well if its beach front it will be high rise, waste not to

I agree. We saw with the West street hotel proposal (maybe it is for this Taj development??) that people are once again looking at the possibility of new high rises on the beachfront.

There are 4 potential new build high rise spots that come to mind - Natal Command, Old waterworld, And the Pavillion site (which would most definately be at least 2 high rises on it.

If Taj are saying they have secured a historic site, then my mind immediately goes to the Natal command one as part of the Film city development which i really hope we hear exactly what on earth is going on there, that land is so so valuable.

The other option is the Edward hotel site...redevelop, make multistory. Other than that there is not many others that come to mind for a historic building.

That all said, the mere fact that a 5 star hotel is in the planning for the beachfront proper is a massive step forward for the continual renewal of this area.

Not exactly Durban, but a great new enture by the constantly growing durban based signature life hotels group

SISONKE STIMELA STEAM TRAIN launched in Southern Drakensburg.

Signature Life Hotels steams ahead with its newest and most unique project– the Sisonke Steam train- giving passengers a chance to discover the natural beauty, history and culture of the Southern Drakensburg.

The Sisonke Stimela “experience” is a magnificently restored luxury steam train that offers a choice of various trips through the unspoilt splendour of the southern KZN Midlands and Drakensburg. The journey passes through grasslands, mist belts, indigenous forests and nature reserves, with this magnificent scenery being interspersed with traditional Zulu villages, allowing the traveller glimpses of African Life. Sisonke is one of the 11 districts municipalities in KwaZulu-Natal, situated in the south of the province and includes the southern most part of the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg National Park adjacent to Lesotho and borders Eastern Cape Province in the west. The Sisonke region is home to over 18 amazing Trappist monasteries and cathedrals built at the turn of the nineteenth century. Centecow Mission in Creighton, which is one of the largest mission centres established by the Trappist brothers and other missions are Reichenau, Emmaus, and Kavelear.Built in 1894 Emmaus Mission was the very last major achievement of Abbot Francis, and currently an art gallery is being built to feature the work of Gerald Bhengu ,an internationally recognized artist with his artwork that is featured in public and private collections locally and abroad.

The area is recognised as one of the most spectacular and rewarding birding areas in the world, with over 300 species, including 63 endemic and 67 red data species.
Avi Tourism forms the single largest group of eco-tourists globally, and 25% of domestic tourists are interested in birding. There are two top national birding spots and seven birding areas. The Marutswa Forest Board Walk in Bulwer has been completed by Sappi and is fully operational. The Ntsikeni Mobile Vulture Hide at Ntsikeni Nature Reserve is home to some rare bird species and has a Ramsar Convention status.Ntsikeni Nature reserve including its 12000 ha wetland epitomises a raw, untamed, natural beauty and within the Nature Reserve the Ntsikeni Eco-Tourism Development Enterprise operates two lodges.

Says Alans Vels Md Signature Life Hotels “ this is a dream project for us – it is a combined effort to promote tourism in the region by the Municipalities of the area and TKZN to position our province as a destination for local and international travelers- the unique quality of this luxury steam train and the flexibility it offers for a diverse group of travellers, from those who are keen on eco-tourism ,birding and nature, to historical mission visits, to business and other special occasions, are vast, and we are delighted to be part of a new and distinct hospitality offering”.

The accommodation on board consists of 21 luxury, air-conditioned suites which were originally fitted by Rovos Rail (17 doubles, one Queen and three twins). Each wood paneled suite accommodates two passengers, the compartments are furnished in classic Edwardian style with bathroom and shower en-suite.
The 42 seater dining coach is complimented with both a lounge and club coach. The menu on offer is designed for all tastes and bespoke menus can be created for different trips or occasions. The observatory coach or “lounge” coach, offers an unparalleled view with a feel of a bygone era. An “Out of Africa” boma style theme evening (on the 1st night journey) is also on offer, off train, in the wilds of KZN.


The train can be used for corporate functions as it has a fully equipped conference carriage that can accommodate 40 delegates in schoolroom style set up, in the conference carriage. This is certainly a train that can offer a conference or meeting with a “difference.”

There are Steam train “experiences” already packaged, but the train can also be completely hired for special occasions from Weddings, to special birthdays or celebrations, to music experiences etc. The Signature Life Hotels team are willing to “tailor make” a package that is requested for the full use of the train. An example of the flexibility of the operation is shown in the 2 night excursion, where guests are transferred by 4 x 4’s to the summit of the Sani Pass for an exquisite luncheon or this excursion can be substituted for on board conferencing.

