The Mayan Calendar end date (21 Dec 2012),

The Mayan Calendar end date (21 Dec 2012) is being hotly debated throughout the world, as many believe that it will have a major impact on our lives globally. Many different view points are being bandied about, from the 'end of the world' doomsday predictions, to many believing in no change at all.

It was a topic I was only 'half' listening to, until I began to read how this event is affecting 'where' people will travel to and also whether they travel at all, as the days count down to the Mayan calendar end date, in fear of what 'may happen'.

Luckily for us, South Africa is apparently one of the safest places to be in 2012 – audible sigh of relief! A seemingly dire situation, presents a marketing opportunity for South Africa. Enter a man by the name of Wren Mast-Ingle, who has come up with a plan to attract tourists to South Africa and specifically to promote South Africa's Cradle of Humankind, in relation to the Mayan Calendar countdown, and events that are 'predicted' for 2012. Why the Cradle of Humankind you may ask? The area has synergies with Wren's philosophical view point, which promotes a shift in consciousness for mankind as the 'change' in 2012, and not a cataclysmic end of the world scenario.

Wren is the brain child of the COME-C campaign - Cradle of Many Experiences Campaign. The Cradle of Humankind is now widely accepted by scholars and scientists throughout the world to be the birthplace of mankind. COME-C supports the theme of 'Where humankind began…. the start of a new era for humanity'. The campaign was launched through the website Mi5 which Wren describes as 'The ultimate 2012 information sharing portal'. The Mi5 website is designed to share a broad vision on all predictions as the last day of the Mayan Calendar approaches – 21st Dec 2012 – without necessarily drawing conclusions.

It also covers the advent of increasingly cataclysmic natural disasters that may play a role in these doomsday predictions. Follow Wren's regular articles and join the online community in discussion of upcoming events. The Mi5 website also promotes travel opportunities to South Africa, with specific emphasis on the Cradle of Humankind… now enter Intriguing Africa (yes us), as we have packaged a simple 2 night holiday getaway within the Cradle which can be added to a 'larger' South African travel itinerary.

The Cradle is roughly a 40 minute drive from Johannesburg – the 'New York' of Africa – so the opportunity to combine The Cradle of Humankind with various destinations throughout South Africa and Africa is easy, as Johannesburg is the gateway to Africa.

However the Cradle itself has a wealth of attractions to warrant a few nights spent in this largely undiscovered area of South Africa. The Cradle of Humankind is found with the Magaliesberg Mountain range, which is a naturally scenic area of mountains, valleys, vegetated kloofs (cliff edges), interspersed with rolling hills and savannahs – picturesque and tranquil are apt words to describe the areas natural beauty.

The Magaliesberg has a developed arts and crafts route, called the Magalies Meander. Restaurants and guest houses within the Magalies Meander are plentiful, as are other exciting activities that entice locals to the Magalies over weekends, from cheese farms, to a micro-brewery, tree-top canopy tours, numerous wildlife reserves – Rhino & Lion Park, Askari Game Reserve, to the Ann Van Dyk Cheetah Breeding Centre, where rare and endangered African wildlife species can be viewed, to elephant interaction experiences and the Wondercaves. (Read more about the attractions on the Magaliesberg)

Of course the Cradle of Humankind is a world class experience in its own right and takes centre stage here, as a declared UNESCO World Heritage Site, due to its significance to mankind. Visit the exhibition centre at Maropeng – a multi-faceted and interactive display housed within an architectural marvel, called the Tumulus, which is designed to look like an ancient burial mound. An underground boat ride at the beginning of your Maropeng experience builds anticipation to experience the rest of the varied display exhibits. Either before or after the Maropeng Visitors Centre, one can tour (with guide) the Sterkfontein Caves, which is the original site where 'Little Foot' and 'Mrs Ples' were discovered, and certainly areas of the Sterkfontein caves are still under excavation – the Sterkfontein dig is the longest running excavation site ever.

