Skabenga’s birthday, you win the gift
OCTOBER is the Oyster Box Hotel’s beloved cat, Skabenga’s, birthday month, and this year it’s going to be even more special.
Another milestone this year is the 100th anniversary of the birth of Roald Dahl, author of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. To mark the two occasions the hotel will hold Skabenga and the Chocolate Factory high teas from September 30 to October 9.
Anyone attending a high tea or Skabenga’s birthday party will receive a Wonka Bar and the opportunity of finding a golden ticket. This is entered into a draw for a chance to win a return trip to Cape Town for a family of four (2 adults and 2 children under 18). The prize includes airfares and a stay at the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa with breakfast. Also included is a master class or kids class at the Lindt Chocolate Studio.
Skabenga (which means hooligan in Zulu), a tabby cat, has made Umhlanga’s “grand old dame” his home for the past 15 years. It all started when he wandered on to the property as a stray, was fed tasty titbits (prawns and seafood) by guests and, well, the rest is history.
He never left, except during the hotel’s two-year renovation period, when he was cared for by a cat lover.
Skabenga thoroughly enjoys the spoils that come with being the “main cat” on the block. He has regular treats of catnip, has a favourite couch and chair and chosen spots around the hotel to which he retreats when not taking “inspection” strolls around the property.
He has impeccable timing, emerging just in time whenever the red carpet is put out, be it for a wedding or special occasion. He even made an appearance at the cocktail party held for Prince Albert and Princess Charlene of Monaco.
Skabenga’s favourite occasion is his own birthday party, which always attracts a good crowd of party-goers.
Skabenga remains a favourite with guests and the general manager regularly receives letters asking after him.
There is even a book about him and he has his own Facebook page.