Attractions
The Holiday Express Train Ride Experience
We sent our contributor, Shelley Ferreira to experience a train trip with The Holiday Express to the Shongweni Market!
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My best memory of travelling on a train was when I took a trip from Durban to Cape Town with my family when I was just 11 years old. I remember being so excited, running from carriage to carriage with friends I had made on board. There was just something about trains that made the experience super exciting!
So you can imagine how ecstatic I was when being given the opportunity to catch The Holiday Express train to the Shongweni Market! I had also never been to the market, too – which I have no idea why!
Arriving at the Durban Station, we mingled a bit and relaxed with a good cup of coffee before we were told it was time to board the train. We picked our seats and got ready for the trip to begin. I was surprised at how comfy the chairs on the train were with proper recline seats!
As the train left, I immediately ran to the window to snap pictures like an excited little kid. I kept pointing to Nick everytime I saw something interesting!
When we arrived at Shongweni Station, we were transferred to the market via a bus. I was impressed with the size of the Shongweni Market, with so many stalls, a huge selection of food, decor and clothes. I was in pure heaven! I also noticed that a lot of people had brought their furballs with them, which made me think to take my little chihuahua with me next time.
We grabbed a bite to eat the market and walked around. Before we knew it, It was time to head back to the bus for our transfer back to the train. I was sad to be heading back home, but also couldn’t wait for the ride which was the most exciting part of the whole experience!
All in all, the train itself was an incredibly epic adventure! There’s even a bar on board, with snacks and beverages available. I’m so looking forward to the next one with The Holiday Express, that’s for sure!
SCOTTBURGH
We sent our second contributor, Candice Buckle to review the trip to Scottburgh on a Sunday morning. Here’s what she had to say:
On Sunday, mom and I went for our first travel adventure together, taking the Holiday Express train and heading south to Scottburgh. There’s nothing quite like hanging out with your mother. She’s basically you, just older and wiser and with a larger collection of stories.
As we boarded the train, parked in the eerie, speckled station, we were greeted by friendly staff who made the entire journey that much more pleasant. They made jokes, offered to relieve us of the burden of taking selfies, and showed us the way to hot chocolate and other decadent snacks. Against a background of jiving music, my mother and I sang along as we set off for our journey.
I listened the whole way there as my mom told me about her childhood, most of which took place in the areas we were passing. I also learnt that my great, great, great grandfather was the station master at Montclair station, which I thought was pretty cool. Although mom didn’t have a lot herself, she would hide her clothes from her less well-off friends when they came to visit, so they wouldn’t feel inadequate.
She told me how her best friend and her 5 siblings all drove around in a beat up Kombi, its floor devoured by rust so you could see the road beneath your feet as you drove. She thought car trips with them were such fun. I think my mother may be one of the most fascinating human beings on this planet because of the little details she finds fascinating herself. She’s also incredibly humble and of course, somewhat hilarious.
On route, we were reminded of just how destitute some parts of our country are. Not that we ever forgot, but sometimes it takes seeing it in person for it to hit home, us two now Umhlanga residents. We saw piles of colourful litter towering towards the sky, complementing the graffiti splattered on the walls. We saw people taking shelter under tents and plastic bags. It was both humbling and sad.
As we neared off to Scottburgh, the sand and seas stretched out on the left of us and we were amazed at the natural, untouched beauty of our coastline.
When we arrived, we decided to head straight for the beach. It was an overcast, breezy day, but I’ve always liked this weather for everything feels open and honest, with no guise-like sun to obscure the view. We ate seafood at John Dory’s, and then sat on the rocky shore and looked pensively into the ocean. We then hiked up the hill to the Blue Marlin hotel where we slurped on milk shakes before boarding the train once more.
The Holiday Express is an ideal family trip – whether it’s just you and your mom, or the whole family. It’s also perfect for couples looking for an unique date activity!
