The 2026 East Coast Radio House and Garden Show Opens June 27

 

By Fred Felton | June 1, 2026

KZN’s favourite lifestyle event is getting ready to welcome visitors to the 2026 edition on 27 June until 5 July at the Durban Exhibition Centre.

Plenty to see and do at the event this year. | Photo: Supplied. 

‘’The theme this year is Dream, Create and Live,’’ said the Show’s new director Lara Bezuidenhout.

Look out for the latest international trends, new products, local gems and loads of entertainment.

This event is ideal for the family and for school holidays. Keep an eye out for a massive play area at the show where Peter Pan and Tinkerbell will be in Neverland. You might even bump into Dolly with her Trolley, part AI, part human.

There will also be plenty to eat and drink, pop by the Gin Garden, with live music, ice-cream vendors and Sophie’s Café for sweet treats. Delicious food will be on offer from Lawmans for Mexican, Ole Smoki, and tasty burgers from Filthy Moustache.

If you want to learn new recipes try the Hirsch Test Kitchen or get some beauty tips at Edgars’ House of Red.

There’s R100 000 worth of premium camping gear, great escapes and outdoor kit, all from Khakibush magazine.

You can also meet Mario and Luigi at the Hirsch’s Nintendo Activation Area. If you score the fastest lap time on the Mario Kart game, a Nintendo console or merchandise goodies valued at R12,500 could be yours.

Look out for the iconic Porsche 911 display at Hirsch’s and you can also win Hirsch’s big prizes from Porsche and Smeg.

If you like to braai look out The BraaiBoss Challenge, the search for SA’s ultimate Braai Boss.

Secure parking at Centrum opposite DEC/Workshop/ICC.

Tickets available at Quicket.

Avis gives Mzansi more value for their car rental this summer

 

By Fred Felton | Dec. 17, 2025

Avis Car Rental recently launched its 2025 Summer Campaign, giving SA more value when they travel with a really simple offer: book a minimum of four days and only pay for three. 

The Avis Car Rental team at King Shaka International Airport. | Photo: Fred Felton 

Avis invited me to the Durban launch to find out all about it. This deal is designed to make travel easier and more affordable for this festive season. The campaign also boosts customers’ need to explore, connect and enjoy the freedom of the open road.

You can rest assured that Avis have a fleet ready for every journey, from compact cars to spacious vans. The 4-for-3 offer applies to standard cars and van rentals, redeemable through the dedicated Avis Summer Campaign page:

https://www.avis.co.za/car-hire-offers/south-african-offers/summer

‘’Summer in South Africa is about movement – from road trips with friends to reconnecting with family across the country,’’ said Werner van Niekerk – Commercial Car Rental Executive at Avis Southern Africa. ‘’With our 4-For-3 Summer deal, we’re giving customers even more reason to hit the road. It’s our way of adding a little extra joy to our customers’ summer adventures.’’

Avis also has a SafeDrive promise and you can even book your rental using WhatsApp (https://wa.me/27872405431) which makes it easier to plan your trips and travel with peace of mind and focus on the moments that matter.

Avis SafeDrive is a smartphone-app-enabled safety package available in South Africa. For an additional cost of (R20 per day) customers receive access to Impact Alert (immediate assistance in the event of severe accident), a Panic Button (for emergency support), severe weather alerts, and a 24-hour Avis emergency call centre. You can also earn rewards for safe driving behaviour.

When next you fly to Durban you can find the Avis offices at King Shaka International Airport as you come out of the airport. Their friendly staff will guide you through all you need to know and get you on the move in no time.

Book a minimum of 4 days. Pay for 3. Drive happily.

For more information or to book your trip, visit www.avis.co.za

Ts and Cs apply.

Nu Metro Gateway Now Open

 

By Fred Felton | Oct. 7, 2025

Nu Metro opened its newest flagship cinema at Gateway Theatre of Shopping on Friday, 3 October.

 

The cinema complex is full of luxury, innovation, and immersive entertainment in the heart of Umhlanga Ridge.

 

The Nu Metro Gateway complex has 9 state-of-the-art cinemas, including the country’s first-ever ScreenX auditorium.  This features a 270-degree panoramic format that surrounds the audience with visuals on three walls.

