News update: 1st December

2011 has been very unsettled, with volatile world markets and sweeping political and social changes around the world. It has been a year of global extremes and uncertainty. Amidst this turmoil and change, Sabi Sabi remains a haven of peace and perspective. We have had much to celebrate this year and look forward with renewed optimism to 2012.

Perhaps our most exciting achievement in the last 12 months was the unveiling of thecompletely new Earth Lodge, with the suites, lounges, spa and reception areas totally revamped and restyled in glamorous precious metal themed décor with beautiful, original objets d'art. We added an exciting 'day bar' dipping pool - the most unique venue in the bushveld for sipping cocktails at tables in the middle of cool, ankle deep water. Every nook and cranny of Earth Lodge now gleams with metallic hues, a glorious testament to the mineral wealth hidden deep beneath the earth.

While keeping true to our promise to provide a peaceful sojourn, we heeded the requests of those guests who needed reliable internet access - this year we introduced Wi-Fi at all of our lodges. We also developed an enhanced presence on the web, with regular blogs on our website, daily Twitter and Facebook postings, and exciting videos on YouTube.

The EleFun Centre at Bush Lodge has continued to grow in popularity. New programming and facilities have made it "the place to be" for children and young teens, who are safely occupied and entertained for hours while their parents relax or indulge in the spa. The "Handprint in Africa" wall is already covered with hundreds of prints of young guests from all over the world who arrive as visitors and leave as conservationists of the future.

Capturing memorable moments has always been an integral part of every game drive and our new professional photographic safaris have proved popular offering not just photography training, but also access to equipment which is used by professionals in the field.

Reflecting these changes is a new DVD that has recently been completed and a new brochure which will be available shortly. They showcase the beauty of Sabi Sabi and highlight our continual efforts at maintaining our standards and reputation as the premier safari destination in Africa.

Through all of this, our most important asset is still the friendly, professional, loyal Sabi Sabi Team and our international partners. A very special thank you to all of our staff for their continued contribution this year. Their commitment to service and excellence saw us voted top Luxury Retreat in Fodors World's Top 100 and one of the Top 30 Worldwide hotels by the readers of Conde Nast. We are immensely gratified for these latest acknowledgements and remain very proud of all four Sabi Sabi Lodges and our unique reserve.

As the year draws to a close, we wish all of our friends across the world peace, health, prosperity and a wonderful 2012.

Jacques Smit