The Cradle of Humankind is an area surrounded by natural abundance as well as two incredible game reserves in South Africa, both home to the 'big boys' of Africa, yes Africa's Big Five – lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo – as well as a remarkable diversity of wildlife species including the 'less obvious', like the abundance of reptiles and bird life that make for an incredible safari experience. These are the reserves of the Pilanesberg and the Madikwe. Both the Pilanesberg and the Madikwe game reserves have a number of options for visitors to 'go on safari'. Holiday packages that include both the Cradle of Humankind and a safari are easily combinable, as a self-drive holiday, or a transfer or fly-in and out holiday option.

Take a look at our Cradle of Humankind 2 night getaway self-drive travel packages – we have chosen our 'favourite' properties for their general ambiance and beautiful locations.

Join Intriguing Africa and Mi5 in exploring this remarkable destination, and add on any number of destinations in Africa to create an extensive travel vacation itinerary in South Africa/Africa – get in touch for your tailored travel quotation or guidance on travel in Africa.
www.africaholidaysandsafaris.com

TAG Representatives Workshop at The Calders Hotel, 17 August 2011

Thanks to The Calders Hotel for allowing us to take over the boardrooms and hotel and for the lovely breakfast.

An informative, fun and great morning was had by all. Thanks to all the agents and operators for attending.

Great White Shark Tours - Compliments from National Geographic, 06 July 2011

It is with the utmost pleasure & sincerity that I can say definitely - that Brian & his company & crew are by far the most advanced & technically oriented Great White Shark crew in Gansbaai, South Africa - THEY KNOW GREAT WHITE SHARKS & THEY KNOW GREAT WHITE FILM CREWS - they understand the often complicated and challenging visions film crews undertake to achieve & that those visions require much further thought & effort than standard cage diving - and they have the largest & most powerful & comfortable shark filming & diving vessel in the area - with world-class crew & customer service. They make you feel like family and they work damn hard! I recommend them 100% and you can count on them helping you GET THE SHOT...!!!"

Andy Brandy Casagrande IV - Wildlife Cameraman, TV Producer & Presenter for National Geographic & Discovery Channels
www.sharkcagediving.net

Cape Sidecar Winter Special, 01 June 2011

CRAZY WINTER OFFER!!!!

50% OFF OUR TWO-HOUR CAPE TOWN CITY SIGHTSEEING TOUR.
ONLY R275 PER PERSON (MINIMUM 2 PASSENGERS PER SIDECAR)

BOOK NOW!!!

www.sidecars.co.za

Seafront Conferencing ..30 min from Cape Town City Centre, 13 May 2011

Seafront Conferencing...30 min from Cape Town City Centre.

The Ideal Full Day or Overnight Breakaway.

The Sir David, a four star style Boutique Guesthouse, is situated a mere 45m from the secluded Small Bay Beach in Bloubergstrand and is perfect for business executives, team building groups and conference functions.

A small and private boardroom style conference venue seats up to 10 delegates and is air-conditioned with state-of-the-art equipment including complimentary Wi-Fi, flat screen TV with audio/visual connections for a laptop, flip chart & pens. Coupled with 10 Luxury en-suite bedrooms, The Sir David offers the perfect conferencing venue. A great variety of restaurants is within walking distance.

Private, adaptable and flexible, we can tailor-make your conference needs.


Contact our reservations for more information or join us for a cup of coffee and site inspection.

Regards
Claire Dinnie - General Manager
The Sir David Boutique Guesthouse
Telephone: +27 (0)21 554 5987
www.thesirdavid.co.za
reservations@thesirdavid.co.za









www.thesirdavid.co.za

The Sir David Boutique Hotel, 01 April 2011

Check out our trip advisor page – We Rock!!! http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g312659-d2046598-Reviews-The_Sir_David_Boutique_Guest_House-Cape_Town_Western_Cape.html#REVIEWS


www.thesirdavid.co.za

Great White Shark Tours Money Back Guarantee, 07 March 2011

Great White Shark Tours is the most highly recommended operator by the Lonely Planet.

Money Back Guarantee

In the event of us not finding and seeing a great white shark, we will refund all monies which have been paid directly to us.
www.sharkcagediving.net

Pentravel Super Troupers Barnyard evening, 03 March 2011

We hosted 25 Pentravel Staff members to a fabulous evening at the Barnyard Theatre. 3 of their preferred partners sponsored the event. They were U-bag , Wild Frontiers and ITT. Thank you to the 3 preferred partner sponsors and for all the generous prizes from The Dutch Manor, Great White Shark Tours, The Elephant Sanctuary in the Crags and The Sir David Hotel in Bloubergstrand.


