Tuesday, December 3, 2013

Reasons why life insurance is important

In response to the question “Why do I need life insurance?” one could pose a counter-question: “What happens to the people who mean something to you when you die?”

Life cover is a product that provides financial protection for the most important people in your life. It protects the wellbeing of your loved ones and prevents them from experiencing financial hardship when they can no longer depend on your monthly income or support as breadwinner after your death.

Life insurance companies offer you the opportunity to invest in the future of your loved ones before it is too late. If you are young and healthy, your monthly premiums will generally be lower so it is wise to seek affordable life cover before you turn 65. Depending on your individual risk profile you will be able to take out cover at an agreed premium that will provide a certain lump sum payout to those dear to you when you pass away.

Source: http://www.sa-insured.co.za/why-do-i-need-life-insurance/

Thursday, November 7, 2013

Make your honeymoon extra special with The Roundhouse

As the leading provider of accommodation in Gansbaai, The Roundhouse has dedicated honeymoon specials. For just R750 per night, per person sharing, their upmarket Carcharias Suite can be all yours. Upon arrival, you will receive a luxurious pamper basket worth over R300 – the perfect treat to get your honeymoon off to the lavish start you deserve.







Source: http://exploring-cape-town.tumblr.com/post/66336744427/make-your-honeymoon-extra-special-with-the-roundhouse

Tokai Properties for Sale



Tokai is a large residential suburb situated on the foothills of the spectacular Elephants Eye mountain range. The lush, leafy suburb is a nature lover’s dream, with a selection of off-road cycling routes and scenic mountain and forest walks.

Named after Tokaj – a range of hills in Hungary – Tokai was originally a wide open area dotted with various wine farms and quaint smallholdings. Today the suburb is predominantly residential, but a number of authentic Cape Dutch houses still stand among the more modern developments. The suburb was established in the late 1940s and built up quickly due to the urgent need for housing for the English-speaking South African soldiers returning from World War II.

Source: http://www.remax.co.za/Property-in-Tokai-Cape-Town-Western-Cape/

Tuesday, November 5, 2013

Heart attacks in South Africa

Patients who have suffered a heart attack or who show signs of cardiovascular disease are considered a high risk for insurers. While some individuals go on to lead healthy lifestyles after experiencing a heart attack, a percentage will continue to experience debilitating after-effects or permanent cardiovascular damage – a factor that may greatly reduce their lifespan. For insurers, a shorter lifespan means the individual will pay less premiums.


After-effects may include:
  • Arrhythmias – irregular heart rhythms
  • Cardiogenic shock – a sudden drop in blood pressure that will result in your heart being unable to pump enough blood to your organs
  • Heart rupture: permanent damage to the heart wall that may, in serious cases, cause the wall to rupture
If you wish to take out a serious illness cover policy or life insurance, don’t prolong the decision as the cost of premiums rise as you get older. Insurers who do provide life cover for individuals who had heart attacks or suffer from cardiovascular disease will determine the individual’s risk profile according to the severity of the condition and the steps the patient is taking to treat it. By being proactive, specific and honest about your condition, you are more likely to receive better insurance rates.

Click here for more information about illnesses that will or won't be covered by health insurance.

Source:http://www.insurancesaysno.co.za/insurance-for-heart-attacks/
Image Source: http://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/151444.php

Wednesday, October 2, 2013

Why you ought to try a hot air balloon ride

If you've booked an African safari or simply feeling for an adventure, I would highly recommend going on a hot air balloon ride. Never-mind the fact that these huge balloons are incredible in itself, actually experiencing it for yourself will definitely be an unforgettable experience.

Balloons dotted across the sky.


There's nothing comparable to floating across the sky, feeling the open air and gaining a bird's eye view of the landscape. Here are four reasons to try it out:

1. It's inspiring

Hot air balloon flights usually happen during the early morning or the late evening, either way it's during pretty romantic times of the day - picture the skyline streaked with rose and tangerine - instant inspiration!

2. It's a bucket list adventure

Everyone has their own personal list of things that have to do or experience in their lifetime and if hot air ballooning is one of it then that's wonderful! If you are yet to draw up a bucket list, consider adding a hot air balloon ride to the list - you wont regret it.