 

Guests can also experience 4DX, Scene Xtreme, and a dedicated Kidz Cinema. There is also VIP Premiere Cinemas with plush leather recliners, an exclusive lounge area, and a gourmet curated menu with full-service bar.

 

‘’This complex sets the benchmark for what the future of cinema should feel like,’’ said Beverley Govender, Senior Marketing Manager, at Nu Metro.

 

Expect loads of giveaways, loyalty rewards, exclusive competitions, VIP ticket giveaways and surprises in October. For October you can experience ScreenX for only R100 and see F1, How to Train your Dragon and Superman. 

 

Get tickets at the box office or online at numetro.co.za  

The Rocky Horror Show at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre till 12 Oct

 

By Fred Felton | Sep. 28, 2025

KickstArt is back with a brand-new production of the cult classic, The Rocky Horror Show, with performances at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre up till 12 October.

Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet, Tshepo Ncokoane as Frank N Furter, Bryan Hiles as Brad. Photo: Val Adamson. 

The show is directed by Steven Stead, with set designs by multi award-winning Greg King, costume designs by internationally lauded Monaco-based Terrence Bray. Musical director is Evan Roberts who leads a live onstage band playing all the classics like The Time Warp, Transvestite, Touch-a-Touch Me and Damn It, Janet. Choreography is done by Simone Mann.

The cast list is impressive and includes Tshepo Ncokoane as the iconic cross-dressing mad scientist, Frank N Furter, Durban actor Bryan Hiles as Brad, Keryn Lynne Scott as Janet. Schoeman Smit as Riff Raff, Belinda Henwood as Magenta, Kaylee McIlroy as Columbia, William Young as Rocky, Lyle Buxton as Eddie/Dr Scott, and Michael Gritten as The Narrator.

The Rocky Horror Show  is a delicious homage to kitsch and campy B-grade horror and science fiction movies. Interesting note, it is also credited for igniting the punk rock look of ripped fishnets, statement eyeliner, wild, dyed hair and not to mention scarlet red lipstick.

The Rocky Horror Show  runs at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre in  Durban till 12 October. Performances are at 7h30pm Tuesday to Saturday, 2h30pm Saturday and 6pm on Sunday.

Bookings through Webtickets.

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.

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.

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

Africa's Travel Indaba Opens Soon

 

By Fred Felton | Apr 20, 2023

The travel and trade show for those in the tourism industry returns to the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC) from 8 to 11 May.

The launch of Africa's Travel Indaba held at Durban ICC recently. | Photo: Fred Felton

With just a few weeks to go there is not much time left to register if you would like to attend the show. Recently the Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille together with provincial and City leaders launched the trade show on 28 March at the Durban ICC.

‘’We are excited to be back in Durban,’’ said Minister of Tourism Patricia de Lille. The eThekwini Municipality is also excited for the return of the event. ‘’We anticipate a hotel occupancy rate of 90 percent which will be a major boost for the hospitality sector,’’ noted eThekwini Deputy Chairperson for the Economic Development and Planning Committee Councillor Phili Mbatha-Ndlovu.

There are expected to be around 120 SMME’s at the Hidden Gems Pavilion at Indaba this year. Indaba will also have plenty of networking events for delegates to attend including the popular speed networking events which will happen throughout Indaba.

Durban is expected to be packed to capacity as the South African Tourism Services Association (SATSA) will be hosting their conference in Durban just before Indaba.

Buyers from around the world have been invited to Africa’s Travel Indaba this year and the event promises to be the biggest one yet for South Africa.

‘’KwaZulu-Natal has more than 20 years’ experience in hosting Africa’s Travel Indaba,’’ said Acting CEO of Tourism KZN Nhlanhla Khumalo.

The trade show in the tourism and travel sector has always proved popular through the years. ‘’Every time we have hosted Indaba it has been successful,’’ noted Acting CEO of Tourism KZN Nhlanhla Khumalo.

To register for Africa’s Travel Indaba visit http://www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

5 Reasons to Visit Africa's Travel Indaba

 

By Fred Felton | 2 May 2022

This year Africa’s Travel Indaba returns to Durban after a long absence due to the Covid-19 pandemic. There are many reasons to attend this travel and trade show in 2022.

BONDay held on 2 May 2022 was full of insightful talks. | Photo: Fred Felton

EThekwini Municipality Mayor Councillor Mxolisi Kaunda said the signature travel trade show plays a major role in boosting the City's tourism economy. 

