Thursday, June 30, 2011

Coat of Arms of South Africa


A national coat of arms, or State emblem, is the highest visual symbol of the State.

The coat of arms is also a central part of the Great Seal, traditionally considered to be the highest emblem of the State. Absolute authority is given to every document with an impression of the Great Seal on it, as this means that it has been approved by the President of South Africa.

The Coat of Arms is a series of elements organised in distinct symmetric egg-like or oval shapes placed on top of one another:

The lower oval shape represents the elements of Foundation:

- The first element is the Motto, in a green semicircle. Completing the semicircle are two symmetrically placed pairs of elephant tusks pointing upwards. Within the oval shape  formed by the tusks are two symmetrical ears of wheat, that in turn frame a centrally placed gold shield.

- The shape of the shield makes reference to the drum, and contains two human figures from Khoisan rock art. The figures are depicted facing one another in greeting and in unity.

 - Above the shield are placed a spear and a knobkierie, crossed in a single unit. These elements are arranged harmoniously to give focus to the shield and complete the lower oval shape of foundation.

The oval shape of Ascendance:

- Immediately above the oval shape of foundation, is the visual centre of the Coat of Arms, a protea. The petals of the protea are rendered in a triangular pattern reminiscent of the crafts of Africa.

- The secretary bird is placed above the protea and the flower forms the chest of the bird. The secretary bird stands with its wings uplifted in a regal and uprising gesture. The distinctive head feathers of the secretary bird crown a strong and vigilant head.

- The rising sun above the horizon is placed between the wings of the secretary bird and completes the oval shape of ascendance.

-  The combination of the upper and lower oval shapes intersect to form an unbroken infinite course, and the great harmony between the basic elements result in a dynamic, elegant and thoroughly distinctive design. Yet it clearly retains the stability, gravity and immediacy that a Coat of Arms demands.


What is it symbolizing?

 The Motto

The motto is: !ke e: /xarra //ke, written in the Khoisan language of the /Xam people, literally meaning: diverse people unite. It addresses each individual effort to harness the unity between thought and action. On a collective scale it calls for the nation to unite in a common sense of belonging and national pride - Unity in Diversity.

 The ears of wheat

An emblem of fertility, it also symbolises the idea of germination, growth and the feasible development of any potential. It relates to the nourishment of the people and signifies the agricultural aspects of the earth.

Elephant Tusks

Elephants symbolise wisdom, strength, moderation and eternity.

 The shield

It has a dual function as a vehicle for the display of identity and of spiritual defence. It contains the primary symbol of our nation.

The human figures

The figures are derived from images on the Linton stone, a world famous example of South African Rock Art, now housed and displayed in the South African Museum in Cape Town. The Khoisan, the oldest known inhabitants of our land and most probably of the earth, testify to our common humanity and heritage as South Africans and as humanity in general. The figures are depicted in an attitude of greeting, symbolising unity. This also represents the beginning of the individual’s transformation into the greater sense of belonging to the nation and by extension, collective Humanity

 The spear and knobkierie

Dual symbols of defence and authority, they in turn represent the powerful legs of the secretary bird. The spear and knobkierie are lying down, symbolising peace.

 The protea

The protea is an emblem of the beauty of our land and the flowering of our potential as a nation in pursuit of the African Renaissance. The protea symbolises the holistic integration of forces that grows from the earth and are nurtured from above. The most popular colours of Africa have been assigned to the protea – green, gold, red and black.

The secretary bird

The secretary bird is characterised in flight, the natural consequence of growth and speed. It is the equivalent of the lion on earth. A powerful bird whose legs - depicted as the spear and knobkierie - serve it well in its hunt for snakes symbolising protection of the nation against its enemies. It is a messenger of the heavens and conducts its grace upon the earth, in this sense it is a symbol of divine majesty. Its uplifted wings are an emblem of the ascendance of our nation, whilst simultaneously offering us its protection. It is depicted in gold, which clearly symbolises its association with the sun and the highest power.

 The rising sun

An emblem of brightness, splendour and the supreme principle of the nature of energy, it symbolises the promise of rebirth, the active faculties of reflection, knowledge, good judgement and willpower. It is the symbol of the source of life, of light and the ultimate wholeness of Humanity.

