Win Tickets to Kings & Queens of Comedy

 

By Fred Felton | April 1, 2025

For over 10 years, Kings & Queens of Comedy has set the bar for South African stand-up, uniting audiences with good laughs and showing the best comedy talent in SA. This year as the brand celebrates 13 years, it returns with a stellar line-up for everyone.

Joey Rasdien | Photo: Supplied. 

Get your diary out for two nights of stand-up on 5 April at Durban ICC and at Emperors Palace, Johannesburg on 12 April when Kings & Queens of Comedy marks a big milestone with show filled with nostalgia, legacy, and fresh, fearless humour.

Chris Forrest | Photo: Supplied.

The Durban line-up (in association with East Coast Radio) features Darren Maule, Alfred Adriaan, Darren Simpson, Trevor Gumbi, Annalakshmi, Angel Campey, Muthu Murugan, Khanyisa Bunu, Joey Rasdien, Conrad Koch & Chester Missing and Chris Forrest.

For Johannesburg expect Darren ’Wackhead’ Simpson, Alfred Adriaan, Annalakshmi, Angel Campey, Muthu Murugan, Khanyisa Bunu, Joey Rasdien, Tracey-Lee Oliver, Chris Forrest and Conrad Koch & Chester Missing.

Angel Campey | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’When we first started this brand 13 years ago, our vision was to create a platform that not only showcases South Africa’s best comedic talent but also brings together people together through the universal language of laughter,’’ said Blu Blood co-founders Osman Osman and Shaaista Khan Osman.

Get tickets for Kings & Queens of Comedy from Ticketpro and selected SPAR Payzone kiosks.

Win Tickets To The Show

The good folks at Blu Blood have given us 2 x double tickets for 2 lucky winners to go to the show in Durban.

All you have to do is answer this easy question:

Where is the show being performed in Durban?

Send your answer, name, contact number and email to umhlangalife@gmail.com

Ts and Cs. Apply.

My Fair Lady at The Playhouse in March

 

By Fred Felton | Feb. 24, 2025

For those of you that love a good musical be sure not to miss out on the show My Fair Lady which will be opening in March at The Playhouse from 8 March 2025.

My Fair Lady on stage at The Playhouse in March. | Photo: Supplied. 

The Playhouse in association with Pieter Toerien and Cape Town Opera by arrangement with DALRO (Pty) Limited presents this dazzling musical, with an extraordinary cast, stunning costumes, and jaw-dropping staging is set to wow audiences. This must-see show will take audiences back to the time of elegancy and vibrancy in Edwardian London.

This show is adapted from George Bernard Shaw’s Pygmalion! Discover how Eliza Doolittle transforms from a feisty Cockney flower girl into a sophisticated lady under the mentorship of the pompous linguist Professor Henry Higgins.

There are some amazing songs in this show like ‘Wouldn’t It Be Lovely, I Could Have Danced All Night, and On the Street Where You Live,’ this production is full of wit, charm and heart that has made this musical a timeless classic.

‘’We are pleased to share that several performances of My Fair Lady are already sold out! If you haven’t purchased your tickets yet, now is the time,’’ said Lynda Bukhosini, The Playhouse Company’s Chief Executive and Artistic Director.

This production is directed by Steven Stead, who brings fresh energy to this show. The musical direction is by Kevin Kraak, the iconic score by Lerner and Loewe comes to life through rich orchestrations and powerful vocals. The set and costumes designed by Greg King transport the audience to early 20^th-century London. Duane Alexander’s choreography adds a dynamic flow to the show. This musical features some of the top actors in South Africa including Leah Mari’s amazing portrayal of Eliza Doolittle.

Now is your chance to immerse yourself in Broadway’s longest-running musical. This show has captivated audiences through 2, 717 performances and has won six Tony Awards including Best Musical! The show has just finished a sold-out run in Cape Town and is now amazing audiences in Gauteng.

Due to high demand and sold-out shows, an extra performance has been added on Sunday, 9 March 2025, at 18h00 for My Fair Lady.

Don’t miss your chance to see this classic running from 8 to 16 March 2025.

