The Beat of South Africa
Devi Garh Palace, India
Tasty Thai Snack: Coconut Cashew Clusters
Guiding Light: Bernardo In Santiago, Chile
Good News!

THE BEAT OF SOUTH AFRICA
Last month, I had the extraordinary experience of a taking a drumming lesson from seasoned musicians in the Nyanga township. It is just one of many innovative experiences developed by Uthando, a non-profit organization that supports community empowerment projects throughout South Africa. Uthando created this experience in partnership with Ingqayi Educational Theatre Project, which nurtures musical and theatrical talent in the townships. My marimba lesson at Nyanga started with a performance by the students, who then they brought me on stage and taught me two different songs. I was a little intimidated by how good they were but they were extremely encouraging and supportive, which made me feel more comfortable. At the end, we all performed together while the girls danced. I felt like an instant marimba pro and was so inspired that I wanted to take the instrument with me so I could continue practicing at home! I left Nyanga so thrilled by the opportunity to meet and play music alongside these people, who are doing so much to develop their community through these interactive artistic endeavors.

The Ingqayi Educational Theatre Project supports itself with performances and by offering experiences like the one I had so every visit is, in essence, a donation to a very worthy cause. A morning or afternoon musical lesson or dance performance can easily be incorporated into almost any Cape Town itinerary so please let one of our travel specialists know if you would like to visit Nyanga or simply want to find out more about other similar experiences we can arrange. I guarantee that you will be as inspired by what they are doing as I was! - Daniela Bonanno

I truly cannot imagine a more romantic hotel than Devi Garh. In addition to simply enjoying the property, guests can go on camel excursions and village walks or visit the nearby temples of Eklingji. While I was at that temple, a ceremony was underway, the maharaja and his wife also happened to be visiting, and a raga singer moved me to tears with her songs - these are the types of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that seem to happen naturally at the magical Devi Garh. I highly recommend taking extra time in Udaipur to enjoy a refreshing break from the froth of India's larger cities and observe a quieter side of India, rich with atmosphere, history and beauty. - Sasha Lehman

1 T coconut oil (may substitute canola or peanut oil)
2 T agave nectar (may substitute brown rice syrup or honey)
2 cups raw, unsalted cashews
1½ cups shredded unsweetened coconut
1 t salt
1 t black pepper
½ t cayenne pepper, to taste
½ t crushed red pepper

Heat the oil over medium-high heat in a large skillet or wok, and then mix in agave nectar. Add cashews and coconut and stir to coat. Continue to stir fry until lightly browned. Add salt, pepper and spices to taste, mixing well. Serve hot or at room temperature. Store in a tightly sealed container for up to one week.

NOTE: If you use coarsely shredded coconut, you may want to use less sweetener; with finely shredded coconut, add more sweetener as needed to create clusters.