Lauren Anthony

Looking for something different to do this Heritage Month? The KZN South Coast is packed with cultural gems that offer a deeper look at the region’s history, heritage and communities. We asked South Coast Tourism & Investment Enterprise (SCTIE) to share some of the area’s best heritage experiences. Their nine recommendations span everything from township tours and cultural villages to 4x4 trails and cave explorations. Here’s what made the list. Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban

A particular kind of panic arrives when exams are approaching, and the syllabus still seems impossibly long. You know you should have started earlier. You know there’s more to learn. And suddenly, the thought of everything that still needs to be done makes it even harder to sit down and begin. But according to Hilton-based educational psychologist Terry Shuttleworth, feeling that you have ‘left it too late’ doesn’t mean you have no options. The key is to stop trying to solve everything at once. Disclaimer: Terry Shuttleworth is an educational psychologist based in Hilton, KZN Midlands, working with adolescents and young adults on emotional regulation, neurodivergence and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and somatic-based approaches. Shuttleworth was consulted by Time Out as an independent psychologist and was not commissioned or compensated for comment. Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban

Whether you’re writing trials, preparing for matric finals, or a university student getting ready to write life-changing exams, we’ve got your back! Time Out Durban chatted to KZN-based educational psychologist Terry Shuttleworth to get some helpful tips for exam prep – as well as what NOT to do! Here’s a look at the study mistakes almost everyone makes, and how surprisingly easy they are to avoid. Disclaimer: Terry Shuttleworth is an educational psychologist based in Hilton, KZN Midlands, working with adolescents and young adults on emotional regulation, neurodivergence and trauma, using Cognitive Behavioural Therapy and somatic-based approaches. Shuttleworth was consulted by Time Out as an independent psychologist and was not commissioned or compensated for comment. Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban  

It’s one of our favourite times of the year again…International Dog Day! Celebrated every 26 August, this is an important day to appreciate that special bond you have with your canine companions. It’s also the perfect chance to remind everyone about the furry friends still waiting for safe, loving homes in rescue centres around Durban.  Don’t worry, you don't have to adopt to make a difference. There are so many great rescue organisations in Durban and across KZN doing vital work to rescue, rehabilitate, sterilise, foster and rehome dogs. We just want you to support them in any way you can! In honour of International Dog Day, here are some organisations worth supporting if you want to help a dog go from the waiting list to a forever home.  This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a KwaZulu-Natal-based lifestyle writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guidesare written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines.    Follow Time Out Durban on Instagram, Facebook and TikTok! To get the coolest news, features, and things to do straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletter. TIME OUT DURBAN RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban🍽 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban📢 Latest news from Durban  

Durban isn’t just a top holiday destination, it’s a pet-lover’s paradise too. From breezy beachfront cafés to countryside pubs with dedicated doggy menus, KZN offers plenty of spots where your furry companion is just as welcome as you are. So hook the leash, pack the treats, and plan a day trip with your favourite travel partner. Great food tastes even better when shared with someone who never judges your order and is always happy to see you. Basic etiquette While you may love and adore your pets, not everyone around you will feel the same. Being mindful and considerate of others sharing the space is essential. Most restaurants enforce a "leash-only" rule, so be sure to follow it at all times. Always clean up after your pet and remember to bring waste bags with you. But, without further ado, here are some of Durban and surrounds' paw-approved pitstops to raise the woof… TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

Who can resist a good market? Great deals, a wide variety of choices, locally made goods and food, live music, and a strong sense of community – all without breaking the bank. Fortunately, Durban is home to a vibrant market scene, perfect for slow weekends and a bit of retail therapy.  Whether you're spoiling yourself or shopping for someone special, we've rounded up some of the best markets in the 031 to explore. 

Can you feel it? It is here! While the World Cup didn’t get off to a sterling start for South Africa, as we once again played Mexico in the opener (we miss you, Shabalala!), that 2010 buzz is resonating as football fever takes hold. Bafana Bafana came crashing out of the tournament after co-host Canada beat them with an extra-time goal. Despite a historic end to a 16-year dry run, it was not meant to be for our boys.  Still, the 2026 tournament action continues. From beach bars and buzzing pubs to cosy Midlands firesides, here’s where you can catch every goal, upset and dramatic penalty shootout up until 19 July.  This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a KwaZulu-Natal-based lifestyle writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guides are written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