03 March 2011

Free Spirit Donates a tree to Alpine Primary School, 12 March 2011

This certifies that Andrea has gifted a tree through Greenpop
Your tree gift will be planted at Alpine Primary School in Mitchell's Plain on Saturday 12 March 2011

GPS coordinates: -34.036177, 18.626525

Map link: http://bit.ly/eRbqKq

Email info@greenpop.org is you'd like to come plant your tree with us.

Thank you for joining the Treevolution


www.greenpop.org

WONDERFUL WINTER WORKSHOP 2010, 20 JULY 2010

Once again our Wonderful Winter Workshop was a great success with over 120 operators attending and 22 exhibitors. Everyone was really delighted with Atlantic Imbizo's new venue at the Clock Tower in the V & A Waterfront.

Thank you to all the delegates who attended and well done to all the prize winners. What unbelievable prizes!! Lucky for Crystal Pienaar from Go Tourism who won the Melody Cruise for 2 to nowhere and Julie Clarke from Cape Splendour Tours who won 2 BA domestic tickets, Avis car rental & 2 nights at Cathedral Peak Hotel DBB. Well Done!

A big thank you to Atlantic Imbizo for the delicious food and venue and outstanding friendly service at all times.

Lanzerac Sensational Spring Session 12 October 2010, 12 October 2010

The FUAG travel representatives held another successful workshop morning at the Lanzerac Hotel.

Thank you so much to Michael Hunter-Smith and his team for hosting our Sensational Spring Session. 15 operators and agents enjoyed the morning so much and the compliments have been rolling in.

Free Spirit Travel Marketing Car Branding, 27 July 2010

Welcome to the new "staff member" at Free Spirit Travel Marketing.
www.freespirittravelmarketing.co.za

Bishopsgrace Bafanna Bafanna Friday Team photo, 01 June 2010

Mandy Marshall and her staff all in their Bafanna Bafanna shirts at Bishopsgrace.

www.bishopsgrace.com

Awesome Autumn Update at Solole Game Reserve, 21 April 2010

Well another successfull workshop, the Awesome Autumn Update, in a glorious setting and great hospitality at Rioja Restaurant at Solole Game Reserve.

Thank you to all the 20 operators and agents who attended.

We really appreciate your support.

Regards
The FUAG Marketing Team
Andrea, Gayle, Tracy and Kim

Team Free Spirit/Webasto takes part in the 24 hour challenge, 29 March 2010

Congratulations to all our VYC entrants in the MAC24HR CHALLENGE, they certainly did us proud at the weekend, it was a fantastic event.
Two teams entered from VYC, Cozmic Cuzins and Webasto/Team Free Spirit and the teams are listed below. Not only did we win the Team With The Best Spirit Award but also the 25Hr Challenge.

Thanks to all those who came and supported the event and particulary to the ground crews who kept body and soul together with endless supplies of food and drinks, I am sure it was really appreciated by all the participants, particularly throughout the night.

Congratulations once more to the 2 teams
Results are on MAC's website - www.milnertonaquaticclub.co.za

Webasto/Free Spirit Team
Andrea Das Neves
George Meyer
Mel Meyer
Stefan Dinkelacker
Dylan Meyer
Jarred Meyer
Dylan Das Neves
Carla Das Neves

Cozmic Cuzins
Bev Shaw
Laurel Bramley
Jac Van Ryswyk
Steve Mellet
Claudia Mellet
Collette Shaw
Vincent Visser
Jean Du Toit

Note from one of the skippers:

Andrea and George,

I really enjoyed the event and just want to thank you again for a well organized weekend at MAC. You two put a great effort into planning and preparation of the entry, boat and campsite. Our club can be very proud of you. Together with the other boat and extended shore crew the local sailing fraternity is now very aware of the Vogelvlei spirit. The stiffness and pains I feel today will soon be gone but the memories will remain.

