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Surf trip to Bali

2019-07-14T09:35:00.000-07:00

Bali is one of the Meccas of surfing - that much is undeniable. As a surfer, one simply has to visit this Indonesian surf wonderland.

This winter, a few friends and I decided to visit Bali on a whim. Enter the holiday honeymoon phase, where planning and dreaming are unperturbed by the realities that will soon follow. And so we started looking online for where to visit, flights, accommodation, surf spots and most importantly... some new surfboards.

I was tempted into buying a Haydenshapes HyptoKrypto which I had found on local online surf shop Pollywog.I wanted to the extra buoyancy for the legendary reef waves of Indonesia.

Getting to Bali

We flew into Despensar with Singapore airlines. With just one stop in Singapore, we were in Bali quite tired but raring to go. Our choice of area was the Bukit peninsular, home to some of the most famous surf breaks in the world.

Surfing the Bukit

Upon arrival, we quickly got to work on finding some waves. We were staying in Bingin and so took the steep staircase down to Bingin beach, where we found small waves and quite a few crowds. Still, we got one or two and then set about resting and preparing for the days that come.
We surfed dreamland on a big swell, and Impossibles on a small swell. But the highlight had to be surfing Uluwatu... its a crazy, intense experience and life-changing to say the least. I would encourage any surfer (with decent surf experience) to paddle out at Uluwatu.

Surfing Keramas

Keramas is also one of the famous waves in Bali, made more so by the WSL coming to town. The break is directly in front of the Komune hotel, where we stayed. It's definitely a worthwhile experience. Lovely accommodation, cheap massages, a great restaurant (with cold beers) overlooking a world-class right hander.
From Keramas, we also took a day trip to Nusa Lembongan, where we surfed shipwrecks and drank more cold Bintangs (notice the theme here).

All in all, Bali was totally worth the visit. It truly is a special place to visit and more so to surf.

Umhlanga Rocks – The new heart of KZN

2012-02-19T02:13:00.001-08:00

Less than 20km north of Durban City Centre lies Umhlanga Rocks. An upmarket area, Umhlanga Rocks has been the hottest holiday destination on Durban’s North Coast for many years. From humble beginnings as a small town, Umhlanga has grown in popularity (both with locals and holidaymakers) and is now not only one of the top travel destinations in South Africa, receiving thousands of holiday makers every year, but also Durban’s new city centre.

The development of the Gateway shopping centre, once the largest shopping centre in the Southern Hemisphere, just over 10 years ago put Umhlanga firmly on the map and spearheaded the transformation from small holiday town into central business hub. More and more businesses would move away from Durban centre in search of a better environment and Umhlanga Ridge became the natural choice. This in turn attracted more people to the area and soon the Ridge was booming with offices and apartments.

This growth has certainly changed the complexion of the once small town, but has done nothing to deter its loyal holidaymakers, and why should it? The expansion of the town has been executed perfectly, positioning the business centre in close proximity to the old village, but not entering into it. Holiday makers are thus afforded the tranquillity (if you can call beaches and streets bursting with sunburnt people tranquil) of the Umhlanga village, while being just a stone’s throw away from a thriving metropolis. The choice to venture into the hub of activity that is Umhlanga Ridge remains with the individual, which is fortunate indeed.

While Umhlanga is not the prettiest or most serene holiday destination along Durban’s North Coast (see my articles on Umdloti & Glenashley), it does cater for a different market. The Umhlanga beachfront is jam-packed with skyscraper hotels and this is synechdochic of the town in the holiday season - everything is packed, everywhere you look there are people. Umhlanga is definitely the place to see or be seen. It is very busy and has a distinct energy about it. It offers plenty of choice in both activity, dining or partying. It is much more suited to an active holidayer. It is therefore no surprise that this town is the mecca of Matric holidays, where students come to celebrate the end of their tenure at school.

What to do in Umhlanga

Umhlanga has no shortage of activities. The beach is always a good start, and offers good swimming areas as well as decent surfing conditions. Take a walk along the promenade and drink in the sights and sounds of Umhlanga beach front, There are also ample shops and restaurants in which to grab a bite or sit and watch the waves.

Chartwell drive, the Umhlanga village main strip, also has ample restaurants and pubs to pass the hot lunch time hours in.

On rainy days most people flock to the Gateway shopping centre, to meander around or hit the movies. The centre also houses a virgin active gym, climbing wall, skate park and standing wave for surfing and is well worth a visit.

