Www dec jan 2018 by Lyn G

NOT FOR SALE

IN THE ZULU KINGDOM

View mag online:

www.zulu.org.za www.whatwherewhen.co.za & www.azalea.co.za #GottaLuvKZN

CONTENTS Issue 83

CONTENTS HIGHLIGHTS.................................... 3 FAMILY FUN & ADVENTURE............. 4 FESTIVE SHOPPING........................10 DO GOLF THIS SUMMER..................14 SPOTLIGHT ON ENTERTAINMENT...16 DURBAN........................................ 20 PMB/MIDLANDS.............................27 ZULULAND.................................... 29 BATTLEFIELDS................................33 NORTH COAST................................35 DRAKENSBERG...............................37 SOUTH COAST.................................39 ELEPHANT COAST.......................... 42

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS PRODUCTION, DESIGN & LAYOUT LOGO GRAPHICS +27(0)31-564 3425 Email: lyn@azalea.co.za

EDITORIAL TEAM: Tessa Buhrmann Events: Tessa Buhrmann Entertainment: William Charlton-Perkins To advertise your events please send dates and information to: tessa@responsibletraveller.co.za

COVER: Do KZN BEACH this summer. Check out all the wonderful activities on offer in our wonderful province.

PHOTOGRAPHY: Tessa Buhrman Tourism Offices PUBLISHER / ADVERTISING Jenny Du Preez +27(0)31-564 9069 Email: jen@azalea.co.za, Web: www.azalea.co.za PRINTING: Paarl Media

View WWW - What, Where & When on www.whatwherewhen.co.za & www.azalea.co.za or visit Tourism KwaZulu-Natalâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s website www.zulu.org.za

TKZN is not responsible for the advertising content in WWW. Advertising remains entirely at the discretion of the publishers. WWW is published by Logo Graphics. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of its contents, neither the editor nor the publisher can be held responsible for any omissions or errors: or for any misfortune, injury or damages which may arise therefrom.

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SANIBONANI and Welcome to the Exceptional Zulu Kingdom

The festive season is finally here and we are excited to welcome the thousands of holidaymakers heading towards to KwaZuluNatal for their well-deserved summer holiday with their friends and family. The festive season for us is always a highlight of all the work that we have done throughout the year in promoting the province as THE must-visit destination.

PHINDILE MAKWAKWA Acting CEO of Tourism KwaZulu-Natal VIEW OUR BROCHURES ONLINE:

Accommodation Guide

Meetings Industry Guide

Explore the East3Route

Tourism Tattler

KZN Tourist Map

Travellers Tips

KZN Travel Guide

Wedding Planner

ZULU KINGDOM DESTINATION BROCHURES:

Battlefields

North Coast

Drakensberg

PMB & Midlands

Durban

South Coast

Elephant Coast

Zululand

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As KwaZulu-Natal, we have made things easier for our holidaymakers to book their accommodation and activities in a hassle free manner on a microsite available on our website. We have put together different packages tailor-made to various lifestyles and needs of our travellers. So, whether you are looking for a family beach holiday, a romantic getaway, luxury travel, safari or adventure, we have done all the ground work for you, so you can just DO KZN and enjoy your much deserved break. Holidaymakers will also be spoilt for choice of great accommodation establishments this season, some which have recently won the National Lilizela Tourism Awards for their excellent service. * Qabuleka B&B is a charming guesthouse situated in the countryside of KwaNongoma. The B&B has 7 cosy en-suite units with selfcatering options. Their family units are also available for couples with children. They offer laundry services, internet workstations, complimentary Wi-Fi and airport transfers, and tours to some of the historical attractions in the area. * Azalea B&B in the Midlands offers guests a flexible breakfast menu, access to a garden, and other amenities. Guests can take a tour of the Midlands Meander and visit Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site where South Africa’s first democratically elected president was arrested in 1962. * Westville B&B is an exclusive 5-star guest house in the heart of Westville, near Durban. Whether you are visiting Durban as a tourist, for a wedding or a sporting event, or on business or for a conference, this is a great option for the ultimate home away from home. * Hawklee Country Guesthouse offers an exceptional standard of accommodation in a quiet, tranquil setting 13km outside Nottingham Road, with the sounds of Lion’s River running past the cottages. Each cottage has spectacular views and their own private spa bath. The guesthouse offers picnics along the river for those special moments with your loved ones. * Garden Court Umhlanga, situated within the Umhlanga’s Gateway precinct and 10 minutes’ drive from King Shaka International Airport, offers convenience to holidaymakers. With a beautiful courtyard, city and sea-facing rooms to choose from, the hotel is ideal for the festive season getaway. * The Oyster Box is one of South Africa’s most celebrated 5-star hotels on Umhlanga’s beachfront, overlooking the iconic lighthouse. This hotel offers timeless elegance, a multitude

of dining options, their famous curry feast and High Tea, and an award winning spa amid tropical gardens. * The Gorge Private Game Lodge & Spa is nestled in the majestic Oribi Gorge of KZN’s South Coast. The lodge offers unsurpassed hospitality, world class service and exquisite fine dining. It also boasts a wine cellar, hiking through indigenous forests and 255 different bird species. * Nselweni Lodge is situated on the banks of the Black Mfolozi River with a superb view of the river, lush bushveld and an occasional sighting of the Big Five. It is the perfect getaway to unwind. All 8 two-bed chalets can either be booked individually or together for a large group or family. * Sodwana Bay Lodge located a near the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a mere 5km from the beach. The chalets are tastefully decorated and offer privacy and incredible views. The region boasts the famous Big 6 which includes lion, rhino, elephant, leopard, buffalo and humpback whale. Holidaymakers can enjoy a range of activities including fishing, quad biking, treasure hunts, micro light flights and scuba dives. To ensure that holidaymakers feel safe and secure in KZN, we have gone all out to ensure that our partners in law enforcement services work around the clock to ensure that the safety of our visitors is a priority. We have put up travel tips with QR codes around major hotels to assist you with information and emergency services. Our website and information offices will have all the information on all the exciting places to visit and events hosted around the province this time of the year. We urge all our holidaymakers to use registered and graded establishments whenever you visit the province to avoid any disappointments. If in doubt, please visit the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa website (www.tourismgrading. co.za). For those who have not finalized their accommodation yet, visit our website, www.zulu.org.za, where you can access accommodation bookings through Hotels.com. Browse, access and book over 100 “quality assured” products from across the province in real time. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all our tourism partners and our holidaymakers an exceptional and memorable holiday season in the Zulu Kingdom. Please follow us on social media and post your best images enjoying some activities in KZN with the #DoKZN on all our social networks, Facebook (KZNTourism), Instagram (@ tourismkzn_official), Twitter (@Tourism KZN), YouTube (KwaZulu-Natal Tourism Authority) and Pintrest (KZN Tourism) over the festive season.

DEC-JAN HIGHLIGHTS 6-31 Dec For more info on the host of sizzling SUMMER FESTIVITIES taking place on beaches on the South Coast during December see details on pg 41

31 Dec BALLITO NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY Sandra Rd, Ballito Tel: 011 326 3961

9-10 Dec CHRISTMAS PICNIC STEAM TRAIN TRIP – Creighton Station (10:00 – 15:00) Tel: 083 273 8037/ Email: Glynnis Shewan - glynnis@toocee.co.za

1 Jan WOZE DURBAN Botanic Gardens. (060 484 9611)

12 Dec 20:00 BRYAN ADAMS: GET UP WORLD TOUR – Durban ICC. (011 759 7215) 14-23 Dec THE UMHLANGA SUMMER FESTIVAL (031 561 4257) 16 Dec UMHLATUZE BEACH FESTIVAL 2017 Alkanstrand, Richards Bay www.vibezone.co.za / Tel: 011 781 7162 16 Dec COMMEMORATION OF THE BATTLE OF BLOOD RIVER Blood River Museum & Ncome Museum Tel: 072 988 3544

1 Jan UMGABABA NEW YEAR’S PICNIC featuring well-known musicians, arts and crafts stalls and more – Mnini Dam Resorts. (Book at Computicket) COMING UP IN FEB 10, 11 Feb: MIDMAR MILE. Held annually at the Midmar Dam north of Pietermaritzburg. The Midmar Mile is the world’s largest open water swimming event. www.midmarmile.co.za 15 -17 Feb: FNB DUSI CANOE MARATHON 2018. The biggest canoeing event on the African continent, and one of the world’s most popular river marathons, attracting between 1600 and 2000 paddlers each year.

18-24 and 27-31 Dec 09:00 SAPPHIRE COAST SUMMER FESTIVAL Amanzimtoti Main Beach. (031 322 2852) 22 Dec DURBAN COMEDY FESTIVAL: With Loyiso Gola, Neil Green, Nik Rabinowitz, Joey Rasdien and Richelieu Beaunoir – Gateway Hotel. (Computicket) 22 Dec-1 Jan 12:00 ALANSAAR SOUK TRADE FAIR Durban Exhibition Centre. (031 208 1601) 23-24 Dec 19:00 SOUTH AFRICAN DJ AWARDS People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium. (Book via Ticketpro) 26 Dec-1 Jan 08:00 DURBAN SUMMER BEACH FESTIVAL New Beach. (083 485 1867) 28 Dec JUST JINGER & BOBBY VAN JAARSVELD San Lameer Country Club Tel Jolanda Cloete – 039 313 0111 29 Dec - 1 Jan SMOKING DRAGON’S NEW YEAR’S FESTIVAL Amphitheatre Lodge, R74, Bergville Tel: 082 855 9767 / www.smokingdragon.org 31 Dec 18:00 FACT DURBAN ROCKS: NEW YEAR’S EVE People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium. (Computicket) www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

HOLIDAY RUNNING DAYS - TRAINS DEPART FROM KLOOF STATION DATE 08h30 12h30

17h00

Fri 15 Dec

Steam Train Trip

Santa & Carols by Candlelight

Sat 16 Dec

Steam Santa Special

Santa & Carols by Candlelight

Sun 17 Dec

Steam Santa Special

Santa & Carols by Candlelight

Fri 22 Dec

N/A

Steam Santa Special

Santa & Carols by Candlelight

Sat 23 Dec

Steam Santa Special

Santa & Carols by Candlelight

Sun 24 Dec Steam Santa Special

Steam & Diesel Santa Special

N/A

Tues 26 Dec

Diesel Train Trip

N/A

Sat 30 Dec

Diesel Train Trip

N/A

Sun 31 Dec

Diesel Train Trip

N/A

Mon 1 Jan Diesel Train Trip Diesel Train Trip (10h30) (14h30)

N/A

Sun 7 Jan

N/A

Steam Train Trip

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Steam Train Trip

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Feel The Rhythm Of Africa FREE ENTRY INCLUDES • Restaurants • Kids Play Area • Curios • View • Shield Factory

ACTIVITIES • Zulu Village and Dance • Game Drives • Reptile Park • Fear Factor Challenge • Segways COMING SOON • Toboggan Ride

Accommodation - Team Building Kids Parties - Conferences Weddings - Valley View or Bush Venue www.phezulusafaripark.co.za

GPS: -29.75416 S – 030.72328 E

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THE SHOPPING SEASON IS UPON US Prepare your senses for a world class experience at these outlets in Durban Gateway Theatre of Shopping is the ultimate fashion, leisure, entertainment and dining destination in Durban with local South African retail, popular international brands and everything in between. Entertainment for the whole family with cinema’s, IMAX Theatre, Funtubbles Family Funfair, the Wavepark, Electric Avenue bowling and Action Karting. There is an exciting line up of events including “Snow World”- a MUST DO attraction for kids of all ages…

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The Al Ansaar Souk Trade Fair: 22 Dec - 01 Jan at the Durban Exhibition Centre. The 2017/18 Fair promises to be a spectacular event with around 300 exhibitors. The Souk Trade Fair is a rich cultural experience and a must for shopaholics who will be spoilt for choice with a range of merchandise from local and global exhibitors. Local and International artists; Food/Cooking Demonstrations; Comedy festivals are just some of the reasons to attend the Fair.

The Shongweni Farmers and Craft Market: 6am -11.30 am every Saturday. If you prefer to buy local then this market is a must for you. 150 stalls offering delectable food and outstanding fresh produce. Whether it’s everyday items like bread, milk, cheese, vegetables, and meat, or the more luxurious ones like homemade cakes and pies, we owe it to ourselves to know where our food is made, grown, reared or produced. Watercrest Mall, located in the suburb of Waterfall, Durban, and embraces the slogan ’live country – shop city’ and brings all that’s good about city life right into the countryside. Enjoy a sense of laid-back luxury with over 130 stores and delectable eateries located in a friendly, warm and welcoming environment. See our ad for extended trading hours during the festive season.

