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The Ultimate Relationship Test: River Rafting with Liquid Adventures

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River rafting. The words have always excited me but I have never been brave enough to take the plunge. The idea of going down a river, over water falls, rocks, rapids and beating currents is quite unnerving but when a river rafting expedition of a lifetime presented itself I had to push myself out of my comfort zone and give it a go! Liquid Adventures run by Graeme, is situated on the Umkomaas River at the Hella Hella Outdoor Adventure Centre which is just outside Richmond (approx. 1 ½ hours from Durban.) You can make a day of your adventure or if you prefer, an entire weekend. They can accommodate groups as well as individuals for birthdays, corporate team buildings, bulls or hens parties (for the adventurous ladies out there!), which can include ½ day trips, full day trips. But that’s not all, a lamb-on-the-spit, paintball and even mountain biking can be arranged. The Umko (as we fondly call it) boasts grade 3 rapids which step-up to grade 4 if there has been sufficient rain.

With this knowledge on hand off our awesome-foursome set (me with my long sleeve top, sunblock, takkies, cozzie and towel… like the very unprofessional paddler I was!)

On arrival we were met by Tarryn – the photographer for the day. She was very cool, calm and collected which immediately calmed my nerves. If Tarryn isn’t worried, how hard can this actually be… right? Once kitted with helmets and life jackets, (safety comes first) we piled into the Liquid Adventure bakkie and headed down to the river for a safety induction on what to do and what not to do in our inflatable 2 man canoe.

There was no turning back now.

Just my luck, everyone else had done this before which left me feeling a bit daft, but no sooner were we paddling off towards our first obstacle of the day, a waterfall (A WATERFALL?!) No fear though, Graeme was with us every step of the way (phew!) demonstrating with his team the best way to approach going over the waterfall and thereafter one by one, each pair set off to conquer! This was how each obstacle was approached hereon after. I think Graeme could probably smell the fear on me and so kindly offered to take me down the waterfall himself. He made it seem so easy and it was then that I realised, “Hey, this isn’t so bad, it’s actually quite fun!” and so, with regained confidence I rejoined my partner (and fiancé).

I really liked the fact that there were guides with us along the way who were such a big help when we lost our groove, the river can be a dangerous place and you have to be careful at all times. I also enjoyed the orderly fashion which everyone went down the river – one by one – and that there were plenty of stops between paddling to have a rest, catch up with the group and have some refreshments.

With the drought we are all experiencing at the moment, the water level was a bit low and as such there were quite a lot of rocks to contend with. This had us stretching, bouncing and generally doing moves… not quite like Jagger. But at the end of the day we were laughing at ourselves and reminiscing on our awesome adventure which included rock jumping (for those brave enough) as well as zip-lining.

My favourite part has got to be the incredible views and the ice cold Savannah Dry at the end! I also have a new respect for every paddler out there!

Half a day later, my fiancé and I did it, we made it down the river without killing each other! We weathered the rocky bits, encouraged each other through the rough currents and worked together as a team. It is safe to say that we have been put through the ultimate relationship test and can officially get married now!

Our mates Taryn and Lyle joined us on this adventure and as they had done river rafting before, I asked for a comment on their experience, this is what Lyle had to say: 

“Having experienced river rafting before, I had a fair idea of what I was getting into when accepting the invite to raft the Umkomaas. That said, there was still a level of trepidation when you’re unloading the rafts and getting all your gear together before hitting the water. One of the highlights of this type of rafting is that you are not ‘ferried’ down the river by a guide (as is the case with a lot of river rafting tours). Two seater Croc inflatables are your craft and you’re left to steer, paddle and decide your lines. This adds to the adrenaline as if you come off, it will be entirely your own fault. For those who are now thinking this sounds bit too much, never fear! You disembark at each graded rapid to review the conditions and the guides give you suggestions on the best lines. If you are not comfortable then you can choose to either be taken down by one of the guides or to skip the rapid entirely. Overall I really enjoyed the trip. The rafting was still a lot of fun, even with the lower water levels. The guides were more than competent and we were kept sated with regular biltong and juice stops. The midway stop, where one can rock jump and foofy slide, is a good alternative activity. I would certainly recommend trying this out and will probably be on the water again sooner rather than later.”

Thank you to Graeme and team for the fantastic day out and to Tarryn Groberlar for the photies! We look forward to seeing again soon!

 

Contact info.