3. It's an adventure

It may not be an adventure on par with Indiana Jones' exploits, but gliding through the sky is a close alternative.

4. It's Enlightening

The sights, sounds and smells are completely different to soaring the sky in an airplane. It's intimate and immediate.

For more information, read this article.

Monday, August 19, 2013

Getting to the heart of the matter

Heart murmurs in children can be an especially tricky condition to diagnose and many children will, at some point, play host to a heart murmur. The good news is that most heart murmurs are harmless – but it definitely helps to know the facts:

There are two classifications of abnormal heart sounds known as functional and pathological.

  • Functional: This is a normal heart murmur that’s characterised by loud sounds produced by turbulent blood flow in the heart. 
  • Pathological: A more sinister classification, this type of heart murmur is characterised by loud sounds of the heart which is caused by restrictions in the opening of a heart valve.

Monday, August 5, 2013

Green Point accommodation


Staying in Green Point accommodation is a wonderful choice, as you have easy access to Cape Town’s scintillating CBD, including the expansive V&A. Luxurious yachts and catamarans bob gently in the harbor, hinting at an affluent, elevated lifestyle that most of us dream of. If you fancy a day of fun in the sun, then opt for one of the boat tours regularly leaving the docks and enjoy a wonderful cruise around the bay, admiring some of Cape Town’s highlights from the sea. Look out for the iconic Table Mountain towering in the distance, along with the unmistakably shaped and aptly named, Lion’s Head

Source: http://exploring-cape-town.tumblr.com/post/57423634268/exploring-the-v-a-waterfront-the-v-a-waterfront

Wednesday, July 3, 2013

Having your health checks, screens and tests done

To ensure that the appropriate screenings, depending on your risk factors and lifestyle, are done, you should consult your medical practitioner or GP. As it is better to be aware of a potential risk and to take preventative measures or start with possible curing methods in time, these tests and examinations will help to put your worries to rest.

To make certain that you have affordable life cover before you turn 65, you should look into reasonable life cover insurance quotes that will be dependent on your risk profile and medical history . It is safer to be conscious of the possibility that you may not always be able to take care of your family and that you will have to provide for their future financial needs by getting life insurance  so that they can also experience peace of mind, than to be taken out of the picture without proper investments in place.

Surprise your loved one by having your health checks, screens and tests done, and she may just bowl you over with tickets when India tour South Africa for the next test series, or even for The Ashes if you’re lucky enough to visit abroad.

Source: http://www.wellaware.co.za/tests-men-should-have-regularly/

Friday, June 7, 2013

Protect Your Automotive Investment


My son has never been interested in paying for cover of any kind. He only sees as far as his nose and
wants the money in his pocket now. No matter what I tell him of my past experience, the belief that
"It won't happen to me" is just to set in his mind for the time being. He won't even get himself some
personal insurance at the very lest.

So I have now decided to look into it myself and find something affordable to at least give me some peace of mind. After looking into I've decided to take out some ford fiesta insurance (on my sons car), some ford bantam insurance (on my own car) and nissan micra insurance on my wife's car. I found the premiums so low that I just couldn't resist taking them all onto my own name, for a small price I can protect my whole family.

Protect Your Automotive Investment


My son has never been interested in paying for cover of any kind. He only sees as far as his nose and
wants the money in his pocket now. No matter what I tell him of my past experience, the belief that
"It won't happen to me" is just to set in his mind for the time being. He won't even get himself some
personal insurance at the very lest.

So I have now decided to look into it myself and find something affordable to at least give me some peace of mind. After looking into I've decided to take out some ford fiesta insurance (on my sons car), some ford bantam insurance (on my own car) and nissan micra insurance on my wife's car. I found the premiums so low that I just couldn't resist taking them all onto my own name, for a small price I can protect my whole family.

Tuesday, May 28, 2013

World Tour anyone?



Travelling is one of the most rewarding and enlightening things to do. It opens your mind and helps you to understand different cultures, all while having a great time. However sometimes the admin of arranging flights or trying the cheapest flights for great value can be strenuous. That's where Travelstart comes in. 