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View the â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Big 7â&#x20AC;&#x2122; in our world-class game reserves and our pristine oceans. Enjoy breathtaking scenery on a Drakensberg hike or explore the sparkling Indian ocean that hugs the KZN coastline. Accommodation ranges from camping to bush lodges.

Mountain View Unit from R1 640 (2 pax per night) Garden View Unit from R1 420 (2 pax per night)

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2 bed Non Catering R1 340 (2 pax per night) 2 bed self-catering R1 560 (2 pax per night)

2 bed unit (Lower Camp) R1 280 (2 pax per night) 2 bed unit (Upper Camp) R1 440 (2 pax per night) Cottage R3 080 (4 pax per night) Lodge R4 050 (5 pax per night)

Cabin R2 400 (4 pax per night) Camping from R640 (4 pax per night)

2 bed self-catering R2 080 (2 pax per night) 2 bed non-catering R1 880 (2 pax per night) Rondavels â&#x20AC;&#x201C; R1 100 (2 pax per night) Lodge â&#x20AC;&#x201C; R6 000 (6 pax per night)

Cabin from R2 920 (4 pax per night) Camping from R760 (4 pax per night)

2 bed chalet self catering R1 640 (2 pax per night) 2 bed non catering R1 640 (2 pax per night) 4 bed chalet R2 870 (4 pax per night) 6 bed chalet R4 100 (6 pax per night) 6 bed lodge R4 980 (6 pax per night)

Cabin from R1 840 (4 pax per night) Camping R360 (3 pax per night)

Chalets from R1 400 (2 pax per night) Safari Tents R1 400 (2 pax per night) Nselweni Bush Lodge from R1 900 (2 pax per night)

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What would the festive season be without KickstArt’s annual panto? Durban’s multi awarding winning production house presents SINBAD THE SAILOR at the Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre from 1 December until 7 January. Written and directed by Steven Stead and designed by Greg King, this year’s panto is a riotous romp over the Seven Seas, in the company of the famous sailor, Sinbad, and his madcap crew and family! With sets and costumes that evoke the exotic mystery and magic of the Arabian Nights, and exciting music and dance, inspired by Bollywood, the colourful show is a must for the entire family! It stars Lyle Buxton as Sinbad, Bryan Hiles as Dame Donna Kebab, Darren King as Long John Slither, Belinda Henwood as Morgiana the Magnificent, and Amanda Kunene as Princess Marina. Also featuring Marion Loudon, Nhlakanipho Manqele and Mothokozisi Zulu. Performances are at 2.30pm Tues-Sun, 7pm Fri. No performances Christmas day or New Year’s Day. Book at Computicket: www.computicket.co.za / 0861 915 8000. Durban’s favourite funny man Aaron McIlroy reprises his collaboration with actor-director Patrick Kenny with the return by popular demand of their fun-filled 2016 family show, CAPTAIN REDBEARD AND JEFF’S GREAT CHRISTMAS ADVENTURE. McIlroy and Kenny have concocted an uproarious narrative whose off-the-wall, dumb-and-dumber style melds the joyous absurdities of the world of Roald Dahl, with a hint of the lusty antics that underpin the much-loved Pirates of the Caribbean franchise. This plays at Olive Tree Church, Florida Road, Morningside. Enjoy a delicious mix of song and physical theatre, with lots interaction for the young ones. The cast also includes a line-up of talented youngsters. Performances are on 7 December at 12h00; 8 December at 12h00 and 14h30; and from 11 December to 16 December at 12h00. Tickets are R85 per person. Book via Webtickets at selected Pick ’n Pay outlets, or online at www.webtickets.co.za. For more information, email info@webtickets.co.za or call 086 111 0005. Laugh your way to Christmas with AARON AND LISA at Tina’s Hotel in Kloof! Expect to be royally entertained as the incomparable McIlroy Bobbert comedy duo get into party mode from 18 to 24 December. Tickets are R180. Dining optional. To book for this show, or more information about the exciting range of entertainment on offer at Rhumbelow Theatre outlets, call 082 499 8636 or email roland@stansell.za.net The Playhouse Company presents A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION, a festive extravaganza in the Playhouse Opera Theatre. Directed by Ralph Lawson, the 16 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

show promises to deliver sizzle and spectacle, music and dance by a top-notch cast. The line-up features Dr Tumi, Tim Moloi, Khanyo Maphumulo, The KZN Philharmonic Orchestra, The Playhouse Dance Residency and The Playhouse Chorale. Performances are 7pm on 22 and 23 December, and 2pm on 24 December. Tickets from R80 to R120, through Computicket 0861 915 8000 or online at www. computicket.com. Alternatively call 031-369 9540 (office hours). The annual SMOKING DRAGON MUSIC FESTIVAL promises to set the Northern Drakensberg afire from 29 to 31 December 2017 with its rich array of music and a colourful crowd of interesting creative, artistic and fascinating festival-goers. At the foot of the iconic Amphitheatre a mere three hours drive from Durban and Johannesburg, Smoking Dragon takes place at one of the country’s most popular travel destinations - Amphitheatre Backpackers, a beautifully creative eco-lodge that attracts a diverse range of people from across the globe. With stages set around dams and overlooking magnificent views, Smoking Dragon is regarded as one of the most experimental music festivals in the country, offering a huge range of genres from the simplistic sounds of Gqom to the complex, syncopated rhythms of jazz and everything in between. Musicians, bands and DJ’s featured at this year’s event include Nonku Phiri, Moonchild Sanelly, Holly, Lo-Ghost, Chiano Sky and others on the Smoking Diva stage on 29 December. Then on 30 and 31 December good vibes continue which includes Desmond & the Tutus, The Kiffness, Bombshelter Beast, Southern Wild, Retro Dizzy, PHFAT, Haezer, Bittereinder, BCUC , Leeu and Weston & Engine, Hezron Chetty and the Zugzway, Funk the DJ and more. Smoking Dragon Music Festival has a gourmet food village, clean ablutions, and five zones of music. Entry to the festival, which includes the camping facilities in a general camping area or a VIP zone, are R745 and R1490 for the three days with day tickets available. For more info or to book go to www.smokingdragon.org or contact 0825512495 or 0768227508. Durban’s FRESHA FESTIVAL runs on North Beach from 19 - 21 January 2018. This free fun family al-fresco theatre festival to be staged for the second time at the end of the school holidays A varied day-time line-up of carefully-chosen participants take place on the beach-promenade and have been selected to ensure that the programme is diverse and exciting. Each production will have two 15 minutes performances over the weekend.

DO KZN BEACH RIDE THE EAST COAST WAVES OF EXCITEMENT

More than just sunshine and golden beaches, the Zulu Kingdom is the ultimate traveller’s destination. Whether you’re seeking an epic road trip, a romantic getaway, extreme adventure, a safari escape, a family beach holiday, sumptuous luxury, artisan culture, a heritage tour or much more… you gotta do KZN! So travel local, explore KwaZulu-Natal and discover all of South Africa in a single province. To find out more about the exceptional experiences you can enjoy in KZN, go to

WWW.ZULU.ORG.ZA You don’t have to break the bank Travel Local #DoKZN #GottaLoveKZN |

| E&EO. Ts & Cs APPLY.

Ithala Trade Centre: +27 (0) 31 366 7500, King Shaka Airport Office: +27 (0) 32 436 0013, V&A Cape Town Office: +27 (0) 21 418 1684, Johannesburg Office: +27 (0) 11 390 1000 Customer Care: 0860 101 099, uShaka Marine World: +27 (0) 31 816 6600, Email: info@zulu.org.za www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 17

DO KZN

EVENTS

FESTIVE SEASON EVENTS CALENDAR DATE OF THE EVENT NAME OF THE EVENT VENUE FOR THE EVENT 01 December 2017 ROOF ON TOP NIGHT MARKET Musgrave Centre Parking lot 01 December 2017 SAMTHING SOWETO Wave Cafe 01, 06 & 10 December 2017 DOM T20 HOLLYWOODBETS DOLPHINS Sahara Kingsmead Stadium VS WSB CAPE COBRA 01 December 2017- SINBAD THE SAILOR Elizabeth Sneddon Theatre 07 January 2018 01-17 December 2017 On stage: BAD FINGER TO BAD COMPANY Rhumbelow Theatre 01-31 December 2017 Christmas in Africa Talana Museum 01 December 2017 – CUBANA RICHARDS BAY PARTY Cubana Richards Bay 02 December 2017 THE SOIL ECHOES OF KOFIFI ALBUM Newcastle 02 December 2017 ITALIAN OPERA EVENING Durban Playhouse 02 December 2017 GAGASI BEACH FESTIVAL Durban Sunskit Lawns 02-03 December 2017 SUMMER BEACH TOUR FESTIVAL Scottburg Beach 02- 28 December 2017 HARVEST MUSIC FESTIVAL South Coast Beaches 02,09 & 16 December 2017 I HEART MARKET Imbizo Lawns, Moses Mabhida Stadium 03 December 2017 BMG STAINBANK CUP 15 KM/ 10 KM RUN /WALK Yellowwood Park Sports Club O6 December 2017 AMAZULU FC VS BLOEMFONTEIN CELTIC King Zwelithini Stadium 06 December 2017 OUR STORY MAGIC Playhouse theatre 06 December 2017 MARDI GRAS Margate 06- 07 December 2017 SA BEACH TENNIS TOUR Margate Beach 07 December 2017 BRAAI ARMY KZN RODA SHOW Showe Hills Golf Estate 08 – 10 December 2017 CRACKER COMEDY Zulu Theatre, Isibayo Casino 08 -13 December 2017 DOLPHINS BY STARLIGHT A FESTIVE FUSION UShaka Sea World Stadium 09 December 2017 100 PHOLA PICNIC Inanda Dam 09 December 2017 UMGIDO EXPERIENCE Port Dunford 09 December 2017 NEWCASTLE SUMMER FESTIVAL Newcastle Show Grounds 10 December 2017 BRAAI ARMY KZN ROAD SHOW St Lucia 10 December 2017 ILLOVO SUGAR 15 KM CHRISTMAS CHALLENGE Westville Athletic Club 11- 31 December 2017 SUMMER ARTZ FES Margate Beach 12 December 2017 BRYAN ADAMS CONCERT Durban ICC 10-29 December 2017 THE WARRIOR BEACH RACE South Coast Beaches 14 -23 December 2017 UMHLANGA SUMMER FESTIVAL Main Beach Umhlanga Rocks 14 December 2017 LEGEND OF R&B BRIAN MACNIGHT AND BRANDY Durban ICC 14 – 31 December 2017 THE BIG BEACH SPORT TOUR Margate Beach 15 December 2017 TINA SIMPLY THE BEST Izulu Theatre, Isibayo Casino 16 December 2017 URBAN COMEDY FESTIVAL Olive Convention centre 16 December 2017 TURTON BEACH FESTIVAL Turton beach 16 December 2017 UMHLATHUZE BEACH FESTIVAL Alkaantstrand Beach

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CONTACT 031 277 8420 Computicket / swanbay@telkomsa.net www.ticketpros.co.za Entry fee R30.00 - R100.00 031 260 2296 Tickets R120.00 - R160.00 031 205 7602 or Computicket No under 5s Child (5 to 13 years): R75.00 R150.00 info@talana.co.za Museum grounds open until 8:30pm daily www.umhlathuze.gov.za Computicket http://www.online.computicket.com www.playhousecompany.com Ticket cost - R180 For more information: 031 563 7633 ladant@dantedurban.com www.dantedurban.com Computicket R600.00: VIP area - includes seating and food. R200.00: General area Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za www.mmstadium.com 031 274 1815 / 083 384 4053 www.runnersworld.co.za www.online.computicket.com R200.00: VIP Area - includes refreshments R40.00: Men General Access R20.00: Women General Access www.playhousecompany.com www.margatebusiness.co.za Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za generaal@braaimail.com www.online.computicket.com Ushaka Park ticketing sxulu@me.com www.online.computicket.com Karabo Molokwane 071 116 3564 general@braaimail.com www.westvilleac.co.za. Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za 031 360 1000 www.icc.co.za Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za www.umhlangafestivals.co.za www.icc.co.za Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za www.online.computicket.com www.online.computicket.com 039 682 7944 www.umhlathuze.go.za

