I recently attending the anticipated launch of Signature Restaurant in Umhlanga, Durban. It’s a renowned fine dining restaurant located at the platinum walk in Oceans Mall. The launch event featured speeches by Desmond Mabuza, the founder of Signature as well as Vivian Reddy, the founder of Oceans Mall. Here are some snippets of the launch event as well as background into the Signature Group.
Located on the vibrant Chartwell Drive in Umhlanga, Granada Square stands as a testament to a delightful fusion of entertainment options, trendy restaurants, and healthy living outlets. With its recent brand repositioning, Granada Square has become to go-to destination for upmarket residents, families and holidaymakers seeking the best experiences in the area.
This year I've prioritised exploring the best of South Africa and beyond. Earlier this year I went on an exciting journey to Victoria Falls, a majestic African destination that absolutely captivated me. The main reason for my trip was actually to even a ride on the luxurious Rovos Rail, a luxury train in Southern Africa. Given the route I chose started in Victoria Falls on the Sunday, I decided to make the most of it and extend my trip to start on the Friday so that I could experience a weekend in this beautiful African destination.
Samara Karoo Reserve near Graaff-Reinet in the Eastern Cape’s Great Karoo region is one of South Africa’s most diverse safari destinations – a landscape of space, stars and silence brought back to life by a pioneering rewilding project. Now home to the Big Five, 60 mammal species and 225 bird species, Samara provides a uniquely soulful safari for discerning visitors.
Indaba Hotel, located in Fourways, offers a remarkable escape from the bustling city life, providing guests with a range of exquisite experiences and top-notch accommodation.
Virgin Active South Africa’s Padel Club has partnered with Epic Padel to officially launch a new product offering to Virgin Active members in June.
House of BNG, one of South Africa's leading MCC brands, is thrilled to announce its continued partnership with the prestigious Miss South Africa pageant.
Durbanville Hills welcomes back a light-hearted treat for winter: their popular hot chocolate and wine tasting!
South African design as you’ve never seen it before. Together for the first time, experience 100% Design Africa and Design Joburg from 3 to 6 August 2023
Pretoria’s contemporary Maslow Time Square hotel is a novel concept in hospitality, offering a unique choice of three-star, four-star and five-star graded rooms under one roof to suit all budgets.
Buckle up, Neighbours! We are thrilled to let the cat out the bag and announce our latest addition to the HEY NEIGHBOUR festival line-up. He's a global hip-hop sensation, a 17-time Grammy winner, and a lyrical genius - Yes, it's Kendrick Lamar, and he'll be hitting our stage to bring the house down!
Qatar Airways, the leader in innovative air travel experiences, has introduced QVerse environments, offering users an immersive digital journey before even stepping foot in an airport. The airline's MetaHuman cabin crew member 'Sama' guides passengers through First Class check-in counters, Premium Lounges, and various cabins. Alongside this, passengers can now explore the luxurious Al Safwa First Class Lounge and the serene Al Mourjan Business Class lounge at Hamad International Airport. With Qatar Airways' ongoing commitment to excellence, customers can virtually experience their award-winning services online.
This year sees a birthday milestone in the history of Walkersons Hotel & Spa. Walkersons Hotel & Spa, that much-loved country haven set in the hills of the Mpumalanga highlands just beyond the picturesque hamlet of Dullstroom, marks its 30th anniversary year with new owners and a mini revamp.
South Africa’s most generous and luxurious accommodation – the African Suite at The Palace of the Lost City – has been given a bespoke modern refurbishment which sees it retain its quintessential spirit of African elegance.
Following the announcement of Cotton Fest Durban recently, the highly anticipated music and lifestyle festival announced the line-up for their inaugural show in the 031.
Taking place on Sunday, the 2nd July at the Kings Park Stadium Outer Fields, the festival will merge both established and young emerging talents performing live across two energy packed stages. The urban music and fashion explosion aims to showcase the diversities in various popular music genres with the aim of fusing the gaps within the different local movements.
So often Father’s Day gift shopping is such a challenge because what do you get the man that has it all? Along with a hug, a loving note and some quality time, here are gifts your dad will love!
LIFT Premium passengers will now enjoy an elevated in-flight dining experience, thanks to a new menu, conceptualised and created by SA’s very own MasterChef winner, Shawn Godfrey.
Introducing the sensational South African artist, Seth Pimentel, also known as African Ginger, and his highly anticipated solo digital exhibition, "The Pride Comes Before the Fall," hosted by USURPA. Pimentel is renowned for his ability to seamlessly blend painting, drawing, and digital illustration, pushing the boundaries of modern portraiture.