Travelstart is Nigeria’s newest online travel agency. Whether you’re travelling to London for high flying business or looking for a hotel in South Africa, Travelstart Nigeria can help you.

Travelstart Nigeria makes it easy to find the best travel deals on the web. When you search for domestic and international flights with us, you'll get results from all the major airlines (such as Arik Air, Air Nigeria, British Airways, KLM and Virgin Atlantic) displayed in one place. Once you’ve decided on the best airline ticket for you, book and pay online in one seamless transaction.

Why book with Travelstart:

Instant flight quotes mean you save time & money – fares from all major airlines and low cost carriers are displayed on one page. Cheapest flights are displayed first!
Search for flights, hotels and car rental. Find the best deal and book instantly – no more waiting for quotes
Our business is online and we pass the savings on to you
No hidden costs – the price you see on the website is the price you pay

Now you can get cheap flights to Nigeria Turkey, Egypt, or anywhere else around the world!

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Reflecting on Life


When living the life in Camps Bay, one sometimes reflects on their life and often notices that life is a precious gift and should be taken care of as much as possible. 

And in today's world getting direct life insurance has never been easier than it is today. Thanks to the Internet, there are scores of insurance providers offering a wide range of products directly to the public. FRANK.NET,  sets themselves apart by providing a simple, straightforward solution that focuses on only the most intrinsic insurance needs of South Africans.

They strive for openness, honestly and transparency, and don't hide behind big words or jargon. Every person in the Frank.Net team is selected based on their experience, integrity,qualifications and ability to communicated well, ensuring that they offer the best service possible.
So next time you reflect on your life, make sure you've taken care of the life you've been given with Frank.Net

life insurance quote: Frank.Net - Life Investment made simple

Monday, April 29, 2013

Playing The Property Market


This is a term that is often thrown around without much thought or research. I've had friends and relatives all giving me advice, most of it completely contradicting the other. While the attempt to help is often given with the best of intentions, the end result of that advise is not always positive. When it comes to property for sale and the property market in general, careful research is required. It's in a constantly evolving and mutable state and is never fixed.

I prefer to go with professionals in this regard as I don't really have the time to study and educate myself in the field of properties for sale. For instance a company like Property24 is a leader in the field, and employ staff who spend their lives understanding the market and the art of identifying what makes a great deal within the current market.

Playing The Property Market


This is a term that is often thrown around without much thought or research. I've had friends and relatives all giving me advice, most of it completely contradicting the other. While the attempt to help is often given with the best of intentions, the end result of that advise is not always positive. When it comes to property for sale and the property market in general, careful research is required. It's in a constantly evolving and mutable state and is never fixed.

I prefer to go with professionals in this regard as I don't really have the time to study and educate myself in the field of properties for sale. For instance a company like Property24 is a leader in the field, and employ staff who spend their lives understanding the market and the art of identifying what makes a great deal within the current market.

Wednesday, April 24, 2013

Tips for Diving with Sharks

The phrase ‘great white shark cage diving’ sounds quite daunting for most of us and rightfully so, because to be honest the mere idea of actually diving with these predators is kind of insane. Yet, for some reason this insanity has become one of the most popular activities for holidaymakers in South Africa. Shark cage diving in Gansbaai, False Bay and many areas in Durban are great spots for experiencing this phenomenon which is without a doubt one of the most unforgettable experiences you’ll have in your lifetime.

Source: http://www.sa-adventurers.co.za/tips-for-diving-with-sharks/

Friday, April 19, 2013

Property in the the Southern Suburbs

The Southern Suburbs in the Western Cape has become a popular residential area amongst expanding families and students thanks to its centrality, exquisite old architecture and its affordability. Upton Properties has capitalized on this and is focused almost exclusively on Claremont properties and Newlands properties.

Tuesday, April 16, 2013

Gansbaai's Conservations Efforts

Conservation is taken incredibly seriously in Gansbaai, with many locals and organisations doing their utmost to preserve the indigenous plants of the region and restore the vegetation to its original form. As a result, the Danger Point Peninsula and Walker Bay have become popular nature destinations, attracting thousands of tourists to stay in accommodation in Gansbaai every year. While it's undeniably the public nature reserves where the success of the conservation efforts can be seen at their best, however you'll also be able to notice them by simply driving through the region and will hear the passion that the locals have for the environment when speaking with them.

