Thursday, 14 August 2014

Brunch'in at Freedom Café

When FIFA brought the World Cup to SA in 2010, with it came a new wave in our coffee culture and the likes of quaint spots like that of Freedom Café were born. Hidden away on St Mary’s Avenue, the café boasts an artsy and creative vibe, from cute little doggy salt and pepper shakers to walls adorned with mirrors and tables set with fresh flowers, it’s all the pretty touches and embellishments used that creates a serene ambiance.


So an Environmentalist friend of mine recently invited me over to join her for a cuppa at the café. We always try to find places to visit and boy oh! boy, was she spot-on this time around. It was a Thursday morning when we headed over and the place was already buzzing at 11am. We chose to sit inside as its looked uber comfy.  The service was great and the staff was super friendly. First on our list of to-do’s was to catch-up obviously, which mostly meant ooh-ing and aah-ing over how cool this place was and what a great job Kim did in recommending it.
On the inside

Then we took some time to look over the menus. So although it is a café, mixed drinks, wine and cocktails are also served along with a pretty great coffee selection. I opted for a frappe and Kim chose a fresh fruit juice. It was clear that they pride themselves on presentation and, I was glad to see that the café carried that out with their drinks and food too.
Fruit Juice+Coffee Frappe= Happiness

Onto our food orders (which was a tough choice), we chose the sublime, yogurt parfait and avo on toast. The parfait was layers of Greek yogurt laced with raspberry compote, topped with freshly sliced bananas. The avo on toast combo… well that’s pretty self explanatory. Both were delicious and I would totally order them again.
Now that's a good spread!

We ate, talked and on our way out we drooled over the cake selection whilst planning our next visit!
From Sunday to Thursday the café is opens at 7am until 4pm and ONLY SERVES BREAKFAST all day long. Then on Friday and Saturday they are open for business from 7am-9pm and the breakfast, lunch and dinner menu is available to choose from.
Rainbow please!
Freedom Café suits any occasion, whether you’re on a first date, talking business or looking for some family time-out then they have it all covered.

The Concierge is built right next door to the café and here guests can stay the night I was told that bookings are essential and the experience is one of a kind. For the low down on sleeping over, visit

Freedom Cafe is situated on 37- 43 St Mary’s Avenue, Greyville.

For a map click here.

To check out the menu or book a table, visit their website on http://www.tastefreedom.co.za.

Or call them up on 031 309 4453/4434.

Have fun ^^



Friday, 8 August 2014

Spend your Sunday at The Morning Trade

The buzz around town, ahem Rivertown is all about the recently launched artisan produce market, "The Morning Trade". Sunday mornings are establishing a different kind of culture here in Durban and adding to that are traders whom descend upon a shed turn market where socialites and locals can gather and take in the chilled vibes.

Photo Source: Facebook

Here, you can find artsy exhibitions that display the progress of our city as well as what's to come. Adding to this, visitors can find a host of locally grown fresh produce on sale. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee also fills the air and what would a market be without stalls satisfying our sweet-tooth. Cupcake, pastry and sweet treat lovers will find their needs happily met with the sublime selection of all things sweet and delicious.
Fuel up on some great breakfast options at one (or a few) of the food stalls, which are ready and eager to serve up fresh, yumminess. Breakfast selections range from pancakes to Indian food and foodies will be able to find whatever they are craving. Actually even if you aren't hungry The Morning Trade will leave you wanting to sample a bit of something.

The first edition of The Morning Trade. Photo source: Facebook
So just ahead of the second ever market to take place, I thought I'd add to the buzz and send out my troops to see what's happening. This past week organizers of the market were nice enough to share some great tips on how to maximize your market experience. Seen on their Facebook page were the following tips:
“-Arrive early to get the pick of the crop. Gates open at 8am.
  -Bring cash.
  -Don't forget your reusable shopping bags. 
  -A great idea is to load up a cooler box in the boot of your car to keep your pickings fresh - then if you happen to bump into friends and make a impromptu day of it, there will be no spoilage."

My first visit here was awesome, and Durbanites really showed their support. The Morning Trade takes a real initiative and I look forward to stopping by again soon. If you have not already checked it out I suggest you make it happen this weekend and invest in some really great fresh produce.

The Morning Trade happens EVERY Sunday at 8 Morrison Street from 8am to 2pm. It's family friendly, so be sure to take ouma with you as she's bound to love the fresh veggies that she will be able to get her hands on.
For directions click here.

