BEHIND THE SCENES

We’re happy to introduce our gear editor Arthur Jones, who came on board a few issues ago (conveniently in time for the Christmas gift guide, page 86). Having previously worked at Men’s Health, he’s excited to focus on “more backpacks and fewer six packs”.

What excites you about working for this magazine? Unearthing hidden and lesser-known travel secrets, picking up smart adventure tips from experts and readers, learning new facts about wildlife (which I love to share with my kids), and of course, getting to test out the latest gear and gadgets.

When going camping, I always pack… Sunscreen and after-sun lotion. I know it’s a cliché, but sunburn is one of the quickest ways to ruin a holiday. Oh, and a Waboba ball – it bounces on water!

What’s your favourite weekend activity? Right now, it’s beach time with my kids Georgie (5) and Carter (2) at Boulders, Kommetjie or Muizenberg.

My wife Jess and I try to explore somewhere new with friends once every two months – we call it our Adventure Club, and each couple takes a turn to find a new escape outside of Cape Town to stay for a weekend.

Cool! Like where? Our favourite spots currently include Somerset Gift Getaway Farm and Mazwil Retreat near Swellendam, Protea Farm in Montagu, Pomona Farm House near Piketberg, and Arum Lily Cottage in Wolseley.

My current gadget obsession is… Fitness watches and health trackers. I bought a Garmin Vivoactive 3 Black Slate about four months ago, and I love it. The way it analyses huge amounts of data is the best across the brands (in my opinion), and it isn’t bulky with a big, painful price tag. It can track plenty of sports and activities, and the battery life is decent.

Advice for people when considering what to buy? Quality matters. Not only does it mean you’re going to enjoy your product for longer, but it also makes more sense for the environment. (Less stuff gets thrown away.) I also look at companies like Thule, Osprey and Leatherman, who offer long warranties on their products (25 years or more).