One of the first issues that were tackled in the conservation of the region was to remove all alien vegetation. This has been quite a challenge and will be a continuous effort for years to come. Locals and organisations will need to recognise these plants and make sure that they are pulled out effectively before they have time to compete with the indigenous plants for water, space and nutrients. This process is essential to the nurturing of indigenous plants, ensuring their protection from extinction. Next on the agenda is reforestation; planting fynbos in the areas which were previously home to alien vegetation or desolate. These efforts have been made on both private properties and in public nature reserves.

A fresh and unique approach to the sustainable use of natural resources in the region has been created by the Agulhas Biodiversity Initiative. New standards have been set for picking flowers for the cut-flower trade, organic fertilisers and sound guns to chase hungry antelopes (in search of grazing) away are also being used. Roads are also being tarred in the hopes of creating a barrier for the spread of invasive vegetation, and in process, original water flows of rivers and swamps will be restored. And while the efforts can be clearly seen from land, they're often being made at sea. Whale and marine biologists are working together to ensure that a 300m distance is kept from whales, that African penguins are protected and to ensure that no oil is leaked into the ocean. 

The conservation attempts have attracted many tourists to the region, causing a boom an increase in demand for accommodation in Gansbaai. Visitors can go on guided day walks, tours and explore the beautiful, indigenous landscape for themselves while embarking on self-drive tours. While the flora and fauna are undeniably the region's most popular characteristics, guests can also enjoy marine boat trips, can go shark cage diving, can explore the town's quaint shops, restaurants and pubs, and can enjoy the luxury accommodation and facilities on offer. The conservation efforts of the locals have put Gansbaai on the flora map, making it a favourite local getaway destination and an astounding attraction for international visitors. 

Original Source: The Roundhouse

Monday, April 15, 2013

Eco-Friendly Hotels in Durban

In today’s world there is an increasing awareness of climate change and people’s contribution to it, leading to a global effort to cut back on our carbon footprint and harmful environmental impact. By choosing to stay in an eco-friendly hotel, you can contribute towards a greener, more sustainable future, while enjoying luxurious, beautiful accommodation and a healthier lifestyle.

An eco-hotel is defined as a hotel or accommodation which prioritises implementing environmental improvements to its structure and the way that it operates, in order to decrease its carbon footprint and effect on the environment.

The environmentally friendly establishment encourages ‘green living’ by practising key lifestyle choices, such as using non-toxic cleaning agents, actively using renewable energy sources, using energy-saving lighting, serving organic and locally produced cuisine and collecting storm water for use around the establishment, etc.

Durban is one of South Africa’s most beautiful holiday destinations, renowned for its golden beaches, water sports, warm climate and gorgeous scenery. Luscious, vivid green sugar cane fields meander up the mountains and hills, while the pristine beaches stretch on for miles, under the sunny blue sky. This is a place where a considerable effort is being made to preserve the exquisite natural surroundings and there are numerous eco-friendly Durban hotels to choose from.

Karkloof Spa-Wellness and Wildlife Retreat hosts the most expansive eco-friendly spa in Africa and lies within a 3,500 hectare game reserve, boasting picturesque scenery. The area is home to a variety of terrains housing an abundance of wildlife, including buffalo, black and white rhino, hippo and wildlife. The 5-star boutique lodge incorporates 16 stylishly-appointed villas, while the spa offers 17 tranquil treatment rooms to choose from.

Local communities were employed in the lodge’s construction and the establishment was built using only natural, eco-friendly, locally produced materials, including quarried stone and non-toxic paint. Grey water is recycled through the wetlands, back into the eco-system and all the toilets have a dual flush system in place to save water. All the establishment’s products are bio-degradable and the abundance of indigenous trees shading the lodge helps to lessen the amount of energy used for air-conditioning.

Mackaya Bella Guest House boasts a superb indigenous garden offering a serene getaway from the hustle and bustle of the city. The spacious rooms are well-equipped and elegant, with décor which continues the delightful garden theme. Named after an indigenous shrub found in the wetter parts of Kwa-Zulu Natal, this is a guest house which prioritises environmentally responsible tourism. All organic and inorganic waste is recycled, while water is conserved and energy saving lighting and appliances are utilised.