Umhlanga Nightlife

This is where Umhlanga really begins to differentiate itself from its smaller neighbours. With a huge selection of restaurants scattered around Umhlanga Rocks and Umhlanga Ridge, visitors are spoilt for choice, just remember to book in season as the best restaurants are often full.

Chartwell drive is usually busy from the afternoon and with a good few hot spots in close proximity it is a wonderful place to have a party. Simply pub hop in the safe and friendly environment. The party usually focuses around the George, an old school pub in the centre of Chartwell drive. Umhlanga is also home to a nightclub XS.

For the more serious party animals, Umhlanga is close enough to venture into Durban’s town centre, which is still the home of many of the region’s best clubs. Remember to have a designated driver or to have arranged one, as South Africa (and KZN especially) is very strict on drinking and driving. Here is more info on designated driver services in South Africa.

Umhlanga Accommodation

Umhlanga offers every kind of accommodation under the sun. From major hotel chains to small guesthouses, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for. Being a popular holiday destination though, you are likely to pay a premium for this accommodation, especially in season. For reviews on places I have stayed within Umhlanga visit my page: Umhlanga Accommodation

On the beach – Glenashley Accommodation

2012-02-14T12:01:00.000-08:00

Set in the quiet suburb of Glenashley, On the Beach backpackers is a wonderful retreat for any weary traveller. The establishment, aptly named “On the beach”, is in fact right on the beach and from the front balcony one is caressed by both the sight and sound of the Indian ocean.

The backpackers is conveniently located close to the Glenore shopping centre, which has a supermarket and various restaurants. Short of supplies, On the beach has everything one needs to kick back and relax – a beautiful setting, proximity to the beach and peace and quiet.

We booked a triple en-suite room in the front section of the backpackers are were happy to find that our room opened onto the large wooden balcony where we were able to sip on a drink and watch the sun set over the sea. The room itself was simple, spacious and clean, containing a double bed and a single bed. A television (which we didn’t use) being the only other luxury afforded us. The bathroom was equally spacious, as was the enormous Jacuzzi-like bath. All in all, well worth the R700 price tag per night (a simple breakfast of cereal, fruit, toast, fruit juice, tea and coffee included).

View from our balcony - On the beach


Triple en-suite room


Our bathroom, complete with hot tub!

On the beach backpackers also has many communal facilities and areas, which are available for use by the guests including a swimming pool for the hot summer days, and a bar for the hot summer nights. Many of the guests congregate around these attractions and I met many an interesting soul over a quiet beer. This is what staying in a backpackers is really about, the people. Composed of all walks of life, I have often found that backpackers are generally warm and friendly.


The swimming pool and outside chill area at On the beach


The communal bar area, doubles as a breakfast nook

The bar - would you like a warm beverage or a cold one?

The staff at On the beach were equally warm and friendly and I would definitely recommend this establishment to anyone who is interested in a quiet, relaxing, yet not altogether isolated environment.

For more information about On the Beach backpackers in Glenashley visit http://www.durbanbackpackers.com/

Glenashley – Experience Durban as the locals do

2012-02-14T11:16:00.000-08:00

Kwazulu Natal on South Africa’s east coast has a very temperate climate and beautiful scenery. It is therefore no surprise that holiday makers flock to this coastal paradise all year round. There are many different destinations to choose from, depending on what you are looking for in your little getaway.

Nestled between two of the country’s holiday hotspots of Durban and Umhlanga is the residential suburb of Glenashley. This quiet town is not quite so synonymous with tourists as its neighbours and is largely a residential suburb. That is not to say that it doesn’t have its share of visitors, but those who do stay in the Durban North town of Glenashley will be presented with a very different side of Durban. Glenashley shares many of the traits of fellow North Coast gem Umdloti.

In Glenashley, one would be hard pressed to find massive hotels or holiday apartments in which to set up camp; or pubs, clubs and restaurants lining the promenade. In fact, unlike Umhlanga and Durban, there isn’t even a promenade, the peaceful beach is bordered by a simple beachfront road, littered with some of the most beautiful homes in Durban. These homes are largely owned by Durban’s wealthy and this makes Glenashley a very classy suburb.