DATE OF THE EVENT NAME OF THE EVENT VENUE FOR THE EVENT 17 December 2017 KZN DRAG RACING Dezzi raceway port sheptone 17 December 2017 Summer comedy show Eshowe 19-24 December 2017 EAST COAST RADIO SUMMER FEVER Margate Beach 22 – 31 December 2017 ALANSAAR SOUK TRADE FAIR Durban Exhibition Centre 21-24 December 2017 A CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION 2017 Durban Playhouse Opera Theatre 22 -23 December 2017 3RD ANNUAL UJEHOVA UZWILE GOSPEL Imbizo Centre, Empangeni 25 – 26 December 2017 GAMALAKHE MUSIC FESTIVAL Molefe Sport field Gamalakhe 25 December 2017 XMAS CHILLAS 2017 PONGOOLA Sithambi Sport field Ground 25 December 2017 DURBAN UNDERGROUND KASI EXPERIENCE Eyadini Lounge 26 December 2017 1ST ANNUAL MNINI DAM JAZZ PICNIC FESTIVAL Mnini Dam 26 December 2017 DURBAN JAZZ FESTIVAL Hazelmere Dam, Verulam 27 December 2017 AMCOR DAM MUSIC FESTIVAL Newcastle Amcor Dam 29 December 2017 VODACOM 4 U St Michaels Beach 01 January 2018 31 December 2017 FACT DURBAN ROCKS NEWS YEAR’S EVE Moses Mabhida Stadium 31 December 2017 9th ANNUAL GOSPEL ALL STARS Durban Centrum Park 31 December 2017 DURBAN VIBES NEW YEARS Growthpoint Kings Park 31 December 2017 ASINGENE SIPHILA GOSPEL MUSIC CAMPAIGN Newcastle Show Grounds 01 January 2018 WOZE DURBAN Botanic Garden 01-02 January 2018 UMGABABA NEW YEARS PICNIC Umnini Sport Grounds Beach 20 - 21 January 2018 DRAK CHALLENGE 2018 Underberg, Mzimkulu River 28 January 2018 SANI PASS FLOWER WALK 2018 Sani Pass Road

CONTACT 039 6854100 www.online.computicket.com Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za souk@alansaar.co.za www.playhousecompany.com no children under the age of 4 will not be allowed into any of the Playhouse www.online.computicket.com R350.00: V VIP area - includes drinks, meals and stage seating R250.00: VIP area - includes drinks and meals R120.00: General area www.online.computicket.com 25 December: Suitable for all ages 26 December: NO under 18s 25 December: R170.00: Golden Circle - area closer to stage R100.00 www.online.computicket.com 0861 915 8000 Children (3 to 16 years): R60.00 Block bookings of 10 or more: R50.00 Early bird to 08h00 on 10 October: R80.00: General area ONLY Normal price: R350.00: VIP area includes snack platter and cocktails R100.00: General area admin@finestinc.co.za / djsox@finestincsa.co.za Mlungisi Shezi piyoyoml@gmail.com wanitakouture@gmail.com www.dbnjazzfestival.co.za Wanita Ngcobo 031 304 8582 Sibusiso Mkhulise 076 333 9709 www.online.computicket.com Vicky Wentzel -082 812 7944 www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za info@factsdurbanrocks.com www.factdurbanrocks.com Time: 6pm till 6am Tickets: General R300, VIP R850, VVIP R2000 |Available at Computicket Parking: People’s Park East www.online.computicket.com Early bird - valid until 30 November at 17h00. R250.00: VIP area R100.00: General area Normal prices R270.00: VIP area R120.00: General area Children under 1 year admitted free www.online.computicket.com Early bird - only a limited number of tickets available: R2500.00 Children (0 to 12 years): R250.00 only available in the GENERAL AREA Sipho Ntombela 072 212 3795 Entry fee: R200 VIP, R150 general paul.m@wozobona.com tate@tzzprod.co.za info@drak.co.za www.drak.co.za Sani Lodge Backpackers 033 7020330 083 987 3071 OR email info@sanilodge.co.za

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WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

DURBAN A warm Durban welcome to all local and international visitors! Enjoy the beach festivities and fun of this season, but whatever you do, take some time to enjoy the city to its fullest extent and experience the special charm that Durban, gateway to the Zulu Kingdom, has to offer. It is going to be a bumper festive season in Durban, as over 1.4 million visitors are expected to head for our shores to enjoy a ‘sunsational’ and memorable summer holiday. The city has continued its intensive marketing campaign to attract visitors from all over the world, with the overall message being “Sunsational Durban, 100% Pure Summer”. When planning their awesome summer experience, visitors are encouraged to head to the subtropical paradise of Durban for endless summer days, warm ocean dips and rocking events from city to eKasi (a Xhosa word for township, or neighbourhood… essentially meaning ‘a local hangout’). Venture to new hidden gems and tourism routes this holiday, spend time with the locals at popular township restaurants and get absorbed into the rich history and culture of this vibrant city at the various tourism nodes. Various new restaurants and lounges have recently been opened in the city and this will contribute positively to Durban’s economy and increase the product offerings and experiences on the East Coast. Township Tourism and eKasi Lifestyle have proven to be a ‘must do’ experience. Visit the Woza eNanda Heritage Route for its history, culture and adventure offering. You can canoe, mountain-bike, hire a quad bike or

have coffee at one of the most breath-taking spots in Durban, Wushweni - overlooking the Inanda Dam. Your experience in Durban has a warm African flavour that will touch your heart and soul wherever you visit. It’s a city that combines the perfect ingredients to make your holiday special, whether you want adventure, tranquillity, nightlife, live performances, exotic cuisine or just sun-filled days of complete relaxation on the finest beaches and hotels – the choices are endless. Enjoy this special natural paradise, take advantage of the warm Indian Ocean that’s perfect for water sports, enjoy the world-class shopping, fine dining restaurants, unique arts and culture and enjoy the magnificent beach promenade and be charmed by the warmth and sunshine smiles. Not forgetting to enjoy the line-up of the most exciting events from Umhlanga to Umlazi. Some of the highlights being: Fact Durban Rocks, Durban Jazz Festival, Woza Durban Picnic, Durban Underground, Beach Festivals and so much more! Visit www.durbanexperience.co.za, connect via twitter @DBNTourism and Facebook DBNTourism and remember to hashtag #DurbanSummer wherever you are in Sunsational Durban – 100% Pure Summer.

For more info check out the website www.durbanexperience.co.za 20 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

DID YOU KNOW? The Inanda Dam, built in 1989 primarily to serve domestic and industrial use, has a height of 65m and a surface area of 1,463 hectares when full. It is a popular destination for bass fishing, water sports, mountain biking, nature trails and offers thrilling paddling during the annual Dusi Canoe Marathon.

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DURBAN STREET MAP AND TOURIST INFORMATION & SERVICES STREET NAME CHANGES NEW NAME.............................. FORMER NAME Anton Lembede........................ Smith St Archie Gumede......................... Old Fort Place Bertha Mkhize........................... Victoria St Bertha Mkhize........................... Victoria St Braam Fischer.......................... Ordinance Rd Charlotte Maxeke..................... Beatrice St Che Guevara............................ Moore Rd Chris Ntuli................................. Old Dutch Rd David Webster.......................... Leopold St Denis Hurley............................. Queen St Dorothy Nyembe....................... Gardiner St Dr Goonam............................... Prince Edward Dr Langalibalele Dube.............. Winder St Dr Pixley Kaseme..................... West St Dr Yusuf Dadoo........................ Grey St Dullah Omar............................. Masonic Grove Esther Roberts.......................... Frere Rd Felix Dlamini............................. Brickfield Rd Florence Nzama....................... Prince Alfred Ingcuce..................................... Albert St Isaiah Ntshangase.................... Walter Gilbert Joe Slovo.................................. Field St John Zikhali.............................. Sydenham Joseph Nduli............................. Russell St Julius Nyerere........................... Warwick Av K E Masinga............................. Old Fort Rd Khuzimpi Shezi......................... Williams Road King Dinuzulu (North)............... Berea Rd (North) King Dinuzulu (South)............... Berea Rd (South) Lena Ahrens............................. Manning Rd Lilian Ngoyi............................... Windermere M L Sultan................................ Centenary Magwaza Maphalala................. Gale St Mahatma Gandhi...................... Point Rd Margaret Mncadi....................... Victoria Embankment Masabalala Yengwa.................. NMR Masobiya Mdluli........................ Fisher St Mathews Meyiwa...................... First Av & Stamfordhill Maud Mfusi............................... St Georges Monty Naicker........................... Pine St O R Tambo............................... Marine Parade Peter Mokaba........................... North Ridge & Ridge Rd Problem Mkhize........................ Cowey Road & ................................................. Edith Benson RD Naidu.................................. Stanley Copley Samora Machel........................ Aliwal Street Sandile Thusi............................ Argyle Rd Smiso Nkwanyana.................... Goble Rd Stephen Dlamini....................... Essenwood Sylvester Ntuli........................... Brickhill Road • Parks & Gardens Durban Botanic Gardens.............. 031-309 1170 AIRPORT King Shaka International ACSA Help desk........................ 032-436 6758 ACSA Info................................. 032-436 6585 Flight Info.................................. 032 436 6000 22 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

ATTRACTIONS Suncoast................................... 031-328 3000 uShaka..................................... 031-328 8000 Sibaya....................................... 031-538 2000 • Museums Durban Natural Science Museum City Hall, Smith Street.............. 031-311 2256 Open daily: 08:30 -16:00; Sun 11:00 - 16:00 Kwa Muhle Museum ................ 031-311 2223 130 Ordnance Road; Open Mon - Sat • Parks & Gardens Durban Botanic Gardens............. 031-309 1170 Guide tours available Mitchell Park............................. 031-312 2318 • Natal Sharks Board................ 031-566 0400 • Umgeni Bird Park................... 031-579 4600 • Snake Park............................. 073-156 9606 Minitown................................... 031-33 7892 CONSULATES & EMBASSIES Argentina.................................. 012-430 3527 Australia ................................... 012-423 6000 Austria...................................... 012-452 9155 Belgian...................................... 031-303 2840

British........................................ 082-234 4450 Botswana.................................. 011-403 3748 Canada..................................... 031-303 9695 Chile......................................... 031-312 8608 China........................................ 031-563 4534 Denmark................................... 031-202 9396 France...................................... 011-778 5600 Germany................................... 031-266 3920 Greece...................................... 031-301 4880 India.......................................... 031-332 7020 Lesotho..................................... 031-307 2323 Mauritius................................... 021-342 1283 Mozambique............................. 031-304 0200 Netherlands.............................. 031-266 9291 New Zealand............................ 012-342 8656 Pakistan.................................... 031-304 8836 Paraguay ................................. 012-347 1047 Portugal.................................... 031-305 7511 Seychelles................................ 011-706 8720 Spain........................................ 012-460 0123 Swaziland................................. 012-344 1910 Sweden/Norway....................... 031-207 6900 United States............................ 031-305 7600

Check out our website www.whatwherewhen.co.za and like us on

Be sure to enter our competitions and stand in line to win fantastic prizes.

MEDICAL SERVICES City-med Services.................... 031-309 1378 Ambulance................................ 10177 • Hospitals Addington ................................ 031-327 2000 Entabeni - South Ridge ........... 031-204 1300 Parklands - Hopelands............. 031-208 8181 St Augustines ........................... 031-268 5000 Westville, Spine Rd.................. 031-265 0911 Umhlanga................................. 031-560 5500 • Medical Centres..................... North Beach ............................. 031-332 6060 Gateway /Umhlanga................. 031-566 2777 Dental Centre .......................... 031-304 3000 Dental Emergency.................... 031-564 2152 POLICE Flying Squad............................. 10111 SAPS ....................................... 031-325 4259 Metro Police/Traffic................... 031-306 4422 TAXI Eagle Taxis............................... 031-337 8333 Lighthouse Cabs....................... 083-440 8650 Mozzies.................................... 031-263 0467 Umhlanga Rocks Taxi/ U-Cabs..................................... 031-561 1846 Zippy Cabs............................... 031-202 7067 HOT AIR BALLOONING Hot Air Ballooning KZN............. 083 446 9423

TOURIST INFORMATION For Tourist Information visit Tourism KwaZulu-Natal Shop A1, Treasure World, Ushaka Marine World 1 King Shaka Avenue, Durban.................031 – 816 6600 TOURISM KWAZULU-NATAL (TKZN) Ithala Trade Centre, 29 Canal Quay (signal) Road, Point, Durban............................................031 – 366 7500 DURBAN TOURISM Head Office 90 Florida Road........................................031-322 4164 Airport Office.............................................031 322 6046 uShaka Office...........................................031 337 8099 Green Hub Office......................................031 303 8476 Beach Information Office..........................031 322 4205 Gateway Office.........................................031 514 0572 Inanda Office............................................031 519 2555 ThousandHills Tourism.............................031 777 1874 Sapphire Coast Tourism...........................031 903 7498 Umhlanga Tourism....................................031 561 4257

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WHERE TO SHOP & WHAT TO DO

ART & CRAFTS

ART AFRICA UMHLANGA (031 561 1515) stocks a unique collection of African Art and craft and artifacts, some of these items include: Embroidered panels, Senegal baskets, Knitted Toys from the Karoo, Beaded Zebra & African Animals, Embroidery from the Kaross Embroidery Group, Shweshwe Angels, Yoruba Beaded Chair, Jewellery of the Tuareg and much more. For unique indigenous craft with a twist be sure to visit their shop. DURBAN ART GALLERY (Durban City Hall, 031 311 2264/9) Mon-Sat 08:30-16:00, Sun 11:00-16:00. ARTSPACE DURBAN (3 Millar Rd, off Umgeni Rd, 031 312 0793)

EVERLASTING WHOLESALE Secure parking CASH & CARRY & environment We are an importer, wholesaler and retailer who stock a wide range of beads, beading tools and accessories, fashion jewellery, cosmetics, bags, gifts, stationery, toys, household & party items. 35 Monty Naicker Street (Pine Street), Durban Tel: 031-368 2161, Fax: 031-332 0564 Email: everlasting01@telkomsa.net Shop 1C Southway Mall, 27 Titren Rd, Rossburgh Tel: 031-465 2813 Shop 17, Arbour Crossing 2 Oppenheimer Road, Umbogintwini Tel: 031-904 5410 Follow us on facebook on Everlasting Products cc and check out our website on www.everlastingproducts.co.za

VISIT THE LARGEST MOSQUE IN THE SOUTHERN HEMISPHERE You can attend the Mosque for a private tour or with your school or organization. You will be met personally by an official IPCI tour guide, who will introduce you to the basic tenets of Islam, the belief system and practices of Muslims. Free literature will be provided to tour participants.