Best regards,
Stef

Sailing continuously, for 24 hours, makes sailing during the night with the inky black waters beneath the hull, with a myriad of stars overhead, a magical experience - the early morning mist rising along with the spirits of each sailor, while the first rays of the morning sun streak across the skyline like giant spreading fingers - the Flamingoes and Pelicans wake from their sleep and take to the air in majestic flight to the chorus of all the small birds in the conservation area, while the Seagulls swoop and squabble for scraps, and to experience the changing colours of Table Mountain during an African sunset and sunrise - all adds to the excitement of sailing this unique race.

Free Spirit, Avis & Paradise Touring Educational, 02 March 2010

Everybody enjoyed themselves on our mini educational to Swellendam and Greyton. Thank you Lucy from Avis and Joyce from Paradise Touring for providing the transport. The Post House is a lovely romantic getaway or small conference venue in the country. Well worth a visit. It has been newly renovated and looking TOP CLASS!! Thank you to Peter for spoiling us for the evening.

www.theposthouse.co.za

Free Spirit Tours and Travel supports Greenpeace, 25 February 2010

Free Spirit is proud to be a supporter of Greenpeace Africa. Sign up today and support this fantastic independent global compaigning organisation that acts to change attitudes and behaviour, to protect and conserve the environment and to promote peace.


www.greenpeaceafrica.org

BUCKLANDS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE, 17 July 2009

A huge THANK YOU to Iain and Marry- Anne for a wonderful experience at Bucklands.

Bucklands Private Game Reserve is truly a special place in the Stewart family’s hearts and it is wonderful to see how they are all so passionate about the reserve, the building going on, the tents, the animals, other ideas they have and things they still have to do etc.

The 4 luxury tents are situated so that each one has its own privacy and stunning views. There is absolutely everything a 5 star client would need. Special touches like the chocolate on the pillow and hot water bottles in the beds and on the game drives in the mornings make it even more special.

It was lovely to meet with Terry and Michele Stewart, even though very brief. Being owner and manager run they are all able to give that extra bit of personal attention and they really want the guests to have the best possible time while staying at Bucklands, whether at the rustic tented camp or in the luxury tents and Boutique Guest house.

The romantic setting in the boma with the soft lights of the oil lamps and the lovely roaring fire was fantastic. Iain told interesting stories and the star gazing was beautiful. A true African experience.

Mary – Ann really exceeded herself in the kitchen producing the most outstanding meals.
The table setting was different every meal, with the serviettes folded into different shapes and we also had an interesting different beaded table mat each time too.
The Pearly Bay Red Wine I really enjoyed and think it is an excellent choice for the house wine.

I have done a lot of game drives at other lodges, some with the big 5 and others without. And even though Bucklands Private Game Reserve does not have the big 5, Iain’s knowledge of the bush, animals and birds far exceeded any other ranger I have ever experienced which made the game drive exciting and interesting. We were able to get out of the 11 seater land cruiser and walk safely through the bush to the Giraffes, getting about 50m from them. Now this was fabulous! In another reserve with the big 5 one could maybe not do this, or it would be unsafe with guests. Iain is willing to share his knowledge and will certainly keep the clients interested at all times. The sundowners and snacks and coffee stop on the morning drive was lovely and quickly packed out and packed in with no hassle. I loved the chocolate rusks, yum!!

The directions were perfect and I found the lodge easily.

I thought the rustic tented camp was perfect for the self catering campers. What an exciting drive down to the campsite. One does not know where you are going to end up. From where the clients get picked up to the campsite we saw so many different animals, so one gets a game drive during the transfer. The transfer will take about an hour. The river must be lovely to swim in in the summer months. I could sit all day just staring at the beautiful cliffs. I really think this camp will do well with the self drive clients. I love the tents with the middle side table/shelving unit and beds. A perfect communal kitchen and ablutions.

The Boutique Guest house is situated in a really lovely spot with amazing views over all the valleys. With the water hole in front on the open grasslands will really attract a lot of animals and the setting will be stunning. When people arrive at the reception area and there are a couple of buck standing around the waterhole or drinking would be fantastic.
I know that I am supposed to give criticism but I honestly cannot find a single thing that was not perfect about the luxury tents. There was everything from Slippers and gowns, pen and paper, hairdryer, torches, lovely tea and coffee station with hot water and fresh milks etc,toilet paper turned up with a piece of fynbos on it, turndown perfect with the chocolate on the pillow etc, hangers in the cupboards, all the bathroom amenities one needs etc.