With big properties located right on the beach, the setting is ideal for Bed and Breakfast establishments and backpackers, and many of these exist on Glenashley’s beachfront road, amptly named “The Promenade”. These idyllic mansions offer holiday makers the opportunity to experience the chilled lifestyle that Glenashley first hand.

Glenashley is a great place to visit if you wish to get involved in the local Durban and enjoy the beauty that Kwazulu Natal offers whilst staying clear of the hub bub of the tourist masses.

Glenashley Ammenities

Glenashley is conveniently located a mere 10km from Durban’s city centre and 7km from Umhlanga Rocks, the two major cities along Kwazulu Natal’s North Coast.

There are various shopping centres and restaurants in Glenashley, and many more in the neighbouring suburb of La Lucia.

Glenashley Accommodation

Most of the accommodation in Glenashley comes in the form of Bed and Breakfasts, though there are backpackers and self catering homes available. The vast majority of these are found on the beachfront and overlook the picturesque Indian ocean and undeveloped Glenashley beach.

Follow this link for reviews on places I have stayed within Glenashley: Glenashley Accommodation

Umdloti – A North Coast Paradise

2012-02-07T09:14:00.000-08:00

The term paradise is often associated with white sandy beaches, palm trees and cocktails with little straw hats. Paradise is often a destination, the end of a journey, somewhere to forget about life for a while. While this by no means incorrect, it does somewhat short change many other holiday destinations, who may not check the quintessential paradisiacal boxes, and yet when given a fair shot, make a compelling case that they too are deserved of the adjective.

Umdloti, on the North coast of Durban, South Africa is one of these towns. It has everything that the modern traveller could possibly desire, and offers a host of other conveniences that traditional paradises often don’t. So, what makes Umdloti so special? I’m glad you asked.

Umdloti is a truly beautiful place

Let’s start with the obvious, without which the rest of the points would be nullified. Beauty. Umdloti has one of the most beautiful stretches of beach on the Kwazulu Natal coast. Spanning about 4km, the Umdloti beach is grand enough to allow everyone their own peace of heaven. The surrounding Umdloti landscape is lush green and filled with both bird- and wildlife. Once could easily be tricked into believing they were lounging on a desert island, the outside world but a distant memory. Most of the accommodation is also built onto a hillside, which means that sweeping views of the ocean come standard.

Coupled with this paramount beauty is a peace which only small towns can deliver. The North Coast of Kwazulu Natal is famous for its larger towns of Umhlanga and Ballito which are hives of activity. This is not the case with Umdloti, where there appears to be no cause for rush or stress - just ask the man driving down the road on his scooter with his small canine in hand, or the sun kissed young boy skateboarding towards the ocean, his surfboard under one arm. The problems of the real world do not exist here, there is a contagious calm and inner peace.

The Climate in Umdloti

The Kwazulu Natal coast region, Umdloti included, has one of the best climates in the world. With hot humid summers and warm winters. Though summer is peak season, it can become unbearably hot and air conditioning is often required to get through the night. Still, South African holiday makers flock by the thousand to Umdloti during December to bask in the hot sun and frolic in the ocean. Winter however is the best time of the year for me, as the days are warm and the nights cool. There are also additional benefits at this time of year as the swell size and consistency improves, not to mention the fact there are a lot less people.

Umdloti is conveniently located

Here is where Umdloti really begins to pull one over on the traditional paradises. While it remains a small town nestled in the cane fields, Umdloti is a mere stones through from the South Africa's King Shaka international airport and a short 7km from the bustling metropolis of Umhlanga. This essentially means that not only is it a breeze to get to and from Umdloti, but that if ever the peace and quiet afforded by Umdloti overwhelm you, within 10 minutes you may once more revel in the hustle and bustle of a city. Which other paradisiacal destination can offer such a choice whilst remaining true to its definition?

Surfing in Umdloti

What paradise would be complete without epic surf? Umdloti really picks up the swell and has some of the heaviest waves in Durban. Many surfers come to Umdloti from all over the coast when the conditions are right to tackle the harsh conditions, though this is not for the feint hearted. That being said, it is not always vicious, and beginners too can play in the waves when mother nature shows her softer side. Surf and sea are a huge part of Umdloti life and add that little bit of excitement to the long relaxing days.

Surf shops in Umdloti

The nearest surfshops are in Umhlanga and Ballito, but online surf store Pollywog.co.za delivers to this area.