While the rest of South Africa is layering up and scraping ice off windscreens, Durban is doing what Durban does best in winter: getting out and enjoying this epic city.  Because we all know, winter is when Durban truly comes alive! With school holidays starting this week, the province is expecting one of its biggest winter tourism seasons yet. According to the latest Winter 2026 Tourism Forecast, more than 920,000 visitors are expected to travel to KwaZulu-Natal between 26 June and 20 July, generating close to R1.9 billion in tourism spend. "The projected increase in visitor numbers and tourism spend is a strong indication that KwaZulu-Natal remains one of South Africa's most attractive destinations," said KwaZulu-Natal MEC for Economic Development, Tourism and Environmental Affairs, Rev. Musa Zondi. What are you waiting for?   Check out these epic events taking place in Durban and surrounds this winter!  This guide was written by Lauren Anthony, a KwaZulu-Natal-based lifestyle writer. At Time Out, all of our travel guidesare written by local writers who know their cities inside out. For more about how we curate, see our editorial guidelines. 

If you grew up in KZN, you’ve likely spent at least one childhood holiday riding horses, hiking, and swimming in streams found within the dramatic Drakensberg mountains. If not, then this is your sign to pack your bags and head for the hills, because the Drakensberg is unmatched in scenic beauty and outdoor fun! Speaking of packing, here’s a checklist to help you prepare for a one-day hike in the Drakensberg. Must-pack items: Water bottle Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes A warm jacket and waterproof clothing (mountain weather changes fast) Sunglasses First-aid kit Torch or headlamp, with extra batteries Nutritious snacks and meals to keep your energy up Navigation tools: a mobile GPS or compass, plus a map Power bank – better safe than sorry SPF Trekking pole(s) If you're camping overnight, add: Sleeping bag Toiletries Extra clothes and underwear – don’t forget thermals Tent and sleeping mat Plenty of food to last the duration of your trip Gas stove and necessary cooking accessories When is the best time to visit? It depends on what you’re looking for, but autumn (March–May) is generally the ideal time. During these months, temperatures are comfortably mild, skies are clear, rainfall is minimal, and the views are truly breathtaking. To make planning even easier, we’ve found a few Airbnbs near the Drakensberg that might be worth checking out. Click here to view. But without further ado, here are our top 10 reasons to visit the Berg (as we call it in KZN!): Time Out ma

When you think of Durban, what comes to mind? Golden beaches, warm weather, bold flavours? You wouldn’t be alone, and you wouldn’t be wrong. But this friendly coastal city has far more to offer than first meets the eye. From historic markets woven into the fabric of the city to Africa’s oldest surviving botanic garden, and local artists celebrating Durban’s rich biodiversity and ecosystems that make KwaZulu-Natal truly one-of-a-kind, there’s a deeper story just waiting to be discovered. And quite frankly, if Durban isn’t on your 'must-visit' list, seriously, what is wrong with you? And before you say it, no, we’re not being biased… well, maybe just a tiny bit. After all, we’ve got the official title to back us up: Durban was named one of Time Out’s Best Places to Travel in 2026. Whether you’re a curious local, a first-time visitor, or looking to impress at your next quiz night, here are 10 fun facts about Durban you might not know. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 📍 The best things to do in Durban😋 The best restaurants in Durban🏨 The best hotels in Durban🛏️ Where to stay in Durban

If you’re driving in Durban today, check your route. Heavy downpours have caused localised flooding on the N3 eastbound before Tollgate Bridge, with three lanes currently closed because of high water levels. eThekwini Municipality has emergency services and Metro Police on site managing traffic. Motorists travelling towards the Durban CBD are being strongly advised to use alternative routes where possible and allow extra time for delays. More severe weather could be on the way The flooding comes as severe thunderstorm activity remains active across parts of KwaZulu-Natal, with the South African Weather Service warning that further heavy rain and other potentially disruptive weather conditions remain possible. Warnings for today include: Heavy downpours Frequent lightning Damaging winds Localised flooding  Municipal emergency response teams are on high alert and are monitoring low-lying areas, informal settlements and major road networks that are vulnerable to weather-related incidents. The latest warning follows yesterday’s Level 2 Impact-Based Warning for damaging winds across parts of KZN, with gusts of up to 80km/h. What to do if you’re travelling today Avoid flooded roads: Do not attempt to drive through flooded sections of the N3 or other low-lying roads. Find a safe alternative route instead. Slow down: If you have to travel, reduce your speed, switch on your headlights and leave plenty of space between your vehicle and the one ahead. Don’t cross floodwater: Neve

