SINCE beaches north of Durban reopened last week, bathers have been flocking to uMhlanga Beach for their dose of vitamin ‘sea’.

Sabelo Didi, vice chairman for Umhlanga Tourism said he wasn’t complaining as businesses could do with the boost, following the July unrest, the Covid-19 pandemic, and the chemical spill.

“The lockdowns been tough on the economy. The July unrest also negatively impacted businesses, and the beach closures, due to the chemical spill. Reopening the beaches could not have come at a better time, and we’re hoping this, and the upcoming holiday season will give our local businesses the boost that it needs,” said Didi.

He added that the uMhlanga coastline is synonymous with it’s well-kept beaches, top class hotels and holiday establishments, and high end restaurants which offer some of the best experiences.

“Holidaymakers come to uMhlanga for the beach. The holiday establishments rely on them for business, however, it’s the locals we need as well to come out again and enjoy the beauty of their town,” he said.

For those who are reluctant to leave Durban this holiday season, Didi says there is much to explore at home. Some of the tourist attractions within our region include Umgeni River Bird Park, KZN Sharks Board, Hawaan Forest, Umhlanga Lagoon Nature Reserve, Crocodile Creek, Mindgame Escape, Beachwood Mangrove Nature Reserve, boat trips and helicopter flips.

“Apart from the restaurants, tourists attractions and beaches, the shopping malls also have fantastic holiday programmes so, go out, follow all Covid-19 protocol and have fun in the safest way possible,” he said.

He also encouraged Durbanites not living on the uMhlanga Coastline to book a mini vacation in the town and enjoy the facilities and attractions it has on offer.

Call them on 031 561 4257 or visit www.umhlangatourism.co.za for more information.

You can also share your experience on social media using the #umhlanga.