I agree. We saw with the West street hotel proposal (maybe it is for this Taj development??) that people are once again looking at the possibility of new high rises on the beachfront.

There are 4 potential new build high rise spots that come to mind - Natal Command, Old waterworld, And the Pavillion site (which would most definately be at least 2 high rises on it.

If Taj are saying they have secured a historic site, then my mind immediately goes to the Natal command one as part of the Film city development which i really hope we hear exactly what on earth is going on there, that land is so so valuable.

The other option is the Edward hotel site...redevelop, make multistory. Other than that there is not many others that come to mind for a historic building.

That all said, the mere fact that a 5 star hotel is in the planning for the beachfront proper is a massive step forward for the continual renewal of this area.

ya but many years away me thinks

^^ the Taj development? would think not more than 3

Elangeni Hotel does Durban proud


Durban's beachfront's Elangeni Hotel has beaten more than 90 hotels throughout Africa, the Middle East and the Seychelles to take a coveted international honour.

It has won a trophy for being the "best brand" out of 18 similar hotels in the Southern Sun Group, and then competed with four other brands in the group to win the ultimate "Best Hotel of the Year" trophy.

An ecstatic Mike Jackson, the general manager, hailed the win as being "wonderful for Durban". It was "an endorsement for all the hard work that Durban has done, and shows that the city is safe and beautiful and that it is a great place to have a holiday", he said.

Jackson, the chairman of the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry's tourism committee, and vice-chairman of the East Coast branch of the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa, was feted by 100 of his 280 staff after he returned from the awards ceremony in Johannesburg last week. "I did not think they knew anything about the awards, but the housekeeping staff and others were waiting for me and singing Siqhamka-KwaZulu (We come from KwaZulu)," he beamed.

"Of course, they wanted to know when the party was going to be. And we will certainly have one," said Jackson, who has been at the 450-bedroom hotel on and off for 18 years.

Guest satisfaction, market share and profitability had all contributed to the wins, he said.

When John van Rooyen, Southern Sun's operations director, announced the winning name, he said it was |a hotel which "only gets compliments".

Durban's deputy mayor, Logie Naidoo, was one of the first to congratulate Jackson.

He said last night that although the beachfront hotels might not be five-star, they had some of the highest standards of hospitality in the city.

The Elangeni's success followed that of the Hilton, which recently won the World Travel Awards trophy for being the Best Business Hotel in Africa.

Daily News

Elangeni is one of my Favorite hotels of all time, remember as a kid playing in the lift... up and down anyway, I've been visiting this site for a while now, and think it's brilliant and useful. :)

I'm a Flight Simulator Developer, and relating to this post, I'm building Flight Simulator Version of Durban, which is being developed directly under Google Earth and translated into scenery for FSX thanks to a program called FSX KML, which converts the Vector Polygons and Lines drawn in Google earth to converted into scenery and automatically placed Exactly where it will be in the real world.

Thanks to the accuracy of Google Earth the following will be modelled to 100% accuracy

Roads, Highways and Bridges - Download and install a car into FSX and you'd be able to drive around Durban from any location to another.
Rivers and other non coastal hydroclass modelled
Landclasses simulated, eg Sugar Cane, Beaches, Coastlines, Grass, etc etc
Re-worked SEA to fit proper coastline shape
Railways
Power lines
Residential Suburb's modelled using FSX's default Suburb and city landclasses
animated traffic on major roads and highways,
animated Sea and Air Traffic
All buildings and other objects modelled with GMAX, Sketchup and referenced with Google Earth / Streetview

Anyway thought this may generate some interest




I'll post some images soon to give those interested an idea of what this looks like in FSX...

Upton Hall Boutique Hotel

Great new addition to the growing collection of fine boutique hotels in the Morningside area

From more info: www.uptonhall.co.za (5 star hotel)

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewBG.asp?fldPRK=imaID&PRKvalue=1&fldBLOB=imaImage&TableName=Gallery_Image_Details&ACT=BLOB

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/uploads/site%20images/About.jpg

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=22&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=26&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=28&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=9&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=10&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=12&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=12&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=13&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=14&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=16&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=504

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=41&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=320

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=44&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=320

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/admin/viewimage.asp?fldPRK=heaID&PRKvalue=42&fldBLOB=heaheader&TableName=Layout_Style_Heading&ACT=BLOB&width=320

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/uploads/site%20images/terrace_pool.jpg

http://www.uptonhall.co.za/uploads/home/home2.jpg

talk about la dee dah

This one oozes class, class, class. I actually prefer boutique hotels vs large chain hotels and this one is one of the tops in Durbs, from the looks of it.