Sailing and Durban have a long history. Back in 1858, the city’s first regatta took place in Durban Bay as part of the Queen’s birthday celebrations. More than three decades later, on 14 May 1892, the Point Yacht Club was officially formed by a group of locals who knew the sea well. They included retired seamen, officers and crew from cargo vessels, Norwegian fishing-boat skippers and engineers, as well as harbour officials and other maritime professionals. Their idea was simple: create a club where sailors could enjoy the facilities they needed close to the water. Almost 135 years later, the club remains part of Durban’s waterfront identity. It now operates from two venues and offers racing across a range of classes, youth sailing and social events.   Point Yacht ClubThe club continues to host sailing, racing and social events, while its watersports community includes keelboats, dinghies, Hobie Cats, youth sailing, powerboating and paddling.   READ: Durban's Thomas Funke named South Africa’s Sailor of the Year Point Yacht Club through the years   Point Yacht ClubPoint Yacht Club has been part of Durban’s maritime heritage since 1892, with generations of sailors racing from the city’s waterfront.   1863: Durban Regatta Club becomes The Natal Yacht Club 1891: The Natal Yacht Club receives a Royal Charter in February 1891 and becomes the Royal Natal Yacht Club. 1892: Point Yacht Club is founded 1893: PYC’s first clubhouse opens in September 1893 on Hospital Road, near th

You could book a flight to India. Or, you could head to Greyville. The India Diwali Expo has brought a colourful slice of Indian culture to Durban, with vendors travelling from across India to showcase fashion, food, jewellery, footwear, homeware and more. It runs until 20 September, so there’s still time to experience it. READ: Heritage in flavour: Chef Thuladu Mngadi on the food that defines Durban Celebrating Indian heritage   Facebook India Diwali ExpoThere's a variety of beautiful clothing for sale. First held in 2002, the expo was established to give South Africans an opportunity to experience Indian culture without travelling thousands of kilometres. More than 60 companies from India have participated over the years, with vendors coming from Kashmir, Punjab, Jaipur, Mumbai, and Delhi. And if you’ve ever watched a Bollywood film and wondered where you could get that outfit, this is your chance. One of the expo’s biggest draws is its fashion offering. According to organiser Nadeem Bhai, vendors bring the latest styles from India, including outfits inspired by those seen in Bollywood films. The expo has also become particularly popular with brides-to-be, with Bhai noting that bridal fashion is one of its biggest sellers. But this isn’t simply a shopping trip. Over the past two decades, the expo has also become a place where people connect and reconnect with friends.   Facebook India Diwali ExpoCheck out the incredible jewellery on offer. READ: Yoga, coffee and liv

Looking for something different to do with the kids this school holiday? Gateway Theatre of Shopping is bringing a little movie magic to Umhlanga with a new Forgotten Island activation. From 21 September to 4 October 2026, Gateway’s centre court on the cinema level, between Toy Kingdom and Nike, will be transformed into a Forgotten Island-inspired space where families can make memories and have some fun before heading to the cinema. The best part? It’s completely free. READ: 5 KZN Family Resorts Where Kids Won’t Get Bored What kids can do at Forgotten Island The activation takes its inspiration from DreamWorks Animation’s Forgotten Island, a new adventure about two lifelong best friends whose final night together takes a very unexpected turn. Jo and Raissa stumble through a mysterious portal and find themselves on the fantastical island of Nakali, home to magical and mythological creatures inspired by stories from their Filipino families. There is, however, a catch. To get home, they must give up the memories of their friendship.  Cue the existential crisis and one very important mission to ensure they don’t forget each other forever. At Gateway, visitors can celebrate their own friendships without having to make any such trade-offs. Kids can: Strike a pose at the themed photo wall. Add a message or memory to the special memory wall. Head to the Sketchbot experience to have a photo taken with their friend and transformed into Forgotten Island-style artwork. READ: South

Great news for South Africa this Tourism Month! Kruger National Park has made significant progress since devastating floods earlier this year, with a restored bridge, reconstructed roads, and reopened accommodation indicating the park’s recovery. Key infrastructure milestones were marked by Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Minister David Maynier on 6 and 7 September, to coincide with the the 21st annual SA National Parks Week where South Africans visited select parks for day visits, free of charge. Minister Maynier says, “We must use each project as an opportunity to strengthen resilience, reduce vulnerability and ensure that our national parks remain safe, functional and accessible in the face of increasingly severe weather events. Kruger National Park is the backbone of SANParks and a key driver of conservation and nature-based tourism in South Africa. When the Kruger Park succeeds, SANParks succeeds.” He has also called for greater collaboration between government, SANParks, tourism businesses, financial institutions and infrastructure specialists to develop climate-resilient solutions that could potentially be used across the national parks network. Facebook SANParksAt Letaba Rest Camp, 25 tourism units have been restored. READ: Africa is finally taking up its rightful space on the world map as UN resolution passes Rebuilding after devastating floods Intense flooding in January 2026 caused extensive damage across Kruger, affecting roads, bridges, tourism faciliti