Website: www.liquidadventures.info

Cell: +27 (0)824945660

Email: info@liquidadventures.info

Facebook: www.facebook.com/Liquid-Adventures-353134388126853

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Attractions

Total Ninja: Now Open at Gateway, Umhlanga

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Total Ninja, Africa’s largest inflatable and obstacle course, has become a premier destination for thrill-seekers and fitness enthusiasts across South Africa. Inspired by the global phenomenon TV series Ninja Warrior, Total Ninja offers supervised activity and fitness venues where participants can climb, balance, jump, and swing across various obstacles, honing their Ninja skills. Each location features the iconic Warped Wall, challenging every aspiring Ninja to conquer new heights.

NOW open at Gateway, Umhlanga.
The Durbanite team was invited to experience the hype for themselves, and we can say, it’s something you HAVE to do!

Total Ninja caters to a wide range of age groups and fitness levels, ensuring that everyone from toddlers to adults can enjoy the adventure.

Key offerings include:

  • Mini Ninja (Under 5 Years): A dedicated area designed specifically for children under five, featuring soft play and inflatable obstacles that provide a safe and fun environment for the little ones.
  • Total Ninja (5 Years and Above): An extensive course that allows older children and adults to test their agility and strength across various challenging obstacles.
  • Strike Arena: An interactive zone where participants can engage in dynamic, high-energy play, challenging friends and family in a race against time.
  • Warped Wall: A signature feature at Total Ninja, the Warped Wall offers varying heights to test participants’ speed, strength, and determination.

Total Ninja is also an ideal venue for birthday celebrations and group events. They offer tailored packages that include exclusive access to party rooms, personalized invitations, and Total Ninja hygiene and safety socks for all guests. Whether it’s a children’s party, team-building event, or school outing, Total Ninja provides a unique and memorable experience for all attendees.

Location: Gateway, Umhlanga. (Opposite IBV Vaults in the parking lot.)
Call: 031 630 0556
Email: gw@totalninja.co.za

To ensure a spot, especially on weekends and public holidays, it’s advisable to book in advance. Total Ninja offers various pricing options, including discounts for extended sessions and family packages. For more information on pricing, activities, and bookings, visit their official website,

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Art

Field Notes (an exhibition): 1 – 17 November 2024

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Field Notes (an exhibition)
Presented by Contemporary Archive Project
Opening: 1 November 2024 at 6 PM
Venue: The Chairman, Durban.


In the province of KwaZulu-Natal, stories are marked like pins scattered across a map. These pins cluster in the city of eThekwini or are more sparsely spread through the landscapes of Nquthu, Tugela, and Amaotana. By mapping out and noting where the photographs were made, the explorers’ tracks reveal a wide, eclectic range of stories, each reflecting individual narratives. In these collections, the photographers are the explorers of their own stories, presenting clips and field notes that present an Insider’s view.

Subverting old tropes of Outsiders looking in, disconnected from a culture or space, the photographs that make this exhibition present intimate representations of faith and religion, culture and rituals, life and death, solitude and community. The collective way of seeing a city and space are all informed by each photographer’s way of seeing.
In this gathering, we present moments from each photographer’s archive. Guided by the visual connections of the photographs, the exhibition’s content invites you to reflect on the themes of fragility, power, togetherness, and the significance of the spaces we call home.

The group exhibition features work from CAP’s archive, inclusive of:
Andile Ndunge, Andre Swart, Mandisa Buthelezi, Myllo Menorah, Niamh Walsh-Vorster, Paulo Menezes, Robyn Perros, Seraz Abrahams, Sibusiso Gcaba, and Thobani Khumalo.
This exhibition is made possible by the National Lotteries Commission.

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Attractions

12 Places to Get Good Coffee in Durban

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Durban’s coffee scene offers a diverse range of experiences, from beachfront cafes to hidden gems in lush settings. What makes these coffee spots stand out isn’t just the quality of the coffee—it’s the vibe, the people, and the atmosphere that create a memorable visit. Here are some of Durban’s best coffee spots, each offering more than just a brew.

Here’s a list of the top coffee spots around Durban where you can load up on good vibes and great coffee.

Umhlanga

Tiki Tonga Coffee Roasters – Umhlanga
Tiki Tonga in Umhlanga is famous for its Wednesday morning run, where free coffee is a highlight. The café is well-known for its excellent coffee and welcoming vibe. It’s a great place to meet up with friends or enjoy a laid-back coffee experience, with the energy of the morning runners adding to the vibrant atmosphere.