I am looking forward to promoting and marketing Bucklands to the operators and agents in the Cape Town and surrounding areas and will be able to express my true feelings about the reserve, accommodation, outstanding service and sheer beauty of the place.

I will be proud to represent Bucklands Private Game Reserve.

Yours sincerely
Andrea Das Neves

www.bucklandsreserve.co.za

GREAT WHITE SHARK TOURS, 07 January 2010

Did you know that there are only two shark cage diving companies in Gansbaai that have a professional video available for the guests to purchase after their trip? They are Great White Shark Tours and Marine Dynamics.

Great White Shark Tours – owned by the well known, Brian Mc Farlane strives to make their clients have an unforgettable experience. The 5 star service, friendly staff, comfortable 40 seater boat, good quality new equipment and excellent food makes Great White Shark Tours the best operator in Gansbaai.

Also they are the only operator who offers a substantial reduction to children under 12 years. Cost is R750.00. Other companies charge R900.00 per child under 12yrs. And the only operator who has the biggest cage, a 7 man cage! Others have 3 and 5 man cages! During World Cup they will have a 10 man cage and will be doing 2 trips a day.

For more info please visit the website: www.sharkcagediving.net

GREAT WHITE SHARK TOURS – GANSBAAI
Tel: 028 384 1418
Chrissie , Jurita and Letitia in the office
brian@sharkcagediving.net

The normal price per trip is R1350.00 plus R300.00 transport from CPT to Gansbaai return should the client require this.

www.sharkcagediving.net

Tour Operators visit Rioja Restaurant in Noordhoek, 20 November 2008

Free Spirit and Bright Blue Travel Marketing invited 28 tour operators and travel related people to experience Rioja Restaurant. We were all very very spoilt. Rioja is really worth a visit.

Barbara James from Odlum Tours wrote the following thank you email:
Dear Simon & Ceri
Just to say how much I enjoyed meeting you at Rioja yesterday and a BIG THANK YOU to you both for the absolutely fabulous meal you gave us. I don't think I have tasted fish as good in a long while and each course was so beautifully presented and so tasty.
I enjoyed our little walk around and was most impressed with Simon's organic vegetable garden .... Wow, what I would give to have one of those in my back garden! As if we hadn't been spoilt enough with our delicious meal, to then be handed a pack of home grown salads on departure was the ultimate! Thank you for your generosity in hosting this function and to Mildrid for putting it together.
Hope the restaurant grows from strength to strength, as it justly deserves. I for one will definitely encourage all my foody friends and clients to venture out towards Kommetjie for lunch when on a tour of the Peninsula or when looking for some seriously good food! Bravo Simon and Ceri.
All good wishes for the future success of your restaurant.
Best regards
Barbara

Rioja Restaurant has moved premises to Solole Game Reserve, Noordhoek. The buffalo are still wandering, springbok are still greeting you at the gate as you enter the Solole Game Reserve. The tranquille setting lends itself to a lingering lunch, a romantic dinner or even the quick pizza and beer.

Owners Simon and Ceri have resurrected this gem to re-establish a little haven in Rioja Restaurant, to escape the day-to-day grind. The conference and function facilities have been renovated for that special occasion, as well as the cocktail bar and lounge for a world-class cappuccino.

Rioja's menu still has the tapas style starters to choose from, the favourite mains are in the menu as well as daily specials on the black board. The Italian style wood fired pizzas are as thin-crusted as before and homemade ice creams and cakes are prepared daily for the sweeter tooth.





www.rioja.com

GREAT WHITE SHARK TOURS NEWS, 04 October 2008

At the moment we are having fantastic trips, seeing very big female sharks, warm water (up to 12 and 15 different sharks seen on one trip in water with a visibility varying from 2m to 5m).
Our new boat APEX PREDATOR which started operating on the 13th December 2007 has proved to be everything we expected and is definitely the finest shark cage diving and viewing vessel in the area, which is fitted to the highest safety standards and with all modern conveniences.
Photos of the boat fitted with four 200HP 4stroke Suzuki engines are available on our website www.sharkcagediving.net (also see “Testimonials” for recent comments of tourists)
During May we worked together with the National Geographic team making a TV feature entitled “The Travels of Nicole”, a female great white shark tagged off Dyer Island and 99 days later arrived in Australia. It will be shown in October this year on shark week.