Hold onto your hats, Durban. The city is in for a blustery start to the week. The South African Weather Service (SAWS) has issued a Level 2 Impact-Based Warning for damaging winds across parts of KwaZulu-Natal, including eThekwini. The warning came into effect on Monday, September 14, from 8 am. READ: The KZN holiday deals worth booking before they disappear What to expect in Durban According to the eThekwini Municipality, a strong high-pressure system is expected to bring strong northerly to north-easterly winds, with average speeds of 35 to 40km/h with gusts reaching up to 80km/h. The conditions could disrupt beachfront activities and make maritime operations more difficult. Port and small-harbour operations may be affected, while small vessels face an increased risk of taking on water or capsizing. On land, strong gusts could cause localised structural damage, particularly in vulnerable formal and informal settlements.   How to stay safe If you're heading out today, it’s worth taking a few precautions. The municipality says: Secure loose outdoor items Take care when outdoors Stay alert to changing weather conditions Motorists should drive with extra caution, particularly on exposed routes Drivers of high-sided vehicles should be especially careful in strong crosswinds Avoid visiting the beach Avoid high-risk shoreline activities and follow maritime safety warnings Emergency response teams are on high alert and prepared to respond to incidents including fallen trees, f

Driving? Don’t even take a sip of that drink. In government’s ongoing fight against high road fatalities, a proposed legislative change has been announced: Zero percent blood alcohol for drivers. Transport Minister Barbara Creecy announced that the proposed amendment to Section 65 of the National Road Traffic Act is being pursued. This follows the rollout of Phase 2 of the Administrative Adjudication of Road Traffic Offences (AARTO) in July. READ: Africa is finally taking up its rightful space on the world map as UN resolution passes South Africa wants a zero-alcohol driving limit “We are in the process of acquiring approval from the Chief State Law Advisor and Socio-Economic Impact Assessment System approval to secure cabinet concurrence for this amendment by the end of 2026,” the Minister says. The proposal comes amid continued concerns about drunk driving. More than 18,000 people were arrested for drunken driving between March and the end of August 2026, accounting for around a third of all traffic arrests during that period. For drivers, a zero-alcohol policy would mean no room to interpret the limit as ‘just one drink’. If the proposed changes are approved, motorists would need to treat driving and drinking as completely separate activities. READ: South Africa gets top honours at World Travel Awards Africa 2026 Road deaths are falling – but remain too high A total of 6 457 people died on South African roads between 1 January and 23 August 2026 – 9% reduction compared wit

Durban is having a fintech moment. This time, it’s making its mark on the global sporting stage, with one homegrown fintech business taking its place alongside one of the biggest names in English football. The Durban-based payments infrastructure company, Swiffy, has become the first South African business in this sector to secure an official partnership with a Premier League football club, following the announcement of its new partnership with Hull City. The deal comes as Hull City returns to the Premier League for the 2026/27 season, putting a Durban-founded business in front of one of the world's most passionate and international sporting audiences. SwiffyThe Durban-based payments infrastructure company, Swiffy, has become the first South African business in this sector to secure an official partnership with a Premier League football club. READ: Meet IRIS, the AI robot designed for South African classrooms From Durban to the Premier League Founded in South Africa and headquartered in Durban, Swiffy is a digital payment infrastructure platform for businesses operating across African markets. Its end-to-end payments stack lets merchants manage deposits, payouts, and settlement through one integrated platform, helping businesses move money faster and more efficiently. The partnership will see Swiffy work with Hull City throughout the upcoming season, spanning digital and traditional media and in-stadium activity. Swiffy was founded by Jadie Naicker, Christian Di Zio and Nei

Spring may be showing off its unpredictable side this weekend, with a little rain and plenty of cloud on the forecast, but that’s no reason to stay home. From Friday night racing and spectacular dance performances in Durban to sip-and-paint sessions, massed orchestras, athletics and ladies-only comedy, there’s plenty happening across the province from 11 to 13 September. Whether you’re looking for a night out, a family-friendly activity or something different to do on Saturday afternoon, these are the events worth adding to your weekend plans. Weekend weather Friday Min: 19°C Max: 22°C Slight Rain Saturday Min: 20°C Max: 22°C Partly Cloudy Sunday Min: 20°C Max: 24°C Rain Showers Durban Lucky Fish Friday Night Racing Date: Friday, 11 September 2026 Venue: Hollywoodbets Greyville, Durban Gates open: 3pm More information: Check the Race Coast monthly schedule   HollywoodbetsStart your weekend on a winning note with the Hollywoodbets Greyville Lucky Fish Friday Night Racing. Celebrate South African Flavours with live entertainment, bar specials, thrilling racing, KidZone, and fun for the whole family. Your Friday nights, reimagined. Shall We Dance Dates: Friday, 11 – Sunday, 13 September Times: Friday at 7pm | Saturday at 1pm and 5pm | Sunday at 11am and 3pm Location: The Playhouse Opera, Durban Tickets: R150–R200 via Webtickets   Val AdamsonA variety of dance styles will be on show at Shall We Dance. Swap Netflix for sequins. One of Durban's favourite annual dance

