Airport Shopping

Our three couples arrived at O.R. Tambo International and were spoilt for choice in the International Duty Free Mall. Big Five Duty Free sponsored a shopping spree to the value of R2,000 per couple and assisted the winners in selecting numerous cosmetics, gifts and jewellery. After their shopping spree, the winners enjoyed a relaxed meal at Ekaya, who specialize in traditional African cousine; including chicken curry; beef stew and a wide selection of light sandwiches. Julius Engelbrecht enjoyed a freshly made cheese burger and fries.

The winners were, at this stage, extremely excited and realized that in less than an hour, they would be departing SA and enjoying a phenomenal trip to Paris, whilst sipping champagne on the flight.

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I love travelling. I learn so much during each trip - about the country, the people, their culture, history and lifestyle.

Paris was no exception. This huge, ever-popular city is steeped in centuries of history. It is all around one. If only the buildings could talk...they have witnessed so many historical events and have also accommodated many interesting and controversial characters.

Yet with all the reminders of the past, Paris is a modern vibrant first-world city. It is a trendsetter in lifestyle patterns and fashion

This fabulous prize I won was not my first trip to Paris. And yet there was very little repetition of sites and activities that I had seen and done in the past.

I thoroughly enjoyed my recent stay in Paris. Four wonderful sightseeing excursions were included in the prize. Dinner on a restaurant bateau mouche, as it navigated along the Seine River was most enjoyable. Paris was viewed from a different angle.

We also dined at the world-renowned Moulin Rouge. This was not my first visit there and thus I can state that its standard of entertainment is even higher than in the past. The sequences, costumes and stage performances were enjoyable and most impressive.

The wintry weather experienced did not deter us from filling each day with a host of activities. And then of course...there was the shopping...!! This was the aim of the prize. Wafting in and out of boutiques and department stores...what a pleasure! The names of famous trendsetting design houses and top quality fashion were in abundance. Time spent in the elegant stores of Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Yves Saint Laurent....aahhh... I cannot omit to mention the huge, impressive department stores of Galerie Lafayette and Printemps where an enormous range of top quality designer-label goods are on offer. Heaven IS sometimes on earth!!! I was born to shop. And since I am mad about shoes and handbags...I did not disappoint...!!

This shopping trip also highlighted the effects of globalisation and mass media. No longer can we in South Africa be regarded as being "behind the times". Not only are the same advertisements seen on billboards and magazines, but the clothing trends and fashion styles are on par within the two countries.

So this wonderful trip that I had won to Paris was well-rounded. It encompassed art, history, culture and current lifestyle trends.

A big thank you to the sponsors and co-ordinators who produced an enjoyable and memorable experience.

Can I go again ...please???

Mary-Ann Norval
(Durban)