Here are 5 reasons why you should attend Africa’s Travel Indaba:

Networking

There are many events and workshops held during Africa’s Travel Indaba. These include Speed Networking events, talks and workshops about travel and tourism. At these events you might just find yourself bumping into someone who can help you with your tourism business. With around 3 700 delegates attending the travel and trade show you might even get a big booking for your accommodation venue.

Exhibition Stands

Africa’s Travel Indaba is the perfect location to set up a stand for your tourism business. It is also the premier place for buyers to visit and find out about the many tourism experiences on offer. Some accommodation stands have received huge bookings through this route.

Business Talks

There will be a variety of talks on offer at Africa’s Travel Indaba. The show will be on from 2 to 5 May 2022 at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre. Talks include ‘Bleisure Travel’ which will unpack what is important for tourism stakeholders and business owners in a Covid-19 environment. There will also be an insightful talk on ‘Reimagining localism and regionalism in tourism, it will look at the business case for Intra Africa Travel.

Fun Run

There will also be a fun run for Indaba delegates on the 4^th of May early in the morning. Delegates can walk or run along the Durban promenade and enjoy the beauty of Durban and the sea as they enjoy the early morning air and all that Africa has to offer.

Tourism Opportunities

With so many tourists descending on Durban there will be plenty of opportunities for tourism operators to showcase all that Durban and KwaZulu-Natal have to offer. These include the Florida Road experience, Umhlanga, the Durban promenade and so much more.

‘’The show will contribute immensely to the KZN’s tourism recovery. This translates to a much needed economic boost for the province,’’ said Acting CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal, Phindile Makwakwa.

For more information on Africa’s Travel Indaba visit: www.indaba-southafrica.co.za

#TravelIndaba2022

Dolphins by Starlight

 

By Fred Felton | Nov 18, 2021

The annual festive season show presented by uShaka Marine World is something for you to look forward to and this year the theme is ‘’A Schrinchmas Musical.’’

Look out for dazzling Dolphins at 'Dolphins by Starlight' | Image: uShaka Marine World

The show will be on 4 nights so book early. You can look forward to plenty of music and dance as the show highlights the importance of unity, togetherness and acceptance.

You can also look forward to aquatic aerobatics from their world-famous uShaka Sea World Dolphins. It is guaranteed to warm your heart at this time of the year.

The theme of this year’s show drew inspiration from the social dynamics that South Africa has faced over the year, while we journey towards overcoming the spirit of togetherness.

‘’Dolphins by Starlight is a Christmas show like no other. It is the only show in Africa where families from all over the continent can gather and spread the Christmas spirit and enjoy our dazzling dolphins under the warm African Sky. It’s a magical show that keeps the entire family entertained from beginning to end,’’ said Ndumiso Miya, Event Coordinator, uShaka Marine World.

An all-star cast awaits you. | Image: uShaka Marine World

You can expect an all-star cast in this show which includes Rowan Bartlett, Tory Du Plessis, Lasandra Majola, Sindi Mabika, Rory Booth and you can also look out for some new talent who will be gracing the stage for the first time, including some of uShaka Marine World’s own staff.  There will be some memorable performances, celebrating what Christmas is all about and welcoming in the 2021 festive season in a lovingly and entertaining way.

Limited seats will be available and those lucky few will be able to experience the live shows from 9 - 12 December 2021 for only R199pp. So bring your blankets and jackets as the Dolphin Stadium is an open-air venue and the Durban weather as we all know, has been unpredictable at times.

 

Come enjoy this spectacle with uShaka Marine World.

 

Why not make a day of it and explore the many attractions at uShaka Marine World including Sea World, Wet n’ Wild, uShaka Kids World, Sea Animal Encounter Island, Dangerous Creatures and the Village Walk. Be sure to explore The Phantom Ship along the way.

 

Dates: 9 - 12 December 

 

Venue: Dolphin Stadium 

 

Gates open: 18:00

 

Show Starts: 19:00

 

Show Ends: 20:00

 

There are a limited number of seats available for this event, so book now at uShaka Ticketing or www.computicket.com to experience the Dolphins by Starlight Musical live.

For more information visit: www.ushakamarineworld.co.za or call 031 328 8000

Address: 1 King Shaka Avenue, Point, Durban. 