Our new boat is licensed to carry and capable of safely handling up to 40 tourists per trip.

www.sharkcagediving.net

BEST WESTERN SPRING WORKSHOP , 18th September 2008

Free Spirit Travel Marketing took part at the Best Western Spring Workshop together with most of the top marketing companies who were invited to exhibit their properties and other travel related companies. Despite the terrible terrible cold weather 80 consultants and tour operators attended the workshop and we still had a lot of fun together with hard work and great networking. Thank you to all the agents and tour operators for attending.
www.freespirittravelmarketing.co.za

SIGNAL HILL LODGE CURRY EVENING, 24 July 2008

Free Spirit Travel Marketing and Marigold Marketing arranged another successful evening at Signal Hill Lodge. We had 15 guests from different tour operators and corporate companies. We were very lucky with the weather again and everyone was amazed at the stunning views from the lodge. Thank you to all the staff at Signal Hill Lodge and guests for attending.
www.signalhilllodge.co.za

WONDERFUL WINTER WORKSHOP, 23 July 2008

WHAT A WONDERFUL WINTER WORKSHOP!!! Emails are pouring in congratulating us on a wonderful, informative, enjoyable workshop. Free Spirit Travel Marketing (Andrea Das Neves) together with Bright Blue Travel Marketing (Tracy Pretorius), Gayle Bannatyne and Caroline and Vaughn from CTFM arranged this workshop and without them it would not have been such a success. Together we had an excellent turnout of 92 Tour Operators. The 14 Exhibitors were thrilled with the turnout and quality of the delegates. Loads and loads of prizes were donated very generously and a big thank you goes out to all those companies and also an extra special thank you to all our tour operators for supporting us, we are really grateful. Without you it would not have been a success.

SIGNAL HILL LODGE CURRY EVENING, 10 July 2008

Free Spirit Marketing together with Marigold Marketing organized a very successful site inspection and curry evening at Signal Hill Lodge. It was great to see so many tour operators and corporate companies interested in viewing the property. Thank you to all 30 guests for attending on such a chilly evening. At least it was a lovely clear evening and the views were spectacular over the city. Thank you also to Gary and staff at Signal Hill Lodge for a lovely evening.
www.signalhilllodge.com

INDABA 2008, 10 - 13 MAY 2008

What a fantastic team effort by all and a very successful Indaba. Well done to everyone who really worked hard on the Dirty Boots stand which included 2 of Free Spirit's clients Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve and Cape Sidecar Adventures. Also to the Elephant Sanctuary who had a fabulous stand, well done! Free Spirit also represented Great White Shark Tours and Atlantic Imbizo Conference and Function Studio. Well done to another very well organized Indaba. As I always say, "The harder you work, and the more you put in, you will always be a winner at the end of the day in some way or another."
www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

2008 Hobie Tiger World Championships, 03 - 09 March 2008

2008 HOBIE TIGER & HOBIE DRAGOON WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS – Langebaan, South Africa

Team Free Spirit, an amateur South African sailing team, recently entered their first ever international event, the 6th Hobie Tiger & Dragoon World Championships, which was held in Langebaan, South Africa. This was this first time that the world championships for these catamaran classes were held on SA shores. Needless to say, the success of this world championship event was re-iterated around the world, with many international competitors, reporters & spectators confirming that this was the best ever world championships to date, not only from a venue perspective, but from the meticulous organisation that went into ensuring the overall success of the event.

