Badplaas, a well-known treasure within the Forever Resorts South Africa portfolio has recently spent millions on the upgrade of their Hydro and Spa facility. This upgrade has been on the books for the past two years and upgrades begun in October 2017 with the official construction commencing in January 2018. On the 26th of March the Coffee Shop which also underwent a total renovation along with the Hydro re-opened. The Spa re-opened two days later, on the 31st of March 2018. The official exclusive launch of the Hydro and Spa took place yesterday, 7 June 2018 and was attended by elite guests and VIPs including Honourable MEC Eric Kholwane and Executive Mayor Councillor Nkosi of Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality. 

Sandra Rath from the South African Association of Health and Skincare Professionals (SAAHSP) and from SDV Pharmaceuticals who attended the exquisite launch of the Badplaas Hydro and Spa said that the Spa industry in South Africa is still showing growth regardless of the Economic climate. “Being in the industry for the past 30 years, I can only say that the standard of this Spa exceeds expectations in all aspects. From ambiance to style, staff to treatments, this Spa is a must experience”, Rath added.  

The new buzz word, “Hydro”Hydro’s are often confused with Jet Baths and Jacuzzis. The reason for this is two common  elements, water and pulsing jets. A Hydro is however a treatment rather than an experience, an underwater massage which stimulates your body’s blood circulation. Over and above that, the water is warm therefore it opens pores cleaning your skin leaving you feeling refreshed. The Hydro assists with the treatment of stiff, sore muscles and joints by focusing on typical problem areas such as your neck, back, legs and limbs. It is for this reason that Hydro treatments are often recommended with products and treatments maximising the benefits.

What makes the Badplaas Hydro and Spa unique? There are only a few resorts in South Africa that can boast with natural warm water springs – Badplaas is one of those select few. The spring water is filled with a variety of 32 natural minerals. This water is them pumped into the Hydro pools, from the Hydro pools the water is pumped into the heated pool outside, from there the water is distributed to the other pools on the property cooling down as it travels from one pool to the other. The spring water is also used in the spa for various water based treatments offered at Badplaas. 

The Spa has Specialist Therapists who take care of the needs of customers individually in tranquil and beautiful surroundings. The relaxation area consists of a 12 seat sauna and relaxation pool with spring water. The Spa offers a range of Facial and Specialised Facial Treatments, Brow and Lash Treatments, Massage Therapy, Specialised Body Treatments, Hand and Foot Therapy, Nail Treatments, Waxing and even kiddies treatments including Facials, Massages, Manicures and Pedicures. 

The origin of the springsHot springs in South Africa originates from seepage-water that joins a subterranean water system, the more the water sinks the warmer the mineral water gets. If the mineral water moves fast enough it can still be hot when it moves back to the earth’s surface.  Mineral water contains a large amount of trace elements such as sodium, chloride and fluoride; however the mineral water’s chemical compound will differ from one source to the next. The spring water mainly consists of surface water (rain and snow) seeping through layers of rock which contain the minerals, as the water moves between these rocks its trace elements are dissolved by the water before it moves back to the surface of the earth. 

The spring water at Badplaas rises from approximately 4300 metres below the earth’s surface. The spring itself has a capacity of 34 000 litres of mineral water per hour and a water temperature of 53˚C. A rift valley from Badplaas to the Swaziland Spa in Mbabane has formed in the earth’s crust causing hot bubbles at various places in this valley’s trail.

The culinary team at The Plettenberg, proudly announces a line-up of culinary feasts to enjoy up until September, whether a resident or guest visiting the beautiful Garden Route this winter season.  

Mother’s Day Champagne Breakfast at The Plettenberg - R200 per person. Celebrate your special Mum with a Champagne breakfast on 13 May for just R200 per person, which includes a full continental breakfast with fresh baked pastries, fresh fruit selection, cereals, muesli, yoghurt, cold cuts and cheese, fruit juices and smoothies. In addition to the above you may choose a hot breakfast from the à la carte menu. A glass of Champagne and a Bloody Mary Bar are included. Mother’s Day Champagne Breakfast is available on Sunday 13 May from 07h30 to 10h30.  