Follow The Holiday Express on Facebook to keep up to date on their next destinations:
www.facebook.com/theholidayexpresstrain
Author: Durbanite
The magic of Disney celebrates its return to South Africa with Innovative Technology and Transformative Performances
Disney On Ice returns to South Africa in 2026! Get ready as the magic glides into Pretoria, Cape Town, and Durban, bringing spectacular special effects, cutting-edge technology, breathtaking performances, dazzling costumes, and all your beloved Disney characters and stories!
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, produced by Feld Entertainment Inc, is brought to South Africa by leading local promoter, Showtime Management and is proudly presented in association with FNB. The show opens in Pretoria on Sunday, 28 June 2026 at SunBet Arena, Time Square and continues for a limited season ending on Sunday, 05 July 2026.
Thereafter Disney On Ice skates into GrandWest, Cape Town on Saturday, 11 July through Sunday, 19 July 2026. The production then moves to Durban’s International Convention Centre Arena from Friday, 24 July to Sunday, 26 July 2026.
“FNB is proud to once again collaborate with Disney On Ice and Showtime Management to create magical moments that bring families together,” says Nkosana Matyeshana, Marketing Events Lead at FNB. “Our customers are at the heart of everything we do and, as a token of our appreciation for their continued loyalty, we’re offering 20% off Disney On Ice tickets from Wednesday 29 October until Sunday 30 November 2025.”
“The wait will soon be over! We’re thrilled to bring Disney On Ice back to South Africa. This new show celebrates the timeless stories and beloved characters that continue to inspire families everywhere — with more magic, spectacle and heart than ever before,” says Tony Feldman of Showtime Management. “We couldn’t be happier to once again partner with FNB to share the magic with audiences across the country.”
Disney On Ice presents Mickey’s Search Party, is an adventure filled with world-class skating, high-flying acrobatics and unexpected stunts! Look for clues in the search for Tinker Bell through immersive, fantastic worlds. Explore the colorful spirit realm of Coco, sail away with Moana as she bravely saves her island, see Belle in the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life, and sing-along with Elsa in the icy world of Frozen. Make memories during Aladdin, Toy Story and The Little Mermaid as the search party becomes an all-out celebration!
Embark on a quest with Mickey Mouse and pals as they follow Captain Hook’s treasure map for clues to find Tinker Bell after he attempts to capture her magic. Journey across the Marigold Bridge with Miguel from Disney●Pixar’s Coco into the magnificent and mystical Land of the Dead and discover a vibrantly colorful performance with skeletons atop sway poles dancing over the audience in a beautiful cultural celebration of family.
Travel to the wintry world of Arendelle and sing along with Elsa as video projection creates a kaleidoscope of crystals to help build her ice palace. Witness Belle lift into the sky as the enchanted chandelier comes to life high over the ice. Demonstrate the power of teamwork when Buzz Lightyear, Woody and Jessie recruit the Green Army Men for a daring rescue in Andy’s room. Laugh hysterically as the hilarious pirates flip, tumble, and twist on tumble tracks, stilts and more in an effort to showcase their talents for Captain Hook. Sail away with Moana on her daring voyage across the ocean and bravely encounter the fiery wrath of Te Ka.
Tickets are now on sale for South Africa’s favourite family winter school holiday outing. Book at Ticketmaster.co.za or Showtime.co.za.
Patrons are asked to please note that owing to safety regulations each person, irrespective of age (including babes in arms and children under two years) must have a purchased ticket. Fans are encouraged to only book through Ticketmaster.co.za the official authorised ticketing agent for Disney On Ice. Tickets from third parties will not be honoured.
To discover more about Disney On Ice, log on to www.disneyonice.co.za or visit us on Facebook and YouTube. ENDS
SHOW INFORMATION
TICKETS:
www.ticketmaster.co.za or www.showtime.co.za
Ticket master is the only exclusive ticketing agent for Disney On Ice.
Tickets purchased from any other source will not be valid.