BOOK YOUR TOUR ONLINE: www.ipci.co.za/mosquetours

Islamic Propagation Centre International www.ipci.co.za

Look, Learn, Luminate.

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ARTISAN CONTEMPORARY GALLERY (Ingrid Smith, 344 Florida Rd, 031 312 4364 or info@artisan.co.za) Mon-Fri 09:30-17:00; Sat & public holidays 09:00-13:00. Silver jewellery, ceramics, sculpture, paintings, textiles, wooden pieces and more, all handcrafted by South African artists. The Artisan Collection is a signature range of jewellery designed exclusively for the gallery by some of KZN and South Africaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s top silversmiths and jewellers. KZNSA GALLERY (166 Bulwer Rd, Glenwood, 031 277 1705, www.kznsagallery.co.za) Tues-Fri 09:00-17:00, Sat 09:00-16:00, Sun 10:00-15:00. Home of the KwaZuluNatal Society of Arts, the gallery features an exciting and ever-changing array of exhibitions by local and international artists, while the gallery shop contains an excellent selection of imaginative arts and crafts. ELIZABETH GORDON GALLERY (120 Florida Rd, 031 303 8133) Mon-Fri 08:00-16:30, Sat 09:00-12.30. Fine art by leading South African artists. Two new landscapes by Zimbabwean artist Hugh Mbayiwa are the latest addition to the gallery. AFRICAN ART CENTRE HAVE MOVED TO 15 STATION DRIVE, DURBAN. Nurturing and promoting the work of original artists and craftspeople, the gallery features a variety of high quality fine art, Zulu beadwork, ceramics and baskets. Every purchase made from the African Art Centre provides income and employment for more than 600 artists and crafters currently supported by the Centre.

Umhlanga

World famous trail runner, Ryan Sandes and Jackie Wolhuter heading back to uMhlanga by Anthony Grote

Back: Pearl Mngadi with Extreme Model Management, participating in Miss uMhlanga Centre: Fazlyn Naidoo participating in Carols Under the Stars Seated: Emily Verster with Extreme Model Management, participating in some of the quiet family activities Front: Julia Fay participating in the Millennium Stage day time beach events and some of the quiet family activities Photo by Val Adamson

UMHLANGA SUMMER FESTIVAL, 2017 14 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 23 DECEMBER The annual uMhlanga Summer Festival brings a myriad of fun-filled holiday activities to uMhlanga for the festive season. The Beach Festival runs from 14 until 23 December, so be sure to join in the fun and games on the uMhlanga Millennium Stage with daily activities planned around the main beach as well as on the stage from 10am until 2pm daily. The programme wraps up every afternoon at 1.30pm with a community beach clean up to ensure that everyone gets involved in keeping the beaches in pristine condition. The annual Miss uMhlanga Beauty Pageant takes place at 11.30am on Saturday 16 December on the Millennium Stage. Co-ordinated by Kevin Ellis and Gareth Greaves, registration is at 10.30am and the event will be on stage until 2pm. Entry to participate in the pageant is a new unwrapped toy which uMhlanga Rotary will distribute to needy children over Christmas. The ever popular uMhlanga Tourism Summer Trail Run starts as the sun rises (6am) on Sunday 17 December. and ends at Sibaya. Entries and more info at www.roag.co.za Something for the whole family to look forward to is Carols under the Stars on Wednesday 20 December 2017 from 6 - 7.30pm. This wonderful event is coordinated by Shelly McLean and the only entry fee is an unwrapped gift for charity!

For all info please bookmark www.umhlangatourism.co.za Tel: 031 561 4257 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 25

HORSE RACING Framed in the background by the many hotels of Durban’s Golden Mile, GREYVILLE RACECOURSE (031 314 1651) is situated at the bottom of Durban’s Berea and surrounds the green expanse of Royal Durban Golf Club’s championship course. 1, 8, 13, 15, 22, 26, 29 & 31 Dec 5, 10, 26 & 27 Jan SCOTTSVILLE (033 345 3405) Scottsville Racecourse is situated in Pietermaritzburg, the Capital of KwaZuluNatal and is a pleasant, scenic and easy 50 minute drive from Durban.

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN DURBAN - DEC-JAN 2-30 Dec 18:00-21:00 Christmas Lights in the Park: Christmas lights, festive sounds and entertainment with live performances and shows for the whole family, and Carols by Candlelight on 10 Dec – Wavehouse, Gateway. (Book via Webtickets) 7 Dec Felix Hlophe: The Main Side Chick is fast-paced, thrill-a-minute comedy – Olive Convention Centre, cnr Somsteu & Sylvester Ntuli roads. (Computicket) 8 Dec 16:00 Ivyson Tour with Nasty C features Hip-Hop and Rap – Wavehouse, Gateway. (Webtickets) 8-13 Dec 19:00 Dolphins by Starlight: A Festive Fusion – uShaka Marine World. (031 328 8000) 8-24 Dec 09:00-17:00 Giants of the Lost World invites children on an exciting journey back in time where they will come face to face with these giants of the past – The Atrium. (031 207 8000) 9 Dec 11:00 Durban Day Dreaming – Olivanders Estate, Shongweni. (Webtickets) 9 Dec 12:00 100% Phola Picnic: A shisanyama type event where patrons can bring picnic and camping gear and relax in the open while enjoy live music from DJs – Inanda Dam & Resorts. (072 390 7278) 12 Dec 20:00 Bryan Adams: Get Up World Tour – Durban ICC. (011 759 7215) 13 Dec 08:00 I Love Wednesdays Block Party featuring Kyle Watson and Deliriant – Tiger Tiger & Collegians. (Book at Computicket) 14 Dec 20:00 The Legends of R&B: Brian McKnight And Brandy – Durban ICC. (Book at Computicket) 14-16 Dec Loyiso Gola is Unlearning: Award-winning South African comedy star Loyiso Gola returns to Durban after a year of touring the world – Garden Court Marine Parade Hotel. (quicket.co.za or 081 519 5399) 14-23 Dec The Umhlanga Summer Festival is a multifaceted beach carnival consisting of beach and water sports as well as land activities and entertainment. (031 561 4257) 15 &16 Dec ‘Charous & Bruinous’ promises a night of non-stop hilarity – BAT Centre. (Computicket) 16 Dec 19:30 Urban Comedy Festival – Olive Convention Centre. (Computicket) 17 Dec 06:00 Umhlanga Summer Festival Trail Run/Walk: 18km, 12km or 6km – from Sibaya Casino. 26 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

18-24, 27-31 Dec 09:00 Sapphire Coast Summer Festival – Amanzimtoti Main Beach. (031 322 2852) 20 Dec Crazy Funny! Is part of the Durban Comedy Festival and features some of the city’s hottest local comedians – Gateway Hotel. (Book at Computicket) 21 Dec 19:00 Carols by Candlelight – Granada Square. 21 Dec Xmas Crackers is part of the Durban Comedy Festival, featuring one night of hilarious stand-up comedy entertainment with John Vlismas, Nik Rabinowitz, Durban’s own Jem Atkins, as well as Andrew Hughes and Mfundo Ndovela – Butler’s Restaurant, Hillcrest, 24 Old Main Road. (031 765 3850) 22 Dec Durban Comedy Festival: Headliners showcasing acclaimed local comedy icon Loyiso Gola, along with the hilariously funny Neil Green, Nik Rabinowitz, Joey Rasdien and Richelieu Beaunoir – Gateway Hotel. (Computicket) 22 Dec-1 Jan 12:00 Alansaar Souk Trade Fair – Durban Exhibition Centre. (031 208 1601) 23-24 Dec 19:00 South African DJ Awards – People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium. (Book via Ticketpro) 23 Dec 20:30 Durban Comedy Festival: Whose Line? Like the popular US TV show ‘Whose Line is it Anyway?’ this side-splitting improv comedy feast, which is hosted by SA comedy legend John Vlismas, features four top comedians making up everything on stage based on audience interaction and suggestions – Gateway Hotel. (Computicket) 25 Dec 13:00 Durban Underground Kasi Experience – Eyadini Lounge. (082 351 4688) 25 Dec 18:00 Durban Jazz Festival: Gospel – Hazelmere Dam. (Computicket)) 26 Dec Durban Jazz Festival featuring artists such as Caiphus Semenya, Bonga Maffin, Thandiswa Mazwai, Brenda Mntambo, Jaziel Brothers, Amanda Black, Simphiwe Dana and many more – Hazelmere Dam. (Computicket) 26 Dec-1 Jan 08:00 Durban Summer Beach Festival – New Beach. (083 485 1867) 31 Dec 18:00 9th Annual Gospel All Stars – Durban Centrum Park. (Computicket) 31 Dec 18:00 Fact Durban Rocks: New Year’s Eve – People’s Park, Moses Mabhida Stadium. (Computicket)

31 Dec 18:00 Durban Vibes New Year’s Eve – Kings Park Outer Fields. (Computicket) 31 Dec Welcome 2018 in style at the New Year’s Eve Civic Rewind featuring two amazing bands and a DJ – Amanzimtoti Community Hall. (081 385 4248) 31 Dec 2nd Annual KwaMakhutha NYE community party – Umkhumbi Sports Ground, 35 Bongani Nzama Ave, kwaMakhutha. (073 612 0409) 1 Jan Woze Durban – Botanic Gardens. (060 484 9611) 1 Jan Umgababa New Year’s Picnic featuring at least 15 well-known musicians taking to the stage as well as various other local artists, not to mention arts and crafts stalls and more – Mnini Dam Resorts. (Book at Computicket) 1 Jan Unyaka NYE Festival 2018 blends blistering music, epic international acts, top local headliners, future technology and psychedelic décor, providing outdoor experience that’s out of this world – Giba Gorge. (Book at Computicket) SPORT Every Saturday 08:00 Amanzimtoti Park Run: 5km run from Amanzimtoti Main Beach. 6 Dec 18:00 Trail Run Series – Giba Gorge MTB Park. (082 447 9350) 6 Dec 19:30 Soccer: AmaZulu FC vs Bloemfontein Celtic – King Zwelithini Stadium. (Book at Computicket) 6 Dec18:00 T20 Cricket: Hollywoodbets Dolphins vs Bizhub Highveld Lions – Sahara Kingsmead Stadium. 10 Dec 06:00 Road Running: Illovo Sugar 15 km Christmas Challenge – 123 Maryvale Road, Westville. (082 414 1783) 6 Jan Soccer: Uthongathi FC vs Richards Bay FC – Princess Magogo Stadium, KwaMashu. (Computicket) 20 Jan Soccer: Uthongathi FC vs Jomo Cosmos FC – Princess Magogo Stadium, KwaMashu. (Computicket) 12 Jan 13:30 T20 Cricket: Dolphins vs VKB Knights – Sahara Kingsmead Stadium. 19 Jan 13:30 T20 Cricket: Dolphins vs Warriors – Sahara Kingsmead Stadium. 25 Jan 13:30 T20 Cricket: Dolphins vs Bizhub Highveld Lions – Sahara Kingsmead Stadium.

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

PIETERMARITZBURG

MIDLANDS

There’s much to keep you busy this summer in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Walk through farmlands and forests, cycle across the rolling hills, and explore country lanes. This is where quaint coffee shops and morning markets come to life, and a wealth of creative studios offer everything from life-size bronze sculptures and wrought iron homeware to intricate glass beads fashioned with care.