So to stay updated like " The Morning Trade" on Facebook or follow them on Instagram at the same name.

For more information email themorningtrade@gmail.com or call 083 378 1237.
Go get ready, because Sunday is around the corner.
I'll see you there ^^

Friday, 25 July 2014

28th Know India Programme

Myself, along with thirty-eight other delegates from ten different countries embarked on a life changing journey to India recently. The group comprising of participants from Fiji, Myanmar, South Africa, Mauritius, Sri Lanka, Netherlands, Trinidad and Tobago, Malaysia, Suriname and Israel were involved in the 28th Know India Programme. 
28th KIP participants at CCRT
KIP’ ideal aim is to inform Indian Diaspora youth about growth and development in India as well as to familiarize them with different facets of India with which they can learn from, as well as become aware of, as they trace their heritage and culture. However, the true experience we took away from the programme was so much more and we returned with an extended family, which will remain for eternity.
Road-side tuk-tuk repairs
The 28th KIP was held from 9 June-30 June 2014 and was organized by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs together with the Government of India. The group comprised of individuals aged 18-26 and participants had already graduated or were studying towards the completion of their degree.
Hanging out with the Minister for Overseas Indian Affairs
Our journey began in Delhi, where we spent six days. Here, we were hosted by the Indian Institute of Public Administration and were lectured by various speakers whom shared their knowledge on the different arenas of India, such as the Indian economy, history, politics as well as contemporary India amongst many other discussions. This ‘introduction’ to India allowed us to interact with academics and understand on a surface level the goings-on in India today.

Art, colour and mystery, make-up a great part of the Indian legacy and so later that week participants gathered at the Centre for Cultural Resources and Training, where we were involved in several discussions around these and other topics. We were also lucky enough to be enlightened on the beauty of Indian classical dance. It was an eye-opening showcase as we witnessed the complexities and intricacies of Kathak.
Classical dance instructor
Before this interaction I was merely an onlooker, yet now I start to appreciate the art form as a contributor to the shaping of dance and culture as we know it. From the movement of the dancer’s hand, to the ringing of her ghungroo bells as she stepped vigorously to the beat of the thabla expressing her passion, our hearts were awakened to the art of classical dance.
My attempt at rangoli painting
CCRT  then gave us the opportunity to express our creative flare through the creation of different art pieces, including rangoli painting, tie and dye, paper craft as well as bead and clay work.
And so the programme pushed on and this time we travelled to the 28th KIP’ partner state of Jammu and Kashmir. A day long journey by bus ride, from Delhi to Jammu through some harsh terrain allowed us to see the natural beauty of India, passing through several different rural and mountainous landscapes. It was not an easy drive to endure, especially with the decaying roads and the lack of lavatory facilities available on the way. However, reflecting on the moments we shared whilst travelling communally, made it all worthwhile. Participants would sing, dance and occasionally fall into silence as the beauty beyond those bus windows took our breath away.

On route to Srinagar, an overnight stay in Jammu was scheduled and an interactive session with leaders of the Forest Department of Jammu, was held. Afterwards delegates moved to Jammu Aquarium followed by Bahu Fort. The heat in Jammu at this time of the year can rival that of Delhi’s as not a moment went by without us burning up.

On day nine participants travelled to Srinagar where we spent six days, visiting Kashmir’s famous trio; Sonmarg, Gulmarg and Pahalgam. The first of the two highlights that instantly stand out was the horse-riding experience from Sonmarg into the Himalaya Mountains.
This guy took me up into the Himalayas

Beautiful backdrop of the Himalaya Mountains in Gulmarg
In Sonmarg we witnessed beauty beyond bounds as we played in the snow, slid off ice glaciers and warmed our hearts to the abundance of horses which resided there. The second highlight was meeting with Jammu and Kashmir’ Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah at his residence. His welcoming nature engaged us during a one hour Q&A session. The discussion was graciously opened to the youth, allowing us the opportunity to ask questions and offer suggestions based on the knowledge gathered over the duration of the programme thus far. Each question posed was met with an answer and not before long the short session had ended.
At J&K Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah's residence
Srinagar’s magnificence is encapsulated by the Dal Lake. It was unfortunately a hazy day on which we were treated to a shikara ride but, even though Kashmir’ mountains were hidden beneath the clouds; the local floating market on the lake kept us company. Be warned though a fair amount of bargaining is needed before purchasing any goods.