Wow! Where in Morningside is this one?

Directly opposite Kings House (the official residence of the President when he visits Durbs).

at Dubai prices i see a problem.....anyone noticed a global recession and decline in hotel trade at the top end....maybe Durban is booming and i missed it.

Orion Hotels & Resorts acquires Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf
by Muzi Mohale on 16. Nov, 2010 in Travel Press Releases

Orion Real Estate Ltd (ORE) and Orion Hotels & Resorts (OHR) are pleased to announce that they have acquired the Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf course in KwaZulu Natal (KZN).

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1410/5181539712_62b386cfe2.jpg

The Orion Group, which has strong interests in the Southern African hospitality, property and business sectors, has today finalized a multimillion rand luxury hotel acquisition in Pennington KZN through its Orion Hotels & Resorts (OHR) and Orion Real Estate Ltd (ORE) divisions. This marks OHR’s third acquisition this year and its 11th hotel in the Southern African market. Other recent acquisitions to OHR’s unique portfolio include the Magoebaskloof Hotel and the Coach House Hotel & Spa near Tzaneen in the Limpopo Province.

Selborne was originally bought in 1979 as a family home and farm. The owner, a keen golfer, decided to build a top grade 18-hole course on the property, which opened in 1985 as the country’s first golf estate. The main house was turned into a luxurious lodge, and the complex became known collectively as Selborne Hotel, Spa and Golf Estate. Later, 120 villas were built along the golf course perimeter for permanent residents.

“We are very proud to have the Selborne Hotel, Spa and Golf Estate join our portfolio,” said Orion Group CEO Franz Gmeiner, commenting on the acquisition. “It is a unique property that offers excellent hospitality and facilities to discerning clientele and the golfing fraternity. As a niche luxury hotel, it forms part of a growing, high value added sector of the travel industry and one in which we intend to expand our investments.” He noted that OHR would be further expanding its portfolio whilst continuing to target the higher end of the business and leisure travel market.

The acquisition, negotiated and concluded by Gmeiner and his team, brings the number of OHR luxury hotels to three with the remaining eight properties in the mid market segment. “This latest acquisition builds on OHR’s already strong portfolio of hotels and resorts in unique locations. This transaction is indicative of our group philosophy which aims to replicate market dynamics by adapting to areas of high growth across Southern Africa and beyond,” added Gmeiner. He pointed out that OHR’s success is based on the ability to identify and capitalize on investment opportunities in challenging markets that offer high returns. “The luxury hotel sector fits this definition perfectly,” he said.

“Following the acquisition of the Selborne, OHR will be able to broaden its tourism offering in Southern Africa. The company will be better placed to increase its commitment to a critical sector of the South African economy, namely its tourism and leisure industry. OHR provides employment and training to local residents in the unique areas where its hotels are located. Through Orion Business Solutions, the Group’s HR and Coaching division, OHR fosters and encourages human resources development.”

Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf Estate is a sub-tropical retreat just 30 minutes south of Durban with a championship golf course, which is one of South Africa’s most sought-after golfing venues for locals and tourists. The tranquil and calm oasis with its temperate climate and lush country setting offers a health spa, a private beach, excellent cuisine, and a choice of luxurious hotel rooms with all the comforts and high standards of a refined and exclusive estate.

Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf Estate, in the heart of the KZN south coast area, has become internationally recognized for its beautiful location and superb facilities and standards. Selborne has hosted many prominent golf tournaments and company days while the hotel and spa has enjoyed a reputation for a top quality lifestyle regarded as unique on the KZN South Coast. Catering to the leisure guest as well as the business traveller, the Selborne also offers excellent meeting and conference facilities, ideally positioned in the 80 hectares of sub tropical gardens. The water features, natural rock and verdant indigenous coastal forest that frames the golf course, is also home to duiker, dassies, mongoose, bushbuck and over 160 bird species.

The 18-hole golf course has a strong international reputation and is now regarded as one of South Africa’s most sought-after golfing venues with a ProShop, excellent caddies and professional management. Hotel residents have full use of the golf club facilities.

