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IOL News
02-07-2025
- Business
- IOL News
Durban rolls out the red carpet for over 45,000 visitors at the Hollywoodbets Durban July
eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba with members of the city's council, marketing leaders from Hollywoodbets and Gold Circle Racing, and models at the media launch of the Hollywoodbets Durban July at Westown Square. Image: ZamaNdosi Cele Durban is ready to roll out the red carpet for visitors as the city co-hosts the 129th edition of the Hollywoodbets Durban July. These are the words of eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba, who expressed his excitement during the launch of festivities at Weston Square and The Barn, the city's newly developed lifestyle and retail hub touted as the region's "Midrand", strategically situated between Durban and Pietermaritzburg. The Hollywoodbets Greyville Racecourse will be the epicentre of this prestigious horse racing event taking place on Saturday, drawing close to 45 000 local and international visitors. This influx is expected to result in a significant boost for the local economy, with hotel occupancy anticipated to reach 80% over the event weekend. Xaba addressed local media and dignitaries, including the Chairperson of Economic Development and Planning, Thembo Ntuli, and marketing leaders from Hollywoodbets and Gold Circle Racing. He enthusiastically declared, 'Whether you are a horse racing enthusiast or fashionista, the Durban July is an event you cannot miss. It remains the greatest horseracing event on the continent.' In a bid to enrich the experience for visitors, the city has orchestrated a variety of events and entertainment options beyond the Greyville Racecourse, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Some visitors have already arrived, and local businesses are beginning to prepare their marquees in anticipation of the festivities. The mayor expressed confidence in the event's success, highlighting the collaborative effort with Hollywoodbets and Gold Circle Racing to deliver a stunning spectacle. 'This event presents another opportunity for Durban to demonstrate that it continues to be a premier destination for events, sports, and entertainment,' he noted, underlining the city's commitment to showcasing itself as a major player on the global stage. Xaba emphasised the city's ongoing efforts to enhance the overall visitor experience and maintain a safe environment for all attendees. 'Our law enforcement agencies have developed an integrated safety plan, supported by the private security industry. Therefore, visitors are guaranteed a safe stay in the city with high police visibility,' he stated. Durban has faced numerous challenges in the past, including the July 2021 unrest, the floods in April 2022, the Covid pandemic and not participating in Blue Flag beach status ratings in 2023, resulting in tourism being impacted. 'As part of reviving tourism in the city, I will be meeting key role players in the tourism industry, including the hospitality sector, so that together we can develop a common programme for enhancing visitors' experiences in the city. "This will also assist us in gaining insight into their future development plans and ensure that we are aligned,' he said. With a focused plan for growth and revitalisation, all eyes are glued on the city as Durban stands ready to welcome thousands to the glittering festivities of the Hollywoodbets Durban July, marking a new chapter in its journey towards rejuvenating the tourism sector.
The Star
10-06-2025
- The Star
7 reasons to experience a South African safari for a roaring winter adventure
ZamaNdosi Cele | Published 6 days ago As the chill of winter envelops Mzansi, it heralds the start of a much-anticipated safari season. From the sun-kissed shores of Cape Town to the sprawling savannas of Limpopo, South Africa offers a spectacular array of safari getaways that promise not just adventure but also a connection with nature like no other. The peak of the safari season typically runs from May to October, when animals gather at water sources and the sparse vegetation allows for clearer, more intimate animal sightings. With areas like the Kruger, Pilanesberg, Hluhluwe, Madikwe, and Welgevonden coming alive, here are compelling reasons to embrace the magic of a safari this winter. See the Big Five without the fuss There's an exquisite thrill that comes from tracking the legendary Big Five in their wild habitat. With tranquil game drives and no bustling crowds to compete with, your experience is amplified. Picture yourself surrounded by vast, untamed landscapes, accompanied solely by your skilled guide, as you navigate the bush in search of elephants, lions, rhinos, and more. This intimate setting ensures that each sighting becomes a treasured memory rather than a rushed photo opportunity. Stargaze like never before In the heart of the African wilderness, the night sky transforms into a celestial canvas, free from the clutches of urban light pollution. Marvel at the breathtaking constellations that stretch far above you, as nature presents an awe-inspiring show. Here, in the serenity of the bush, the stars feel closer, inviting you to ponder the universe while wrapped in the tranquillity that surrounds you. Escape the hustle and bustle For many, city life can feel overwhelming, a whirlpool of noise and endless schedules. A safari offers the perfect escape from this chaos. Nestled within the tranquillity of game reserves and parks, you will discover a new sense of peace. Here, time slows down, and you become enveloped by panoramic views, the gentle hum of the bush, and luxurious comforts that invite you to unwind and disconnect from your daily life. Birdwatching adventures For avian enthusiasts and casual explorers alike, a birdwatching safari is a unique way to delve into the wonders of the natural world. South Africa is home to an array of endemic, migratory, and endangered bird species, making it an ideal destination for birdwatching. Professional guides, often knowledgeable ornithologists, enhance the encounter by sharing their expertise, offering insights into bird behaviour and ongoing conservation efforts, transforming an ordinary trip into a scientific journey. Diverse landscapes await South Africa's rich tapestry of ecosystems is on full display as you traverse areas like the vast savannas of the Kruger National Park and the lush coastal forests of KwaZulu-Natal. Each landscape is a vibrant habitat teeming with life, showcasing the stunning biodiversity that defines this corner of the world. As you navigate through these varied terrains, you'll gain a greater appreciation for the delicate balance that sustains wildlife. Learn something new Beyond the thrill of spotting animals, a safari serves as an educational journey where you can deepen your understanding of conservation and ecosystems. With knowledgeable guides and lodge hosts at your disposal, you'll leave richer in knowledge about wildlife and habitats than when you arrived. Safaris play a crucial role in wildlife conservation efforts and offer opportunities for meaningful interactions with the environment and its inhabitants. Create unforgettable experiences Whether you're setting off on thrilling game drives, embarking on walking safaris, or engaging in cultural excursions, a South African safari promises countless ways to immerse yourself in the wilderness. The diverse experiences and encounters will leave an indelible mark on your heart and mind, making your journey through the bush one you will cherish forever. Embarking on a safari this winter offers an unparalleled adventure - an invitation to marvel at nature's wonders, deepen your understanding of wildlife, and escape to a tranquil paradise. So, book your safari and experience a world where the thrill of the chase meets serene beauty, and unforgettable experiences await around every bend!
