Fenestra Asset Management

Growing your wealth should always be a priority. No one knows this better than Fenestra Asset Management. They offer astute investment management that is performance-driven, and their numbers definitely do the talking. Fenestra’s greatest successes include limiting the negative return in 2008 to under 15% when the ALSI showed a 26% drop after the global financial meltdown. Their intimate knowledge of each of their clients enables the accurate tailoring of portfolios to meet their individual...

Range Rover Sport: Perfectly at Home in the Country

Sporting SUVs have come a long way, but the Range Rover Sport arguably started the trend. We spent the day with the Range Rover Sport D350 from Land Rover Pietermaritzburg and came away with a feeling of pure contentment.   As days in the Midlands go, this was a good one.   We generally never need any excuse to head into the Midlands. As an ex-Pietermaritzburg boy, nearly every weekend was spent meandering the roads...

Make Yourself at Home

The Olde Duck is a cosy restaurant run by Jeannine Bonsma, who started it 20 years ago, sold it, and then rebought it in 2014. She has partnered with her daughter, Bronwyn Penny, who bought into the business in 2020.   The restaurant is situated on a quaint working dairy farm, Marlin Farm, in Underberg. Whether you are just passing through for a snack or enjoying a delicious lunch with friends or family, this is...

Connecting the World Through Language

In a sunny Monday in Durban, I met with Ms Giulia De Lorenzi, teaching Director for Dante Languages. The new venue, located in a beautiful and secure complex in Umhlanga, is equipped with all that is needed for highly professional teaching in a comfortable learning environment. Here, more than twenty teachers are engaged in lessons.   What is the current situation regarding the study of foreign languages in South Africa? What are the predictions for...

Two Guys & a Bookshop

Meet Adam Riley and Robert Cronjé, two guys who are passionate about collecting coins and books. They are also the proud owners of Midlands Books & Collectables, which they opened on 1 May this year at The Old Mushroom Farm.   The two fellas met when Robert joined the PMB Numismatic Society in 2017, of which Adam has been a member since 1982. In case you don’t know what numismatic means, it has to do...

A Home for All Ages

Life in St John’s Village Lifestyle & Retirement Country Estate, with its slow pace, friendly community and natural beauty, offers all the charm and appeal of an idyllic KZN Midlands way of life. The farm-like environment, lush green spaces, clean air and scenic vistas backdrop this peaceful sanctuary.   Cycling trails, three dams, communal allotment gardens and a host of indoor and outdoor activities enhance this easy country lifestyle. Adults enjoy weekend walks or cycle...

The Irresistible Allure of Spiral Blue

For many people, the culture and products of India hold a special place. It is rare to come across a spot that can offer a true escape to the markets of India without leaving the country. Located amidst the picturesque surroundings of the Midlands Meander is Spiral Blue, a hidden gem often described as a “serene space”. With its enchanting ambience and abundant selection, it is undeniably a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an indulgent...

Two Decades of Growth

From a seedling vision to a budding and blooming nursery, meet the family behind the Midlands Garden Centre and how they keep growing, come rain or shine.   Situated in Rosetta on Old Main Road, Midlands Garden Centre is celebrating its 20th anniversary this September! The beloved store opened its doors on 1 September 2003 and is still going strong. The owners, Albert and Jacky Jooste, have made it through “black frost, hail storms, wind...

A Truly Swedish Luxury Experience in Pietermaritzburg

In a first for South Africa, Volvo Cars Pietermaritzburg has re-launched with a studio-style dealership offering clients an exclusive premium luxury experience.   With the dealership officially opening its doors in May 2023 at Absa House, 15 Chatterton Road, it features Scandinavian design, exuding clean and refined finishes with a space that people want to return to each time regardless of whether they are servicing their vehicle or looking for a venue to catch up...

Essential Services

If you are looking at going solar, need backup power solutions, want to switch to gas or need timber for your latest DIY project, we found some great local businesses that can help you out.   Service Beyond the Call Tell us about your business Power Africa was established a few years ago as we identified a need for alternative energy solutions here in the Midlands – we already supply gas alternatives through Nottingham Road...