It’s Burger & Beer Monday at The Plettenberg - Enjoy 2 PlettenBurgers and 2 Fraser's Folly Craft Beers for just R300 per couple! 180 g homemade patty with heaps of cheddar cheese, caramelised onions and hand cut potato chips. Choose between a Fraser's Folly Pale Ale or Fraser's Folly Pilsner to enjoy with your burger. Valid every Monday from 16 April until 30 September for Lunch and Dinner. Terms and conditions apply. Fraser’s Folly is a small micro craft beer brewery located in theStrandveld on one of South Africa’s most southern wine estates. 

Wednesday is Curry Night at The Plettenberg - Enjoy dinner for only R200 per couple for 2 mouth-watering curries served with fragrant rice, poppadum, dhanja chutney, sambals and raita. Choose from 3 curries - a traditional South African curry, an exotic curry from a country of the Chefs choice or a vegetarian curry. The selection of curries will change on a weekly basis. There will be a spicy hot curry and two milder curries. Valid every Wednesday from 18 April to 30 September for Dinner. Terms and conditions apply. 

It’s Fish & Chips Friday at The Plettenberg - R250 for 2 Fish & Chips and 2 glasses of Hartenberg Alchemy White Wine per couple. What could be more decadent than beer battered hake, hand cut potato chips, mushy peas and tartare sauce to end the week? Valid every Friday from 20 April until 30 September for Lunch and Dinner. Terms and conditions apply. 

NEW MONTHLY WINE TASTINGS AT THE PLETTENBERG- Experience some of the best the Cape Winelands has to offer every First Thursday of the month at The Plettenberg. 3 May 2018 - Swartland Revolution with Marras Wines7 June 2018 - The Pink Wines - Rose & Blanc de Noir5 July 2018 - Styles of Shiraz2 August 2018 - Blending up the Reds6 September 2018 - Terroir of Sauvignon Blanc Join us for a free and fun wine tasting experience and then stay for dinner with a specially paired menu based on the wines of that evening. 18:00 - 19:00 - Free Wine Tasting19:00 - Dinner with wine pairings 4 course dinner with wines - R350pp, which includes a tasting of each wine (4 per dinner).  All wines will also be available to order by the glass, terms & conditions apply and reservations are essential for dinners. 

Booking essential for all events. 

THE PLETTENBERG
40 Church Street, Plettenberg Bay, Garden Route
+27 (0) 44 533 2030
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
theplettenberghotel.com  

Equally at home in a traditional or contemporary setting, the AGA Ludlow fireplace offers understated style, classic design and exquisite detail.

The AGA Ludlow is a medium-sized solid fuel or wood-burning fireplace. Like all AGA fireplaces, it benefits from the AGA Active Air Wash System - cutting-edge technology that optimises heat performance, reduces harmful emissions and keeps the stove window clean so you can enjoy the relaxing effect of a real fire.

The beauty of the AGA Ludlow fireplace is in its simplicity. Not only is it easy to use, it can be left to burn overnight so you're greeted in the morning by a beautifully warm room. It's incredibly easy to clean too, thanks to the Ludlow's removable shaker grate, ash pan, fire fence and ash tray.

Available in matte black and the option of either a top or rear flue attachment. The coil handle stays at room temperature, which means you can easily touch it, as it doesn't get hot.

Recognised as the world's best cooking appliance, the AGA commands a level of adulation more often associated with the glitz of Hollywood fame -- and generates similar devotion. It's deemed the number one luxury appliance brand and revered as one of the top three design icons of the century. It's the kitchen centrepiece of Celebrities, Professional Chefs and Homeowners across the globe. AGA represents a lifestyle, one that owners embrace and share fervently with others.