Shikara riding at Dal Lake
Gardens and open spaces were abundant in Srinagar and the Mughal Gardens was no exception. More natural splendor had our camera’s buzzing. On a side note though, be aware of garden keeper imitators whom try to make a few extra rupees of tourists, by engaging you in their whimsical stories and taking your photographs (with your own camera).
At Mughal Gardens
The cooling climate of Srinagar was quickly forgotten as we travelled to Agra. Here the sole purpose being the viewing of India’s most beautiful piece of architecture, and rightfully so, the Taj Mahal. I quote a few participants here in saying, “If you have been to India and have not seen the Taj Mahal, then you have not been to India at all”. I could not agree more as this towering beauty was a sight for the senses which was an unforgettable experience for us.

A guided tour provided us with a brief history behind the making of the Taj Mahal. Following this we were sent on our way to see the building in all its glory. My fondest moment was when I first set eyes on the white marble masterpiece. As I walked through a red walled gate, all I could see beyond me was beauty cascading over the morning sky, accompanied by its striking reflection in the waters below. No other memory could ever replace that of the first sighting of the Taj Mahal forever etched in my memory. The hundreds of photographs taken collectively by the delegates could not completely capture the beauty of the Taj Mahal which we were fortunate enough to see first-hand.
Taj Mahal, Agra
Together participants gathered and here we shared a moment we all never thought would come so soon in our lives. I recall a conversation with a delegate from Trinidad and Tobago, and how he said that he never imagined he would travel to India before the age of 65, yet here he was, at 25, returning to the motherland in all its glory. And that’s what KIP was and is for many of us, a dream realized. So despite the sick spells, upset stomachs and some homesickness, it was the ‘Taj moments’ that made it all worth the while. It allowed us, the Indian youth to find our heritage, roots and culture. It pushed us to appreciate our history that much more and it brought together Indian youth from all over the world to find our similarities and realize that no matter where our forefathers struggles lead them, we are and always will be from one united place, India.
The group at Agra Fort
Following our Agra expedition we traveled back to Delhi, where we were further educated on the past, present and future of India, by various organizations. What I learnt and saw throughout this experience, was that as much as this programme was organized to ‘know India’, it was also about knowing Indians. It enforced our beliefs in our respective religions, cultures and family dynamics. KIP also helped me appreciate how fortunate I am to be part of  a special sect of Indian Diaspora Youth in the world and how the universe ultimately connects us though our shared history with India.

Sunday, 25 May 2014

Hashtag Durban

Replacing Bean Bag Bohemia on Windermere Road, is a Social Restaurant and Cocktail Bar, aptly named Hashtag. The restaurant adds a new twist in the dining experience, by bringing social media into its arena. Hashtag in the past few months has come to be known as a host to blogger meets and product launches.

The menu is great, not too complex, comprising of pizzas and burgers (no complaints there). The cocktail selection is superb. I suggest that you try the Florida Ice Tea. It is sensational. Hashtag also provides a great staff accompaniment, I have to commend the team for the outstanding service we received whilst dining at the restaurant.

The restaurant hosts events from time to time. To  keep up with these, search Hashtag on Facebook and like the page to stay updated. Alternatively you can also follow the restaurant on Instagram at HASHTAGDBN.

For more information check out their website.

Eat, Drink, Hastag, Repeat.

You won't regret it.

Wednesday, 30 April 2014

Beluga for days

Recently a few mates and I were craving some Sushi, and so one bright spark recommended Beluga (Umhlanga) for some great Sushi and Dim Sum. I had never been before, and the idea of finding good tasting Dim Sum in Durban, was a new one to me. Anyway we were hungry (as always) and decided to get some grub.

Upon arrival we were invited inside the restaurant by some breezy hostesses, we were taken to an elegantly dressed table and soon after our waiter was ready to serve us, but not before offering up some complimentary bread.


We started out with cocktails which were of course half-price. I say "of course", because Beluga's trademark is being know for offering half priced Sushi, Dim Sum and cocktails almost all week long.