TEAM FREE SPIRIT WOULD LIKE TO THANK THE FOLLOWING DEDICATED SPONSORS, WHO HAVE ASSISTED IN TURNING THIS DREAM INTO A REALITY:


JULBO EYEWEAR ® (www.julbo-eyewear.com)

Julbo®, a leading international eyewear brand, ensures that the team enjoys maximum eye-care protection, not only at sea, but also on the shore. Julbo’s nautical range of sunglasses offer the highest protection from the elements. Julbo’s nautical range are manufactured from a product called NXT, which ensures optimum visibility & durability, especially under extreme conditions which are prevalent at sea. Julbo’s “chameleon” © lens increases visual sharpness & suppresses glare, thereby eliminating tiredness and discomfort in bright sunlight conditions. Not only are Julbo lenses polarized, (offering 100% ultraviolet protection) they are also photochromic (adjusts to the sensitivity of the light) and hydrophobic (ensuring a better run-off of water particles and reduced water residue)

“For 50 years, Julbo has partnered the greatest exploits on Earth: the Himalayas, the North Pole, the Andes, Trans-Atlantic crossings, etc. Julbo’s total commitment to the athletes they serve have let us play a part in the conquests and challenges which make mankind progress!” (Mike Horn – arguably the world’s greatest adventurer)


HIDES ™ (www.hides.com)

Suncepts, a company established in California, globally markets a newly invented and patented line of multifunction eyewear necessities known by the brand name hides™. The hides™ product line incorporates the essentials of an eyeglass retainer, a protective case and a soft cleaning cloth all into one product. The management team at hides™ is committed to developing a global brand that is recognized as top quality, fashion-forward, innovative and multifunctional. They are 100% committed to earning a solid reputation based on superior quality products, design, service and marketing expertise. This commitment is best exemplified through the numerous product awards and accolades that hides™ has earned from leading consumer and trade publications and associations:
• ISPO – Brand New Award
• Motorboating Magazine – Boat Keeper Award
• North American Hunting Club – Seal of Approval
• Backpacker Magazine – Years Best Gear Award
• North American Fishing Club – Seal of Approval



ADVENTURE INC (www.adventureinc.co.za)

Adventure Inc is a young dynamic company, whose main aim is to provide premium outdoor equipment to niche sporting enthusiasts. Being users and enthusiasts themselves, they understand that your gear plays a vital role when encountering the elements. The right product with the latest innovation and technology can also make your experience that much more enjoyable and so they seek to provide only the highest quality products.

They are also firm believers in developing the sports that they are associated with and use much of their marketing spend in event and athlete sponsorship. They are continuously in search of new products which will enable the avid sportsmen to pursue his or her boundary & passion.

Most people don't live for the mundane day to day activities but rather work towards that next inspiring adventure which brings meaning and value to their lives. Adventure Inc as a company aim to inspire, motivate and support you in seeking out such moments which make life worthwhile.


FREE SPIRIT TOURS & TRAVEL MARKETING (www.freespirittours.co.za)

Free Spirit Tours & Travel Marketing are a specialized & niche travel marketing company. The proprietor, Andrea Das Neves (also a member of Team Free Spirit) has been involved in the travel & hospitality industry for the past 20 years. Free Spirit Tours & Travel and has stepped on board as a co-sponsor to Team “Free Spirit”, Andrea takes care of the team’s PRO & media requirements, as well as look after all administrative functions, travel & accommodation arrangements, etc. Free Spirit Tours & Travel is a representation marketing company, dedicated to providing sales, marketing and public relation activities for principals of quality travel and travel-related products to the local and international market. They also specialise in travel marketing, tailor-made itineraries in South Africa and bookings of outbound packages to any destination world-wide. Please visit www.freespirittours.co.za for more information.

www.freespirittours.co.za/news

2 baby rhinos at Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, 01 March 2008

I recently visited Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve to see the new boma area which is a wonderful addittion to the lodge. Now dinners can be served inside or outside depending on the weather. The upper level is under cover and guests can relax in the comfortalbe lounge area while enjoying the view and watching game. The highlight of the trip was seeing the 2 baby rhino. One is 3 weeks old and the other one is 1 month. The crocodile pit is also a new addittion.
www.plettenbergbaygamereserve.co.za

Team Free Spirit takes part in the Mosquito National Championships, 14 - 17 December 2007

George Meyer (Helmsman) and Andrea Das Neves (Crew), from Team Free Spirit, took part in the Tuffex 2007 Mosquito National Championships. Thank you to Keven Webb from Tuffex Exhaust Systems for sponsoring them his boat, Tuffex. Team Free Spirit came 4th over all , with Kevin Webb in first place, followed by Sarel Vd Merve (also a Team Free Spirit member) and then Steve Mellet.
www.freespirittours.co.za/branding-opportunities.php