Get your tickets now for just R150 – R250 on Webtickets before they are all sold out.

Umhlanga Accommodation Workshop Coming Soon

 

By Fred Felton | Feb. 10, 2025

Umhlanga Tourism is proud to announce a Hospitality Workshop which will be held on 19 February 2025, at the KZN Sharks Board. The workshop will run from 9am to 12pm on the day.

Umhlanga Accommodation Workshop will be held on 19 February 2025. | Photo: Fred Felton

This workshop is aimed at Hospitality Hosts in the Tourism industry. Those that are in the hotel, B&B and guest house industry are encouraged to attend.

There will also be some key municipal departments in attendance including:

Revenue Management, Town Planning, Business Licensing and Durban Tourism.

There will also be a variety of tourism stakeholders in attendance and these include FEDHASA East Coast, Tourism Grading Council of South Africa and Department of Economic Development Tourism and Environment Affairs.

There will also be a number of suppliers in the tourism industry in attendance.

Bring your business cards with as there will be a lucky draw with some amazing prizes for the winners.

To RSVP email info@umhlangatourism.co.za

New Year New Fashion

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 28, 2024

With the New Year just around the corner here are some fashion tips to get 2025 off on the right start for your fashion wardrobe.

For Him and Her

Building on the success of the partnership between ASICS and Kiko Kostadinov Studio, they will be resuming their curatorial series for Spring/Summer 2024. Look out for the UB10-S GEL-KAYANO™ 20 sneaker which draws inspiration from the themes of Interlaced Assemblages, Functional Utopias, and Mino Ceramics.

The ASICS UB10-S GEL-KAYANO 20 sneaker. | Photo: Supplied. 

The shoe features soft textures which are combined with the idea of handcrafted elements found in iconic artwork. The sneaker has a matte and washed colour appearance, which enhances the heritage running shoe’s archival shape and build. Contrasted with grid-like patterns and bold opaque colours, the Functional Utopia inspired variations apply direct correlations with nature.

The glossy primary colourways are offset with metallic structures that accentuate the double-layer mesh materialization.

The designers have also explored Mino ceramic influences by looking at the contemporary processes of the rust-like qualities that appear in Mino glazes. This process looks to imagery as a vessel with degraded colours that have the ability to stand the test of time.

The new UB10-S GEL-KAYANO™ 20 are available in a variety of colours which include Hunter Green/Jade and Glacier Grey/Lavender Grey and you can get them at Shelflife, Lemkus, Archive and Sneaker District and online at BASH.com

 

For Her

Jockey South Africa recently launched its Comfort Bra which has been thoughtfully designed to offer premium support and all-day comfort, this innovation redefines what it means to have a bra that fits perfectly every time.

The Jockey South Africa Comfort Bra. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’We know that finding a bra that provides real support and all-day comfort is a challenge many women face. The Comfort Bra was created to meet these needs. By combining style, support, and comfort, it delivers a fit that feels as if it was made just for you. We are proud to offer a product that reflects our commitment to the needs of modern South African women,’’ said Nombuso Ncapai, Marketing Manager at Jockey South Africa.

The Comfort Bra features wide, cushioned shoulder straps that relieve pressure and prevent discomfort, even if you wear it for a long time. The adjustable 3-hook closure ensures a customised fit, allowing it to contour to your body for the best comfort and support.

This bra also features breathable mesh panels to promote airflow, keeping you cool and comfortable for the whole day. There are also back wings for a great look and support.

This is a wire-free bra with 3-piece cup design, the Comfort Bra offers superior support whether you work at home, or on the go, this is the bra for you.

‘’Our team has worked tirelessly to create a bra that delivers both comfort and performance. We believe that the Comfort Bra strikes the ideal balance between support and wearability, offering a versatile solution for women of all shapes and sizes,’’ added Bruce McMurray, General Manager at Jockey South Africa. 

The Comfort Bra is made from a blend of cotton and Lycra®, the bra has been locally designed for the South African market and is available in classic black and beige.