Durban is a magnificent setting which plays host to a number of superior, eco-friendly establishments, which offer world-class facilities and luxury while also focusing on green living and supporting a sustainable future.

Original Source: The Green Life

Friday, April 12, 2013

What makes Mozambique such a great destination?

Since its discovery by Vasco Da Gama in 1498, Mozambique has weathered both political and social struggles, including early Arab slave trade practices along the coast, mass Portuguese immigration, economic mismanagement, Draconian legislation which prohibited political pluralism, religious educational institutions, and traditional authorities, the War of Independence and most notably, the ensuing Mozambican Civil War.

Despite its proximity to South Africa, one of the world’s top tourist destinations, Mozambique boasted a profitable tourism industry in the years preceding its independence from Portugal. However, following the Mozambican Civil War between 1977 and 1992, wildlife conservation and tourism within the country collapsed, resulting in cessation of tourist numbers throughout the country by 1978. As a result of this decimation, the perception that Mozambique is a troubled country has remained in the minds of people around the world, hindering the tourism industry and economy’s growth as a result.

However, despite its turbulent history, this south-east African country has become Africa’s proverbial Phoenix, with the country rebuilding itself and emerging as a source of foreign direct investment and one of the world’s most popular diving destinations. Even with its turbulent history and somewhat troubled present, this South East African country’s appeal is undeniable. So what makes this rebounding Portuguese country such a wonderful destination?

History – Mozambique offers all the exquisite landscapes and exhilarating activities of tropical locations such as the Maldives, Barbados and Mauritius, as well as a scintillating history which can be largely attributed to the country’s Portuguese colonial past.

Accommodation - Authentic Mozambique accommodation dots the 1550 mile coastline, allowing you to relax in cotton hammocks while sipping on frosted Piña coladas, or relax inside a cosy Mozambican beach lodge during your stay in the tropical paradise of Mozambique República de Moçambique.

Beaches – Together with sparkling azure waters and luxury beach lodges and hotels, the 2,500 kilometre Mozambican coastline boasts pristine sandy beaches which have become synonymous with this tropical paradise. From the powdery white stretches of the Bazaruto Archipelago, to Praia do Wimbe’s palm lined shores in the Cabo Delgado province, Mozambique offers some of the most beautiful beaches in the world.

Climate – 23.5° south of the equator, running through northern South Africa is the Tropic of Capricorn which gives Mozambique its tropical climate. As a result, the country experiences sunshine throughout the year, making it the perfect tropical paradise.

Diving - Miles of unspoilt reefs, myriads of multi-coloured coral gardens, eerie underwater wreckages and caves, and a kaleidoscope of tropical fish and marine life make Mozambique one of the best diving destinations in the world. Explore the magnificent coral gardens and majestic marine life with a range of Mozambique diving courses and scuba adventures in this tropical paradise. Mozambique does have stunning reef systems in the north and the south is famed for it’s large marine life such as the gigantic Whale Sharks, hump Back Whales and also Giant Manta Rays. If you want to get a glimpse of an extremely rare species then Tofo is the place to view the Small-eyed rays which are the largest rays in the ocean.

Whether you’re planning to explore the rich cultural and historical history of the country, or merely planning to go diving in Mozambique, this is a country heaving with unforgettable underwater experiences and unparalleled luxury accommodation guaranteed to leave you eager to return.

Original Source: Scuba Mozambique

Monday, April 8, 2013

Shark Cage Diving In Cape Town


 My family and I went on holiday and decided to be daring so we went white shark diving in South Africa as we come on holiday from the UK. Wow what a adrenalin rush from being less than a meter away from that huge shark.
It was definitely an experience my family and I will never forget. At least I can tick that off my bucket list of things to do.
I highly recommend shark cage diving in cape town to anyone who wants to do an extreme outdoor activity and experience a sudden rush of adrenaline.

