On Friday 1 May we enter a new stage of lockdown as we move down to Level 4 with the easing of some regulations. Although movement is still somewhat restricted we welcome these new regulations, which gives us a sense of renewed hope that there is indeed light at the end of the tunnel. Before … Read more
“In July 2003 I photographed former President Nelson Mandela for the first time. This was a special commission for the inauguration of The Mandela Rhodes Foundation and the sitting took place at The Rhodes Trust in Oxford, England. This was to be the start of my long association with the Foundation and President Mandela. During our session on … Read more
As we near the end of our extended lockdown we await news of what our new normal may be. While we wait, Franschhoek Wine Valley locals continue to do their bit for those less fortunate as well as keep the region top of mind for those who will one day once more visit our beautiful … Read more
The Val de Vie Foundation, a non-profit organisation that supports people in under resourced communities in the Paarl-Franschhoek Valley, is collaborating with multiple stakeholders in a response to the impact of the Covid-19 pandemic. Thousands of people in the Valley are unable to work, have lost their jobs or can’t get to feeding schemes during … Read more
It was an Easter weekend with a difference. Traditionally many South Africans take advantage of this (really) long weekend to travel to nearby destinations to escape and unwind from the hustle and bustle. However, the new norm is to stay indoors and stay safe and resulted in Franschhoek locals remaining safely in the confines of … Read more
As we face challenging times and what feels like an endless dark tunnel, every now and then a good news story peaks out from behind the dark clouds and leaves us with hope. With news emerging recently that wine producers are allowed to export there is further cause for celebration in that some of our … Read more
There is no time like the present to reach out to your community to show how much you care. Since the start of lockdown we’ve seen an outpouring of community initiatives and acts of goodwill to help those in need during this time of uncertainty. From volunteers, essential service providers and restauranteurs, we want to … Read more
To assist vulnerable communities with relief funding needed during the Covid-19 pandemic, the following amazing fundraising opportunities are currently available and have been set up in Franschhoek. The Franschhoek Food Unit – Together Franschhoek In an effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 and help those in need, the Together Franschhoek team led … Read more
With a loyal Italian fan base, local resident ‘artist extraordinaire’ Pigcasso was recently approached by an Italian art agency to donate a piece of his spectacular artwork. This work of art forms part of a collection to be auctioned on eBay, with the proceeds of all the artworks going towards assisting with the relief efforts … Read more
Franschhoek with its magnificent mountains, spectacular vineyards and lush gardens is one of the most gorgeous wine valleys in South Africa. Our village is nestled in between these mountains which guarantees spectacular views year round. But what does Franschhoek actually look like from your windows? We’d like you to show us, which is why we’re … Read more