Life By Asha Singh

This a special one since I stayed at this hotel this New Years Eve as well as 3 times before and it's definitely one of my go to hotels in Umhlanga . Located at Gateway Theatre of Shopping , the biggest mall in Durban, aha Gateway Hotel is the ultimate choice for shopaholics that want convenience at a modern hotel . FYI this is more of a quick mini review since I just had an overnight stay but will hopefully do another one after a longer stay :)

Myriad leisure activities along the Mtamvuna River at Wild Coast Sun Wild Coast Sun is Sun International’s only beachfront resort, which means an abundance of water-based activities – from rides at the Wild Waves Water Park to the hotel swimming pools – as well as on, and in, the Mtamvuna River. Located on the South Coast with its endless summer temperatures, Wild Coast Sun guests are spoilt for choice all year round, making it the ideal place for family getaways. Whether you prefer your activities fast or slow, there is something for everyone, from canoeing to kayaking, sit-down to stand-up paddle boats, speedboats to lazy boat cruises, and much more.   Take to the water and paddle up and down the Mtamvuna River in your own canoe or a rented one – you can go solo or couple up. Alternatively, kayaking is a popular favourite, and for adventure seekers, there are guided tours along the banks of the Umtamvuna Nature Reserve. The scenic excursion is something you won’t forget. W...

Steenberg is synonymous with Sauvignon Blanc, the refreshing summer wine crafted from idyllic cool climate vineyards in the Constantia Wine Valley .  

The notion of clean beauty has been around for some time, but it has undoubtedly now become somewhat of a revolution, thanks to the likes of Gwyneth Paltrow and Goop et al. But what exactly is clean beauty ? And is it the same as green beauty ? And where does it fit in with the likes of natural, all-natural, plant-based, vegan and organic skincare and cosmetics ? It’s not surprising that even the conscious beauty consumer may find the choices a little confusing.  

In the South of France over 20 years ago, Panier des Sens, a brand of natural  resources was born. Under the shade of cypress trees and mimosas, the founder Jerome Lambruschini, combined his love for the region and typical south of France  lifestyle to create a committed brand of natural cosmetics. Inspired by the natural resources of France and old Mediterranean know-how,  the company creates perfumes, soaps, luxurious creams and oils as well as  candles and home fragrances – all of which magnify the beauty of Provence. Over the years Panier des Sens has developed its product with master soap  makers from Marseille and master parfumers from Grasse utilising their  artisanal skills and unique know-how. The natural and vegan formulas are designed and conceived in Provence,  always encouraging short circuits and local partnerships. These natural and  organic products have rich textures and delicate fragrances all carefully  formulated and const...

The scenery in the Cape Province is drenched in natural beauty. As a result, rather than being a means to an end, our roads have become destinations in their own right.  These are the top five places that should be on your road trip bucket list   to visit on your next road trip to the Cape Province , according to  motus.cars .

MSC Cruises recently opened sales for its 2023-24 sailing  season featuring its most modern ship to serve South Africa, MSC Splendida. The 14-deck passenger vessel can accommodate up to 4,363 passengers and features for the first time in  South Africa, the MSC Yacht Club – a premium ‘ship within a ship’ concept with 71 spacious suites, a  dedicated concierge desk, 24-hour butler service, private restaurant, swimming pool and sunbathing area. MSC Splendida will be based from November 2023 in the port of Durban and offer a range of voyages that  last between 3 and 14 nights to Namibia, Mozambique and other Indian Ocean destinations . MSC Cruises  will in total operate 35 sailings of MSC Splendida from both Durban and Cape Town during 2023-24. Ross Volk, Managing Director, MSC Cruises South Africa said, “MSC Splendida will take cruising in South  Africa to the next level and redefine holidays at sea. It will give our guests of all ages an incredible  o...

  The magic continues in one of the best known and retold fairy tales of all time   “Aladdin is so much more than a ‘boy meets girl’ story with bad guys and magic,” says Director Glenn Hayden of the current production of Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp running at the Theatre of Marcellus at Emperors Palace until the 4 th  of December.     With a spectacular 21 st  Century take on the old-time classic fairy tale, Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp is filled with dreams mixed with incredible artistry and a thrilling and colourful production which continues to remind us that the magic is in all of us…and we could all do with a little hope and love at this time of the year.   When we think of magic, Aladdin and his Wonderful Lamp is one of the first stories that comes to mind.  Aladdin is a classic ‘rags to riches’ tale with a young hero, a beautiful princess, and an evil villain, and is made complete with genies, wishes and magic. The story is one of...

November 2022 is a month to celebrate… because it is   Col'Cacchio Pizzeria's 30th anniversary ! It’s with great pride and joy that restaurateur-and-entrepreneur- duo, Kinga Baranowska and Michael Terespolsky have reached this milestone.

Loxtonia , the range of 100% pure apple ciders from the Ceres Valley, have launched two  LITE versions of their most popular ciders – Crispy Apple and Blush – in pace with the ever-growing trend towards no and low alcohol lifestyle alternatives.

Earlier this year I was luckily enough to visit the iconic The Capital Zimbali in Durban . Truly a world-class coastal getaway, The Capital Zimbali is located in Ballito, around 20 minutes north of King Shaka Airport in Durban . The weekend of my stay happened to be a very stormy and rainy weekend in the East Coast but nevertheless The Capital Zimbali had loads to do to keep me busy and it still proved to be an incredible getaway.

If you haven't read my full review of Four Seasons The Westcliff , what are you waiting for? During my stay I also visited the acclaimed Flames restaurant at the hotel . Here's my experience of the dinner and breakfast at Flames.  

In August 2022 I got to experience world-class, 5-star luxury right here in Johannesburg , at Four Seasons The Westcliff . This hillside gem overlooks the  Rosebank and Johannesburg CBD skylines .

On a recent trip to Durban I spent a night at Sibaya Lodge located just next to Sibaya Casino and Entertainment Kingdom , north of Durban. With a touch of Zulu elements in the decor and style, Sibaya Lodge is a fantastic North Coast getaway that offers great value for money . It's designed to reflect the royal heritage of KwaZulu-Natal . As a KZN born and bred, I can confirm that it in fact does reflect the Natal vibe. Overlooking the Indian Ocean, I can't think of a better way to enjoy the warm KZN weather. I couldn't believe my stay was in the middle of winter! MY VERDICT: Family-friendly bed and breakfast accommodation that reflects the feel of KZN with Sibaya Casino easily accessible   Set on one of KwaZulu-Natal’s rolling green hills, Sun International’s  Sibaya  Casino and Entertainment Kingdom commands a magnificent 360 degree view of the Indian Ocean and the lush subtropical vegetation surrounding the 48 hectare North Coast property. The architecture o...

This weekend I had the pleasure of staying at the Fairway Hotel, Spa and Golf Resort at the Randpark Golf Course in Johannesburg . This hidden gem comes as a complete surprise as it's tucked away in the residential suburb of Randpark Ridge . It's a piece of luxury and escape in a peaceful area.

Mother's Day, on 8th May 2022,  is a great time to show Mom how much you appreciate her. Get more from your Mom’s Day treat with this delicious recipe.

A pet is more than a loyal companion; they’re an important part of the family and truly make a house feel like a home.  To ensure your pet’s health and happiness, here are some tips on how to take care of your pet .