Tuesday, March 19, 2013

The Benefits of Active Study

The concept of ‘active study’ is of vital importance when one is in the process of forging a career. It cannot be denied that there is only so much that a text book or lecture can provide. These forms of teaching equip you with the knowledge of the specific subject, but knowledge without the ability of application, is worthless.
Problem based learning (PBL) as well as case-based learning (CBL) is without a doubt the optimal method through which to encourage students to study and ‘actively’ learn in a way that suits their specific personality. This is a practice that is used across many disciplines such as anthropology, which is not directly related to hotel management, but it is the stud of interpreting and analyzing human behavior, which is a pre-requisite of the hospitality course.

It needs to be understood that learning never ends; we are constantly subject to new experiences that form as our capabilities and the overarching epistemology of the world, no matter how subtle, consciously or unconsciously wheels through us for all of our days.

Universities, while they provide an excellent education, are guilty of a focus that is too narrow for application once the student has graduated. For example, a test or exam only asks questions in which you are required to apply the knowledge to that specific subject, there is no negative aspect to this at all, but the ‘real world’ demands a diverse range of practical skills through which they may approach and forward a career and this is where problem-based learning has the upper hand.

According to Bloom’s taxonomy, the highest forms of questions that can be asked are those that require evaluation, analysis or creation and PBL provides the students with questions at this level, which will serve them well once they have graduated.

Hotel schools in South Africa will have a choice of specialisations from which students may choose. The knowledge and work ethic that they have acquired through problem-based learning will pay off during this next step. Through the various specialisations, students may find exactly the career of which they were dreaming.

The concept of “active study” needs to be implemented in all institutions, even in courses that wouldn’t necessarily give it consideration; you learn far more dealing with the subject matter, hands –on, rather than in a dusty textbook.

Through this, an international hospitality management degree will give graduates the edge that they need to be successful in their career.

Original Source: Smaak Hospitality

Monday, March 18, 2013

Important Travel Information

South Africa is Africa’s most modern and developed nation, offering almost all first-world facilities to their locals and guests. Depending on where you travel however, you might catch a glimpse of just why South Africa is still categorised as a third-world country. Although South Africa has most needed facilities and services on offer, in many areas the resources for them are limited. For these reasons, it’s important for you to take extra precautions when travelling to South Africa, along with the conventional research that precedes all travels.

When visiting any country it’s vital that you research accommodation before visiting. After a long day of travelling and exploring, there’s nothing better than having a roof over your head and a clean bed to sleep in. When on holidays in South Africa you won’t find a shortage of places to rest your head, however you might want to research each establishment to make sure that you’ll get what you pay for and that they’re in close proximity to the attractions and towns that you want to visit.

Book accommodation as soon as you’ve booked your flights. Once you’ve booked your accommodation you can investigate public transport and car hire companies. Also, take a look at the activities that you might want to do and book ahead where you can to make sure that you don’t miss out.

While you’re booking those essentials, make sure that you’ve filled out your visa application forms and have sent them out to the various consulates and embassies to be processed. Also make sure you’ve bought travel insurance and have an international driver’s licence. If you’re a member of a SADC country and are bringing your own vehicle into South Africa, you’ll need to have its ownership papers, however you will be able to use your own drivers licence. If you choose to, you can easily change currency at any one of the banks in South Africa.

If you have any special needs or medical requirements always research and plan ahead. Where possible, bring all needed medical prescription tablets and extra prescriptions with you on your holiday. Although pharmacies are incredibly well stocked in the cities, when moving into rural regions you might face a few problems with stock. Many holiday resorts and lodges go out of their way to ensure that their premises and rooms are wheel chair friendly, however it’s a good idea to phone ahead and alert them to your needs.

And lastly, familiarize yourself with the political situation of the areas you’ll be visiting before leaving on your holiday. However, when on holidays to South Africa it’s unlikely that you’ll find yourself in the middle of a political battle.

When planning South Africa holidays it’s vital that you plot your movements and where you’ll want to stay. South Africa is an incredibly tourist friendly nation and the hospitality industry here will go out of its way to ensure that your vacation runs smoothly and that every member of your travelling party is looked after and catered for. Simply do your research, plan ahead and then kick back and relax as your holiday unfolds – it’s always best to be prepared for anything.