Umdloti Nightlife

For a small town, Umdloti has some classy restaurants which even attract the Durban locals. These eateries invariably face the ocean, so that diners are treated to beautiful seascapes as they feast on some of the finest cuisine. The famous local pub “The Bush Tavern” has been a local favourite for years and can get a little wilder as the evening progresses. If however you are looking to paint the town red, you may be better off taking a taxi-cab to Umhlanga for the evening.

Restaurants currently located in Umdloti:

Java Cafe – coffee shop
Bel Punto – Italian
Mundo Vida - Mediterranean
The Bush Tavern – Pub and Grill
La Casa Nostra – Italian
La Tasca – Pizzeria
Rendezvous - Mediterranean

Umdloti Accommodation

Umdloti offers a huge variety of homely accommodation from self catering holiday homes and apartments for rent to bed and breakfast rooms. There are not big hotels or resorts, which helps to keep the town relaxed. Almost all the accommodation is within walking distance to the sea and will likely have sea views. For reviews on all the places I have stayed in Umdloti, please click here: Umdloti Accommodation

Zanzibar – a turquoise delight

2012-01-07T04:19:00.000-08:00

The Zanzibarian summer wastes no time in greeting visitors to the island with a hot, humid slap in the face. The relentless sun torments sweat laden skin and a one is forced to accept that this is going to be a somewhat balmy experience. Sunset offers little respite, as the temperature and humidity, though somewhat weakened, are still uncomfortable and the darkness brings with it a new threat... the Mosquito! Why then would anyone take the time to visit this equatorial isle ostracised by mainland Africa at the dawn of time?

The answer can be found in the popularised Swahili phrase “Hakuna Matata”. It means no worries... for the rest of your days, and is epitomised by the people of Zanzibar. Within moments of arriving, this phrase begins to seep into your skin, and your vocabulary. It is impossible to resist. The friendly local people, eke out a living in this lush paradise, with a broad pearly white smile, contrasting severely with their jet black skin. Expect many a wave or uttering of “Jambo” (Hello) en route the coast... Ahhh, the coast. This is where everything begins to click. The travel ordeals melt away to views of some of the most picturesque beaches in the world. Palm trees litter the white sand and the ocean is spread thin over the vast reef to create a myriad of greenish-blue colours. This must be where they come to take those postcard photos which have persecuted city dwellers for decades. If relaxation is all you are after, find a recliner, order a cocktail and some fresh local fruit and lose yourself in the natural beauty. Le Dolce Vita.

Zanzibar however, is more than just a pretty face, and for the more adventurous, the warm turquoise waters surrounding the island create a boundless playground to explore. One can easily lose track of time walking or paddling around the shallow reef bordering the island, simply frolicking in the water and investigating the little pools. Do be careful of sea urchins though, as they are a dime a dozen and pack a nasty prick.

The open ocean holds more allure, and a trip into the deeper water is a must. From the deck of a traditional Dhow, one can look back on the island for yet more expressions of grandeur, while rocking slowly to the tune of the waves. The clear waters offer a sneak peek into the world below the surface. It is only a matter of time before the craving to explore this underworld takes control and donning your mask, you take the plunge into the turquoise unknown. It is a plunge that will change your life.

Though diving can be done almost anywhere around Zanzibar, there are few hot spots which stand out, these are marine sanctuaries, most notably the waters surrounding Mnemba and Pemba islands. The strict no fishing zone ensures that the waters are teeming with tropical fish and the unparalleled visibility, that you can see them. This underwater wonderland was definitely the highlight of my island getaway, and many an hour was spent embraced by the warm Indian ocean as I spied the coral below and immersed myself in the small aquatic community containing Parrot fish, Clownfish and Starfish to name but a few. We were also lucky enough to espy both a pod of dolphins racing through the blue, which was a truly amazing sight.

Another dive and all-round sea experience is the Safari Blue tour, which includes Dhow trips to various islands, local cuisine in the form of fruit (Coconut, Pineapple, Watermelon) and a seafood lunch including Lobster, Crayfish, Prawns, Tuna steaks, Octopus, Calamari and rice, cooked in a traditional manner. The tour includes various snorkel opportunities as well as a visit to a serene Mangrove lagoon, where the trees grow in the sea. All fully comprehensive Zanzibarian day.