As part of its ongoing mission to support communities in need, Jockey South Africa recently donated 850 garments to the CANSA Mkhula Care Home in Durban, on Tuesday, 26^th November 2024. This donation reinforces Jockey’s dedication to acting as a responsible corporate citizen, striving to make a meaningful impact in SA one garment at a time.  

One of our female journalists tried the Comfort Bra on and found the bra to be a comfortable fit. Why not try it for yourself to see what you think of it.

The Comfort Bra is available at select retail outlets and online at www.jockey.co.za with delivery options across South Africa.

A Magical Season Awaits You in Durban

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 9, 2024

The red carpet is being rolled out for tourists visiting Durban. The City aims to boost tourism and ensure a safer, more magical experience for everyone.

Durban is ready to welcome you! | Photo: Supplied. 

The eThekwini Municipality in collaboration with South African Tourism, the Provincial Tourism and Film Authority, and various private sector partners went on a roadshow around Durban on the ‘’Tourism Takes the Lead Roadshow,’’ on 4 December. This was done under the theme ‘’Exploring Durban’s Travel Adventures Together,’’ this highlighted Durban’s readiness for visitors during the summer and festive time.

EThekwini Municipality has worked to improve its attractions. The improvements include a more stable beach water quality, swimming pools that are fully operational, a safer city strategy and improved maintenance standards.

There is so much to do in Durban including a ride on the Rickshaw Bus, a visit to Mitchell Park, enjoying the party scene at Florida Road, Segway Rides along the promenade, Gondola Rides and Rickshaw rides.

Segway Rides. One of the many things to do in Durban. | Photo: Supplied. 

The Metro Police, along with law enforcement agencies, making sure of high visibility at key tourist hotspots. There will also be access-controlled roads, a free park-and-ride system, and 500 newly trained Metro Police officers are being deployed and 170 high performance vehicles will be patrolling Durban to make sure visitors are safe.

At present there are 21 immaculate beaches open and 30 public swimming pools open, eThekwini Municipality will also monitor water quality throughout the festive season, making sure visitors enjoy Durban’s pristine beaches.

The Cube on Innes Road, Morningside. Features panoramic views of Durban. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

Visitors can also look forward to many events this festive season including the Durban Jazz Festival and the eagerly awaited Fact Durban Rocks New Year’s Eve celebration. There is always a festive buzz in Umhlanga and Florida Road has entertainment day and night.

‘’Florida Road is one of our vibrant culinary experiences,’’ noted Durban Tourism Deputy Head, Winile Mntungwa.

There will also be an economic boost this summer season, with projections for 2024/2025 estimating over 1.3 million visitors, a 75% occupancy rate, R2.5 billion in direct spending, and R6.3 billion added to GDP – which translates to more than 11,000 new jobs.

A new attraction on the beachfront is the Durban Beach Café which was opened on 22 November this year.

The festivities continued this year when the MSC Euribia visited Durban recently which announced the start of the 2024/2025 cruise season. The MSC Musica also brought a wave of international visitors to Durban recently. ‘’We are excited to welcome thousands of international travellers to the City,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

For more info visit: www.visitdurban.travel or follow them on social media @DBNTourism

Water curtailment implemented in the city

 

Water curtailment 

implemented in the city

UMNGENI-UTHUKELA WATER BOARD (UUW) will implement water curtailment throughout eThekwini Municipality effective from Thursday, 10 October. 

The announcement was made jointly by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba and uMngeni-uThukela Water Board. 

The curtailment is being implemented at the directive of the Department of Water and Sanitations (DWS) who issued a notice to UUW to reduce the volume of water abstracted from the Mgeni system to their licenced volumes of 470 million m3/

annum. 

This will mean a reduction on the current sales and abstraction volume of 8.4 

percent. 

Mayor Xaba said the City said the curtailment is aimed to enable continued water availability, including during periods of below-average rainfall. 

''The risk of not enforcing the abstraction limit is that, should a drought occur, there would not be sufficient water in the system for uMngeni-uThukela Water to continue providing the eThekwini Municipality with a reliable water supply,'' he said. 