Original Source: Holidays to South Africa

Thursday, February 28, 2013

Why Great White Sharks Cannot Be Kept in Captivity

While thousands of adrenaline enthusiasts, adventure fanatics and brave tourists go Great White Shark cage diving in Gansbaai every year, many people who can’t find the courage to do so have headed to many an aquarium with the intention of viewing the sharks in captivity. Despite having the best intentions – to learn more about the creature and safely observe them – they’ll find themselves out of luck; Great White Sharks are not kept in captivity, for a multitude of reasons; critically, they do not survive.

Scientists and biologists around the world have tried various methods of breeding and introducing Great White Sharks into captivity, but have all done so without much luck. Recently, a female Great White Shark reached a new record; surviving  44 days in a million-gallon tank housed at Monterey Bay Aquarium in California, eating four pounds of salmon, mackerel and one sardine. Following it’s release it dies a week later.The previous record was set in August 1981 when a great white shark lasted 16 days at SeaWorld in San Francisco before being released back into the ocean after refusing to eat.

So why is it that Great White Sharks are not or cannot be kept in captivity? There are many theories:
  • They are open water fish and cannot be confined. Tagged sharks have been known to swim hundreds of kilometres within a matter of days. This exercise and freedom is essential to their contentment
  • They get depressed in captivity. Great White Sharks that are kept within tanks have been known to head butt their `noses into the glass walls and lose their appetites. It has also been noted that they get increasingly aggressive in their depressed state
  • Great White Sharks are incredibly expensive to keep as they kill and eat all other creatures in their tanks. Aquariums would have to continuously restock a tank or dedicate an extremely large tank for the sharks to solely live (impossible as a tank would have to be kilometres long)
  • They refuse to be fed by humans, leading them to either die of starvation or be released into the wild. As predators , great white sharks are natural hunters and need the thrill of the hunt to survive – they will not survive on already dead small fish
  • Many people believe that sharks become depressed and even die in captivity due to aquariums using the incorrect water solutions, without enough saline. As Great White Sharks are salt water species, it’s absolutely crucial that the correct balance is maintained
  • Great White Sharks are a logistical nightmare for aquariums; not only do they have to capture them safely but they have to transport them and relocate them into a tank, all the while keeping them in water
  • Due to their size and aggressive disposition, great white sharks are incredibly hard to handle – most people would rather not go through the hassle and dangers of coming into contact with them, especially as keeping them content and alive in captivity is so difficult
There are countless theories as to why Great White Sharks have not yet been successfully bred and kept in captivity. Despite the successes of the recent  five week record and previous 16 day survival of a Great White Shark in captivity, a single Great White Shark has never survived in a tank in an aquarium. When it comes to seeing Great White Sharks, Gansbaai in the Western Cape of South Africa is undeniably the best and safest way to see these incredible creatures swimming happily in their natural habitat for yourself. It only takes a 15 minute boat ride to where the Sharks are found and they are seen throughout the year every day with 99.5% chance of seeing a Great White Shark on a trip.

Original Source: Shark Bookings

Friday, January 11, 2013

Life Insurance


Life Cover - Life insurance is very beneficial as it covers you for your entire life and pays out to whoever you'd like when you pass on.

While medical aid can help you take care of specific conditions and procedures, Hospital Cash Back Cover pays out spending money to take care of things at home while you are in hospital.

Disability Cover - With Disability Cover, you get a maximum lump sum payment of up to R5 million if you're permanently disabled and unable to work due to illness or accident.

Serious Illness Cover - When you take out Serious Illness Cover, you'll receive a R2 million pay-out if you suffer a stroke, heart attack, cancer or undergo open-heart surgery.

Source: INSURANCE FOR DUMMIES

Monday, January 7, 2013

The City of Gold

Undeniably most enjoyable at your own leisure, utilising car hire in Johannesburg is recommended rather than the often unreliable public transport.

Johannesburg has continued to grow, building a home for the powerful Johannesburg Stock Exchange, new and flourishing businesses, and an array of shopping centres, entertainment facilities, restaurants, parks and communities.

Make the most of it by renting your own vehicle - car hire from Johannesburg airport - and enjoy the city at your own leisure.