All in all, there is something special about Zanzibar, a calmness. It is balm for the soul... life just makes sense here. Hakuna Matata

How to get to Zanzibar

Fly into Tanzania and catch a connection to Zanzibar (either plane or boat), or fly to Zanzibar directly. If you have no desire to visit mainland Tanzania, which has plenty to offer, I would recommend flying directly into Zanzibar.

From South Africa, 1Time offers direct flights to Zanzibar.

Where to stay in Zanzibar

Relying heavily on tourism, Zanzibar has no shortage of accommodation. It is possible to book a luxury resort well in advance, which will cater for all your needs including airport transfers, accommodation, food, drinks and activities. These all inclusive packages are very convenient, and offered by some of the finest hotels the island offers, but come with a heavy price tag. For the more intrepid traveller, book into a beach bungalow or backpackers. This can be done upon arrival.

How to get around the island of Zanzibar

While almost everything you could require is within arm’s length, there are various forms of transport available should you need to get around the island. Speak to your hotel or a local Venga boy (locals who patrol beaches look to sell you anything from adventure to ornaments) and they will quickly be able to organise you a taxi ride, boat trip or a bicycle to help you get from A to B.

Must do activities in Zanzibar

Safari Blue – A full day boat tour on a traditional Dhow. The tour takes you to various islands and snorkelling hotspots and culminates in a traditional Zanzibarian seafood feast, cooked by the locals on a beautiful tropical island.

Mnemba Island – Take a boat trip to the crystal clear waters off Mnemba island and snorkel in the marine nature reserve.

Dolphin Tour – Watch and play with dolphins. The tour boasts a high success rate of seeing these miraculous creatures in their natural habitat.

Stone Town – Take a tour through historic stone town, a world heritage site, and drink in the cultural diversity.

More information on Zanzibar

http://zanzibar.net/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zanzibar

Dubai - the land of the future

2011-12-28T06:31:00.000-08:00

Dubai is a thriving metropolis, a point where east meets west, tradition meets modern living. It really is a unique place and feels like the centre of the world.

There is so much going on in Dubai, it is hard to comprehend. Construction is underway all over the show, and the results are quite spectacular. There are also many unique wonders in Dubai, the tallest building in the world, manmade islands in the ocean, 6 star hotels and ski slopes in the desert to name but a few.

The weather in Dubai is also somewhat uncharacteristic for most tourists, it is really hot and really humid, unbearably so in and around the summer months. A lot of time is spent indoors and air conditioning is a must.

Visiting Dubai is like a glimpse into the future, a testament of the ability man has to create and shape the world we live in. Previous impossibilities are realities here. Be prepared to be amazed.

How to get to Dubai

Emirates, one of the world’s leading airlines operates out of Dubai, most Emirates flights connect in Dubai and packages are available for stopovers to visit this great city

Where to stay in Dubai

Through Emirates you can pre-book accommodation in many of Dubai's top hotels. This includes your visa and transport to and from the airport.

How to get around Dubai

Taxi's in Dubai are extremely cheap due to the oil price. Although you may have to wait in queues due to the demand (look to wait at Taxi stops where air conditioning is available).

Must do activities in Dubai

Take a day trip into the desert with one of many operators for an experience of desert life.

Take a tour of the city. Tour buses run frequently, alternatively catch a taxi and ask for a tour, this will work out cheaper and the taxi drivers are quite knowledgeable.

Visit the mall of the Emirates, the largest shopping centre in the world.

More information on Dubai

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dubai

http://www.dubaitourism.ae/

Ios - Party like its 2008

2011-12-26T08:51:00.000-08:00

Ios is the quintessential party island. Leave your room before 15:00 and you will find the place deserted. People sleep late and stay up later. Heck, clubs in Ios only open at 02:00.

The main town of Chora is wall to wall restaurants, bars and clubs. The town was built as a maze I’m told, and come 22:00 the narrow streets are crowded with holiday makers (predominantly rowdy youngsters). If it’s a party you are looking for, look no further, this little town has it all. The layout is very conducive of mingling, with most establishments not charging a cover fee, the streets bustling with activity and the distance between venues almost negligible, add to this little concoction alcohol (in copious quantities) and the general laid-back, friendly attitudes that most holiday makers bring to Ios and you have the successful formula for a great party, and a rough morning (or afternoon) after.

Ios however is not all about the Party (as is the case with most islands), there are also spectacular beaches on the Aegean sea, where the body beautiful frolic during the day. For holiday makers who want to have some fun, Ios is among the finest destinations the world has to offer.