The water curtailment is not water shedding where there is a schedule for water cuts at certain times.

However, the purpose of the water curtailment is to avoid water shedding by bringing down the total volume used in a controlled manner.

The curtailment will be implemented for a period of 12 months. 

''We urge residents to use water sparingly to assist in reducing the high consumption. As we have indicated in the previous media briefings, the demand for water in eThekwini far outstrips supply and we continue to plead with all stakeholders both our residential and business customers to work with us to address this challenge,'' he said. 

Some of the contributing factors to the high-water usage include rapid urbanisation, aging infrastructure which causes water leaks and illegal connections. 

In ensuring that residents are not adversely affected, the city will be implementing the following interventions:

• Installation of restrictors in water metres to all consumers
• Pressure reduction in the reticulation network
• Metering all unmetered consumers
• Improve turnaround time in repairing leaks and pipe bursts through deployment of ward-based plumbers 
• Community education in water conservation 
• Disconnection of illegal connections 

The average water consumption in eThekwini is very high as it is between 270 and 298 litres per capita (person), per day (l/c/d) compared to the international average of 173 l/c/d. 

During this process, the City's teams will be monitoring the system and manage excessive demand. 

____________________________________________________________________

____________________________________________________________________

Application to host events during the festive season 

THE Municipality's Festive Season Management Committee (FESMAC) wishes to inform all event organisers, companies, and individuals who want to hold events/activities in the City during the festive season that the cut-off date for applications is Friday, 1 November at 16h00. 

The festive season period is from 1 December 2024 to 31 January 2025. 

The applications are for events to be hosted in Durban Central, Southern, Western, and the Northern Regions.

The public is advised that no stage performances will be permitted on the coastal areas on these dates 16, 25, 26 and 31 December 2024, as well as 1 to 3 January 2025. 

Application forms to stage an event/programme must be obtained from and returned to the Events Management Office, The Platform, Lion Match Complex, Entrance No 1, 892 uMgeni Road, Durban, 4001 or emailed to Archel.Somaroo@durban.gov.za 

Please note that submitting an application does not guarantee that permission will be granted. 

The applicant will be notified whether the application has been successful or not. 

The Municipality reserves the right to cancel an event should it deem the event to be non-compliant.

For more information contact 031 311 4720. 

____________________________________________________________________

Mayor Xaba Announces Water Curtailment Plans

 

By Fred Felton | Oct 6, 2024

At a recent media briefing eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba along with uMngeni-uThukela announced water curtailment plans.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba led a media briefing to discuss water curtailment plans. | Photo: Fred Felton. 

‘’This post council media briefing takes place after the Department of Water and Sanitation and eThekwini Municipality have announced water curtailment, effective from the 10^th of October 2024,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

The water curtailment is being done to allow for continued water availability, including during periods of below-average rainfall.

If the abstraction limit is not enforced there is a risk, during a drought, that there would be insufficient water in the system for uMngeni-uThukela Water (UUW) to continue providing the eThekwini Municipality with a reliable supply of water.

‘’If there is below average rainfall, any restrictions required would be more manageable,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The water supply curtailments will be implemented gradually over the next 12 months to make sure that the abstraction from the system is brought to the licenced volumes and maintained at this level.

The eThekwini Municipality receives the bulk of its water supply from the uMngeni-uThukela Water catchment system. The average abstraction from the system over the past year amounts to 1406.4 Ml/d. However, the department has given a directive that the value be reduced to 1287.7 Ml/d which is a reduction of 118 Ml/d.

This reduction is being done to make sure that UUW Board meets the conditions of the Water Use Licence of 470 million m3/annum. This will result in a reduction of current sales and abstraction volume of 8.4%.

Mayor Xaba urged residents to use water sparingly to help with reducing the high consumption. The demand for water in eThekwini far outstrips supply. Mayor Xaba also urged all stakeholders, both residential and business customers, to work with them to address this challenge.

‘’Some of the contributing factors to the high-water usage includes rapid urbanisation, aging infrastructure which causes water leaks and illegal connections,’’ noted Mayor Xaba.