Computravel Presentation at Greenways Hotel, 23 January 2008

Well done to Computravel on their very successful presentation. Agents and Tour Operators who attended the Computravel Presentation were able to view the suites and conference rooms at the lovely 5 star Greenways Hotel. Thank you to Wade from Cape Sidecar Adventures for bringing a Vintage World War 2 750cc sidecar motorbike for us all to see. Free Spirit Marketing had wonderful prizes organized for the afternoon from Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve, The Elephant Sanctuary in the Crags,Bellavista Guest House in Stanford and Cape Sidecar Adventures. Thank you to all the agents and tour operators for attending and for those who were lucky prize winners, ENJOY!
www.computravel.co.za

Team Free Spirit News, 01 December 2007

The Meyer Twins (George & Mel) have officially launched their new Hobie Tiger for the upcoming world championships, to be held in Langebaan, SA, in March 2008. They currently seek endorsement sponsorship in order to realise their life-long dream of sailing in their first ever world championships
together. The Meyer twins wish to thank Andrea Das Neves of Free Spirit Tours & Travel Marketing for her generous contribution thusfar, thereby assisting in kick-starting this dream. "Team Free Spirit", as they will be
known, are offering additional branding opportunities on their newly acquired Hobie Tiger, "Dubble Twubble", which will run for a period of 24 months. For more information on how to capitalise on this fantastic low cost
branding opportunity, please contact Andrea Das Neves, the team's PRO, on +27 21 683 2225.

HOT OFF THE PRESS.... The 2007 Hobie Tiger National Championships will be
screened on MNet Supersport 1 on Friday, 21 December 2007 at 9pm, with 6 scheduled re-runs thereafter. Sincere thanks to Rat Race Media for taking the sport of Hobie sailing to SA's premier television sports channel,Supersport! Rat Race Media will also be responsible for the local and international production at the Hobie Tiger World Championships in March 2008.

www.freespirittravelmarketing.co.za/branding-opportunities.php

The Launch of Free Spirit, 15 September 2007

Team Free Spirit were very proud to launch their new Sonnet, "Free Spirit", who took to the waters for the first time in September at the Point Series regatta at Voelvlei Yacht Club. "Free Spirit" will be used for Junior Training at Voelvlei Yacht Club, regattas, and competitions. The idea is to encourage,teach and train young sailors to sail. We will take part in the Sonnet Nationals at Theewaterskloof dam in December and also at Western Province Champs in March at Saldanha Bay. For each regatta a child will sail with one of the Team Free Spirit members who will teach them the skills of sailing.

Branding opportunities are also available and is only a small cost of R10 000.00 for a 2 year exposure. Branding and logo's can be displayed on the sails, trailer, clothing etc.
The sponsorship money will be most helpful to help with regatta entrance fees, accommodation when required, travelling expenses, a new set of sails with all the branding of the company on it, clothing and car branding etc.
Please do not hesitate to contact me should you wish to find out more about these branding opportunities on 0828780234 (Andrea)
www.freespirittravelmarketing.co.za/branding-opportunities.php

Rennies Fun Morning at Onze Rust Guest House, 07 September 2007

Onze Rust Guest House and Free Spirit Marketing hosted a fun filled morning for Rennies Travel and their 25 corporate secretaries from the Stellenbosch area.
The morning started off with the usual delicious Onze Rust breakfast, followed by Nicky, a makeup artist, who showed us how to apply makeup that remains on your face all day. The best tip was how to apply mascara correctly. Lucky Draw was next and then Dynamic Corporate Activities kept us all busy with fun team building games, brain teasers and good laughs! A great morning was had by all!


www,info@stellenboschstay.com

Best Western Spring Workshop, 12 September 2007

110 travel related agents visited the Spring Workshop and a very productive day was had by all. Also attending were a lot of corporate companies, events and conference organizers. Thank you to the Best Western All Suites Hotel for organizing this event. Free Spirit Marketing had 3 tables at the workshop. Michele from U-Bag flew down from Johannesburg, Ester from Onze Rust Guest House in Stellenbosch was there and also Frank from Platteklip lodge attended. I represented Plettenberg Bay Game Reserve and Bellavista Guest House near Hermanus.