For more information visit www.agaliving.co.za. The full range is available directly from AGA South Africa and a selection from Bergzicht Furnishers, Gas & Equipment, Kloppers, Melvill and Moon, Metelerkamps and cookware range online from takealot.com.

How do you maintain the perfect temperature while sleeping? Do you sleep with one leg out of the blanket? Leave your feet sticking out at the bottom? The right temperature is a factor in determining the quality of sleep you’re going to have. Vencasa introduces the All Season Duvet, which has been made with clever “options”.

The All Season Duvet is available as a DUO (two duvets that can be used throughout the year separately or together), comprising of the following:

• One duvet with a weight of 125g/m² (recommended for use in spring-summer)

• One duvet with a weight of 250g/m² (recommended for use in autumn-winter).

The two parts clip together with fitted press studs to form one inner duvet. For cold winter nights, the two covers should be clipped together and placed into a duvet cover. For nights that are in between temperatures, the 125 g/m² summer layer is taken out first, leaving the warmer 250g/m² autumn layer on the bed. As temperatures increase, the 250g/m² autumn-layer is exchanged for the 125 g/m² summer-layer. It is comprised of a 100% polyester microfiber outer fabric with a silky touch and an attractive embossed design, filled with 100% polyester hollow conjugated siliconized fibre with Acarsan® anti-dust mite treatment.

It is available in the following sizes:

• 240x220cm – Super Queen

• 260x240cm – Super KingThe Vencasa

All Season Duvet is the ideal option for those with less storage space. It will ensure a high degree of comfort with a combined 9.2 Tog rating. It will also ensure good, healthy sleep while it protects against dust mites and allergies. This smart duvet is a must have for the bedroom!

Vencasa has partnered with global and local experts to create the Vencasa Signature Collection for every sleep need. This includes mattresses, headboards, bases and frames, side tables, lamps, occasional furniture, ottomans, linen, pillows, towels and luxurious bedroom accessories, with several price points to accommodate their wide clientele. Vencasa is made for people looking for a high quality, yet affordable range of products.

Available exclusively from Vencasa and Tempur stores, priced from R2,499.00–R2,999.00. Vencasa brings the art of sleep to your 'casa', from the smallest to the most essential sensory detail. We invite you to 'come home' to Vencasa for the ultimate bedroom experience. Visit www.pharmaline.co.za/vencasa or call 0861 60 60 60 for more information, to shop, or for your nearest stockist.

The timeless appeal of a cast-iron fireplace is hard to beat and AGA fireplaces are among the best money can buy.

The AGA Wenlock is no exception. With its traditional moulded detail, arched side panels and striking wired handle, it would make a stunning centrepiece in any home. The compact design means it can fit seamlessly into almost any setting, and makes it particularly suitable for small rooms and apartment living.Don't be fooled by its size as the AGA Wenlock fireplace has an output to rival much larger fireplaces. And in terms of convenience, it has a controllable heat output, making finding and maintaining the ideal temperature quick and easy. The AGA Wenlock fireplace, available in matt black, also has a durable high chrome grate and the option of either a top or rear flue output. The handle and spin wheel come in black as standard but are available in chrome as an optional extra. The coil handle stays at room temperature, which means you can easily touch it, as it doesn't get hot.

Recognised as the world's best cooking appliance, the AGA commands a level of adulation more often associated with the glitz of Hollywood fame -- and generates similar devotion. It's deemed the number one luxury appliance brand and revered as one of the top three design icons of the century. It's the kitchen centrepiece of Celebrities, Professional Chefs and Homeowners across the globe. AGA represents a lifestyle, one that owners embrace and share fervently with others.For more information visit www.agaliving.co.za. The full range is available directly from AGA South Africa and a selection from Bergzicht Furnishers, Gas & Equipment, Kloppers, Melvill and Moon, Metelerkamps and cookware range online from takealot.com.