Do you know uMhlanga’s Peppermint Palace? For decades, it’s been a local landmark on Ridge Road, with that unmissable pastel exterior. Built in 1972, it has been one of the area’s most recognisable homes for generations – and those who drive past often wonder what’s behind those walls. Now, you can actually stay there! The iconic property has been lovingly renovated by its new owner, Jeannie Sarno, and transformed from a private residence into a luxury seven-bedroom boutique bed and breakfast. And while the interiors have been given a serious refresh, the ambition was never to erase the building’s past. READ: Sethembiso Zulu is turning KZN’s ancestral stories into a living archive From 1972 to today Peppermint Palace was designed by George Karpinski, and it was built in 1972 by Charles Gilbert.   Sue BarnesThe construction of Peppermint Palace in 1972.   “Since the time it was built, it has been a landmark not only to the area but also to the seamen out at sea,” says Jeannie. “The peppermint colour that is seen on the coastline is a definite beacon to any wanderer wanting to know where they’re currently at.” It began life as a residential home, rather than accommodation, and over the years has had a colourful history of owners and tenants. The house was built to entertain, fitted with a 16-seater cinema and, not too far, a bar fitted with wall-to-ceiling mirrors.   Peppermint PalaceThe original bathrooms when the Peppermint Palace was built.     There’s even a local story

Wow, 10 years. It’s amazing how time flies when you’re sucked into an endless cycle of great series! Netflix launched its streaming service here in 2016, and we haven’t looked back. Until now, of course. It’s time to hit pause, take a moment to rewind, and play some of the highlights from 10 years of Netflix in South Africa.   Venti Views on UnsplashNetflix has been streaming in South Africa for 10 years. READ: White Stripes' Jack White is heading to Mzansi and December is going to be lit! 1. Netflix started with DVDs While we’re celebrating 10 years of this streaming service, Netflix actually started in 1997 as a mail-order DVD rental service. Showing its innovation, the platform has continued to adapt to new technologies, evolving into the streaming platform we know now. 2. South African shows Over the past decade, more than 300 local titles have become available on Netflix. That includes everything from drama and comedy to thrillers, reality shows, documentaries and films. 3. Netflix has supported thousands of SA jobs Netflix says its partnerships with more than 30 South African production companies have supported more than 8,000 jobs. That means the Netflix effect goes well beyond what audiences see on screen, supporting actors, directors and producers, as well as the enormous network of people working behind the scenes. 4.    Showing love to eight provinces Netflix's local productions have been captured across 20 cities in eight provinces. So while Johannesburg and Cap

There are cities you visit, and then there are cities you taste. Durban is firmly in the second category. And few people understand that better than award-winning Durban chef Thuladu Mngadi, owner of Fresh Food With Thuladu. Mngadi's food business began in 2015 after she was retrenched. What started as a canteen-style restaurant at Durban Station evolved into Fresh Food With Thuladu, now based at one of Durban's most recognisable landmarks, Moses Mabhida Stadium. Chef Mngadi is also a Durban Tourism Emerging Restaurant Award winner and has catered for major events including Hollywoodbets Durban July marquees. As a self-taught chef, she has built her business around South African flavours while finding contemporary ways to present them. Unilever Food Solutions South AfricaFor Thuladu, celebrating Durban's food heritage also means looking closer to home. READ: Durban Wine Run returns for a spring day of running and wine tasting So, what does Durban taste like? Ask Thuladu about her favourite Durban flavours and prepare for a hungry answer. “Durban has such a unique flavour identity, and I love the boldness and warmth of our food,” she says. “Some of my favourites include Durban-style curry, bunny chow, inyama yangaphakathi (cow's insides), breyani, sambals and steamed bread, as well as dishes that incorporate spices such as special curry powders, cinnamon, cumin, coriander, fresh chilli and chilli flakes. “I also love the way Durban food brings together different cultural in