This region, rich with lakes, dams and waterfalls, is a fly fisherman’s dream – add to that nature reserves and forests and you’re set for a variety of outdoor adventure activities. From trail running and hiking, to mountain biking, horse riding and paddling – you’ll find your chosen activity here. The Karkloof Canopy Tour offers adrenalin junkies a rush as you whizz past towering trees, cliff faces dotted with orchids, and over a pristine forest floor… and hot-air ballooning enables you to view it all from above. If you’re a water sport enthusiast, be sure to head to Midmar Dam where the vast shimmering waters are a popular venue for windsurfing, sailing, boating, canoeing and fishing. And if bass fishing is your thing, the Albert Falls Dam is rated as one of the best bass fishing spots in the country. Pick up a Midlands Meander map and explore some of the routes offering visitors easy directions to a wealth of fabulous cuisine, historic landmarks, artist studios and ‘shop till you drop’ opportunities to find that perfect gift. And talking of gifts, at this time of year there are a number of Christmas markets selling everything from hand-made

gifts and crafts, to fresh produce and décor. Every Saturday and Sunday you can browse the Christmas Gift Exhibition in Howick, or check out the Baynesfield Christmas Fair (3rd December) and the Dunrobin Christmas Market (8th December). From an activities and entertainment point of view you won’t be disappointed, check out the diary for details on the Christmas night trail, and a variety of musical events and comedy shows. Be sure to pop in to the Mandela Capture Site to view the remarkable sculpture that marks the place where former president, Nelson Mandela, was captured. Alongside the sculpture is a temporary exhibition telling the story of Nelson Mandela’s journey from comrade, leader, prisoner and negotiator, to statesman. And if you’re just passing through, be sure to stop in at the Midlands Kitchen, located just off the N3 near Nottingham Road. Here you will find a collection of 15 restaurants creating wonderfully fresh artisan food from locally sourced produce - just what you need when journeying through this wonderful region… and maybe decide to stay and explore.

DID YOU KNOW? The first flock of sheep to arrive at the Nottingham Road settlement was in 1866, when hardy adventurers arrived at the end of a thousand-plus kilometre overland journey from the Cape Colony! This addition to the menu greatly pleased the local San people, who were adept at stock theft and had managed to outwit the English Army. This resulted in the lethal 1869 Reprisal, launched from Fort Nottingham, that finally turned the ‘frontier war’ in the settlers’ favour… this was just nail in the San’s collective coffin.

For more info check out the website www.midlands.kzn.org.za www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 27

MIDL ANDS M AP & TOURISM OFFICES HUCTO - Howick-Umngeni Community Tourism Organisation Tel: 033-330 2355 Cell: 0829327549 E-mail: howickinfo@gmail.com MSUNDUZI PIETERMARITZBURG TOURISM ASSOCIATION Tel: 033 345 1348 E-mail: events@pmbtourism.co.za MIDLANDS TOURISM ORG Tel: 033 330 2355 E-mail: tour.ed32@gmail.com THE MIDLANDS AMBLE Tel: 082 300 0147 E-mail: erskines@vodamail.co.za

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN IN THE MIDLANDS DEC-JAN Every Saturday: 06H00 - 10H00 Pietermaritzburg Farmer’s Market – Alexandra Park behind Harry Gwala Stadium. Tel: Mike on 082 886 0687 07H00 – 10H00 Karkloof Farmers’ Market – 26km from Howick off the Karkloof Road. Access gained off the D507. Tel: Andrea 082 820 8986 Every Saturday & Sunday in December: Christmas Gifts Exhibition – St John’s Village Lifestyle Centre, Karkloof Rd, Howick Tel: 033 3304118 8 -9 Dec: Festive Christmas Market, Dunrobin Garden Centre, 31 Warwick Rd, PMB. Tel: 082 847 4939 9 Dec: Vintage Baynesfield Christmas Market – Baynesfield Estate Walk a Mile 2017 (Black Tie Charity Event) – Cityscape Conference Centre, Pietermaritzburg. Tel: Linda 073 578 2495 6th Annual Music & Dance – Winston Theatre, Pietermaritzburg Tel: 072 060 2562 10 Dec: Hilton’s Posh Market - Protea Hotel Hilton, 1 Hilton Avenue, PMB 15 Dec: Throwback to Love Tour – Golden Horse Casino, 45 New England Rd, Pietermaritzburg. Tel: 033 395 8000

16 Dec: Peters Gate Craft Market – Peters Gate Herbal Centre, Lidgetton. Tel: 076 412 1320 17 Dec: The Great British Pub Nite – The Rhumbelow Theatre, Pietermaritzburg Tel: 082 499 8635 31 Dec: 2018 New Year’s Bash – Mountain View Entertainment Centre, Raisethorpe, Pietermaritzburg Tel: 033 940 0155 / 076 985 4303 14 January Chad Jubber Live At SAKI – Saki, 157 Victoria Rd, Pietermaritzburg. Tel: 033 342 6999 10, 11 Feb: Midmar Mile. Held annually at the Midmar Dam north of Pietermaritzburg. The Midmar Mile is the world’s largest open water swimming event. www.midmarmile.co.za 15 -17 Feb: FNB Dusi Canoe Marathon 2018. The biggest canoeing event on the African continent, and one of the world’s most popular river marathons, attracting between 1600 and 2000 paddlers each year.

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MIDLANDS MEANDER ASSOCIATION Tel: 033 330 8195 E-mail: info@midlandsmeander.co.za NOTTINGHAM ROAD TOURISM AND INFORMATION CENTRE Tel: 033 266 6308 E-mail:notts@bundunet.com ZULU MPHOPHOMENI TOURISM EXPERIENCE Tel: 082 228 2044 E-mail: frank@zmte.co.za

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

ZULULAND Feel the hot African sun, experience the vibrant Zulu culture, gaze upon the cobalt blue Indian Ocean and walk through indigenous forests. This is Zululand, fondly known as the ‘place of the people of heaven’ and the ‘heartland of the Zulu nation’. It is an area pulsates with the sounds of traditional villages, a place where you will enjoy the wide welcoming smiles extended to you by the local people, a place of unforgettable wildlife adventures, traditional Zulu culture and heartfelt hospitality. Start your Zululand adventure in the pretty village of Mtunzini, home to the rare Palmnut vulture, the Raffia Palm Monument and the Umlalazi Nature Reserve. Activities include boating, canoeing and fishing on the lagoon, bird watching, as well as walking through the pristine coastal forest and mangrove swamps. Take the easy walk through the mangrove swamp near the main parking area, and besides great examples of black and white mangrove, you get to walk past Dunn’s Pool – a man-made ‘bathing area’ dug out of the banks of the Mlalazi River, safe from crocodiles and hippos. John Dunn was a legendary hunter, trader and the white chief of Zululand. Follow the Zululand Heritage Route, known as Route 66, for greater insight into the history of the region. The Fort Nongqayi Museum Village in Eshowe covers a wide range of local interests, from natural history to missionary history, and from wars between kingdoms to battles against the tsetse fly. Along the route one can experience Zulu culture and hospitality first hand at Shakaland

or Simunye Zulu Village – be greeted with traditional dance, learn the culture and sip on Zulu beer… and then pop into a roadside market for fresh fruit and locally made curios. The Mtonjaneni Zulu Historical Museum has an exceptional display of artifacts from the Anglo Zulu War, and from here a guided tour of King Dingane’s Spring can be undertaken. Delve further into Zulu history and culture as you travel along this route through Ulundi and Nongoma towards the game reserve rich area of Pongola. If you choose to stay coastal, then be sure to include the Richards Bay area for its pristine beaches, sailing, kayaking and deep sea fishing. The popular swimming beaches are Alkanstrand and Newark Beach. There are a number of popular fishing beaches and a day’s deep sea fishing can be enjoyed aboard a private fishing charter – be sure to include a sunset harbour cruise to your itinerary followed by cocktails on the Tuzi Gazi Waterfront.

DID YOU KNOW? While on a hunting trip to Zululand, John Dunn met Cetshwayo (who was to become king), and because of his British connections was asked to become his advisor. He accepted and was made chief of the fertile coastal area stretching from the Thukela River to the Mhlatuze River in the north, where he increasingly adopted the culture and customs of the Zulu, having 48 Zulu wives and 117 children! He is buried on his farm Emoyeni outside Mtunzini.

For more info check out the website www.zululand.kzn.org.za www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 29

MUST DO... ZULULAND Thula Thula - this private game reserve, with its stylish décor and superb cuisine offers a very unique and different experience. It is home to a wide variety of game like elephant, buffalo, rhino, leopard, giraffe and birds. Thula Thula has centuries of cultural and wildlife heritage, and was once the private hunting grounds of King Shaka, founder of the Zulu Empire. The first historic meeting between Shaka and his father, which set the stage for the creation of the Zulu nation, took place at Thula Thula, which means peace and tranquillity. A trip to Thula Thula gets visitors up close with the elephant herd immortalised in Lawrence Anthony’s bestselling books, but that is not all…from French Cuisine to cutting edge conversation, this is a destination with so much to give! The Thula Thula Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is an exciting joint venture, created in partnership with Thula Thula Game Reserve, Fundimvelo Community Conservation Trust and international animal welfare organisation FOUR PAWS, for the purpose of rescue, care and protection of wildlife, conservation education and community involvement. Previously called the Thula Thula Rhino Orphanage, dramatic events which took place on the 21st of February this year caused the project to enter under its former management. The facility has now reopened under the auspices of the Thula Thula game reserve management and administration to take in all injured and orphaned wildlife to treat & care for them and rehabilitate them back into the wild.

Only 2 hours from Durban and 45 minutes from Richards Bay. Experience the best Safari and finest cuisine at the oldest Private Game Reserve in Zululand.

DAY VISITORS PROGRAMME

Game drive and lunch, or breakfast or dinner, with the option of Zulu village, Champagne lunch picnic in the bush

Booking essential Call 082 259 9732 or 073 266 8577 Email: info@thulathula.com www.thulathula.com

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MUST DO... ZULULAND Advantage Tours St Lucia now also offers Whale Watching trips from Richards Bay. Come and view whales from as close as 50 meters on our new custom built Whale Watching vessel. Weather permitting Advantage Cruiser operates in Durban, St Lucia, Sodwana Bay or Richards Bay. www.advantagetours.co.za Every weekday, Saturday & Sunday peak season 10h00 and 12h00. Advantage Cruiser. Mtonjaneni Lodge – A GIFT TO THE vALLEY The Lodge is located in the lush farming district of Melmoth with easy access to a number of Zulu cultural, historical and battlefield sites. Tours to the nearby Game reserves. With breathtaking views the Lodge is a superb wedding and conference venue UpcomingEvents 2 Dec - Christmas Market and colour fun run 25 Dec - Christmas Lunch (booking essential) 035 4500904 www.mtonjnenilodge.co.za

On R34 Halfway between Melmoth and Ulundi Tel: 035 450 0904/ 5 info@mtonjanenilodge.co.za www.mtonjanenilodge.co.za

& COLOUR FUN RUN SAT 2 DECEMBER 2017 9h00 -15h00 Charity benefitting is Koningsdal Childrens Home • • • • • •

Art and Handmade Gifts, crafts Homebaked Christmas Cakes, clothing, jewellery, interior items, Plants. Jumping Castle All day meals and Tea Garden Live music Farm Animals/ Horse Riding for Kids Colour Fun Run: 9h00 1 km, 3 km (Family packages available) Register Early. Kaleidoscope of FUN

25 DEC: CHRISTMAS LUNCH AVAILABLE (Booking Essential) *Accommodation*Conferences*Wedding Chapel*Museum*

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TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES ZULULAND DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY Tel: 035 870 1130 | 035 874 5500 E-mail: ztourism@zululand.org.za www.zululandtourism.org.za ULUNDI TOURISM Tel: 072 748 4250 | Fax: 035 874 5831 PAULPIETERSBURG TOURISM Edumbe Local Council Tel: 034 995 1650 X229 Fax: 034 995 1192 VRYHEID TOURISM Abaqulusi Local Council E-mail: information@abaqulusi.gov.za Tel: 034 982 2133 X2229 Fax: 034 982 3497 NONGOMA TOURISM Nongoma Local Council Tel: 035 831 7517 | Fax: 035 831 3153 Cell: 079 936 5163 UPHONGOLO TOURISM Tel: 034 413 1223 | Fax: 034 413 1706 | Cell: 084 728 8974 E-mail: senzokk@webmail.co.za