The following interventions will be implemented by the city:

Installation of restrictors in water metres to all consumers.

Pressure reduction in the reticulation network.

Metering all unmetered consumers.

Improve turnaround time in repairing leaks and pipe bursts through deployment of ward-based plumbers.

Community education in water conservation.

Disconnecting of illegal connections.

There will be water rationing where demand is too high or exceeds available supply.

Mayor Xaba has also started visits to water reservoirs that are giving challenges.

Vote At World Travel Awards for City Businesses

 

By Fred Felton | Sep 3, 2024

Durban has eight top business travel and tourism establishments nominated in some of the awards’ most cherished categories for the 31^st World Travel Awards.

The Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre is a nominee in the World Travel Awards 2024. | Photo: Fiona Wainwright 

This year eThekwini has received four nominations including Africa’s Leading Festival and Event Destination 2024 (which Durban has won for the last three years).

There are also nominations for the City for Africa’s Leading Business Travel Destination 2024, Africa’s Leading City Destination 2024 as well as Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conferences Destination 2024.

There are further nominations for Africa’s Leading Airport 2024 (King Shaka International Airport), Africa’s Leading Cruise Port 2024 (Port of Durban), Africa’s Leading Luxury Hotel 2024 (The Oyster Box), and the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) was nominated as Africa’s Leading Meetings and Conference Centre 2024.

"Festivals and big events have an enormous impact on boosting local tourism and the economy,” noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Cyril Xaba.

The voting for these awards is open to the public on the World Travel Awards website and closes on 8 September 2024. The public is encouraged to vote for those nominated and support the tourism industry.  The winners will be announced at the World Travel Awards Grand Final 2024 which takes place on the scenic islands of Madeira on 24 November 2024.

 ‘’We call on all residents to rally behind the City by casting their vote in order to bring these awards home,’’ said Mayor Xaba.

To register and make your vote, follow this link: https://www.worldtravelawards.com/register

Visit www.durban.travel for more information on Durban offerings or follow them on social media @DBNTourism

Catalytic Projects to boost the City's economy

 

EThekwini Municipality has numerous catalytic projects underway which will transform the City and boost the local economy, writes Sohana Singh

There are several catalytic projects underway in the City while others are still in the planning stages. The City’s Catalytic Project Unit is currently working on around 16 projects which will bring approximately R217 billion in investment and create in the region of 300 000 jobs. The partnership between the private sector and government is evident in the investment that is taking place, boosting confidence in the region.

Below is a breakdown of a few of these projects that are transforming the City.

Shongweni Development

The development of the R3 billion Westown Square by Fundamentum Development Company began in 2021 and kickstarted a new era for the outer west region of eThekwini. This is the first 100-hectare precinct of the Shongweni area to be developed, out of a 2 000-hectare integrated mixed-use urban development located along the N3 and Kassier Road interchange. It will comprise of nine precincts which includes retail, residential, commercial, logistics, industrial, and business park precincts. Westown Square is expected to open for business by April 2025.

Brickworks

The Avoca Node Development by JT Ross and Investec is a 15-year programme consisting of three precincts; Brickworks, North Fields, and Caneridge measuring approximately 350 hectares in extent. It has the potential capital investment of over R10.5 billion. 

The City has invested R451 million for infrastructure upgrades which are currently underway on Old North Coast Road to improve access to the area and the increase in traffic.

The City is expecting R206 million annual rates at full development of this light industrial area. There are 51 000 construction jobs, and 19 000 permanent jobs expected to be created.

Giba Business Estate

The Giba Business Estate development by Sultex Holdings PTY Ltd is situated south of the Marianhill Toll Plaza along the N3 freight and logistics corridor from Durban-Free State- Gauteng known as SIP2. 

The R1.9 billion project will develop 200 000 square meters of platformed sites of various sizes which are aimed for sale to the light industrial, warehousing, and logistics sectors.

Phase 1 of the construction consists of 22 platforms and engineering services which commenced in July 2023. Phase 2 will include the construction of top structures.

Regarding jobs created, 492 construction and 4 661 permanent jobs are expected to be created with local community members benefiting from the  development.