Orion Hotels & Resorts is one of the largest independently owned hotel groups in Southern Africa with a portfolio of hotels in unique locations – the Orion Mont-aux-Sources in the majestic Drakensberg mountains, the Orion Hotel Wartburg near Pietermaritzburg in Natal, the Mohale and Katse Lodges in Lesotho, Orion Piggs Peak Hotel and Casino in Swaziland, the Orion Hotel Devonshire in Braamfontein Johannesburg, Orion Hotel Promenade in Nelspruit, Orion Safari Lodge in Rustenburg and the Orion Magoebaskloof Hotel and Coach House Hotel & Spa in the Tzaneen area and the newly acquired Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf Estate at Pennington on the KZN South Coast.

The Selborne Hotel, Spa & Golf Estate and the Coach House Hotel & Spa will be referred to as the Luxury Collection, which will carry a new logo and branding.


http://www.travelwires.com/wp/2010/11/orion-hotels-resorts-acquires/

Protea Hotel Edward gets a facelift
by Muzi Mohale on 17. Nov, 2010 in Travel Press Releases

The venerable lady of Durban’s Golden Mile, the Protea Hotel Edward, is undergoing a facelift, with the first phase of its refurbishment due to be completed by mid-December.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1020/5184102737_e5b711c231.jpg

The first phase of the upgrade comprises the public areas and bedrooms on the fifth and seventh floors, but the hotel has assured guests that no other facilities within the hotel will be affected. The exterior of the building has been completely renovated and has ensured that the art deco facade is the most impressive on Durban’s Golden Mile beachfront. All exterior signage has been upgraded and improved with additional signage in place facing the city. The second phase will commence in the New Year and will involve refurbishing the remaining bedrooms.

The hotel’s conference rooms are part of the refurbishment plans, while bedrooms are being redecorated in a style similar to the overall elegance of the hotel. Cool and calming colours in rich, sumptuous fabrics adorn graceful furnishings, but a nod to the modern era means rooms are equipped with LCD TV’s, new electronic door locks, comfortable executive work stations and room safes. All corridors have had their carpets replaced and graphics and wall finishes upgraded.

Interior designer Sarah McVicar of Sarah M3 Design said the intent for the hotel was to give it a crisp, refreshing face-lift whilst still retaining the quiet traditional presence of the Protea Hotel Edward.

“The existing classical furniture in the bedrooms is being restored and colours have been drawn from the lush flora of Kwa Zulu Natal and the ever-changing hues of the Indian Ocean outside to create a cool and tranquil retreat from the heat of the day in Durban. A mixture of deep greens, crystal blues, antique silvers and velvety charcoals, the fabrics and finishes are rich and opulent, with sumptuous textures to re-capture the historical elegance of the hotel.”

Situated within five minutes of the city centre, the Protea Hotel Edward harks back to a time of Victorian elegance. This world–famous hotel has played host to princes and presidents, field marshals, millionaires and movie stars since 1911. The hotel is a graceful and comfortable springboard from which to explore the rich Zulu culture and game reserves of KwaZulu Natal. The sea views from most of the well-appointed rooms, the personalised service on offer and a sub-tropical climate combine to offer a luxurious holiday experience.

Andrew Rogers, Deputy Chief Executive Officer for Hospitality Property Fund (HPF) said the hotel’s upgrade was part of a broader refurbishment of existing stock owned by HPF and managed and marketed by Protea Hotels.

“We have superb and varied properties in the Protea Group and we always strive to deliver more than guests expect. The ongoing reinvestment in hotels within the portfolio is indicative of the faith we and our respective hotel Owners have in the health and growth potential of the hospitality industry in South Africa” said Danny Bryer, Director of Sales, Marketing and Revenue for the Protea Hospitality Group.

http://www.travelwires.com/wp/2010/11/protea-hotel-edward-facelift/

Still one of my favourites, I remember I went for the official opening after the first major revamp they had that made them 4* or 5* (cant remember) and was blown away from it. About time they revamped it again.

That is a very positive revamp for the beachfront. The hotel was looking very tired on the outside, need to take a trip down to see how they have refreshed the exterior. Good to see these investments into the beachfront hotels which will induce others around to do the same in keeping with the upgrading of the entire area and make it more enticing for new entrants.

Why are the UN saying there are not enough 5 star hotels within easy reach of the ICC? Are most of them outside of Durban in Umhlanga?

Mo you know the answer to your own question.

And the UN are not saying anything, until we see they have said anything.