UTHUNGULU DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY P/Bag x 1025, Richards Bay 3900 Tel: 035 799 2500 Fax: 035 7898176 E-mail: tourism@uthungulu.co.za Website: www.uthungulu.org.za UMHLATHUZE TOURISM Richards Bay/Empangeni Tel: 035 907 5018 Fax: 035 907 5000 E-mail: rbtour@uthungulu.co.za UMLALAZI TOURISM Eshowe/Mtunzini Tel: 035 473 3474 Fax: 035 474 4733 E-mail: ronel@umlalazi.org.za Website: www.umlalazi.org.za | www.visitzululand.co.za MTHONJANENI TOURISM ASSOCIATION Melmoth Tel: 035 450 7572 Fax: 035 450 7572

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN DEC-JAN Daily Fort Nongqayi Museum Village, Eshowe - Zululand Historical and Vukani Zulu Cultural Museums, KZN Papermakers (paper from sugar cane), Beautiful Things Gallery, Restaurant, newly opened Eshowe Butterfly Dome. All tours guided. Tel 035 474 2281 or 035 464 5274. Dlinza Forest Aerial Boardwalk and forest trails with qualified Birding Guides. Contact Mrs Shelley Stuart 035 474 4029. E-mail eshoweboardwalk@telkomsa.net Every weekend (subject to availability) Golf and Beer Weekends - Eshowe. www.zulublonde.com

32 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

Every third week of every month for 4 days Royal Nguni Cattle Sale and Mona Market, Nongoma 2 Dec MTONJANENI LODGE ANNUAL CHRISTMAS MARKET - Mtonjaneni Lodge, on R 34,(R66) halfway between Melmoth & Ulundi. Rina 035-450 0904/5 7 Dec THE BRAAI ARMY ROAD SHOW – Eshowe Hills Eco & Golf Estate, Eshowe Tel: 035 473 5000 16 Dec UMHLATUZE BEACH FESTIVAL 2017 – Alkanstrand, Richards Bay www.vibezone.co.za / Tel: 011 781 7162

22 Dec 3RD ANNUAL UJEHOVA UZWILE GOSPEL AND MOTIVATION EVENT – Imbizo Conference Centre, Empangeni Email: ujehovauzwilegospel@gmail.com 29 Dec RBAY WEEKEND – Richards Bay Tel: 082 956 6775 11 Dec ASIPHEPHE MUSIC FESTIVAL Ulundi. Tel: 061 784 4269

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

BATTLEFIELDS With its picturesque landscapes of rolling plains, rocky hills and undulating valleys it’s hard to imagine the battles that were fought and the hardships endured. This region, with more recorded battlefields than anywhere else in Africa, is the place to discover another facet of the battles fought between Zulu, Brit and Boer. This is where Shaka, Winston Churchill, Mahatma Gandhi and General Louis Botha once walked, and where the death of the Prince Imperial of France saw the end of the last Napoleon. For those with specific interest in the battles that took place in the region, there are a number of significant battles to remember at this time of year. The Battle of Blood River, which culminated on the 16th of December 1838, was a battle between the Zulus and the Boers - so named because the waters of the Ncome River flowed red with the blood of slain Zulus. The Battle of Isandlwana was the first major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War between the British Empire and the Zulu Kingdom, and took place on the 22nd of January 1879 (this is being commemorated with a re-enactment at the battle site), and the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, which took place later that same day and into the evening. Others were the worldfamous 118-day Siege of Ladysmith by Boer forces (2 November 1899 to 28 February 1900), the Battle of Colenso which took place on the 15th of December 1899, the Battle of Spioenkop on the 24th of January 1900, as well as the Battle of the Thukela Heights (12 to 28 February 1900), which was, until WW2, the biggest battle fought by the British in Africa. The Spioenkop Battlefield has been described as one of the best-preserved battlefields in the world and boasts having three future world figures present during

the battle - Louis Botha, who became South Africa’s first Prime Minister and helped to draft the constitution of the League of Nations (later the United Nations), Winston Churchill, and a young Indian stretcher bearer named Mohandas Gandhi – later the Mahatma. For those pressed for time, a visit to the Talana Museum in Dundee gives an overview of the battles of the region. And at this time of the year the museum grounds are open into the evening for visitors to enjoy the magnificent display of Christmas lights in the grounds – bring a picnic and enjoy an evening with a difference at the museum. The one-day hiking trail through the Vryheid Hill Nature Reserve not only gives you the opportunity of looking out for a number of endemic bird species, including the blue cane, ground woodpecker and olive bushshrike, but passes several gun points dating back to the Anglo-Boer War. Another town with nature literally on its doorstep is Utrecht. KZN’s ‘town within a game park’ is unique as it lies within the confines of the Balele Game Park. It is not unusual to see duiker or the occasional impala frequenting the gardens that line the streets.

DID YOU KNOW? The Ncome River (Blood River) has its source in the hills near Utrecht and is a tributary of the Buffalo River which flows into the uThukela River. The Ncome River Vlei is one of the biggest inland wetlands in South Africa and is a wintering place for a variety migratory water birds.

For more info check out the website www.battlefields.kzn.org.za www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 33

TOURIST INFO OFFICES IN THE BATTLEFIELDS UTRECHT

AMAJUBA DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY Tel: 034 329 7200 E-mail:tourism@amajuba.gov.za Newcastle Office Tel: 034 315 3318 E-mail: info@newcastle.co.za Utrecht Museum Tel: 034 331 3249 E-mail: utrechtmuseum@jenny.co.za

DUNDEE TOURISM Tel: 034 212 2121x2262 E-mail: info@tourdundee.co.za GREYTOWN MUSEUM Tel: 033 413 9124

UMZINYATHI DISTRICT MUNICIPALITY Tel: 034 219 1500 E-mail: tourism@umzinyathi.gov.za Msinga Office Tel: 033 493 0761 E-mail: buthelezim@msinga.gov.sa

UTRECHT TOURISM Gerhardt Smook (Vise-Chairperson) Cell:082 856 2973 Email: gerhardt@nuwebegin.org Marissa Venter (Secretary) Cell:082 782 7552 Email: oppieplaas@live.co.za

BATTLEFIELDS ROUTE Tel: 082 802 1643 route@battlefields.org.za

LADYSMITH TOURISM Tel: 036 637 2992 E-mail: info@ladysmith.co.za

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN BATTLEFIELDS: DEC-JAN 1-31 December Christmas in Africa (extravaganza of Christmas lights throughout the grounds of the Talana Museum, open until 20h30 daily) – Talana Museum, Victoria St, Dundee Tel: 034 212 2654 1 December Sounds of Music (an open air music programme and the switching on of the Christmas lights) - Talana Museum, Victoria St, Dundee. Tel: 034 212 2654 2 December Moonlight Tour of Talana Battlefields – Talana Museum, Victoria St, Dundee Tel: 034 212 2654 Braytons Christmas Market - 56 Gray St, Dundee. Pam – 034 212 4082 8 December The Braai Army Road Show – Vryheid Golf Club, 21 President St, Vryheid Tel: 034 981 3081 9 December Christmas Picnic & Carols By Candlelight – Blanerne Farm, Elandslaagte. Organised by: Farm to Fork / Tel: 083 231 1103 16 December Commemoration of the Battle of Blood River – Blood River Museum & Ncome Museum Tel: 072 988 3544 Glencoe Street Market – Glencoe Pieter – 084 236 8060 / Daleen 072 565 9423 Somgubha Festive Spin Bash – Lambert Park, Estcourt. Tel: 079 850 1449 Date to be confirmed Battle of Isandlwana Commemoration – Isandlwana Tel: Talana Museum – 034 212 2654 34 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

CARNEGIE ART GALLERY (Newcastle Municipality CBD Tuesday-Friday The contemporary collection of art reflects the diverse cultural, social and political experience that has shaped the country. It includes paintings, sculptures, ceramics, fibre art, beadwork, weaving and wooden carvings by critically acclaimed South African artists. The gallery holds regular temporary exhibitions and has an active outreach programme. It organises workshops on a variety of practical artistic skills. Every quarterly we have Art Craft Fair for sale and variety of Music. NEWCASTLE MUNICIPALITY Carnegie Art Gallery, Voortrekker Street (behind Standard Bank) Newcastle Phumzile Dlamini-Curator/Eric KubhekaMuseum Assistant 034 328 7622 Email: gallery@newcastle.gov.za | Website: www:carnegie-art.co.za

0900 -17 00 Saturday 0900-12 30

CARN EG I E ART GALLERY

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

NORTH COAST Come and celebrate summer on the Zulu Kingdom’s Dolphin Coast! This region is popular for its sunny beaches, warm waters and fun-filled holidays. This shoreline offers a perfect combination of golden beaches and sheltered coves for perfect beach fun… sun, surf, fishing, horseback beach rides or snorkelling – and is a playground for the bottlenose dolphins which can be seen frolicking in the waters close to shore all year round. Holiday time on the North Coast is all about the fun of being outdoors and enjoying the sunshine. And no holiday is complete without enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean – from the exhilarating surf breaks, to paddling in the shallows with the kids, exploring the rocky shores, or relaxing on golden beaches. Ballito, the region’s largest town, has a number of excellent swimming beaches as well as a scenic boardwalk. Not only can you enjoy fabulous walks and great views, but the more energetic can hike all the way to Salt Rock for even more spectacular views. This hike takes you through a tunnel which is best attempted at low tide. Popular swimming beaches are Willard Beach and Clarke Bay. Salmon Bay is popular with the surfing crowd, whilst the Ballito Tidal Pool remains a firm favourite for families with kids. Shaka’s Rock is a small residential village with a wonderful stretch of sandy beach and an inviting tidal pool bordered by rocky cliffs. Salt Rock offers great snorkelling and spearfishing. All the way along this coastline are fabulous beaches, some quiet and peaceful with the tranquil sounds of nature and the crashing of the ocean, others lively with children’s play areas, water sports and sometimes entertainment. Suffice it to say, visitors

to the region are spoilt for choice when it comes to beaches! Beyond the beach, keen golfers will appreciate the sweeping fairways of Umhlali’s golf course at the Umhlali Country Club, the beautiful setting of Prince’s Grant, and the internationally designed golf course at Zimbali. Adventurous activities abound within a few minutes of the seafront, along with crocodile and animal farms for the curious-minded. River quad biking trails, horse riding, coastal microlight trips, beach and off-shore angling are just some of the memorable holiday encounters available. Still need to do some Christmas shopping? Check out the weekly Sugar Rush Saturday Market, the Litchi Orchard Farmers’ Market (9th December) or the annual Chantilly Christmas Market (2nd December) in the country village of Darnall for beautifully handcrafted gifts, art and crafts, as well as delicious food and live entertainment. Alternatively, shop till you drop at one of the up-market Ballito shopping malls. Holiday festivities in Ballito include the Beer Brandy & Braai Festival and the Litchi Orchard Rum Fest (both on the 16th December), as well as its popular New Year’s Eve Party.

DID YOU KNOW? The litchi trees at the popular Litchi Orchard are around 100 years old! This tropical tree, Litchi chinensis, is native to China and have been known to South Africa since around 1875. This deliciously juicy and sweet fruit is synonymous with summer holiday as it generally fruits from early December to mid-January.