Oceans Development

The R5 billion Oceans uMhlanga development is planned to be a mixed-use lifestyle development within the uMhlanga Rocks Village node. This includes a high-end shopping mall, residential apartments, and the Radisson Blu Hotel. The shopping mall and hotel are complete; however, construction is currently underway for residential apartments and a time share hotel. This development is expected to enhance the tourism offering value within the node. Further investment into transport facilities in the area is being discussed.

Inyaninga

Inyaninga is a proposed major multi-modal logistics hub worth R40 billion. The total land area is 1 023 ha for which is a planned total commercial/logistics bulk of approximately 1.617 million square meters, plus some 8 755 residential opportunities.

Inyaninga has been identified as a possible site location for a large scale manufacturing plant. The iNyaninga site offers numerous advantages for such a development, with close proximity to the airport and major transport routes to the port via the R102 and N2 to facilitate access to market.

Sibaya Coastal Precinct. 

Further development being planned or currently being undertaken include Cornubia, the Dube Trade Port, Sibaya Coastal Precinct, Inyaninga, Whetstone Business Park, and in the Durban CBD worth billions of rand.

Celebrate the One Year Anniversary of Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga

 

Redefining Luxury Coastal Living

Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga is the brainchild of Restauranteur and entrepreneur Sean Barber. In the month of May this premium destination celebrates its first anniversary since the doors opened in May 2023.

In just one year, this captivating beachside haven has elevated the standard of hospitality, carving out a niche as the epitome of luxury coastal living along the picturesque shores of Umhlanga beach.

Since opening Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga has captivated the hearts of foodies and nightlife seekers with an unparalleled experience. Boasting star-studded weekend line-ups and an ambiance that seamlessly blends urban sophistication with the laid-back charm of coastal life, the venue has firmly established itself as a must-visit destination.

Nestled on the vibrant coastline of the Indian Ocean, Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga spreads across 1500 square metres and three distinct floors, maintaining the signature ambiance Rockets is renowned for, attracting visitors from both near and far. Guests embark on a culinary experience with Rockets’ fusion menu featuring Mediterranean delights, tapas and sushi, all savoured against the breath-taking backdrop of Umhlanga’s golden sands.

The weekly rotation of top local and international DJs ensures an electric atmosphere, whether patrons are indulging in cocktails, savouring sunset vistas from the rooftop bar or dancing the night away at Lolita’s club floor.

As Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga celebrates its first year, it solidifies its standing as the premier luxury beach club in the Southern Hemisphere, a testament to Sean Barber’s visionary leadership and the enduring allure of the Rockets Lifestyle, delivered in true Beach Club style.

Visit Rockets Beach Club Umhlanga, celebrate their first year anniversary, there’s no better time to immerse oneself in the enchantment of coastal living, Rockets-style.

Keep your eyes on their social media pages for upcoming events.

Address

9 McCausland Crescent, Umhlanga

Parking is available behind the establishment, drive in through the gate.

Trading Hours:

Monday to Sunday: 11am – 2am

NB: No vests and no firearms.

To book your next event or function:

Call 031 110 0369 or email umhlanga@rocketslife.tv

For more information visit: https://www.rocketslife.tv/

Follow them on social media:

Instagram: Rockets Beach Club https://www.instagram.com/rockets.beachclub/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rockets.lifestyle?lang=en

Facebook: Rockets Beach Club https://web.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090610162093

Check their social media pages for weekly event flyers and updates. 

 

EThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda Reopens uMhlanga Whalebone Pier

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 17, 2023

The uMhlanga Whalebone Pier situated in uMhlanga Rocks was officially reopened by eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda on 14 December 2023.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor Mxolisi Kaunda officially re-opened the iconic Umhlanga Rocks Whalebone Pier to much fanfare and public applause in time for the bumper festive season in Durban.  Photo: Thuli Dlamini. 

The award-winning Whalebone Pier was officially reopened after it was closed for three months for renovations. The R3.2 million renovation project was done to extend the longevity of the concrete.