I wasn't aware that the UN appoints anonymous Internet posters as their spokesmen.

If the UN allegedly has something to say, I would prefer them to articulate it, not some random anonymous Internet poster. On that note, it's amazing that the same UN that allegedly has a problem with insufficient 5 star accomodation in Durban, chose Nairobi to host COP 12. The same Nairobi that, to my knowledge, has far less (quality) accommodation than any of SA's 4 major cities (and in my personal opinion, based on 2 previous recent stays in two different 5 star establishments in Nairobi, questionable quality in regard to its 5 star establishments).

trolling

trolling

That was the exact tag given to him by people in the Delhi Commonwealth 2010 thread after his comments there...

Mo you know the answer to your own question.

And the UN are not saying anything, until we see they have said anything.



My question is directly in relation to the "there are only 3 suitable five-star hotels for the event", post the UNFCCC visit to Durban by the technical team of the UNFCCC. They have already been to Durban. This is not the sort of event they can compromise or negotiate with regards to the requirements.

Bookings don't take place a month before the event.

They take place as soon as possible, and yes, they are currently struggling to meet the required number of rooms, in the required number of categories, one of them being 5 star, a crucial category, given the size of the event, and the importance of some heads of state. (and of course within the right location)

One of the reasons its unlikely to change its mind is because by January, when a review of the decision MIGHT take place, CT or JHB will not be able to hold that many rooms aside anymore for Nov/Dec 2011 bookings.

This is very real, ignore the Cape Times, article but they only appear to have found "3 five star hotels" suitable thus far, and are hence not happy with the government decision, not to wait for a UN decision. This in addition to other accommodation issues related to booking so many rooms this far in advance for 2011.

You are once again more than welcome to PM me and I will in good faith pass along one of the more recent e-mails regarding COP 17.

If I am trolling, the ignore list, is available.

Its funny how you are the one that loves to compile hotel lists all the time, even for Durban, and yet you want to ask us about the 5 star hotels in such a condescending manner. Clearly your attempt at humour/snideness/whatever it is that drives you.

I agree that 5 star hotels are lacking, i have clearly said this many times. BUT for events like this there are always alternatives to be found. There is much precident of 5 star homes\villas\apartments being rented out for occasions like this. Heck there are a number of massive embassy homes too (granted filled with embassy people).

So the Cape Times, those folks that always positive spin anything in CT (probably have something on the honeymoon couple in gugulethu in a sweet light too), would clearly love to egg this on. I mean Cape Town sidelined again = evil ANC blah blah.

So what are the only three 5 star hotels in Durban?

Hilton
Beverley Hills
Oyster box?

nevermind

Teremok
Suncoast Towers
Endless Horizons
Lembali
Upton Hall
Sibaya Lodge
Fairways
The Pearls (yes there are 60 apartments in a 5 star hotel pool)
Fairmont Zimbali lodge
Fairmont Zimbali Hotel and beach resort
Makaranga Lodge

And these are just off the top of my head. and are in region of 1100 5 star rooms and dont take into account a number of other 5 star places in Ballito or Hillcrest way

Another interesting that has to be pointed out, is that 9,5 times out 10, a 4 star hotel is absolutely no different to a 5 star property except for the fact that they offer some added on silly services like salons, 24 gourmet meals, not just 24 room service. In most instances 4 star is no different from 5.

The other interesting thing is how are the UN unhappy, when as RomanSA so clearly pointed out, they were the one's talking about Durban as the host LONG before the announcement.

Shame, maybe we should all hope Cape Town wins something soon so that they dont try and pick apart every single thing that others get. I can bet you now if the shoe was on the other foot we would not be having this conversation now

eesh. never mind. Just passing along the info.

Offer re: e-mail still stands. If I had direct contact with the UN technical team I would share that too , but I suspect its all just an inconvenient truth.

I'll move the info to the CT threads.

So what are the only three 5 star hotels in Durban?

Hilton
Beverley Hills
Oyster box?

nevermind

Teremok
Suncoast Towers
Endless Horizons
Lembali
Upton Hall
Sibaya Lodge
Fairways
The Pearls (yes there are 60 apartments in a 5 star hotel pool)
Fairmont Zimbali lodge
Fairmont Zimbali Hotel and beach resort
Makaranga Lodge

And these are just off the top of my head. and are in region of 1100 5 star rooms and dont take into account a number of other 5 star places in Ballito or Hillcrest way



And at the top of my head, others not in the above list include:

- Audacia Manor, Morningside (this one is gorgeous; attended a function there and went into some of the rooms; and it overlooks the stadium)
- iZulu Hotel, Zimabli

Plus

- many, many 5-star graded guest houses

And then there are the many, many 4-star hotels in the city, which offer comparable service to their 5 star compatriots

I wish some journalists would do basic research before writing biased rubbish...

eesh. never mind. Just passing along the info.