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W H A T, W H E R E & W H E N - D E C - J A N North Coast Tourism Offices SANGWENI TOURIST INFORMATION CENTRE Tel: 072 437 5183 Email: sphelelen@kwadukuza.gov.za KWADUKUZA TOURISM Tel/Fax: 032-437 5021/5183 Email: sphelelen@kwadukuza.gov.za Daily Microlight flights in Ballito - Ballito Microlight School Bookings essential Tel: 082 659 5550 Take the kids to Flag Farm Animal Farm (Ballito) - Daily from 09H00 to 16H30. N2 North, Exit 214 Umhlali/Salt Rock. Then follow the road signs to Flag Farm Every Saturday Sugar Rush Saturday Market – Sugar Rush Park, Ballito Email: gill@sugarrush.co.za 1-2 December LITCHI PARTY 2017 – Living Earth, Ballito www.litchiparty.co.za 2 December & 6 January Foodies Market – Ballito Lifestyle Centre, Ballito Tel: 032 946 8540 2 December Zulu Ninja Race (MTB,Trail Run, & OCR) – Holla Trails, Sugar Rush Park, Ballito www.zuluninjarace.co.za Locnville Live – Hot Shots Nightclub, Tongaat

Tel: 072 913 7798 Chantilly Christmas Market - Chantilly Resort, Darnall Tel: Greg 083 640 0021 / Email: bookings@ chantillyresort.co.za 9 December Ballitofest: Blarney Brothers – Sound Café, 5 Garlicke Drive, Ballito Tel: 032 492 0088 Arts & Crafts Exhibition – Shapes of Africa, 4 Bond St, Mount Moreland Tel: Wendy 082 432 5513 16 December Ballito’s Beer, Brandy & Braai Festival – Old North at Karibu, Umhlali www.braaiarmy.com / Tel: Melanie 032 947 0520 Miss & Mr Dolphin Coast 2018 – Ballito Junction, Leonora Drive, Ballito Tel: 032 586 1130 The Litchi Orchard Rum Fest – The Litchi Orchard, Seaforth Ave, Umhlali Tel: 032 525 5118 30 December I HEART Market North – Blythedale Event Bowl, Blythedale Beach www.iheartmarket.blogspot.com 6th Annual Thokoza Street Shutdown – Sundumdili, Mandini Tel: 078 322 8069 31 December Ballito New Year’s Eve Party – Sandra Rd, Ballito Tel: 011 326 3961

FOOD FOR LIFE KWADUKUZA would like to thank all sponsors and volunteers who have made our feeding project attainable this year through the efforts of many individuals we have managed to feed over 300 000 [three hundred thousand] meals to the underprivileged this year. To run this voluntary project it costs our branch over R1.1 million which is not attainable without donations from corporates and individuals • Collect day old vegetables, food stuff & canned food to supply us THE CHIEF ALBERT LUTHULI MUSEUM is a national legacy project located in Groutville in KwaDukuza. A visit to the museum is a once in a lifetime and humbling experience, that fills one with awe and inspiration…. Established as a cultural institution the museum is charged with conserving, upholding, promoting and propagating the life, values, philosophies and legacy of the extraordinary South African leader, Chief Albert Luthuli. He set the standard for peace, humanity, equality and non-racism on the African continent. Under the apartheid regime most correspondence and literature generated by Chief Luthuli was banned, confiscated or located outside South Africa, at the time of the Luthuli Museum’s inauguration, the only surviving artefact on site was the physical home of Chief Luthuli. This has allowed the Luthuli Museum to engage in a new museology concerned as 36 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

much with memory and the intangible as with more conventional museum artefacts. Since its formation, the Luthuli Museum has subsequently been involved in a rigorous process of collecting and repatriating oral histories, photographs, paintings, documents and other artefacts to assist with developing knowledge about the Legacy of Chief Luthuli and the Liberation Struggle in South Africa. Take the time to walk through the original 1927 home of Chief Albert Luthuli where he met top ANC leaders like Nelson Mandela in secret. Take the time to listen to his speech made in 1961 in Oslo, Norway when he accepted the Nobel Peace Prize & became the first African to receive this prestigious award. In 2010 the Luthuli Museum celebrated 50 years since Chief Albert Mvumbi Luthuli received the Nobel Peace Prize Chief Albert Luthuli. “Let the spirit of Luthuli speak to all.”

• Sponsor cash/eft to our office (032 552 4232) • Help distribute meals on a weekly basis to local communities • Help feed thousands of underprivileged children by signing a monthly debit order • Arrange with corporate companies to donate and help prepare meals on the big feed dates To donate for festive season feeding: FOOD FOR LIFE BANK DETAILS Name: FOOD FOR LIFE ASSOCIATION INCORPORATION Bank: NEDBANK DURBAN Account number: 1073713261 CODE: 198765 Please use phone number as reference 2018 big feed dates • 17 March 2018 – Rise to the occasion • 19 May 2018 – Fasting for humanity • 18 July 2018 – Mandela day

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

UKHAHLAMBA

DRAKENSBERG

Summer is a glorious time in the KwaZulu-Natal Drakensberg, with the mountains resplendent in their shades of green. This mountain range, named ‘Ukhahlamba’ by the Zulu people and ‘The Dragon Mountain’ by the Dutch Voortrekkers, forms an enormous barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho. It is a treasure trove of biological diversity and with its massive cliffs towering over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, well deserves its international status as a World Heritage Site. Enjoy one of the many hiking routes on both lower and upper slopes - there are a large number of marked trails, from short ambles through indigenous fern forests, to more strenuous full day hikes traversing rivers and hillsides, to full-on adventuring. Be aware that thunderstorms are common during the summer months, and although accidents are rare, be sure to complete the Mountain Rescue Register prior to setting off, even for a day walk. Part of each entry fee goes towards the invaluable emergency search and rescue service provided by volunteers of the Mountain Club of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal Section. For flower lovers, the Sani Pass Wild Flower Walk taking place in January is ideal, but be sure to have your passport handy for entrance into Lesotho. There are a number of permanent, mapped trails for mountain biking enthusiasts to enjoy, and paddlers will appreciate the recent rains and the faster flowing rivers – the Drak Challenge 2018 in Underberg (in January) is a popular event. Serious athletes can enter the technically challenging FAST Drak Challenge, a 65km event on the Umzimkhulu River in Underberg. The Central and Northern Drakensberg tourism nodule, is likened to a wheel with a number of separate valleys emanating from its hub. Each has its own magnificence, beauty and unique attributes, from the

famous Amphitheatre, featuring the world’s second highest waterfall in the north, to Giant’s Castle, famous for the Bushman rock art depicted in Main Cave to the south. Sandwiched between these two, Cathedral Peak has spectacular scenery and the Cathkin/Champagne Valley, with its abundance of accommodation options and variety of activities, is also a hiker’s dream. Adventures range from adrenalin pumping ‘escapades’ such as white water rafting, mountain biking and canoeing, to horse riding and golf, or just ‘chilling’ at the winery. Music lovers will enjoy ‘Christmas in the Berg’ which takes place annually on the campus of the Drakensberg Boys Choir School in the Champagne Castle area over a weekend in December. There is also a wonderful Christmas market with plenty local crafts and goodies for sale. The four-day Smoking Dragon’s New Year Festival, with its variety of acts over different stages is sure to be a hit. The Central Drakensberg Information and Booking Centre, reputed to be one of the best nationally, remains the main information ‘dispenser’ ensuring that visitors to the region are equipped with all the necessary knowledge to ensure theirs is an unforgettable holiday.

DID YOU KNOW? The Drakensberg is one of 20 UNESCO World Heritage Sites to have achieved this status on two accounts – its wealth of rock art (cultural) and exceptional natural beauty and diversity of habitat (natural) – and is one of the world’s most important examples of an erosional mountain range.

For more info check out the website www.drakensberg.kzn.org.za www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018 37

DR AKENSBERG TOURISM OFFICES CENTRAL BERG CENTRAL DRAKENSBERG INFO & BOOKING CENTRE Tel: 036 488 1207 cdta@futurenet.co.za DRAKENSBERG TOURISM ASSOCIATION Tel: 036 448 1557 info@drakensberg.org.za OKHAHLAMBA DRAKENSBERG TOURISM Tel: 036 448 1296/448 1244 info@drakensberg.org.za SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG TOURISM Tel: 033 701 1471 Email: info@drakensberg.org www.drakensberg.org ALL AREAS - KZN WILDLIFE Tel: 033 845 1011 MOUNTAIN CLUB OF SOUTH AFRICA KZN SECTION Tel: 082 990 5877 mcsakzn@mcsa.org.za KWASANI TOURISM Tel: 033 701 1471 Email: info@drakensberg.org, tourism@kwasani.co.za

Helicopter flights and charters around the Drakensberg Mountains

DEC-JAN EVENTS Every Wednesday (check website during Festive Season) Drakensberg Boys Choir – Live in Concert – Drakensberg Boys Choir School, Dragon Peaks, KZN Central Drakensberg Tickets – www.dbc.nutickets.co.za 2-3 December Christmas in the Berg Music Festival (Christmas concert performed by the Drakensberg Boys Choir) - Drakensberg Boys Choir School. Tel: Lauren 036 468 1012 / www.dbchoir.com 3-6 December TreadFEST 2017 Amphitheatre Lodge, R74, Bergville. Tel: 011 782 1663 www.treadfest.co.za 9-10 December Christmas Picnic Steam Train Trip – Creighton Station (10:00 – 15:00). Tel: 083 273 8037/ Email: Glynnis - glynnis@toocee.co.za 17 December Bergville2Midmar Epic (cycling) - Bergville Email: spacesvertical@gmail.com 29 December - 1 January Smoking Dragon’s New Year’s Festival - Amphitheatre Lodge, R74, Bergville Tel: 082 855 9767 / www.smokingdragon.org 31 December Maryne by Drakensville ATKV – ATKV Drakensville Holiday Resort, Northern Berg. Tel: 036 438 6287 20-21 January Drak Challenge 2017 (paddling) – Hopewell Farm, Drak Gardens Road,Underberg Email: secretary@drak.co.za / www.drak.co.za 26 January Lube & Tube 2018 – Pigs Farm, Winterton Tel: 082 566 5151 28 January Sani Pass Flower Walk 2018 - Sani Lodge Backpackers . Tel: 033 702 0330 Email: info@sanilodge.co.za

LOCATED IN CENTRAL DRAKENSBERG’S CHAMPAGNE VALLEY

We cater for tourist, engagements, weddings, conferences, photo shoots & more.

• Outdoor Lapa & Superb Restaurant with Cosy Pub • Half Board or Self Catering Chalets with TV • Caravan & Campsites with electric and TV points • Two swimming pools, waterslide and paddling pool • Tennis Court, Volley Ball & Playground • Hiking, Canoeing, Fishing, Horse riding

Cell: +27 (0) 83 652 7493 E-mail: info@bergflying.co.za

Tel: 036 468 1031 | Fax: 036 468 1104 Email: dpp@dragonpeaks.com | www. dragonpeaks.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK contemporary classic

RESTAURANT & PIZZERIA - B&B ACCOMMODATION Northern Drakensberg (3km outside Bergville) GPS: S 28˚42.874, E 29˚19.288

Tel: 036 4481336 • Cell: 083 640 0743 • www.bingelela.co.za 38 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

THE SMOKING DRAGON MUSIC FESTIVAL which takes place from 29 to 31 December 2017, at the Amphitheatre Backpackers, Northern Drakensberg features a stellar line-up of music from the simplistic sounds of Gqom to the complex, syncopated rhythms of jazz and everything in between. See the New Year in with a colourful crowd of interesting creative, artistic and fascinating festival-goers. Smoking Dragon Music Festival has a gourmet food village, clean ablutions, and five zones of music. Entry to the festival, which includes the camping facilities in a general camping area or a VIP zone, are R745 and R1490 for the three days with day tickets available. For more info or to book go to www.smokingdragon.org or contact 082 5512 495 or 076 822 7508.

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

SOUTH COAST Welcome to holiday heaven! The South Coast, with its balmy climate, wide golden beaches and wonderfully warm sea, offers visitors much more than just a memorable beach holiday. This coastline, with its selection of golden beaches, lagoons and rocky coves, lined with grassy slopes and coastal bush, is perfect for relaxing and rejuvenating and for blissful family fun. Summer time is beach time, and visitors can be assured of a great beach experience at one of the South Coast’s seven internationally recognised Blue Flag Beaches – namely Lucien Beach, Marina Beach, Ramsgate Beach, Southport Beach, Trafalgar Beach, Umzumbe and Hibberdene Beach. Marina Beach is delightful with a lovely, long sandy beach as well as a tidal pool, and the hidden bays and coves provide further opportunities for exploring with the kids. Trafalgar Beach, with its wide grassy verges, subtropical vegetation and wonderful long beach, is a quiet piece of paradise. In addition to a great stretch of beach, Ramsgate Beach offers a warm lagoon with pedal boats, making this a firm favourite with families. Enjoy the summer beach vibe with the ‘South Coast Summer Tour’ offering action packed beach festivals and fun for the family to enjoy. But don’t forget to grab that hat and slap on loads of sunscreen! And talking about fun, Tennis South Africa launches Beach Tennis on the KZN South Coast this summer. Come and enjoy an introduction to beach tennis with workshops by national Tennis Pros as well as a variety of tennis matches – for great family fun look out for the Dads and Lads vs Moms and Princesses. Other beach sporting activities during the ‘South Coast Summer Tour’ include Beach Volleyball, Touch Rugby, Beach Golf, Beach Cricket and Beach Badminton (check out the diary section for dates).

Had enough ‘beach’ for the day? Venture slightly inland and you’re greeted by rolling hills, sub-tropical forests and banana plantations, as well numerous nature reserves, hiking trails and some excellent golf courses. Fitness fanatics will find trail running and mountain biking events, as well as a number of established trails that will have you enjoying the South Coast’s unique blend of fauna and flora. And adventure junkies will be thrilled by the gorge swing, zip-line, abseiling and white-water rafting available in the Oribi Gorge. Being blessed with wonderful subtropical weather means an abundance of subtropical fruits and vegetables. Dress your Christmas table with locally grown nuts, the freshest of fruit, and finish off that family celebration with the strong aroma of freshly ground coffee – locally grown, harvested and processed at the Beaver Creek Coffee Estate. There are a number of shops and farm-stalls offering the abundant produce and artistic wares of the South Coast – great for last minute Christmas shopping. And don’t forget ‘the reason for the season’ by joining the Carols by Candlelight on Port Edward Beach on the 9th of December and the Christmas Celebration on Margate Beach on the 22nd of December.