‘’The pier is a tourist drawcard and remains one of the most photographed places in Durban,’’ said eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

The eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda was joined by distinguished guests and tourism stakeholders at the reopening.

The reopening of this pier further demonstrates that Durban is ready to deliver a joyous and memorable festive season.

The eThekwini Mayor also updated the media on a variety of council matters after the reopening of the pier.

Water Supply

‘’Let me also inform the community of uMlazi that the Minister of Water Affairs Senzo Mchunu will be hosting an Imbizo to resolve water challenges in uMlazi next week (20 December) at the King Zwelithini Stadium at 10am. This will also be an opportunity for community members to engage with government,’’ noted eThekwini Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda.

Strategic Partnership with The Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry

The Council has also approved for the City Manager to enter a transformative partnership with the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DCCI). This marks a crucial step towards revitalising the local economy and streamlining business processes.

The aim of this partnership is to create a conducive environment for the ease of doing business with the City, focusing on vital infrastructure restoration such as bridges, roads, canals, water, sanitation, and energy.

This is all being done to provide a seamless process for investors and signifies a concerted effort by all relevant stakeholders to build investor confidence in the City.

Financial Support for Community Tourism Organisations

There was also a positive step towards bolstering community-led tourism efforts, Council approved the funding of nine Community Tourism Organisations (CTOs).

Each CTO will be allocated R350 000 each and they will be required to submit comprehensive business plans, enter into a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Municipality, and provide accountability reports along with audited financial reports to ensure transparent and effective fund utilisation.

These nine existing CTOs within eThekwini Municipality have been integral stakeholders over the past seven years, promoting tourism routes in underdeveloped areas and encouraging community participation in tourism activities.

Christmas Food Vouchers for Senior Citizens

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda also announced that Christmas food vouchers will be issued to senior citizens around the City as part of the social relief initiative.

‘’The food vouchers will be available for collection by ward councillors from Monday, 18 December,’’ said the eThekwini Speaker Councillor Thabani Nyawose.

The ward councillors will issue these vouchers to senior citizens as per their respective wards. There will be 500 food vouchers allocated for each ward.

The eThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda also wished all the residents of eThekwini and holidaymakers a Merry Christmas and a Prosperous New Year.

Review of MSC Splendida

 

By Fred Felton | Nov. 27, 2023

Last week I was invited to spend a night on the MSC Splendida and see all it has to offer. This followed the opening of the state-of-the-art Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal which was opened by President Cyril Ramaphosa and Pierfrancesco Vago, CEO of MSC Cruises.

MSC Splendida | Photo: Supplied

MSC Splendida started her first cruise for the season on 24 November 2023. The ship itself is a splendid affair and you will be blown away by the sheer size of it. There is so much to do on the ship that you might run out of time trying to see everything before your cruise ends.

The ship will be sailing for six months from South Africa and will offer guests 35 sailings to wonderful destinations that include Portuguese Island (Mozambique), Pomene (Mozambique), Walvis Bay (Namibia) and Port Louis (Mauritius).

Nelson Mandela Cruise Terminal | Photo: Supplied

‘’We’re delighted to be welcoming MSC Splendida to our shores. It’s one of our largest and most luxurious vessels and will offer South Africa’s growing population of cruisers a completely new experience this summer. This season, we will also give our South African customers a chance to experience the improved service offered by the terminal – a fitting start and end to what is sure to be a wonderful experience,’’ said Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC  Cruises, South Africa.

Your room has all you need. | Photo: Fred Felton

  

The rooms you stay in are very comfortable and you have plenty of space for all your needs. An interesting note is that soaps and shampoo have been replaced with dispensing containers for your needs. The shower is quite comfortable and the room also included a TV if you need to unwind and catch a movie. The ship is also an eco-ship which is nice to see.

Interactive displays. | Photo: Fred Felton

The ship is easy to navigate and you will find plenty of digital screen displays which show you where you are and where you need to go if you are looking for a certain lounge or restaurant or pool deck. Look for the arrow pointing to where you need to go.