Offer re: e-mail still stands. If I had direct contact with the UN technical team I would share that too , but I suspect its all just an inconvenient truth.

I'll move the info to the CT threads.

The same UN team thats stated they would leave the decision up to SA? SA won the event as a country, therefore as the process generally for these events is the country can then choose. the UN didnt award to a city.

Inconvenient truth? I've yet to hear anything that concerns me.

is the royal and edward not 5* anymore?
Westville hotel?

im sort of following this but dont see what the issue is, durban won Ct lost and now its sour grapes??

So what if CT has more 5* hotel room, compared to joburg it looses on that point but you dont see joburg compalining.

is it they just assumeed they would win (like the CC final anyone??)

This is aculayy boring about who has the most 5* hotel rooms, sort of like by c*ck is bigger rthan yours, who gives a shit.

Yes, the same UN that has repeatedly used Durban to host major UN events.

Those claims smells like a 'sore loser complex'. We've heard that type of talk before.

Yawn.

Mark my words: Based on past experience, in future, if Durban and Jhb go up against CT for an event, this is the way things will go down:

1. CT will have lots of publicity for their bid. Not so for the other cities.
2. CT posters on this board will argue that, on paper, and in reality, if there's no political interference, CT should (will) win the bid.
3. Shock and horror: Jhb or Durbs wins the bid.
4. CT posters may (grudgingly) state that they will support the other bid city.
5. Within 24-48 hours, CT posters will state (anonymously) that they 'heard' (anonymously) that there was interference in the bid process.
6. Some (CT) posters will gullibly believe such claims without a shred of proof being yielded, and also insult the winning city.
7. Posters from the winning city will point out FACTS and challenge those who make the allegations to prove their claim.
7. CT posters will ignore such facts.
8. CT posters will insult those who challenge them.
9. CT poster will adamantly claim that the bid was 'fixed' (if CT loses it is 100% as a result of a 'political' decision as CT is incomparable), thereby trying to undermine the merits and achievement of the winning city.
10. Winning city posters celebrate, regardless.

Anyway, moving on...

While some argue that Durban doesn't have enough 5* hotels...

---------------------


SA in need of budget hotels
November 19 2010 at 01:44pm

Although South Africa now has plenty of five-, four- and three-star hotels Johannesburg, Cape Town and Durban are “crying out for one- and two-star hotels of the kind that used to be found everywhere”, according to Joop Demes, the head of the hospitality division of Pam Golding Properties.

Demes said this week the new tourism markets opened up by hosting the World Cup in June and July meant many of the visitors wanted clean and pleasant accommodation costing about R350 a night, and with a South African character distinguishing them from the anonymous budget hotels found in Europe.

“We need accommodation like the old Royal Hotels that were found all over South Africa, where families travelling round the country used to stop,” he said.

Until recently, many people in the hospitality industry expected a disappointing summer, with the hope for a rise in tourism from overseas starting only late next year.

But flights from overseas are already arriving with heavy passenger loads although the tourism season normally starts only at the end of this month, with British Airways in particular reporting that its 15 flights a week to Johannesburg and 13 flights a week to Cape Town are more than 90 percent full.

Restaurants also expect an average or above-average summer season, but due to the high number of walk-in customers with no reservations the figures of the restaurants cannot yet be analysed. - Audrey D’Angelo


http://www.iol.co.za/business/business-news/sa-in-need-of-budget-hotels-1.847578

is the royal and edward not 5* anymore?
Westville hotel?

im sort of following this but dont see what the issue is, durban won Ct lost and now its sour grapes??

So what if CT has more 5* hotel room, compared to joburg it looses on that point but you dont see joburg compalining.

is it they just assumeed they would win (like the CC final anyone??)

This is aculayy boring about who has the most 5* hotel rooms, sort of like by c*ck is bigger rthan yours, who gives a shit.

