< Previous70 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 Impala Stampede by Herman Wald This majestic work is a little older and more traditional but well worth seeing. Commissioned in 1960, it was gifted to the city by the Oppenheimers, a well-known South African mining family. Situated on a beautiful tree-lined street, the sculpture artfully depicts a life-sized impala stampede leaping gracefully over a fountain. Location: 44 Main Street, Marshalltown IMA GE S: SUPPLIED EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 7025/08/2024 23:15urban art September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 71 Brenda Fassie by Angus Taylor Known as the “Queen of African Pop” or the “Madonna of the Townships”, Brenda Fassie was a legendary South African singer, songwriter, dancer and activist. As an ode to the artist, a life-size bronze sculpture depicts Fassie sitting in front of a microphone, alongside an empty stool, where passers-by are invited to sit and keep her company. The artwork was commissioned by a local newspaper and is inscribed with song titles and words that Fassie said about the media, or it about her. Location: Outside the Market Theatre at 56 Margaret Mcingana Street, Newtown EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 7125/08/2024 23:1572 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 Tribute to Walter and Albertina Sisulu by Marina Walsh One of Joburg’s most heart-warming artworks, this statue portrays and honours political stalwarts and human rights activists Walter and Albertina Sisulu. The husband and wife duo are seated next to one another but facing in opposite directions in the form of a loveseat. The artwork is safe to climb on and kids are encouraged to sit on the local heroes’ laps. Location: Diagonal Street, corner Ntemi Pilliso Street, Ferreiresdorp EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 7225/08/2024 23:15urban art September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 73 MK Gandhi, Attorney at Law by Tinka Christopher Did you know that Indian political and spiritual leader Mahatma Gandhi lived in South Africa for 21 years, 18 of which were in Johannesburg? This towering statue portrays a young Gandhi as he would have looked when he worked as a lawyer at the law courts that once stood on this square. Location: Gandhi Square, Rissik Street, Marshalltown Welcome to Jozi The best and safest way to experience Johannesburg and its art is with a reputable local tour company that knows the city. Here is our pick of the best and remember, like in any major city, to exercise caution and to be aware of your surroundings. City Skate Tours off er a range of walking and skateboarding tours. Yes, we said skateboarding! If you don’t know how to skate, don’t worry as the excursion begins with an introductory lesson. Then it’s onwards, through the inner city for a spot of fun. cityskatetours.co.za Local Places do expert walking tours of the city focusing on culture and history. The company focuses on art-rich areas like Newtown and Braamfontein where you can see loads of graffi ti and public art. localplaces.co.za For a more general overview of the city, take a ride on the hop-on, hop-off bus with City Sightseeing. Jump on the Johannesburg Red Tour for a great taster of the Inner City. citysightseeing.co.za ETIHAD AIRWAYS OFFERS FIVE FLIGHTS PER WEEK TO JOHANNESBURG ETIHAD.COM EtA_11Sep2024_EN_66-73_Feature-JHB Urban Art Scene_13356191.indd 7325/08/2024 23:1574 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 Words William E. Heinecke SEE There’s a reason why so many large fi lm and TV productions – from Netfl ix’s Mother of the Bride to HBO’s White Lotus – are choosing to shoot in southern Thailand. It’s the same reason this part of the world, specifi cally Phuket, has become my regular escape. As the largest island in Thailand, Phuket off ers something for everyone – of Few people know Thailand as well as Bill Heinecke. The founder and chairman of Minor International – one of the world’s largest hospitality and lifestyle groups – fi rst moved to Bangkok as a wide-eyed teenager in 1963, and has made Thailand his home ever since. His entrepreneurial journey began early – at 17, when he launched his fi rst businesses in Bangkok, naming his company ‘Minor’ to refl ect his underage status. Fast forward to today, and that small startup has grown into a major global empire. The intrepid entrepreneur’s love for adventure, fast cars and aviation has taken him across the globe, but Thailand, with its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, stole his heart – so much so that he became a naturalised Thai citizen in 1991. While Bangkok is his home base, it’s the southern resort island of Phuket that has become his personal paradise. Phuket, Thailand Big BuddhaPhuket Walking Street course there are the beaches, but it’s also rich in historical and cultural heritage, adrenaline- packed adventures, world-class culinary delights and growing international prominence as a medical wellness destination. It’s this incredible variety that keeps me coming back, time and time again. It’s a short fl ight yet a world away from Bangkok. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_74-75_Travel Diary_13366774.indd 7425/08/2024 23:16my travel diary September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 75 EXPERIENCE There are many misconceptions about Phuket. I see it diff erently – it’s a place where Michelin dining and some of the world’s best bars and nightlife can be found alongside some of the world’s most stunning beaches. I’ve always loved scuba diving, especially in far-fl ung destinations. As I get older though, I fi nd myself preferring dives where I can also indulge in a touch of luxury. From Phuket, you can easily reach the Similan Islands, which is one of Asia’s top diving spots, by chartering a yacht from Phuket or taking some of the more aff ordable liveaboard options available. Whenever I have some free time in Phuket, I love to take out my Sunseeker 90, named Major Aff air (pictured opposite page). There’s nothing quite like EAT Phuket’s culinary scene has really fl ourished, especially since the Michelin Guide discovered Thailand a couple of years ago. Now you can fi nd some truly amazing restaurants here, alongside the charm of traditional street stalls – some of which have even earned Michelin recognition. One of my go-to spots on the island is Zuma, a contemporary Japanese restaurant that also has a branch at The St. Regis Bangkok. It’s always a reliable choice for great food in a stylish setting. Also a frequent pick is Benihana at the JW Marriott, gathering with friends and family around the hibachi table for a fun and theatrical Japanese steakhouse experience. For something a bit more unique, I love Dara Cuisine. It’s home to Phuket’s largest telescope, so you can enjoy modern Thai cuisine while stargazing – a dining experience that’s hard to beat. There’s something about Thai food that never gets old for me. I’m a big fan of Pad Thai – it’s a classic dish that you can fi nd almost anywhere, but when it’s done right, it’s simply unbeatable. Dara Cuisine ETIHAD AIRWAYS OFFERS 14 FLIGHTS PER WEEK TO PHUKET ETIHAD.COM Similan IslandsPhuket diving IMA GE S: SHUTTERST OCK; SUPPLIED the freedom of the open sea, diving into the crystal-clear waters, and exploring the islands around. For a more adventurous escape, I often head to Koh Yao Yai. It’s one of the more off -the-beaten-path areas in Thailand, yet it’s less than an hour by boat from Phuket or Krabi airports. It’s a large island but largely undeveloped, making it ideal for nature walks, mangrove kayaking, rock climbing or simply observing local life. Phuket Town is also a special place, one of the few areas in Thailand with well-preserved historical architecture that traces the island’s tin mining history and Peranakan infl uence. It’s a very walkable urban centre, packed full of street art, cosy cafés, and bars – a refreshing contrast to the beaches and beach clubs of the west coast. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_74-75_Travel Diary_13366774.indd 7525/08/2024 23:16Expect Life’s better as a Sign up today. With the enhanced Etihad Guest programme, enjoy journeying on your terms. You can now enjoy a more rewarding, simpler experience – centred around you. Rewards every member can enjoy. Milestone rewards that truly go above and beyond, which you can share with family and friends.September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 77 index We understand that our most important travellers are the smallest ones – because if your children have a good flight, you will too. That’s why this summer, we’re taking the magic of Warner Bros. World™ to new heights on board with the help of iconic DC Super Heroes! Designed exclusively for Etihad Airways in collaboration with Warner Bros. World™ Abu Dhabi, our revamped children’s activity packs guarantee that every flight is bursting with adventure. From activities that fuel their imaginations to water bottles they can use to keep the magic alive long after we land, each kit has been thoughtfully curated to engage and inspire our little VIPs. Available on long-haul Etihad Airways flights, infants up to three years old will receive a super soft blanket to get cosy on board. Older children can look forward to plenty of goodies that will keep boredom at bay, including DC Super Hero branded backpacks in four different designs, including Superman, Wonder Woman and Batman. They’ll also get a Super Hero cape, water bottle, a choice of two pouches and an activity kit. SUPER ADVENTURE AWAITS EtA_11Sep2024_EN_77_IDX Opener_13356180.indd 7725/08/2024 23:17news 78 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | September 2024 In the news The latest happenings at Etihad Airways Etihad’s A380 double-deckers will head to pastures new next year, as Singapore (pictured) becomes the fourth major city to enjoy the airline’s superjumbo experience from 1 February 2025, The world’s fi rst Warner Bros. World™ branded aircraft has taken to the skies, thanks to a groundbreaking partnership between Etihad Airways and Warner Bros. World™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, the region’s largest indoor theme park. This exclusive branded Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner was fi rst unveiled on 25 July at a spectacular launch event held at the beloved family-friendly attraction. The aircraft has been creatively decorated with iconic Warner Bros. characters. On one side of its exterior, guests are greeted