Bring on the beach

With winter behind us now, well in Durbs anyway, it’s time to focus on the outdoors and the beach. After tidal waves and a rush clean-up of the Durban beaches after the freak weather in April and May, this year’s Beach Festival was definitely no wash out!

The festival exceeded the expectations of the organizers by attracting more than 700 000 people (tourists and locals) and generating an impressive economic turnover of around R700 million. “We have once again pulled off a world class beach event this year proving that we are Africa’s premier sporting and events capital,” said Lindiwe Mahlangu, head of Durban Africa (Berea Mail).

During the 10 days of the festival there was a further economic injection of around R110 million in catering, hospitality, entertainment and fashion during the weekend of the Vodacom Durban July. Well I definitely know what I’m doing in July 2008!

Myself and a few friends have formed a group on Facebook called Durban Beach Sports with the aim of getting together a few days a week on the beach after work to play touch rugby, cricket, soccer or volleyball. It’s a great way to meet local people and get the heart pumping, so if you’re keen to get involved join the group or I’ll post details of dates and times in my weekly post! 🙂

An event I won’t be missing this month is Mercury Wine Week 2007. This prestigious event sees wine-lovers from all over the country arriving in Durban, to sample a bottle or three of SA’s finest. The venue lends itself well in creating the very ambience that makes the event what it is… the exquisite sea views, ample, secure parking and easy access.

The Mercury Wine Week (21 to 23 August) will be held in a beautiful ocean-facing marquee on the grass in front of the Suncoast complex, with 5000 visitors expected to attend. It will run on the Sun deck from 17h30 to 20h00. Tickets are selling at R75 per person and are available from Computicket.