Following a squizz through the vast array of choices on the menu, we decided on the Roasted Butternut, Feta and Onion Pot Sticker. We requested that the Dim Sum skip the pan frying phase, as we just wanted it steamed. Or waited obliged and delivered what we asked for. An order of Spinach and Cream Cheese Har Gau was also on the table. We furthered that with some Deep Fried Wontons, however when we got the Wontons we found that our waiter got the order wrong. No problemo, he was nice enough to correct his mistake and quickly offered us the incorrect Wontons to taste on the house.

Next up was the sushi, we opted for 8 pieces of the Salmon California Rolls along with 1 Vegetarian Handroll as well as 2 pieces of the Bean Curd Nigiri. It tasted great and all the ingredients were of the highest quality and most importantly fresh! The presentation of the plates were fantastic and the vibe of Beluga provided a great ambiance for a lunch date with good friends.

I won't hesitate going back to try a main dish or two, along with one of the delicate sounding desserts.

A culmination of a good convenient location, good team, efficient service and most of all AMAZING food is totally worth a trip to Beluga. I'm glad I don't have to go back to China to find me some good Dim Sum, cos that is one delicacy that is tough to get right, but Beluga has it down!

The restaurant chain runs an awesome website, where you can check out their menu, and locate a restaurant closest to you. You can find the site here.

For now Beluga Gateway has my heart and it provides the perfect spot for a catch up lunch with the buddies, date night or even some wholesome family dining.

Tuesday, 29 April 2014

Royal Riot 2014

Another long weekend has just passed by, as us Saffa's celebrated 20 years of freedom. It was a joyous occasion and the sense atmosphere was heightened by the upcoming South African election taking place on May 7th next week. I managed to fit in some celebrating as well, by heading over too 'Royal Riot' an annual event hosted at the Pavilion Shopping Center. Organizers appeared to have high hopes in upping the previous 2013 event and the large crowd of people proved that this time around, the it was definitely bigger and better. Party-goers danced the night away to great music and were treated to headliners Neelix and Matty Lincoln along with a bunch of other great DJ's.

Pre-sold tickets for the 14 hour event were going for R80.00 through Computicket. If you headed over and decided to purchase a ticket at the venue, one would have had to fork out R130.00. All in all good people, music and friends resulted in it being a great night out. The only downside to Royal Riot was the bar inside the venue ran out of  glasses way too early into the night. Hopefully that wont happen at the next one.

If you are ever around when the next Royal Riot swings by again, be sure to get yourself a ticket and enjoy the dance fest.

To keep up to date on The Pavilion's latest events and happenings just click here.
Photo op! 

*Photo Cred: Shanil Dayal

Thursday, 24 April 2014

Hello Durban, Hello Burger King

So it's been over a month already since I have been back on SA soil. It's different this time around. The last time I visited it was all fun and frolic along with 2 weeks of utter mayhem. That's because the pretense of my stay was for vacation purposes only.

At the back of my mind I knew there was a job I had to back to in South Korea, a house that needed to be tended to as well as an expat life that needed to be lived. This time however it's a completely different experience. And I can all too easily be swallowed up by these chilled Durban vibes. It's awesome being back (on someday), but it is definitely taking some adjusting.

Well moving swiftly on, the Easter weekend passed us by recently which provided a great four day break for the working folk, whom got to go out, stay in, relax or just chill with their mates. I myself got to do a bit of exploring and found that my return could not have been more perfectly timed as it coincided perfectly with the launch of the Pavilion's food court, which brought with it the "whoppingly" amazing Burger King. Old favorites have also returned such as Spur, Cafe Gitano as well as Mimmos along with several others. Durbanites however, were treated to the first ever Burger King in Durban on the cinema level of the mall. Excitement fulled the air and so did the scent of fast food. People lined up hoping to get their hands on some of the deliciousness going around. So like the rest of the herd, mom and I followed suit and waited in like for no more than 15 minutes. The service was great and the food even better. I had tasted my first Burger King whilst in Tokyo, and biting the bun here sure brought back some epic memories. All in all a trip to the Pavilion nowadays will sure be a pleasant one for many.

Fellow Burger King lovers queuing up

The new look New Metro cinema


Why not head on over and check it out sometime. For newbies or if you're travelling through Durban for a bit and have never been to The Pavilion here's where it is:

Jack Martens Drive 

Sub 9 Lot 2369 
Westville
3611 
The Pavilion trades from 9am to 7pm daily.

For further information you can visit The Pavilion website here.

I hope you will love Pav as much as I do ^_^