Get ready for the ultimate music and lifestyle festival experience: Hey Neighbour! The trailblazing team at Glen21 Entertainment is thrilled to bring you a groundbreaking event that will make waves in the African entertainment scene. Set to take place in Pretoria this December 2023, Hey Neighbour is not your average festival—it's a vibrant celebration of music, culture, and community.
After an absence of seven years Joburg Ballet’s magnificent production of Romeo and Juliet returns to the stage of the Joburg Theatre for a season of eight performances from Friday 30 June to Sunday 9 July.
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| Photography by Lauge Sorensen |
PANTRY by Gemelli, a popular brunch spot in the heart of Bryanston, is proud to announce and invite patrons to enjoy its irresistible new look, fresh menu and an atmosphere dripping with elegance. The restaurant has undergone extensive architectural and decorative renovation and officially reopened its doors to the world to indulge in the splendour on May 8, 2023.
As part of Africa Day 2023, Hilton is celebrating the continent's vibrant cultures through a series of unique collaborations with African artists. By celebrating culture and embracing diversity, these local art partnerships are in support of Hilton’s Travel with Purpose ESG strategy, aimed at creating a positive impact across the communities Hilton operates in around the world.
Hilton’s hotels across the Africa & Indian Ocean region are supporting their local communities and spotlighting local cultures by partnering with artists to create installations, showcase their work, as well as provide them with an opportunity to sell their art pieces. Various hotels are hosting art exhibitions – as well as art fairs, with each piece telling a story ranging from African mythology and creativity, to making use of sustainable sourcing and recyclable materials.
Foodies, get ready to mark your calendars because South Africa’s biggest culinary event is coming to town! The Mzansi Food & Drink Show is set to take place at the Kyalami Convention Centre from June 15 to 17, 2024, and promises to be an extravaganza of all things food and drink.
Easter is around the corner, presenting yet another great time to squeeze in a well-deserved break in this beautiful country we call home.
Here, for discerning travellers, are some top of the range holiday Manor Houses and Villas where families, couples and groups of friends can enjoy the most luxurious of holidays…
For the lovers of wildlife looking for adventure - a luxury safari villa in the northern reaches of KZN, and, on the beautiful, stark plains of the Karoo an elegant and luxurious Manor with its warm design reflecting the environment…
Inspired by the plethora of unique and mouth-watering street food offerings that Moo Moo showcases on their menu; Jimmy Eracleous, Owner of the Moo Moo Branch in Mall of Africa and Moo Moo Menlyn put together an exclusive Street Food & Wine tasting event for a me and a few other bloggers that not only introduced us to the Moo Moo brand, but offered us a taste of the Moo Moo magic by taking us on a culinary journey of tastes, flavours, aroma’s and essence.
SEVEN Villa Hotel & Spa is the ultimate inner city retreat located in Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa. Just a short 15 minute drive from me, it proved to be the perfect staycation and while it's literally just around the corner, it felt more like a getaway tucked away in nature. With beautiful sculptures around ever corner and a black and gold "old money yet modern" aesthetic, it's the perfect spoil for a birthday or anniversary stay.
Mellow into autumn with an enchanting KWV Sparkling Wine cocktail as we adapt to cooler climes and warmer hues with our tastes leaning towards richer, more comforting pleasures.
Here are some great winter specials offered at prominent, independent hotels and top establishments of Cape Country Routes around the country.
The month of love has ended mara you are still in the dog box for not gifting the perfect gift. Shame! No need to worry because as always Sho’t Left has got your back and is giving you the opportunity to make things right with the perfect gift experience.
Are you ready for an adventure? The new Next-Gen Ford Ranger Raptor is here and it's ready to take you on a wild ride through the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa. From rugged mountains to sandy beaches, this tough vehicle is the perfect vehicle for your road trip.
MSC Cruises’ April to November international cruise season offers incredible choice with 22 ships, offering 140 destinations, 40 countries and more than 50 embarkation ports
Itineraries span the Mediterranean, Northern Europe, the Caribbean and Japan
3 ships deployed in the Caribbean with New York City as new embarkation port, all calling at Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve
More ships than ever in Eastern Mediterranean with enriched itineraries and increased capacity on 7-night cruises to the Greek Islands, Turkey and Israel
Rovos Rail is a luxurious train company that offers scenic trips through some of South Africa's most beautiful landscapes. With its elegant decor and exceptional service, Rovos Rail is an experience like no other. And now, South Africans have the opportunity to experience it at a discounted price.
Rovos Rail is offering a 50% discount on selected journeys if you have residency in the following countries South Africa, eSwatini, Lesotho, Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. This is a fantastic opportunity for locals to explore their own country in style and comfort.
To take advantage of this offer, South Africans will need to provide a valid ID or passport. The discount is available on a first-come, first-served basis, and some terms and conditions apply.