The completed structure of the Coat of Arms combines the lower and higher oval shape in a symbol of infinity. The path that connects the lower edge of the scroll, through the lines of the tusks, with the horizon above which the sun rises at the top, forms the shape of the cosmic egg from which the secretary bird rises. In the symbolic sense this is the implied rebirth of the spirit of our great and heroic nation.


Tuesday, June 28, 2011

South African National Museum of Military History

Situated at the top of the 200-acre site that consists largely of the Johannesburg Zoo and Zoo Lake, the South African National Museum of Military History was opened in 1947 by the Prime Minister, Field Marshall Jan Smuts, with the following words: "We are gathered here today to open what may not unfairly be looked upon as a memorial to the greatest united effort our country has ever been called upon to produce [participation in World War 2]. Memorials, of course, have more than one use. They serve to remind us of what is the past, of great deeds of heroism and sacrifice; they also serve as a pointer, and sometimes as a warning, to the future."


The Museum is an impressive memorial to the past with its collection of World War 1 and 2 fighter planes - some the only remaining planes of their kind in the world - tanks used by the South African Defence Force in war in Angola, armaments, medals, military insignia and uniforms.
It also has an interesting section on resistance to war, including the Rebellion of 1914, the Ossewa Brandwag, and the End Subscription Campaign. All in all, it has 44 000 items in its display halls and archives.

The Museum's library has a unique collection of books, journals and archival material, as well as official South African World War 2 art and photographs. It conducts interviews in the library as part of its on-going oral history collection and has a number of publications for sale.
On display are original Spitfire and Messerschmitt fighters (including what is claimed to be the only remaining ME110 jet night fighter), various tanks of English and American manufacture, and a wide array of artillery. 


Among the most interesting objects are the modern armaments South Africa used in its war against the Cuban-backed Angolan army during the 1980s, including French-built Mirage fighters and Russian tanks stolen by the South Africans from a ship en route to Angola.

 More recent exhibits include the national military art collection, memorabilia from the Anti-Conscription Campaign of apartheid days, and an exhibit on the history of Umkhonto we Sizwe (Spear of the Nation, or MK, the African National Congress's military arm). 


The tall, freestanding South African (Anglo-Boer) War memorial, which looks like a statue-adorned mini Arc de Triomphe, is the most striking landmark of the northern suburbs.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Margate, South Coast KZN

Margate is a popular South Coast holiday resort, with Blue Flag Beach status.


This area provides a natural haven for a multitude of tropical fish species and an abundance of coral reefs which allow for excellent scuba diving and snorkelling. The renowned Protea Banks dive site with its vast shoals and sharks bring great delight to divers.

The fishing in Margate is good, and rocks off the shore abound with mussels though a licence is required to remove them. The coastline comes to life with an energetic buzz of fishermen and locals when the annual Sardine Run takes place. Considered to be the greatest shoal on earth, these tiny silver fish bring with them numerous larger game fish, dolphins and a variety of birdlife seeking an easy meal.


Boating and skiing are popular water sports in Margate. Canoes and paddleboats are available for hire at the lagoon. Surfing at Margate and the nearby St. Michaels Beach is also popular.

Nature reserves in the vicinity of Margate include the Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, which has spectacular views and a wide variety of species, including bushbuck, blue and grey duiker, common reedbuck, and the occasional the leopard. Other reserves in the area include the nearby Skyline Reserve and Uvongo River Reserve. Both offer tranquil scenery and a wide variety of birdlife, with nearly 400 species sighted in the region. The local forest birds are particularly colourful. Bird watching tours in the Margate area are available.
Other attractions in and around Margate include the Margate Bird Park with its walk-through aviary. The bird park also has a playground and a tea garden which serves light meals to visitors.

Riverbend Croc Farm near Southbroom is home to more than 200 Nile Crocodiles. Visitors can watch an awe-inspiring feeding frenzy every Sunday. Crocodile hatching demonstrations are a natural phenomenon also not to be missed.


Margate is the centre for nightlife on the south coast of KwaZulu-Natal, and when the discos close, there are parties on the beach.

