The trophy is of a Marula Tree branch bearing Marula fruit which forms the basis of Amarula cream liqueur. The branch was designed by African Artist and sculptor, Leonard Shapiro and cast in bronze at Bronze Age in Cape Town. The plinth is made of heavy African dark wood. The idea is to embrace and uplift African art as a trubute to Africa and to reflect the African roots of Amarula, the true “Sprit of Africa”.

Acknowledgements

Best 100: and Amarula would like to say a big thank you to all the retreats who entered the Amarula Best Retreats in Africa Awards 2009 and all the judges who gave up their valuable time to be a part of the extensive judging process. Also to the supporting sponsors iafrica.com for organising and promoting the Consumer’s Choice Award and to Kenya Airways and Federal Air for flight support. Thompsons for their excellent corporate travel bookings. On the evening credits AV – Electric Storm, Africology for divine products, Explore SA, Knight’s Decor, Catering - Vicky Crease, Total Media PR, Renee Van Zyl and Lizbeau Wentzel of Distell Corporate Affairs, photography - Wayne Nel, and Museum Africa.