How to get to Ios

Ferry is the preferred means of travel when it comes to the Greek islands. Catch a ferry from Piraeus port in Athens, or from any of the other Greek islands (you may have to transfer).

Where to stay in Ios

There are many apartments, pensions and backpackers available. For peace of mind, book in advance online. Alternatively, simply hop off the Ferry and get swamped by competing establishments. Remember to haggle!

Francesco's in Choras is a great place with a great vibe!

http://www.francescos.net/

Most companies offer a free pickup and drop off services from the port, so no need to worry about getting to your accommodation.

How to get around Ios

Scooter is the generally accepted method of transport, although almost everything is within walking distance.

Must do activities in Ios

Definitely go to the beach! Don't get overly absorbed in the party, this is an island in paradise after all.

Francesco's in Choras is the place to be in the early evening for drinks to kick start the night out.

Choras after 22:00 ... just float around, everything is right there!

More information about Ios

http://www.iosgreece.com/

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ios_%28island%29

Pictures of Ios


Ios main beach from above


Yachts in the Aegean sea surround Ios

Durban North Coast Vibes

2011-12-26T08:19:00.000-08:00

Although growing rapidly, Durban north coast is still very seasonal. Quiet in the winters and teaming with life during the peak holiday seasons in Summer.There are many beautiful coastal towns along the coast from which to choose, below is a brief description of some of the major ones.

Umhlanga Rocks

Umhlanga has transformed from a quiet little seaside town north of Durban, into the top holiday destination on the North Coast. Huge hotels line the seafront and the newly built Gateway shopping centre brings up the rear of the town. Development is rife as the town snowballs.

The general vibe in Umhlanga is hectic with loads of people and lots to do. The main beach took a knock from the 50 year swell which recently hit the east coast of South Africa, and it is a shadow of its former self. Still it is a great place to be seen, and probably the busiest beach on the North Coast. Umhlanga is also the priciest of the North Coast towns especially when it comes to accommodation. This is definitely the place to be if you want to party ... not so if you are keen to just get away from it all.

Ballito Bay

Ballito is quickly following in Umhlanga's footsteps as development booms. It is however not so compact, and with two main beaches affords visitors a little more privacy. Ballito's layout is also more spacious with less skyscrapers and more apartments. This is my favourite town in the North Coast, It affords the convenience of being in a big town (shops, restaurants, bars, clubs etc) with the privacy of a small town. The main beaches of Willard and Thompsons are also some of the nicest beaches on the North Coast.

Umdloti

Umdloti is a great town to kick back and relax. It is made up mainly of houses, and most of the people who holiday there are regulars. There is more of a community vibe. The beach is nice and the break is great for surfing. The town does lack some amenities, but with Umhlanga just down the road, there is nothing you can get if you are prepared to drive a short way.

Zinkwazi

Zinkwazi is remote, over an hours drive from Durban central, it is the perfect place to get away, do nothing and relax. It is a very small scale town, with very few amenities. Self-catering is a must.

Glenashley
Glenashley is a small residential suburb in Durban North. Though predominantly inhabited by locals, the town does cater for the relaxed holiday maker.

How to get to Durban

Flights are available into Durban from all major airports in South Africa with airlines such as SAA, Kulula.com, 1time and Mango.

Durban is also within driving distance of South Africa's main airport - Oliver Tambo in Johannesburg. Driving from Cape Town is not recommended unless you want to see the Country.

Where to stay in Durban

Being coastal towns, there are many hotels, apartments and B&Bs for rent. In the off season accommodation won’t be a problem, but book well in advance for the high season from December - January.

Please check the resources below for accommodation options.

http://www.safarinow.com/destinations/durban/hub.aspx

http://www.wheretostay.co.za/kzn/dm/accommodation/durban-north.php

How to get around Durban

Most of the towns are small enough to get around by foot. Cars are advisable however for longer commutes as public transport isn't great.

Durban Nightlife

While most of the above mentioned towns sport their own bars (and even small clubs), the major town nightlife can be found on Florida Road in Durban centre. This road is packed with restaurants, bars and clubs and is sure to cater for each and every need. Do be sure to have a designated driver though, as Kwazulu Natal has a strict zero tolerance on drinking and driving.

Must do activities in Durban

Durban - Visit uShaka marine world in Durban central.