Review of the Samsung Galaxy A22

 

By Fred Felton | October 14, 2021

The Samsung Galaxy A22 is a great entry-level device for those looking to get their first smartphone device and packs an amazing amount of sophistication into a cell phone.

The Samsung Galaxy A22

This week I was invited to try out this Samsung device for myself and it certainly is impressive. The Super Amoled screen with 90Hz refresh rate will certainly dazzle your eyes. It has a 5 000mAh battery which will keep you in the game for quite some time before you need a charge. It also comes in a variety of colours including violet, mint, white and black.

The A22 has four rear cameras

“The Galaxy A22 is an impressive device at excellent value that builds on our growing Galaxy A Series portfolio”, said Justin Hume, Director: Integrated Mobility at Samsung South Africa.

Here are just some of the key features that might just impress you:

Camera

The device has four cameras on the back and a front camera for selfies.

The back cameras include an ultra-wide camera 8MP (F2.2) for those panorama shots.

The main camera boasts 48MP (F1.8), Optical Image Stabilisation (OIS).

The macro camera is 2MP (F2.4) for close-up photography and a depth camera 2MP (F2.4) which will help you if you are looking for that bokeh effect.

The front camera is 13MP (F2.2)

The A22 cameras take rich, vibrant images. | Image: Fred Felton

So for all of you photographers out there you can be guaranteed of hours of fun playing around with these cameras and deciding on which image to upload to your Instagram.

An example of the zoom feature on the camera. 

Professional photographers can also play around with the settings to get the best shot.

Memory and Storage

This is probably one of main selling points for any device besides the battery. The A22 comes with 4GB Ram and 64 GB Internal Storage. Some models can also have 4GB / 6GB Ram and 128 GB Internal Storage which will mean that you have plenty of space and if you run out of space the device has capacity for a memory card if you need one.

Processor

The device comes with an Octa-Core (Dual 2GHz and Hexa 1.8GHz) processor.

Display

This A22 comes equipped with 6.4 inch³ HD and Super AMOLED, 90Hz Infinity-U Display.

Network

This device comes with LTE and some devices are also equipped with 5G as well.

Security

The A22 has a range of security options for you from the side-mounted fingerprint detector to facial recognition, pattern codes and normal security codes so you can rest assured that nobody will be getting into your device but you.

Extras

To power up the device press and hold the side key for a few seconds. The A22 takes around 30 seconds from start-up to initialization.

The size of the device is adequate and it should fit into your pocket with no problem.

Some of the added features I noticed which did impress me was the introduction of many more ringtones which included a rich variety including classical music like Mozart to disco, tech, dance and even love songs. Notification sounds have also been given an update and there are many more nifty little sounds to choose from for those messages you need to hear.

The nifty side volume keys have become more visual with visual displays to show you the various volume settings to choose from.

The device also comes with Dolby Atmos for a richer sound experience.

Dark mode has also been included for all of your display options.

An eye comfort shield has also been introduced which limits blue light and uses warmer colours. This makes it easier to use at night as well.

Screen zoom also makes it a pleasure to read all of those messages and documents.

Although the A22 comes equipped with a 90Hz screen refresh rate you can also use the standard option with 60Hz screen refresh to save on battery.

As with all the other Samsung models this device comes with all the bells and whistles including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Flight Mode, Torch, Power Saving, QR Code scanner, Screen shot, NFC and Contactless Payment and much more.

Apps include Samsung Notes, Samsung Apps, Google Apps, Microsoft Apps, Samsung Members, Galaxy Store, Play Store, Facebook, Spotify Netflix, You Tube Music and the Samsung Game Launcher, Voice Recorder, AR Zone and even a Radio to listen to tunes.

The calendar has a much more visual appeal to it and you can even add emoticons, stickers and voice notes to a calendar entry which is a nice touch.

The calculator features a much more updated version which can calculate anything from area, length, temperature, volume, mass, data, speed, time and scientific calculations.  

Find My Mobile is a good setting to activate to ensure you never lose your device.

Final Verdict

The Samsung Galaxy A22 is great device if you are looking to get your first smartphone. It currently retails for a price of R3999. Some retailers are selling it cheaper so you might even get it at a bargain price.

If you want to score yourself an even bigger bargain you can take advantage of getting a cashback towards this device by trading in your older device with Samsung.

For more information visit: www.samsung.com/za/trade-in/

Rating

7/10