A tropical playground awaits you this festive season

Nestled in the heart and soul of the breathtakingly stunning Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape is the Wild Coast Sun- a big slice of heaven on earth with the most scenic and picturesque views, sparkling clear water from the gorgeous beach overlooking the Indian Ocean and tropical summery vibes to match.

As a four-star beach hotel in Port Edward, the Wild Coast Sun encompasses everything that a visiting guest would expect from one of South Africa’s oldest and most decorated resorts.

When I was recently presented with the amazing and magnanimous opportunity to spend two nights at the majestic Wild Coast Sun, I could not say ‘yes’ faster enough. This was not only done as part of their offering to members of the media to come through and experience all the hype, beauty and serenity of the endless summer resort, but more importantly, to show-off and brag (rightfully so!) about their very own sanctuary and kingdom of serenity and sunshine now that the restrictions imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic for two years have been lifted.

#MoloSummer is the mantra of the friendly staff contingent at the resort, who gave me the warmest welcome along with the best VIP treatment from the moment I entered the resort to the time I sadly had to leave!

So read on and go with me on an adventure as I relive my stay at the resort and joyfully reminisce on how this fun-filled trip ignited in me a desire to travel and explore the beautiful KZN South Coast and all that it has to offer even more.

My very first road trip!

So let’s talk about the drive there. As a Chatsworth resident, I consider myself very sheltered and if I could say, conservative when it comes to travelling. I’ve never been big on embarking on road trips or travelling for long periods of time.

I have to admit that when I realised that I would have to travel for at least two hours before arriving at my destination, I was a little apprehensive. For those, who know me, I have a high patience threshold but sadly, not when it comes to sitting in confined spaces.

Before beginning my very first road trip to the Wild Coast Sun, I prepared myself- both physically and mentally. I tried to catch up on as much sleep as possible prior to leaving home and ensured that there was plenty of iced beverages to drink along the way as it was a scorcher of a day (no surprises there!).

Believe me, summer in Durban is very much different from summer in the KZN South Coast! Clearly, the sun always shines brighter in the KZN South Coast. All my negative thoughts put aside, the minute I reached the South Coast area, my fears and anxiety were permanently put to the rest, making me feel like a total fool for not going on a road trip to the ‘Paradise of the Zulu Kingdom’ any sooner.

Even though the trip was two-hours long, it really did not feel that way as I was transported to a place of ultimate bliss and delight. For some reason, everything is better in the KZN South Coast- there’s the most glorious and golden beaches that stretch on almost forever into an ideal mix of country, rural and coastal beauty.

The lush, green hinterland vegetation and subtropical climate did not come to a conclusion and I quickly realised why the KZN South Coast can boastfully state that it can please everyone! Before I even knew it, we had arrived at our destination, putting an end to a road trip that was most enjoyable and accompanied by the best views that even the Maldives and Bora Bora would be jealous of.

Molo, Wild Coast Sun!

I was in awe the minute I arrived- it is not very often that I am at a loss for words and believe me, nothing that I say can do justice to how truly stunning the Wild Coast Sun is. As I walked through the corridors of the reception area, excited to officially check into my new ‘crib’ for the next two days, I could not help but gaze at the fantastic attention to the detail that went into the interior design.

The reception area, in my opinion, speaks volumes of a hotel as this is the first area you see as you enter the premises and this was a hub of activity.

There were smiles all around not just from fellow guests awaiting to check-in but also from helpful, friendly and hospitable staff members, who were more than happy to assist, share information and of course, give you the welcome that you were eagerly awaiting.

As I was given they key to my room, I almost felt like a kid being given my most favourite chocolate bar. I could not contain my happiness and was smiling from ear to ear as I made my way to my room. Within a few seconds, I arrived at Room 538 or as I would like to call it- the room with the best view!

When I opened the door, I was greeted by a haven of tranquillity! Everything was immaculate and perfect in every sense of the word! I was fortunate enough to be given the king luxury room facing the sea- thank you, Wild Coast Sun! As if this was not enough, the team at the Wild Coast Sun once again made me feel so loved by placing a personalised note, a bottle of red wine and some scrumptious goodies in my room.

This was their own creative and sweet way to welcome me to their tropical playground. Their wonderful efforts, attention to detail and love and care for their guests prove to me that once you stay at the resort, you are officially part of their fun-loving family. Once I settled in and freshened up, it was time to officially begin my vacation and embrace the summer vibes!

Culinary excellence at Chico’s Restaurant

As part of my stay at the Wild Coast Sun, the team was kind enough to even provide me with two complimentary breakfasts and dinners at the famous Chico’s Restaurant, which I have also heard so much about (all good things). I was thrilled to experience the hype for myself.

Seriously though, can I once again just brag about how awesome the team is at the Wild Coast Sun? With a buffet on offer at Chico’s, I was really spoiled for choice.