PRETORIA SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE:
SunBet Arena at Time Square, Menlyn Maine
SHOW DATES AND TIMES: Sunday, 28 June to Sunday, 05 July 2026
Sunday 28 June – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Wednesday, 01 July – 11am, 3pm
Thursday, 02 July – 11am, 3pm
Friday, 03 July – 11am, 3pm
Saturday, 04 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 05 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
Weekdays (Wednesday to Friday, Sundays @6pm) – R200, R250, R350, R450 per person inclusive
Weekends (Saturdays all shows and Sundays 10am, 2pm) –R295, R395, R495, R595 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
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CAPE TOWN SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE: Grand Arena, GrandWest
SHOW DATES: Saturday, 11 July to Sunday, 19 July 2026
TIMES:
Saturday, 11 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 12 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Thursday, 16 July – 11am, 3pm
Friday, 17 July – 11am, 3pm
Saturday, 18 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 19 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
Weekdays (Thursday, Friday, Sundays @6pm) – R200, R250, R350, R450 per person inclusive
Weekends (Saturdays all shows and Sundays 10am, 2pm) –R295, R395, R495, R595 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
GROUP BOOKINGS
20% Discount on groups of 20 and more – midweek performances and Sunday 6pm only
Bookings through Jill Somers, 079 218 1658, sales@showtime.co.za
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DURBAN SHOW INFORMATION
VENUE: Main Arena, Durban International Convention Centre
SHOW DATES AND TIMES: Wednesday, 24 July to Sunday, 26 July 2026
Friday, 24 July – 2pm, 6pm
Saturday, 25 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
Sunday, 27 July – 10am, 2pm, 6pm
TICKET PRICES:
All shows – R250, R350, R450, R550 per person inclusive
Babes in arms and children under two years sitting on parent’s lap MUST
have a purchased Babes in arms ticket @ R100.00
Children two years and older must have a purchased SEATED ticket
Author: Shelley
GRAMMY® Award-winning jazz vocalist Gregory Porter’s Durban International Convention Centre show on Saturday 15 November will feature pianist and composer Nduduzo Makhathini and singer-songwriter Omagugu, performing alongside each other.
These celebrated South African musicians have been married for more than a decade, having become friends while playing together earlier in their careers. Both were born and raised in KwaZulu-Natal. Omagugu studied music at the University of KwaZulu Natal, Tshwane University of Technology and later, at the University of Fort Hare where she graduated with in Honours in Music. Similarly, Nduduzo did his undergraduate studies at the University of KwaZulu Natal and later completed both his Masters and PhD studies at the University of Stellenbosch.
Both artists are touring musicians with a significant catalogue of works from their own albums to being featured on many others that mark important moments for the South African jazz archive.
As collaborators Omagugu and Nduduzo have done important festivals such as the Winter Jazz Fest in NY, Avo Session in SW, Mam Jazz in MU and both the Joy of Jazz and the Cape Town International Jazz Festival among many others. The couple has just returned from two European tours this year. They have also had significant highlights such as a collaborative performance with the great DJ Black Coffee at the CTIJF this year, while Nduduzo has received many international awards and recently did his NPR concert.
“Nduduzo is a rare breed, his ancestral connection through music allows safe passage for his audiences – and when with the angelic Omagugu beside him, this experience is heavenly.” says Greg Maloka of GRIZA Enterprises. Fellow Gregory Porter Love is King SA Tour promoter Tony Feldman concurs: “This is a unique opportunity for Durban jazz and music fans. Seeing both South African and international talent of this calibre on the same stage doesn’t happen often – it’s going to be a sensational show.
Gregory Porter’s three-city Love is King South African concert tour also includes Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Don’t miss Gregory Porter live in South Africa in November for five concerts including GrandWest, Cape Town on 12 November; Durban ICC on 15 November and his return to Montecasino, Johannesburg for three engagements on Thursday, 20 November; Friday, 21 November and Saturday, 22 November.
Book now at showtime.co.za or Ticketmaster.co.za. Tickets purchased via unauthorised websites will not be honoured
Author: Shelley
Discover the heart of KZN at Westown Square in Shongweni – a vibrant, growing destination where shopping, dining and lifestyle come together in perfect harmony.
Here, local craft, artisanal homeware and unique products find a home, bringing the very best of our region to life.