Welcome to the lastest PANDORA Jewellery Collection, inspired by the magic and mystery of the night sky. You'll find sparkling and glittering stones, illuminating metals and frosted flowers in this hand-finished collection.

PANDORA Jewellery makes the perfect gift for the upcoming festive season. 

PANDORA Bracelets from R899, Charms from R499.

Shop online at www.pandorashop.co.za or visit www.pandora.net or to be inspired, join the PANDORA Club, view the sizing guide or for your nearest stockist. Local PR Contact: Jodi Lynn Karpes, GreenQueen Communications, 084-876 5431 Facebook: PANDORA (ZA) Twitter: @Pandora_ZA  

PANDORA jewellery is available across South Africa in Gauteng at Sandton, Eastgate, Fourways, Brooklyn, Menlyn Park, Woodlands, Clearwater, Cresta, Forest Hill, East Rand Mall, Rosebank, Mall of Africa and Greenstone; in Cape Town at the V&A Waterfront, Cavendish, Somerset, George, Canal Walk and Tyger Valley: in KwaZulu-Natal at La Lucia, Pavilion, Ballito and Watercrest; in Nelspruit at Riverside Mall and in Eastern Cape in Bay West and in selected Edgars stores and fine jewellers nationwide and Mauritius, Namibia, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

ABOUT PANDORA
PANDORA designs, manufactures and markets hand-finished and contemporary jewellery made from high-quality materials at affordable prices. PANDORA jewellery is sold in more than 100 countries on six continents through approximately 8,900 points of sale, including more than 1,900 concept stores. Founded in 1982 and headquartered in Copenhagen, Denmark, PANDORA employs more than 17,800 people worldwide of whom approximately 12,000 are located in Gemopolis, Thailand, where the Company manufactures its jewellery. PANDORA is publicly listed on the NASDAQ Copenhagen stock exchange in Denmark. In 2015, PANDORA’s total revenue was DKK 16.7 billion (approximately EUR 2.2 billion).

With winter firmly here and Wimbledon around the corner, it’s the perfect time to enjoy an AGA oven or fireplace to its full potential. The AGA is known for its longevity, with many still operating after more than 50 years.

Originally heated by slow-burning coal, the Aga cooker was invented in 1922 by the Nobel Prize-winning Swedish physicist Gustaf Dalén (1869–1937), who was employed as the chief engineer. The cookers were imported to Britain in 1929, and were first manufactured there under license in the early 1930s. The cast iron components were cast at the Coalbrookdale foundry in the 1940s, a foundry with a 300 year history, where they are still made today.

The AGA is famous for its ovens and fireplaces, which works on the principle that a heavy frame made from cast iron can absorb heat from a relatively low-intensity but continuously-burning source, and the accumulated heat can then be used when needed for cooking.

Interestingly, ‘The Championships, Wimbledon’, commonly known simply as ‘Wimbledon’ has been held in London since 1877 and is the oldest tennis tournament in the world, and widely considered the most prestigious.

Today's AGA, similar to Wimbledon, remains unchanged through time and is made in exactly the same way as it always has been. Quite simply, molten iron is poured into moulds. It's this technique that gives the castings their characteristic surface – each one is unique – and sets the AGA apart from the ubiquitous mass-produced uniformity. There is no spray painting, but rather the AGA cooker's multiple protective coats of gleaming vitreous enamel take three days to apply. It's this enamelling that helps ensure the working life of an AGA cooker is measured not in years, but in decades. Of course, the modern AGA also contains state-of-the-art technology and is subject to rigorous quality controls and adherence to the latest environmental standards. Each part of an AGA cooker – and there are many – is meticulously inspected and colour checked before engineers carry out the final build in the new owner's home. It is not unusual for three generations of a family to work side-by-side at the AGA foundry, and the passion staff feel for the cooker,  is second to none.

AGA represents a lifestyle, one that owners embrace and share fervently with others.

For more information or your local stockist visit www.agaliving.co.za.