Saxon Hotel, Villas & Spa has unveiled the new 400sqm Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite during the centenary year of the late president and philanthropist. The stylish new suite is a fitting tribute to the statesman who was closely connected with Saxon owners, the Steyn family, as well as being a regular hotel guest.  Mandela also completed his bestselling autobiography Long Walk to Freedom at the Saxon following his release from prison. Johannesburg artist Dean Simon, whose pencil sketches adorn the walls of the Saxon including several well-known pieces of the late former president, was tasked with the complete redesign and renovation of the existing Nelson Mandela Suite.  Taking inspiration from Madiba’s Xhosa heritage, Simon has created a striking new suite featuring bespoke pieces of art and furniture, with an authentically African look and feel taking the guest on a journey through Mandela’s life, from his days as a young militant through to a wiser and more mature statesman. In keeping with the distinctly African theme, dark wood features heavily along with animal skin rugs, authentic cooper lamps and geometric African patterns running through the soft furnishings.  The architraves and doors feature traditional carving with images of crocodiles, lizards and birds: symbols of protection and good luck. On launching the new Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite, Saxon managing director, George Cohen, commented: “It has always been an honour for us at the Saxon to have had this connection with Madiba, and we are delighted to be able to acknowledge this with the design of the new Mandela Suite.” The launch of the new-look Nelson Mandela Platinum Suite is part of an ongoing renovation programme throughout the Saxon, which included the new Saxon Spa in 2016, the hotel suites in 2017 as well as Grei Restaurant in 2018. The renovations at the property – recognised as the World’s Leading Boutique Hotel by the World Travel Awards - will continue into next year. Older Moussa to lead Airbnb in northern Europe