information office (yes that's the Cape Point Route office!), a dive centre, an African Cuisine and Galleria, small supermarket centre and the Southern Right Hotel with restaurant & entertainment, including live music, live big screen sporting action, ladies nights and more. Whale Season is still in full swing and this is a GREAT whale watching location. Select your Glencairn accommodation for easy access to Simon’s Town and the attractions on the Cape Point Route.

Thursday, September 9, 2010

More Spring Splash 2010 Photos











Wikipedia says: “As a coastal suburb of Cape Town, Fish Hoek is popular as a residence for commuters, retired people and holidaymakers alike. The traditional industries of 'trek' fishing and angling coexist with the leisure pursuits of surfing, sailing and sunbathing.”

There is a lot more to Fish Hoek than being a Cape Town suburb for old people and dogs! If you had any doubts then pictures of the annual Spring Splash (taken by Cassie Carstens) taken on Fish Hoek Beach on Sunday 5 September 2010 should change your mind. See more pictures of the 2010 Spring Splash on Fish Hoek beach.

The wiki also prompted me to find out more about the allegations of retired people and I found some references to a National Geographic book called “The Blue Zones: Lessons for Living Longer from the People Who’ve Lived the Longest” by Dan Buettner. It seems that the blue zones refer to areas round the world where the highest life expectancies occur and include Barbagia region of Sardinia, Italy; Okinawa, Japan; the community of Seventh Day Adventists in Loma Linda, California; and the Nicoya Peninsula in Costa Rica.

Obviously many factors contribute to longevity but some of these include:
•Living in a rural community rather than an urban one – connected to the environment.
•Married couples live longer than single or divorced people
•Women outlive men regularly by about six years
•Common sense
•Eating more plant-based foods
•Being active & incorporating activity into their daily routines
•Cutting stress
•Regular participation in a community with a supportive social network

Perhaps that is why Fish Hoek is so popular – despite being a suburb of the city of Cape Town it has a relaxed rural feel.
Fish Hoek residents are active and walk on the beach or on the mountain or Jagers Walk so activity is a part of their daily lives. Many residents play golf in Clovelly and there is an active surf-lifesaving, paddling, sailing, hobie-sailing & surfing community.
Fish Hoek has a strong sense of community and many social clubs and organizations – check out www.scenicsouth.co.za for more about community activities.
Fish Hoek is without doubt a great place for holiday and an excellent base for exploring the Cape Point Route.

And don't forget it's Whale Watching season!

If you would like more information on Fish Hoek or would like to book accommodation or activities in the area please contact Cape Point Route on 021 782 9356 or visit the website www.capepointroute.co.za

IMAGES: All images courtesy of Cassie Carstens. Thank You!

Wednesday, September 8, 2010

Do whales have hair?



Question: Do Whales Have Hair?

Whales are mammals, and one of the characteristics common to all mammals is the presence of hair. We all know that whales aren't furry creatures, so where do whales have hair?

Answer:
There are over 80 species of whales, and hair is only visible in some. Whales have hair on their heads as fetuses, but they don't always keep it. Some of the larger baleen whales have visible hair. One great example is the humpback whale, which has golf ball-sized bumps on its head. Within each of these bumps, called tubercles, there is a hair follicle.

Other examples include the right whale, which has hairs on its chin and upper jaw, and the bowhead whale, which has hairs on its lips, chin, snout and behind its blowhole.

Since hair is not needed for warmth, scientists think the hair serves as a sensory structure, and may be used in social or sexual situations, or for calves communicating a need to nurse.

Baleen whales also have hairlike structures in their mouth called baleen, which is made of keratin, a substance found in hair and nails.

2010 Spring Splash in Pictures








The annual Spring Splash is held on Fish Hoek beach on the Sunday closest to the 1 Sept each year to celebrate spring on the Cape Point Route!

It's free, it's fun and these pictures may inspire you to join in the fun in 2011!

This year the theme was wildlife in Fish Hoek and the day started with a sandbuilding competition, followed by a kiddies Tresure Hunt, some Karaoke singing, line dancing on the beach and the BIG SPRING SPLASH which involves a whole bunch of people running into the sea at the same time to celebrate spring!

Special thanks to Clifford Wyeth for these pictures.
Visit his website www.wyethphotography.co.za

IMAGES: All Courtesy of Clifford Wyeth
1. Rush for the Water
2. Sunshine in the Water (the sunshine ladies swim every day on Fish Hoek Beach!)
3. A Hug (winner of the most graceful exit with MC and comedian Mark Sampson)
4. "Peoples Post" dive
5. Spring Splash Dance (almost a world record for line dancing?)

For more information on Fish Hoek - click here

For accommodation in Fish Hoek - click here

For help or assistance on what to do, where to stay, where to eat, where to shop , how to get around, tours or packages or general information on Fish Hoek or the Cape Point Route please

Monday, September 6, 2010

Logging and Slapping







The Southern Right Whales in front of our Cape Point Route office in Glencairn were “logging” and “slapping” today. Logging is when the whale is basically “hanging out” and resting – no cruising, no movement forwards, just chilling out at the surface of the water with a fin showing above the water or exposing a bit of skin above the surface!

There was a little slapping going on too and let me tell you this does not mean bashing the other whale on the head! Slapping occurs when the whale lifts its flippers and lets them crash onto the surface of the water in a slapping motion!

Lobtailing is usually a more common behavioural pattern and that is when the whale goes upside down with its head under water and it’s tail is exposed and then slammed onto the surface of the water. Although this is more common behaviour for Southern Right Whales I think the ones in front of our office were tired from ‘showing off’ this weekend for all the visitors to the Cape Point Route!

Whales are plentiful in False Bay at the moment– so much so that there was a temporary closure of Boyes Drive (scenic road between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay) due to traffic jams from whale watchers!

Like breaching, no –one knows for sure why whales lobtail and slap but it has been suggested that it is a form of non-verbal communication. Some scientists have suggested that is a form of foraging as the slap is so loud that that it frightens fish into a tight school making it easier for whales to feed on them!

Our only problem with this theory is that Southern Right Whales don’t eat fish! (Humpback whales do though!)

Southern Right whales are baleen- feeding whales that use a comblike strainer of baleen plates and bristles to ensnare tiny morsels of food as they swim – so they literally skim the water by swimming slowly with their mouths open and are constantly eating – zooplankton, krill and other tiny organisms.

If you want to get up close and personal - book a whale watching boat trip. Trips leave daily from Simon's Town Harbour at 9am, 12 noon and 14h30 (weather dependent)
Cost is R800 for adults and R500 for children for the 3 hour boat trip.

Bookings: 021 782 9356
Email: info@capepointroute.co.za

IMAGES:
Courtesy of D. Hurwitz - Simon's Town Boat Company and E. Sittig - Germany