It was all aboard when tourism members boarded the bus on Thursday, 17 May to explore what attractions Durban South has to offer to holidaymakers. The Durban South tourism networking tour was a joint initiative between Sodurba Tourism, Sapphire Coast Tourism (SCT) and Umlazi Tourism.
“A big thank to Durban Tourism for putting the tour together. What a great day we had with plenty of fun,” said SCT chairman, Romy Wenzel. “The aim in doing these is to explore and expose what Durban South has to offer, combining all three community tourism organisations’ (CTOs) attractions in the hope of offering package deals to national, as well as international holidaymakers, corporates, school and sport groups.”
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The tour started at Durban North Beach with the first stop at Wilson’s Wharf where the group was taken for a 30-minute boat ride, sponsored by Isle of Capri Cruises and Sodurba Tourism. “Sodurba Tourism is promoting whale watching with the old whaling station based at the foot of the Bluff, and many other places of interest. Diarise 30 June as Sodurba Tourism gears up for the Welcoming of the Whales Festival 2018 at Brighton Beach on the Bluff.”
The group then made its way to Umkomaas, where divers flock to the Aliwal Shoal, which is one of the top 10 dive sites in the world and a prime destination for scuba diving, snorkelling, as well as shark diving with or without a cage.
“The crew from Aliwal Shoal Scuba simulated a cage dive and Discover Scuba dive course in a large tidal pool in front of the dive centre. What a lot of fun that was and a great experience for those who have not had the chance of blowing bubbles underwater.”
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Moving on, the bus stopped at East Coast Brewery in Ilfracombe, another Sapphire Coast gem which few people might know about. “The brewery is open to the public on Fridays, so feel free to visit. It’s a great venue, certainly worth your while to support local businesses.”
After some refreshment, the group proceeded to Umlazi, the fourth largest township in South Africa. “Umlazi Tourism is all about promoting township tourism with Max’s Lifestyle and Eyadini Lounge being prime spots to savour the famous shisa nyama.
Our final stop was Eyadini Lounge with a presentation by all three CTOs, followed by a great feast. After a long day of touring, the bus returned to Durban North Beach in the late afternoon.
There is so much to explore right on our door step and I encourage local residents to learn more about their home town and nearby attractions,” said Romy.
Anyone who is interested in assisting with the planning of package deals, such as tour operators, guest houses, transport companies or travel agents, call Romy on 083-733-6468 or email bsm1@mweb.co.za.
