A poor substitute, I know, but in the meantime I can report on my visit to their bar for a pre dinner drink about a month ago.

My car was valet parked (no charge apart from the tip) even though I wasn't staying at the hotel. The entrance leads into a spacious but rather cold and impersonal lobby and that in turn flows directly into the large bar/lounge area. The place was absolutely packed and grew very loud as the evening progressed. The music became louder and the large crowd was shouting above the din. All made worse because the marble and glass finishes cause sound to reverberate rather unpleasantly despite the double (triple?) volume.

Luckily my business acquaintances had arrive earlier and secured a table at the window. I sat facing away (to let the visitors enjoy the view) but did notice that it was facing right onto the islands with the spa etc. Pretty much confirms my view that those suites on the island are not as private as they sound and not what I would go for.

Service was prompt and friendly and there were some very reasonably priced wines on their wine list - they start from about R100 per bottle and many are available by the (ample) glass. From what I've heard of their restaurants' pricing I had expected to be gouged and was most pleasantly surprised.

All in all very pleasant. I will try it again - maybe at lunch or in summer when it is light until late. Still prefer Bascule, though.