Durban - Watch the surfing at New Pier, a local break which some of the worlds top surfers call home.

Umhlanga - Visit Gateway shopping centre.

Umhlanga - The first week of December is one of the most popular matric holiday destinations in South Africa.

Ballito - Chill out on Thompsons beach - best during low tide where you can wade out far into the ocean.

Ballito - The New Years Eve street party in Ballito is legendary.

More information about Durban

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durban

Lanzarote - the lively island

2011-12-26T05:02:00.000-08:00

The Canary Islands are a small group of volcanic islands in the Atlantic ocean just off the west coast of Morocco. Although closer to Africa, they belong to Spain. The currency is the euro and the main language is Spanish, although due to the huge tourism industry, English, French and German are also common.

Lanzarote is the perfect holiday island (hence it’s huge popularity). The weather is great year round, with hot summers and mild winters. The constrast of the island is quite amazing. Enter the holiday towns of Costa Teguise, Peurto del Carmen or Playa Blanca and you will be in tourist heaven. These towns are built specifically to cater for the influx of tourists, with restaurants, bars and clubs to boot. There are beautiful beaches (especially Papagayo in Playa Blanca) and plenty to do. Costa Teguise is especially synonimous with wind surfing and Puerto del Carmen with scuba diving.

The true heart of Lanzarote however lies outside the typical tourist towns.

Famara in the North West is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world, with a spectacular mountain backdrop, it also happens to revolve around surfing. There are numerous surf schools in Famara, and finding a local who doesn’t surf takes some doing. It is definitely my favourite part of the island and a must visit.

La Santa just north of Famara is also surf mad with one of the meanest breaks in Lanzarote known as “The slab”. The quiet town is also home to a world famous fitness centre where locals will brag Brad Pitt acquired his buff body prior to his latest movie roles.

Puerto Calero has a small marina which often plays host to yachting races and deep sea fishing competitions. Watch the races from the shore or dabble in some deep sea fishing of your own on board one of the local boats.

Lanzarote also hosts the Ironman triathalon in the middle of the year, where some of the world’s finest athletes compete. A must for all fitness fanatics.

The Canary islands and Lanzarote in particular are also famous for their carnivals, with villages hosting parties throughout the year. The Spanish really know how to party, prepare yourself for a rough day after should you indulge in the festivities.

Getting off the beaten track and mingling with the locals is a must in Lanzarote, lest you find yourself in just another tourist trap.

How to get to Lanzarote

There are many charter flights available from Europe (mainly UK) with such airlines as Easyjet, Ryanair and Spanair (there are numerous more). Iberia also offer a flight from Madrid to Lanzarote.

The flight time from UK is around 3-4 hours. From Madrid the flight time is approximately 2 hours.

Where to stay in Lanzarote

There are numerous hotels and apartments for rent in the major tourist cities of Puerto del Carmen, Playa Blanca and Costa Teguise.I highly recommend staying in one of the smaller, less tourist driving towns. We stayed in Tabayesco, a small village in the North of Lanzarote. It was beautiful and relaxing. For more information visit http://www.tripadvisor.com/Hotel_Review-g187477-d1978371-Reviews-Casitas_Tabayesco-Lanzarote_Canary_Islands.html
Accommodation is also a lot cheaper than the coastal towns of the Mediterranean area.

How to get around the island of Lanzarote

Although existent, public transport is not ideal in Lanzarote. Hiring of a car is a necessity if you wish to see the island. Alternatively you can set up camp in one of the holiday towns and relax, all necessary amenities are within walking distance.

Must do activities in Lanzarote

Famara beach - take a surf lesson or rent a board and jump into the deep end. Marvel and the beautiful mountain setting from the surf backline.

Papagayo beach - rub shoulders with the rich and famous on this tiny picturesque beach.

Carnival - the main carnival is in February ... try get there for a week of mayhem.

Dolores - celebrate the Dolores carnival held in the centre of the island in September.

Playa Chica, Puerto del Carmen - learn to scuba dive in a sheltered bay teaming with fish.

Peurto Calero - go deep sea fishing on board one of the local boats.

Nazaret - wine, dine and party at Lagomar , a great venue built into the side of a mountain.

More information on Lanzarote

http://lanzarote.com

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lanzarote

Pictures of Lanzarote


Famara beach with mountain backdrop


Sea view from Tabayesco Village


Peurto del Carmen beach