Other activities in and around Margate include:

- Margate Country Club
- Whale Watching
- Art Galleries
- Microlight rides
- Quad Biking
- Sea Kayaking
- Shark Cage Diving

Thursday, June 23, 2011

Elizabeth House Bed & Breakfast

Elizabeth House Bed & Breakfast in Grahamstown is in the heart of the Frontier Country where reminders of turbulent history live along with splendid unspoiled nature. 

The bed and breakfast is a pleasant house offering exquisitely appointed guest rooms which are almost unbelievable large. The space, serenity and cosiness of these rooms will haunt you long after you leave the Elizabeth House and Grahamstown.

 The breakfast is a choice between full English and continental breakfast. 


The house has a nice back garden with a splash pool for those lazy days and all you want to do is relax quietly in a place with a homely like ambiance.



Address: 6 Worcester Street, West Hill, 6139 Grahamstown, Frontier Country, Eastern Cape, South Africa

Tuesday, June 21, 2011

Saxe Coburg Lodge Bed and Breakfast

Saxe Coburg Lodge Bed & Breakfast offers to its guests a fine hospitality in a romantic Victorian home dating back to 1860. Centrally situated in the picturesque Prince Albert, this B&B provides luxurious accommodation amidst a delightful garden. Interior decorations feature emblematic antiques and artworks, which convey a sense of blessed timelessness and serenity. The sunny and colourful garden offers you a refreshing pool and amazing vista of the Swartberg Mountains. An important part of your stay at the Saxe Coburg Lodge is the culinary delight called breakfast. The hosts know the region very well and they can organize a guided tour for you.

 The lodge is centrally situated in the historic heart of the delightful village of Prince Albert, Western Cape, South Africa within walking distance to all the restaurants, art galleries, antique shops and places of interest.

Although it is in the centre of town a rural atmosphere persists.

On the south boundary, a vineyard of repute makes a prize winning desert wine "Soet Karoo".
The neighbour to the north has planted an olive grove of 500 trees.

The accommodation consists of five luxury air-conditioned garden bed rooms with en-suite bathrooms and spectacular views of the Swartberg Mountains.




The Honeymoon room has a spa bath. One cottage with two bed rooms, one bath room and lounge/kitchenette.

Address: 60 Church Street, 6930 Prince Albert, Karoo, Western Cape, South Africa

Monday, June 20, 2011

Daan's Place Bed & Breakfast

A small reasonably priced Bed & Breakfast establishment with all amenities to make your stay as comfortable as possible, in a beautiful area of South-Africa, close to all the sights and the Kruger National Park.


Daan's Place consists of catered and self-catering accommodation. Four comfortable rooms with either a double or 2 three quarter beds in each room, kitchenette with all utensils, room safe and shower or bath room. Heated splash pool for your enjoyment. Barbecue area and Lapa for bonfire nights. Good security with secure parking is provided Hav-a-Java Fully Licensed Coffee Shop, eatery and internet cafe, with PS3 gaming and entertainment centre with Skype Connectivity, Splash pool and pool service for food and beverage. Home of Lavazza Coffee, light meals and fully licensed to sell spirits, wine and beer. Internet CafĂ© – surf the web, phone home on Skype or Play PS3 games if you so wish. Wi-Fi available in all rooms and Business Service Offered. Rags - Coin operated Laundrette for washing clothes and coin operated dryers.



Standard Breakfast: 2 Eggs, 2 Rashers of Bacon, Slice of Grilled Tomato and 2 Slices of Toast. Farmhouse Breakfast: 2 Eggs, 2 Rashers of Bacon, Slice of Grilled Tomato, Fried Mushrooms and 2 Slices of Toast. Grande Breakfast: 2 Eggs, 2 Rashers of Bacon, Slice of Grilled Tomato, Fried Mushrooms, Boerewors and 2 Slices of Toast. Mince and Cheese Omelette: Omelette filled with Mince and Cheese, Served with 2 Slices of Toast Ham, Cheese and Mushroom Omelette: Omelette filled with Ham, Cheese and Mushrooms, Served with 2 Slices of Toast. Assorted Cereals: All Bran Flakes or Corn Flakes, Served with Hot or Cold Milk. Muesli: Muesli, Served with Plain Yoghurt. 

Address: 27 Monument Street, 1270 Graskop, Mpumalanga, South Africa