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African Roots Cafe Restaurant – Umhlanga
Located in the upmarket Pearls Mall in Umhlanga, African Roots offers some of the best coffee in town. The chic, modern setting complements the rich flavours of their African-inspired coffee. The vibe is upscale yet welcoming, making it a favourite for those who appreciate high-quality coffee in a stylish environment.


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Rox Coffee Company – Umhlanga Promenade
Situated on the scenic Umhlanga Promenade, Rox Coffee is known for its excellent coffee and relaxed beachside vibe. It’s a great spot to grab a coffee while taking in the ocean views, whether you’re starting your day or winding down in the afternoon. The baristas are passionate, and the location makes it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.


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The Forest Café uMhlanga – Umhlanga Promenade
At the opposite end of the Umhlanga Promenade from Rox Coffee, The Forest Café offers a relaxed beachside escape. With a tranquil atmosphere and stunning views, it’s a perfect spot for beach lovers to grab a coffee and enjoy the fresh air. Popular with cyclists, joggers, and anyone looking for a peaceful place to savour their brew.


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Durban North & Glen Ashley

Gatvol Coffee – Glen Ashley
Gatvol Coffee is a unique spot in Glen Ashley, blending a jungle-like bar atmosphere with excellent coffee. Inside Neighbourhood Café, Gatvol offers cool vibes and top-notch baristas who create a laid-back, fun environment. It’s a hidden gem for those who enjoy great coffee and a chilled atmosphere.


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Now Coffee – Glen Ashley
A minimalist favourite, Now Coffee in Glen Ashley is known for its clean, no-fuss approach to coffee. The coffee here is always top quality, and the simple treats menu adds to the experience. The café’s sleek, modern vibe makes it a perfect place to enjoy a cup of coffee and relax in a peaceful setting.


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Seattle Coffee Co Kensington Square – Durban North
While Seattle Kensington Square is part of a well-known franchise, this location stands out for its friendly, welcoming café vibe. It doesn’t have the typical commercial feel of other chain coffee shops, and the baristas ensure that each visit feels personal. The consistent quality of coffee and cosy atmosphere make it a local favourite.


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Colombo Coffee & Tea Specialty Roastery – Durban North
Colombo has earned a reputation for expanding its footprint in Durban while maintaining exceptional coffee quality. The Durban North location is sleek and modern, offering a great space to work or enjoy a relaxing cup of coffee. The café’s dedication to craft and its welcoming vibe make it a popular choice for both coffee aficionados and remote workers.


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Berea/Morningside

Humble Coffee Churchill – Greyville, Berea
Humble Coffee has a cosy, unpretentious charm that shouldn’t be overlooked. With baristas who are passionate about their craft and a space that feels like home, Humble Coffee offers a simple yet satisfying coffee experience. It’s the perfect spot for those who value authenticity over flashiness.


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Skyline Coffee Durban – Windermere, Berea
Skyline is a hidden gem in Windermere, Berea, known for its excellent coffee and welcoming atmosphere. While it doesn’t boast grand city views, the café’s tucked-away location and friendly vibe make it a great spot to escape the hustle and bustle. With a relaxed environment and plenty of seating, it’s also an ideal place to work or catch up with friends over a well-brewed cup.


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North Coast/Dolphin Coast

The Waterberry Coffee Shop – Ballito
Tucked away in a forest-like setting, The Waterberry Coffee Shop in Ballito is a peaceful retreat offering more than just coffee. The café’s excellent food and warm hospitality make it a top choice for those looking to enjoy a cup of coffee amidst nature. It’s an ideal spot for a quiet morning or afternoon escape, far from the hustle and bustle.


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Salt Café – Salt Rock/Chaka’s Rock
Located in the laid-back coastal town of Salt Rock, Salt Café is a cosy coffee spot with a casual beach vibe. It’s the perfect escape for those looking to enjoy a cup of coffee in a peaceful, seaside setting. Whether you’re a local or just visiting the coast, Salt Café offers a relaxed environment and top-quality coffee.


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Durban’s coffee scene is filled with unique spots that offer much more than just a good brew. From the scenic beachfronts of Umhlanga’s Rox Coffee Company and The Forest Café uMhlanga to the minimalist charm of Now Coffee and the hidden jungle vibes of Gatvol Coffee & The Waterberry Cafe, these spots bring together great coffee, cool vibes, and welcoming atmospheres. Whether you’re grabbing a quick coffee on the go or settling in for a relaxed afternoon, these spots offer the perfect mix of quality and experience.

 

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