At the centre of it all is The Town Square, your gateway to The Barn & Makers Market. Stroll through an eclectic mix of locally sourced art, beauty, fashion, homeware, food and
drink — all set alongside some of the region’s finest restaurants and exciting concept eateries.
More than just a market, The Barn is the beating heart of Westown. It’s where the community gathers each week for live music, entertainment, and a celebration of local talent.
#ItsTimeForTheWest
LOCAL IS LEKKER and we’re celebrating all things Heritage this month, in this beautiful province of KZN that we call HOME! There’s something for everyone, so follow us on social media to keep up to date.
THIS WEEKEND!
OPENING OF THE PADDOCK at Westown – 27 September
Westown is excited to celebrate the opening of The Paddock– a unique new place and the ‘home’ for Westown Trails. It’s fun for the whole family, whether you’re on horseback, on your mountain bike, running or walking. Our network of marked trails, suitable for a variety of sporting codes, enhances and extends the spectacular outdoor character the area is renowned for.
* Time: Hub Opens – 06:00
Official Start – 07:00
* Venue: The Paddock at Westown
* Cost: No cost and complimentary bike and wash service from Cycle Science Shongweni
SPRINGBOK RUGBY IN THE BARN
Come & support The Bokke at the Westown Square Fan Park in The Barn at Westown.
Catch the live action on the big screen – our DJ will be in the house for the pre-match warm-up and post-match fun.
Saturday 4 October – SA vs Argentina
*Time: 15:00
* Venue: The Barn at Westown Square
Pre-match fun in the Rugby Kids Zone:
* The Garvz Sport Activation (13:00 -16:00) & Kids Activities (14:00 -16:00) including:
Baby Bok, toddler soft-play area, face painting, balloon sculpting and crafts activities
PASSION PAINT & SIP – 1 October
Release your inner artist with an evening of fun and creativity. This guided class is open to all, no matter your competency level. Be prepared to be surprised at what
you can create!
Date: Wednesday 1 October
Time: 18:30
Venue: The Barn at Westown Square
Cost: R250 pp incl. a complimentary drink & all materials to make your own work of art.
Booking: Quicket or WhatsApp Kirsty on 083 2555 736
OCTOBER SCHOOL HOLIDAY PROGRAMME – Follow our social media pages
Westown Square is THE PLACE TO BE this October, with a School Holiday Programme to delight kids of all ages!!
FREE MOVIE NIGHT AT WESTOWN – 3 October
Bring your picnic blankets and camp chairs for a free outdoor movie night under the stars.
Food and beverages will be sold – no food/ beverages may be brought into the venue.
* Date: 3 October
* Time: 18:30
* Movie: How to Train Your Dragon
* Venue: The Bowl at Westown Square
* Cost: Free
BLASTER WARS – the ultimate interactive fun for kids aged 5 – 13 years. Jump into action-packed group games, bouncing from one awesome game to the next, all with hands-on
safety. Activities include:
•Blaster Wars fun battles and blaster games
•Target shooting challenges
•Fun races and games for all ages
Date: 7 & 8 October
Venue: Grass Area/Lawn on Level 4
Time: 11:00 -13:00
Cost: R120 per child
Bookings: Tel: 066 236 8100 or email: info@blasterwars.co.za
FRIDAY FLASHBACK
Get a jump-start on the weekend with our vibrant weekly Westown Wind-down. Turn after-work drinks into a full night out at Westown Square, as we dial back the clock, with our weekly 80s-themed Friday Flashback retro music experience with DJ Spike & James VN on the decks and Happy Hour food and drink specials.
Date: Every Friday
Time: 16:30-21:30
Cost: Free entry
SUNDAY SOUNDTRACK VIBES
Join a line-up of Durban’s hottest musicians, every Sunday afternoon, from 12:00-15:00 in The Barn at Westown Square. Choose a bite and beverage from a diverse selection of eateries and settle in for the afternoon.
– Sunday 5 October
A regular favourite at Westown Square, Angel is in the house for this Sunday’s session.
– Sunday 12 October
Popular songbird Carmen Rodrigues is back at Westown Square for a laid-back chill
interlude.
Author: Shelley