DID YOU KNOW? Protea Banks, one of the top 10 dive sites in South Africa, lies approximately 8km off Shelly Beach and measures some 6km x 800 metres. It offers a blend of caves, ridges, pinnacles and amphitheatres at depths from 27 to 40 metres. In addition to a variety of rays, gamefish and numerous species of colourful tropical reef fish, diving here is popular for shark sightings – these include Tiger, Guitar, Bull, Copper, Maco, Oceanic Reef and Hammerhead Sharks, and Ragged Tooths from June to November.

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40 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

W H A T, W H E R E & W H E N S O U T H C O A S T - D E C - J A N To advertise your EVENTS please send dates and info to: marien@azalea.co.za

UGU SOUTH COAST TOURISM Head Office: Tel: 039 682 7944 Website: www.tourismsouthcoast.co.za Regional Information Office Tel: 039 315 5168 Margate Tel: 039 312 2322 E-mail: margate@tourismsouthcoast.co.za Shelly Beach Tel: 039 315 7069/315 5168 E-mail: shellycentre@tourismsouthcoast.co.za Scottburgh Tel: 039 976 1364 E-mail: scottburgh@tourismsouthcoast.co.za Self-Catering Holiday Apartments. Spacious. Serviced. Open balconies. Stunning seaviews. Close to Main Beach. Near Shopping Centre, Restaurants, Sport Facilities, Scuba Diving, Excellent Golf Courses and Bowling Greens. RCI Silver Crown Resort 2014

Te l : 0 3 9 - 9 7 6 2 0 6 5 | F a x : 0 3 9 - 9 7 8 1 1 6 2 180 Williamson Street, Scottburgh E-mail: pearly.shells@eastcoast.co.za Website: www.pearly-shells.co.za S30˚16’53.22” E30˚45’19.764”

Pearly Shells Pearly Shells is ideally situated in the lovely seaside resort of Scottburgh. Comfortable spacious apartments all with superb views of the lagoon and sea. Within walking distance to safe bathing, a tidal pool, super tube, and mini golf course for family fun. There are one, two and three bedroom units each with a bath and separate shower. The two and three bedroom units each have an extra bathroom. Open plan kitchen, dining, lounge area with open balcony. DSTV Bouquet. Secured covered parking.

Daily Surf Workshops & Lessons – Pumula Surf Camp & Surf School Tel: 078 444 7130 Every Saturday in Dec: Summer Art Demo’s & Workshops – Artists Gallery, Ramsgate. Di Erasmus – 082 495 9810 6, 13, 20 & 27 Dec: Mardis Gras – Margate Tel: Corrie Wernick – 039 317 2202 7 Dec: Vinimark Wine Tasting Evening – Anew Hotel Ingeli Forest & Spa Tel: Donna – 033 343 4966 9 Dec: Carols by Candlelight – Port Edward Beach 10, 13 & 20 Dec: Wine Tasting – Riverbend Crocodile Farm, Southbroom Tel: Joeanne– 039 316 6204 6-30 Dec: SA Beach Tennis Tour – 6-9 Margate Beach, 10-14 Michaels Beach, 14-16 Sunwich Port, 17-20 Port Edward Beach, 21-24 Scottburgh Beach, 27-30 Ramsgate Beach 10-31 Dec: The Clover Big Beach Sports Tour – 10-14 Margate Beach, 15-16 Southport Beach, 18-19 Scottburgh Beach, 20-21 Uvongo Beach, 22 & 29 Ramsgate Beach, 29-31 Hibberdene 14-24 & 26-30 Dec, 1-4 & 7 Jan: Rocky Ridge Live Music Programme – Rocky Ridge Tel: 079 487 7956 15 Dec: Vodacom Summer Tour – Margate Beach Coca Cola Sizzle – 15 & 31 Margate Beach, 17 & 20 Scottburgh Beach, 23 St Michaels Beach, 30 Hibberdene Beach 16 Dec: Turton Beach Festival – Turton Beach Mfanafuthi Ngwabe – 039 972 0005 17 Dec: KZN Drag Racing – Dezzi Raceway, District Road D440, Shelly Beach Tel: Elisna Barnard - 039 685 4100 Sprite Fest – Margate Beach 17 & 20 Dec: Coca Cola Summer – Scottburgh Beach 18-19 Dec: The Big Beach Sports Tour Scottburgh Beach 19 Dec: Shelley Centre Summer Beach Tour – 19, 22, 24, 28 St Michaels Beach, 27 & 29 Margate Beach Nivea Beach Tour – Margate Beach 19 Dec: – 2 Jan: Tiagos Summer Tour – 19 Ramsgate Beach, 28 Margate Beach, 2 St Michaels Beach 21 Dec: The Original South Coast Festival – Douglas Mitchel Sports Club, Uvongo Tel: Joh Chappe – 083 236 7580 21-24 Dec: SA Beach Tennis Tour – Scottburgh Beach

Lucozade Summer Fever – Margate Beach 22 Dec: Christmas Celebration Worship – Margate Beach 23 Dec: One Way Christmas Truck Drive Pass - Sunwich Port, Southport, Margate, Rasmgate, St Michaels 24 Dec: One Way Christmas Truck Drive Pass - Margate, Rasmgate, St Michaels 27 & 29 Dec: Leroi Performances – Margate Beach 28 Dec: Just Jinger & Bobby van Jaarsveld – San Lameer Country Club Tel: Jolanda Cloete – 039 313 0111 29 Dec: 1 Jan: Vodacom Summer Tour – St Michaels Beach 30 Dec: DSTV Cartoon Network Summer Tour – Margate Beach 31 Dec: Southbroom New Year’s Eve Party – Southbroom Main Beach New Year’s Eve Party at The Pool – De Novo Lodge, Port Edward Tel: Sarah Levin – 083 503 5056 29 Dec – 1 Jan: Vodacom 4U – St Michaels Beach 1-4 & 7 Jan: Rocky Ridge Live Music Programme – Rocky Ridge Tel: 079 487 7956 3 Jan: Mardis Gras – Margate Tel: Corrie Wernick – 039 317 2202 South African Women Golf Tournament – San Lameer Golf Club Tel: Lesley Copeman – 083 628 6379 Wild Coast Golf Tournament – Wild Coast Sun Resort Tel: Annette Thorold – 082 443 9624 6 Jan: Harvest Praise & Worship Music Festival – Margate Beach FOR MORE INFO ON SOUTH COAST EVENTS CONTACT WOZANI AFRICA Vicky Wentzel – 082 812 7944 / Email: vicky@wozaniafrica.co.za

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WHAT, WHERE & WHEN

ELEPHANT COAST Stretching from Lake St Lucia in the south to Kosi Bay in the north, and extending inland across to the Lubombo Mountains in the west, KwaZulu-Natal’s Elephant Coast is an exceptional area, fast growing in popularity. This region, with its incredible variety of habitats and ecosystems, delivers an unforgettable blend of adventure, unspoilt scenery and unique experiences. It offers visitors opportunities for game viewing, birding, paddling, snorkelling, hiking and diving as well as the chance to watch turtles lumber up the beach to lay their eggs, or see dolphins offshore.

DID YOU KNOW? The highest vegetated dune is found at Maphelane, the southern-most jewel in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Hike through the dense coastal forest that covers this 183m dune for breathtaking views of the ocean, uMfolosi river mouth and St Lucia in the north.

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, with its 332 000ha of marine and terrestrial interlinking ecosystems, is of huge importance, and was declared South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in 1999. This veritable playground of beach, bush, ocean and forests offers a bit of magic for all who head east this summer holiday. It goes without saying that the Park’s 220km of golden beaches lapped by the warm Indian Ocean are a universal drawcard. The busy hubs of St Lucia, Sodwana Bay and Kosi Bay are traditionally the most frequented coastal areas. Accommodation resorts like Maphelane in the south, Cape Vidal on the Eastern Shores, Thonga Beach Lodge and Mabibi campsite and Rocktail Beach Camp offer a measure of relief from the pressure of more freely accessible areas. At the hugely popular Jabula Beach in St Lucia, additional picnic tables will be welcomed by beachgoers. Offshore, iSimangaliso offers one of the richest warm water coral reef systems at Sodwana Bay. You need not even be a scuba diver to enjoy the variety as shallow, safe snorkelling trips are also available, even for beginners. Popular activities for all ages include boat cruises on the Lake St Lucia Estuary, boatbased marine tours (dolphin watching), turtle tours (November – March), horse riding (St Lucia and False Bay), snorkelling, scuba diving (from 10 years old, at Sodwana Bay), bicycling, guided kayak tours and fishing. The popular Charter’s Creek day visitor area

reopens in December with new ablutions and improved facilities. iSimangaliso boasts excellent game and bird viewing on the Eastern and Western Shores as well as uMkhuze section, which host the ‘Big Five’ along with numerous other terrestrial animals, and 530 bird species as well – many migrant species escaping the winter of the northern hemisphere may be seen during the summer months. To enhance your birding experience, be sure to ask for a local, Birdlife South Africa accredited guide. The newly upgraded hides, entrance gates and day visitor facilities in the uMkhuze section have made visiting this oldest portion of the World Heritage Site even more of a pleasure, with additional disabled access and ablution sites improving the offerings of this ‘Big Five’ destination. With the addition of more cheetah and lions in the next few weeks, chances are even better of spotting these magnificent predators along with wild dog, hyena, elephant and leopard. In the centre of the Park, False Bay is starting to re-emerge as a destination as the Lake St Lucia water returns after a long drought, and thanks to the ongoing rehabilitation of the estuarine system by the iSimangaliso Authority. Camping is available on grassy lawns at the lake’s edge. An intensive treelabelling exercise has added great value to the self-guided walks in this section. Trail running and birding are excellent. Kosi Bay, the Park’s northernmost destination, is truly a place out of a time.

For more info check out the website www.elephantcoast.kzn.org.za 42 www - WHAT, WHERE & WHEN Dec-Jan 2018

TOURIST INFORMATION OFFICES UMKHANYAKUDE TOURISM (ELEPHANT COAST) Tel: 035 562 0966 email : info@awf.co.za MTUBATUBA TOURISM (MTUBA ST LUCIA) Colin Riley 082 492 0932 / Sipho Msweli HLUHLUWE TOURISM (HLUHLUWE BIG 5)

Tel: 035 562 0353 email: info@awf.co.za UMHLABUYALINGANA-CORAL COAST (SODWANA TO KOSI BAY) Tel 074 103 0955 Email: info@coralcoast.co.za JOZINI TOURIM (LEBOMBO) Tel: 082 216 5744 email: tourism@jozini.org.za

WHAT, WHERE & WHEN - DEC-JAN Daily - Weather permitting Whale and dolphin watching with legal permit holders only with Advantage Cruiser from Durban , St Lucia , Sodwana Bay or Richards Bay. www. advantagetours.co.za Every weekday, Saturday & Sunday peak season 10h00 and 12h00. Advantage Cruiser. Two hour boat cruise on Lake St Lucia to see hippo, crocs and a variety of birdlife from up close. R200.00 per person – children under 12 half price; toddlers under 2yrs, no charge. Contact: 035 590 1259, 035 590 1180, 083 487 2762.

Sunday mornings (out of peak season) 10h00 and 12h00. Advantage Cruiser. Two hour boat cruise on Lake St Lucia to see hippo, crocs and a variety of birdlife from up close. R160.00 per person – children under 12 half price; toddlers under 2yrs, no charge. Contact: 035 590 1259, 035 590 1180, 083 487 2762. 10 December THE BRAAI ARMY ROAD SHOW – St Lucia www.braaiarmy.com

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MUST DO... MTUBATUBA & ST LUCIA Advantage Tours& Charters Whale and dolphin watching - with legal permit holders only with Advantage Cruiser from Durban, St Lucia, Sodwana Bay or Richards Bay. www.advantagetours.co.za Every weekday, Saturday & Sunday peak season. 10h00 and 12h00. Advantage Cruiser. Two hour boat cruise on Lake St Lucia to see hippo, crocs and a variety of birdlife from up close. Rates: R200.00 per person â&#x20AC;&#x201C; children under 12 half price; toddlers under 2yrs, no charge. Contact: 035 590 1259; 083 487 2762. Chane Cheese Farm and Lodge is located about 20kms from the coastal town of St Lucia and offers families a great space to relax, experience authentic Zululand hospitality and spend time outdoors in tranquil surrounds. Visitors can taste and purchase cheese as well as a range of handmade, gourmet products in The Farm Shop. Children can milk goats and feed the animals. The Cheese Farm is open all year round for tours, events and all your farm and dairy products.

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