As a person, who loves home-cooked food and who has often become home-sick after not being able to indulge in my mum’s cooking for even just a day on previous occasions, I was blown away by the food at Chico’s, so much so that I didn’t even miss the food from home.

Now that speaks volumes! For breakfast, there was a variety of sumptuous meals, including cereals, fresh fruit, granola, muesli, yogurts, crispy bacon, perfectly prepared eggs, sizzling sausages, golden hash browns, baked beans, stir-fry- the list goes on.

The aromas of freshly-baked croissants, decadent waffles and delightful French toast made me feel like I was having breakfast at the infamous Tiffany’s. To wash all the divine food down, there were fresh juices (cranberry was my favourite) as well as teas and coffees.

This large breakfast kept me fuelled until supper for both days! For dinner, once again, the spread was nothing short of amazing! Curries, grills, stir-fry’s and pastas- I was once again spoiled for choice.

The highlight for me was the authentic lamb curry, which I paired with sambals and roti- I was in culinary heaven as I savoured each bite. For dessert, favourites such as malva pudding, peppermint crisp tart, trifle, mini milk tarts and ice-cream sundaes made the list.

It was a sublime experience, so much so that I personally extended my thanks to the Chico’s team every time I came into contact with them. The food was prepared with love! As they say, the proof is in the pudding- in this case, it was also in all the other delicious meals that were served.

Chico’s- you have earned 10 stars from me! Bravo! Believe me, many of your guests are going to rethink their love for only home-cooked food once they eat at your lovely establishment. Keep creating magic in the kitchen and serving up tantalising meals.

Riding the ‘wild’ waves

If you are a guest at the Wild Coast Sun and do not make your way down to the Wild Waves Water Park, can you really say that you’ve made the most of your trip?

Visiting the Wild Waves Water Park ought to be a tradition and requirement for every guest residing at the resort.

It’s an exhilarating experience- one that you will remember forever. It doesn’t matter whether you’re an adrenaline junkie or not, or have a fear for heights or cannot swim- this venue is for everyone! The best part? It’s completely free to enter for hotel guests.

Your ticket guarantees you unlimited fun! I had to really step out of my comfort zone for some of the rides, which were very scary. But I didn’t regret it! I enjoyed every minute of it, and I am so glad that I didn’t let my fears get the better of me.

Not even the scorching heat or the sunburns could prevent me from living life to the fullest at the Wild Waves Water Park. Don’t just take my word for it- you have to try it out for yourself. For those, who are afraid of attempting to take on the monstrous slides, there is the Lazy River- a slow, peaceful and tranquil experience that is perfect for even babies, who are asleep, as long as they rest in the arms of their parents.

For me, this was a saving grace as I needed to catch my breath and calm my nerves after taking on the more daring rides. Do not be afraid!

The Wild Waves are calling out to you! Remember, life is all about embracing the unexpected and stepping out of your comfort zone.

If I had not visited the Wild Waves Water Park, I probably would not have learned this.

This is the sign you asked for while trying to finalise your summer plans! Live on the wild side and make waves with your loved ones at the water park!

Mangwanani Spa- the place to relax and indulge

After my eventful day at the Wild Waves Water Park, I was in need of the three Rs- rest, rejuvenation and relaxation, all of which were achieved at the Mangwanani Spa- a place where a stress-free life begins. I was treated to African relaxation at its finest with the massage therapists creating the perfect environment and ambiance to restore my body and mind in an absolutely calming manner.

I opted for the full body massage. As I lay in the massage room, the soothing music set the tone for a revitalising awakening. That, coupled with the perfumed smell of the essential oils that melted away any stress or pains endured previously, equalled to a decadent afternoon of pampering.

The lovely ladies at the spa were so wonderful and a breath of fresh air. It was the perfect way to end an action-packed day and was the ideal and much-needed remedy to relieve the stresses of my busy lifestyle. The friendly and efficient team are fantastic at their jobs and are passionate about creating a wellness retreat for their clients.

This is a luxury spa, which is committed to creating a true African experience while embodying the spirit of women empowerment. Once you’re done, you will feel as if you’re literally floating on a big, fluffy cloud of happiness and peace.

So this is basically what my two-day stay at the Wild Coast Sun entailed. It was a glorious affair, one that ended too quickly. I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the general manager of the Wild Coast Sun, Peter Tshidi and his devoted team for affording me this fabulous opportunity.

Special thanks must also be afforded to Nasiphi Qwebani and Cynthia Nene from the marketing team for their warmth, radiance and hospitality as well as Sarah Anderson for so graciously facilitating the necessary arrangements.

I am confident that the Wild Coast Sun will soon be recognised as a five-star hotel and rightfully so, as they have won my heart and vote. I look forward to returning to this tropical playground but for now, I have all these special memories to treasure for a lifetime. Follow your heart and let it lead you to the Wild Coast Sun this festive season.