Rovos Rail is known for its exceptional service, gourmet cuisine, and elegant decor. Each journey is a unique experience, with opportunities to see wildlife, visit historic sites, and explore beautiful landscapes. And with this 50% discount, South Africans can now experience it at a more affordable price.
Dates & Rates:
🌴 Pretoria to Durban 🌴
14-16 April
🌴 Durban to Pretoria 🌴
17-19 April
Pullman R14 350 per person sharing
Deluxe R21 400 per person sharing
(Royal suite on request)
⛰️Pretoria to Cape Town ⛰️
2-5 June
⛰️Cape Town to Pretoria ⛰️
22-25 April
5-8 June
Pullman R15 850 per person sharing
Deluxe R22 900 per person sharing
(Royal suite on request)
🇿🇼 Victoria Falls to Pretoria 🇿🇼
5-8 March
14-17 March
26-29 March
25-28 April
Pullman R19 800 per person sharing
Deluxe R29 800 per person sharing
(Royal suite on request)
INCLUDES Accommodation; all meals and beverages on board; off-train excursions; room service; limited laundry and govt tax.
EXCLUDES Pre- and post-tour accommodation, flights and transfers; travel insurance; visas; gratuities; international sparkling
wine and personal expenses.
T&C apply
+27 (0) 12 315 8242 • reservations@rovos.co.za
If you're a South African looking for a unique way to explore your own country, this is an opportunity not to be missed. Book now to take advantage of this offer and experience the magic of Rovos Rail for yourself.
This a special one since I stayed at this hotel this New Years Eve as well as 3 times before and it's definitely one of my go to hotels in Umhlanga. Located at Gateway Theatre of Shopping, the biggest mall in Durban, aha Gateway Hotel is the ultimate choice for shopaholics that want convenience at a modern hotel.
FYI this is more of a quick mini review since I just had an overnight stay but will hopefully do another one after a longer stay :)
Myriad leisure activities along the Mtamvuna River at Wild Coast Sun
Wild Coast Sun is Sun International’s only beachfront resort, which means an abundance of water-based activities – from rides at the Wild Waves Water Park to the hotel swimming pools – as well as on, and in, the Mtamvuna River.
Located on the South Coast with its endless summer temperatures, Wild Coast Sun guests are spoilt for choice all year round, making it the ideal place for family getaways.
Whether you prefer your activities fast or slow, there is something for everyone, from canoeing to kayaking, sit-down to stand-up paddle boats, speedboats to lazy boat cruises, and much more.
Take to the water and paddle up and down the Mtamvuna River in your own canoe or a rented one – you can go solo or couple up. Alternatively, kayaking is a popular favourite, and for adventure seekers, there are guided tours along the banks of the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve. The scenic excursion is something you won’t forget.
Experience an eco-adventure aboard a speedboat and explore the unspoilt coastline of the Mtavuna river that forms the border between KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape provinces, with the sea air and wind on your face. Jump aboard with an experienced skipper for tube rides and water skiing too.
“Walk on water” and find out why stand-up paddleboarding is one of the fastest growing water sports. Paddleboarders stand on boards floating on the water and use a paddle to propel themselves forward, providing an extensive workout range, from upper body training to leg work and core strength building.
Take in a lazy afternoon on a sit-down paddle boat on the scenic Mtamvuna River. Easy to do, each paddle boat can comfortably take two adults and two children and is a safe, family friendly activity. Also, lots of fun (and inexpensive) for friends or couples.
The best way to end a day of exhilarating water sport fun is to jump on a boat cruise that gently navigates up the river. Soak up nature around you with a cool breeze against your face and a cocktail or beverage in hand while you take in a glorious sunset. The cruise is between 45-minutes and an hour, which takes you up the beautiful Umtamvuna Nature Reserve. You can choose between a public or private cruise.
Fishermen can leisurely cast out their lines in the hopes of reeling in bronze bream, rock cod, and other fish. Guests can rent rods or are welcome to bring their own.
Activities are booked at the Riverside Aqua Sports Beach Bar, on 083 662 9096 or info@the-riverside.co.za. The activity pricelist is available on the website - www.the-riverside.co.za.
The Riverside Aqua Sports Beach Bar is the hub for all the resort’s riverside activities, but also provides water sport enthusiasts with a vibey place to relax with a view. The hip bartenders handcraft classic cocktails, and the mouth-watering, savoury menu is simple but will sate your appetite built up over the course of the day – tuck into burgers, boerewors rolls, hot dogs, and bacon and eggs rolls. They also offer a ‘bring and braai’ facility for families and friends to chill alongside the riverbed.
During peak season, the bar is open Sunday to Friday between 09h00 and 18h00 and Saturdays, 09h00 and 20h00.
The braai facility is for guest convenience with a surcharge fee per stand or group. No outside cold drinks or alcohol are permitted as they are a fully licensed establishment.