You might stay awhile. | Photo: Fred Felton

There are six dining venues on board MSC Splendida. This includes two restaurants that cater to international cuisine lovers. I was very impressed with the Bora Bora Buffet which provides a wide variety of foods and caters for any of your needs. For breakfast you can choose from a wide variety of yogurts, granola, seeds and fruits to the standard fare of eggs, bacon, sausages, potato treats, fried tomatoes and even waffles and crumpets. You can even indulge in cake for breakfast if you so choose and even muffins and pastries.

Drinks include fresh juices, a wide variety of teas and of course coffee for those that partied a bit too much the previous night.

This restaurant is huge and you can even find yourself getting lost in it. There is plenty of room for friends, family and even singles.  The restaurant also caters to the health conscious and provides plenty of options for vegans as well. Bora Bora Buffet is located on Deck 14 Aft.

Lunch at this restaurant includes pizza, hamburgers, hotdogs, pasta dishes, salads and a variety of rolls and sweet treats to keep you going all through the day. There is also a wide variety of drinks available at lunch time.

For those that love a good steak you can also try out the Butcher’s Cut Steakhouse which is located on Deck 7 Aft.

La Reggia Restaurant. | Photo: Fred Felton

Pistachio-Crusted Rack of Lamb at La Reggia Restaurant. | Photo: Fred Felton

Now if you are one of those that likes to dress up for dinner then head to La Reggia Restaurant which features beautiful designs and classic dining. The restaurant can be found on Deck 6 Midship.

Strand Theatre. | Photo: Fred Felton

Those that love a good theatre show can enjoy the 1 603 seat Strand Theatre where you can enjoy a wonderful show. The Theatre is enormous and covers two floors of the ship so you can sit upstairs or downstairs. There is a wide variety of seating options available. You can access the theatre on Deck 6 Fwd.

One of the many pools on the ship. | Photo: Fred Felton

For fitness fanatics the ship has a wide variety of offerings just for you. The ship offers swimming pools, a jogging track, a squash court and a modern gym for you.

If you need to relax after your workout you can indulge in a relaxing massage and treatments at the luxurious MSC Aurea Spa. The Spa and Gym can be found on Deck 14 Fwd.

L'Espresso for coffee lovers. | Photo: Fred Felton

For those coffee lovers take yourself off to L’Espresso where you can indulge in a cappuccino while you listen to the musicians in the lounge below you.

You can even have an ice cream on Deck 14. I recommend the chocolate and pistachio option if you are looking to treat yourself to something decadent.

If you are feeling lucky you can also head to the Royal Palm Casino which has a wide variety of games and even bingo. You can also dance the night away at Club 33 Disco which is on Deck 16 Midship.

That staircase. | Photo: Fred Felton

MSC Splendida also offers a first for South African cruisers, the MSC Yacht Club which is MSC Cruises’ ship-within-a-ship concept. You can expect personalised luxury in a private 71-suite enclave located on the foredecks of the ship. MSC Yacht Club offers guests their own private restaurant which features Mediterranean cuisine along with other favourites.

Those that take the MSC Yacht Club option can also look forward to butlers, a concierge, priority check-in, unlimited drinks throughout the ship, and complimentary access to the Thermal Suite in the MSC Aurea Spa, free Wi-Fi package and much more.

‘’South Africa’s cruisers have a real treat in store for them – MSC Splendida takes luxury cruising to a whole new level. If you haven’t tried cruising yet, the arrival of this vessel is a heaven-sent opportunity to do so,’’ noted Volk.

Guests on the ship, which included trade and other partners, were entertained by some of the biggest names in South African entertainment which included Dr Victor & the Rasta Rebels, Mafikizolo, Pascal & Pearce, and many other musicians that entertained guests in the many lounges of the ship.

Pascal & Pearce entertaining guests. | Photo: Fred Felton

You know you are having a good time when a fellow Pascal & Pearce fan gives you a high five while they are standing in their clothes in the pool. Yeah, it’s that kind of party ship.

Rating: Highly Recommended.

To book your next holiday on MSC Splendida with MSC Cruises visit: www.msccruises.co.za