Last year before Covid happened SA Tourism launched a campaign with Cassper Nyovest titled “Sho’t Left with Cassper“.Cassper Nyovest, is a South African rapper, songwriter, entrepreneur and record producer born in Mahikeng.
“To inspire our South Africans to take more day and leisure trips NOW by showcasing a variety of affordable, desired experiences in a clear and accessible manner that is underlined by the message of personal safety”.
The itinerary included hidden gems and new spots that had opened up.Besides Cassper and his friends,our travel companians include the KZN Tourism & SAT teams,friends from the media and a prize winner and their two friends.Three days and two nights of adventure ignited my passion for travel and why I am so proud to call South Africa my home.With all the travel restrictions in place now more than is the right time to travel locally and support the building of the economy again.I too was a tad bit nervous about my trip and staying in a hotel BUT let me tell you every single eatery,activity place and hotel has very strict Covid protocol in place to ensure the safety of all patrons.
The 1st stop of our adventure was meant to be Horse Riding on the beach in Amanzimtoti.But due to unforseen weather conditions this was not possible.Instead we headed off to a Hidden Gem which I had heard about but never actually got around to visiting in my area The View Boutique Hotel & Spa.Literally a secluded spot on a hilltop hotel with the most incredible views for days ,a luxurious spa and a divine on premise eatery with an exceptional wine list.It is a 5 star boutique property so do expect all the spoils and pampering.
We were meant to have lunch only but due to the weather we ended up having some pampering at the Spa as well.The staff are incredible and even held umbrellas open for us to walk in.The eatery has pristine white tablecloths and fancy table set ups that are so elegant.Spoilt for choice for lunch options the weather insisted I have a Lamb Shank and I could not refuse.Succulent meat in a delish gravy with buttery mash and steamed vegetables.A luxurious much needed massage in a serene and tranquil environment was just the way to spend the remainder of the day.All Covid-19 protocol were in place with all staff wearing masks,sanitisers everywhere ,table placement was socially distant and temperature records and checks taken.
We made our way to the latest development in Umhlanga Legacy Arch ,where the Hilton Inn Umhlanga Arch would be our home for the next two nights.This new property shares a space with the very popular new Durban hangout Legacy Yard.This new built is ultra modern with attention to detail like charging points everywhere like even at the bar ,I mean how many times have you asked the bar staff to please charge your phone while out I personally have done this several times over.The check in process was fairly easy and our temperature and details were recorded.We were split up on to several different floors which was great for a big group like ours.The rooms were sealed with literally a seal after it was cleaned and fogged and I broke the seal on entering.
The room itself was very large with all the necessary must needed indees in a hotel room.With just 30 minutes to freshen up and charge phones before we headed off to dinner.Dinner was at
The winners of the Shotleft giveaway joined us and it was such a good evening eating really tasty food in a beautiful enviroment.It was such a long ,busy and relaxing day that by 11pm my bed was calling.We needed to be up rather early the next morning for our adventure down the North Coast.
Whenever I travel I tend to get up very early to catch sunrises and images while everyone is asleep.Well there another reason too will tell you in a bit more.I headed downstairs to breakfast in the ultra modern eatery.It was open plan.The food selection included a hot and cold buffet with food in individual portions and for the hot buffet the chef dishing out what you needed.
We made our way to Ballito to the first activity of the Microlighting.It was pretty chilly so we were told to carry a light jacket and wear covered shoes.I was a bunch of nerves ,scared and excited at the same time to do this activity pretty much the same dramas I went through when I did my Hot Air Balloon experience.The staff followed all Covid-19 protocol and then the safety briefing with all the Do’s and Don’ts while inflight.Long story short I did it ,it was 20 minutes of sheer amazement coupled with me saying every prayer I knew.But ultimately it was amazing and make sure if you do this activity you follow all the instructions.
Still on a high we headed off to Ballito Ski park for lunch and a few more activities.I skipped the activities and enjoyed the beautiful setting and chatting to Cassper.Ballito Ski park is fantastic for a family day out,lots of open spaces and a gorgeous environment.The food is next level not gourmet but good wholesome pub food which includes Burgers,Pizzas and Toasties.The staff followed all Covid-19 protocols and systems in place.It was such a relaxing afternoon after my heightened experience that morning.
We headed back later than afternoon/evening to freshen up and have sundowners at the Backyard in Legacy Yard.Guys this spot is such a cool vibey spot with incredible views ,great wall art and a delish cocktail menu.I will defo be coming back here to catch sunsets with the girls.
Dinner was our last port of call for the evening at one of my favourite places in Umhlanga 14 on Chartwell.Having eaten here before I knew that the food and cocktail menus are incredible.It was such a good evening relaxed,lots of laughter,good food and great cocktails.This was also my first time eating out at a busy eatery.
And just like that my first media trip of 2021 in Covid-19 was over.Thank you Shotleft for inviting me to join Cassper as he experienced KZN.It was clearly evident that Cassper really enjoys KZN as a holiday destination as it is truly an amazing province to explore with so much to eat ,do and discover.
After this experience I feel more comfortable knowing that Covid-19 protocols are in place at every establishment and things are been taken seriously.So while we have the oppportunity it is defo the right time to head off and be a local tourist and keep tourism alive in our country.
Have you travelled locally in Covid-19? Would you travel let me know?
Be Inspired !
Ciao
x