by the mischievous antics of Classic Animation characters from the Looney Tunes and Tom and Jerry, while the other showcases the heroic feats of beloved DC Super Heroes. On board, all guests aged up to 10 years old who are fl ying long haul receive brand-new Warner Bros. World™ Kids Packs that have been rolled out across the network this summer. Infants receive a DC Super Hero-themed soft blanket, while juniors get a branded backpack, Super Hero cape, water bottle and activity kits. And that’s not all, folks! Warner Bros. World™ Abu Etihad’s A380s head East Super Heroes take flight with Etihad Airways in addition to London and New York, as well as Paris, which will be served by the aircraft from 1 November. This means Etihad will have its sixth A380 in operation by the start of next year. Starting from 1 September, the national airline of the UAE is also deploying its iconic aircraft to Mumbai for a special four-month period, marking 20 years since its inaugural fl ight to the Indian city. Until 31 December, the double-decker will operate three weekly fl ights between Abu Dhabi and Mumbai, enhancing the travel experience on this popular route and celebrating its fi rst fl ight to the city on 26 September 2004. The move refl ects and strengthens the long- standing relationship between Etihad and India. The airline currently off ers nonstop services between the capital and 11 Indian cities, with plans for further expansion. Etihad also recently became the fi rst international airline operating in India to launch a Hindi website. Dhabi has also debuted its dedicated children’s lounge within the Etihad Airways Lounge at Zayed International Airport in the UAE capital. “Building on the strong reputation we have as a family-friendly airline, we’re thrilled to take our partnership with Warner Bros. World™ to the next level,” said Etihad’s Chief Executive Offi cer Antonoaldo Neves. “Our Looney Tunes and DC Super Hero-themed aircraft will take our brands to destinations worldwide promoting one of Abu Dhabi’s many attractions.” EtA_11Sep2024_EN_78_IDX News_13356183.indd 7825/08/2024 23:18cargo September 2024 | ATLAS BY ETIHAD | 79 Techno- savvy safety In today’s digital age, consumer electronics are an integral part of our daily lives. From smartphones to laptops, these devices keep us connected, informed, and entertained. Ensuring the safe transportation of these high-value items is crucial, and Etihad Cargo is leading the way with its innovative SecureTech product. Launched in February 2024, SecureTech is dedicated to the safe and secure transportation of consumer electronics, addressing the growing demand driven by the surge in new mobile phones, tablets and other devices. SecureTech was launched in response to growing demand for consumer electronics worldwide. Each shipment is closely monitored throughout its journey, from secure storage areas at the origin to constant surveillance during transit and at the destination. This secure and safety-fi rst approach ensures that your devices are handled with the utmost care, reducing the risk of theft or damage. Contributing to the reliability of SecureTech is Etihad Cargo’s achievement is the International Air Transport Association’s (IATA) Centre of Excellence for Independent Validators Lithium Batteries (CEIV Li- batt) certifi cation. Awarded in January 2024, this certifi cation highlights the department’s capability to handle and transport lithium batteries, a critical component of many electronic devices, safely and effi ciently. The CEIV Li- batt certifi cation involves a thorough assessment of operational processes, staff training and compliance with global safety regulations, ensuring that your electronics are handled with care and arrive safely. Lithium batteries, while essential for powering a wide range of consumer electronics, can pose signifi cant risks if not handled properly. They have the potential to ignite or explode. CEIV Li-batt certifi cation assures consumers that Etihad Cargo employs advanced safety management systems and specialised equipment to mitigate these risks, ensuring that electronic shipments are handled with the highest level of care. For everyday consumers, this means that the new smartphone, tablet or laptop you order online is transported safely and securely, thanks to SecureTech. You can have peace Etihad Cargo’s SecureTech keeps your electronics safe on their journey of mind knowing that your valuable electronics are protected throughout their journey from the manufacturer to your doorstep. Since its launch, SecureTech has signifi cantly contributed to Etihad Cargo’s growth, achieving a 95% increase in revenue. This refl ects the trust and confi dence that consumers and partners have in the product’s ability to safely transport high-value electronics. As Etihad Cargo continues to innovate and expand its product off erings, SecureTech stands out as a critical solution for the secure delivery of technology. SecureTech not only ensures the reliable transportation of consumer electronics, but also reinforces Etihad Cargo’s position as a leader in the logistics industry. So, next time you receive a new gadget, remember that SecureTech has played a vital role in getting it to you safely. EtA_11Sep2024_EN_79_IDX Cargo_13356192.indd 7925/08/2024 23:18Next >