EVEN THE PALACE STAFF CALL ME AUNTY
Marc Lottering’s alter ego talks saving souvenirs and why Afrikaans overseas is a no-no
How often do you travel?
Mostly to church and back. Up to four times a week.
Describe the first holiday you remember as a child.
The church organised a bus trip to Kimberley for kids and parents. I remember it being very hot, but lovely. We visited the Big Hole and a mortuary, because my late father’s friend owned a mortuary. I enjoyed the Big Hole.
And your first trip abroad?
In 1982, my husband Dennis and I booked a European Contiki tour. We visited Greece, Rome, Paris and London. I remember taking along my Handy Andy but there was no need as the bathrooms were quite clean. I had to watch Dennis closely in Greece. Some of those girls were over-friendly. I don’t eat Greek salad to this day. I enjoyed Rome. But London took the cake. When I touched those gates at Buckingham Palace I felt as if I was home.
What is the most difficult, remote or adventurous destination you’ve ever been to?
The Cango Caves in Oudtshoorn. My nerves! Not sure I want to crawl through those dark caves ever again. Although, Dennis bought me the most exquisite ostrich eggs there, which I still keep in the lounge cabinet, alongside my daughter’s 21st key, behind the spoon that we bought on one of our subsequent trips to the
Big Hole in Kimberley.
What is the best way to travel once you are abroad?
Don’t be afraid to put some muffins in a serviette at the breakfast buffet. You will need to nibble during the day. It’s in the price. They expect you to help yourself.
What is your favourite city here or abroad?
Nothing beats a curry in Durban. One of my best friends, Ursula, married a Durban chap and moved there many moons ago. Man, before she got married, she could not even boil an egg but the minute she got to Durban, Ursula was cooking up a mean curry. I guess there’s something about the Durban air that just turns you into a wonderful cook. That delicious, authentic aroma of the curry, coupled with the beaches, makes me fall in love with Durban every time I visit Ursula.
Do you prefer roughing it or luxury when travelling? Describe the best experience you’ve had of either
I’m not very fussy but I have to say that I have never shied away from luxury. I believe that God has been very good to Dennis and I, and we should live like people who have been blessed. We stay at The Palace at Sun City at least one weekend every year. They know me by my first name. Aunty.
What has been your worst travel experience?
Chatting to Dennis in Afrikaans on the Tube in London. This woman was sitting across from us and I said to Dennis, “Hoekom is die vrou so dikbek?!” (Why is this woman so sulky?) The woman glared at me and said, “Want dis te koud om te lag.” (Because it’s too cold to laugh). I will never speak Afrikaans overseas ever again.
What is your best piece of travel advice?
Stop thinking about the rand. You will buy nothing.
What do you hate about travelling or holidays?
I don’t enjoy travelling with couples who have problems in their marriage. They look terrible on the photos.
What elements – destination, people, attractions, etc – make up your perfect holiday?
I enjoy cities where people smile a lot. It changes everything. Even if you don’t understand a word that’s being said. Just smile.
Name one place you really want to go, now or at least some day?
I would love to visit Israel and Palestine. I want to see what all this constant arguing is about. Who knows, maybe I can help them sort something out.
After all, I’m a Cape Town girl, and I know that it’s possible for all of us to live alongside each other and get along.
Aunty Merle The Musical is on at the Mandela Theatre until March 3