:applause:

more hotels...

according to my marts at the Durban-KZN Conventions Bureau - the bid was won with the current hotel stock... It would have been great to get more much-needed 5-star hotels, but beside big high profile hotels ppl are not staying there cos of cost cutting... (the One&Only in Ctn and Fairmont are currently not doing well at all...)

He told this to me after the opening of Coastlands Umhlanga last week...
He said the DBN bid did not incl the 124 new 4star rooms of Coastlands and the 200-plus rooms of the new Gateway Green Hotel, which opens early next year...

Oh guys - what about the three or so - 4-star Southern Sun Lifestyle resorts in Umhlanga, which will take booking for COP17 (as long it's early)...

There's also the new hotel coming up near Bean Bag and all the new ones opened by Signature Life, who are sure to open more next year before COP17...

Yes, the same UN that has repeatedly used Durban to host major UN events.

Those claims smells like a 'sore loser complex'. We've heard that type of talk before.

Yawn.

Mark my words: Based on past experience, in future, if Durban and Jhb go up against CT for an event, this is the way things will go down:

1. CT will have lots of publicity for their bid. Not so for the other cities.
2. CT posters on this board will argue that, on paper, and in reality, if there's no political interference, CT should (will) win the bid.
3. Shock and horror: Jhb or Durbs wins the bid.
4. CT posters may (grudgingly) state that they will support the other bid city.
5. Within 24-48 hours, CT posters will state (anonymously) that they 'heard' (anonymously) that there was interference in the bid process.
6. Some (CT) posters will gullibly believe such claims without a shred of proof being yielded, and also insult the winning city.
7. Posters from the winning city will point out FACTS and challenge those who make the allegations to prove their claim.
7. CT posters will ignore such facts.
8. CT posters will insult those who challenge them.
9. CT poster will adamantly claim that the bid was 'fixed' (if CT loses it is 100% as a result of a 'political' decision as CT is incomparable), thereby trying to undermine the merits and achievement of the winning city.
10. Winning city posters celebrate, regardless.

Anyway, moving on...

i think its simply a CT mentality...very similar to how the DA run the province. "If we cant beat them, we will just have to run them down every time we lose and complain to a point where we just look utterly jealous"

SA lacks the brand non full service properties you find every where and espcially in teh states, Holiday Inn express (every where), Hyatt Place (great product),fairfield suites (at every airport) etc etc. So what if you dont have 20 5* properties, todays traveller spends less and less time in teh hotel using its facilties than they do actually travelling (unless its a resoprt property and thst why you are there).

Durban once had( 30 years ago) shit loads of 1,2,3 star properties that were always full and well looked after, then everything went to shit and then only 5* was deemed appropriate for tourists, seems we have come full circle now.

Yeah...

And i think its a good thing that we're starting to realise that its the cheaper well maintained properties that will bring in more tourists. I sleep in the hotel... everything else happens outside in the city I'm visiting.

SA lacks the brand non full service properties you find every where and espcially in teh states, Holiday Inn express (every where), Hyatt Place (great product),fairfield suites (at every airport) etc etc. So what if you dont have 20 5* properties, todays traveller spends less and less time in teh hotel using its facilties than they do actually travelling (unless its a resoprt property and thst why you are there).

Durban once had( 30 years ago) shit loads of 1,2,3 star properties that were always full and well looked after, then everything went to shit and then only 5* was deemed appropriate for tourists, seems we have come full circle now.

Completely agree with you here. most travellers want good qualty hotels, funky design and good locations, not all the silly bells and whistles of a 5 star hotel - if you want a good spa or restaurant you will go to them, they should be in hotels as locals do not like going to hotel restaurants generally.

This is the platform that signature life have based their roll out of properties on and it seems to be doing very well for them. Personally i hate going for the chains, unless its with work to africa and then frankly you would be stupid not to (that said the new Sankara Nairobi is a great 5 star independent hotel).

I'm in madrid currently and i chose the place i am in because of its location, in the heart of gay chueca, and its awesome!

Durban needs (and is getting) more cutting edge design hotels. They are smaller, they are generally 4 star, but they meet travellers needs. Yes some people do still want 5 star, but personally i think star ratings have become a dated system in the modern era of tripadvisor and the like...

But yes, lets up our number of 2 star properties. heck you are in a city to explore it, you should not be doing much more than sleeping in your hotel or you are wasting your time!

Entrepreneur - 05 Nov 2010

Up to the challenge
Zohra Mohamed TekeWednesday, 3 Nov 2010

In a tough market dominated by white players, SN Group CE Saantha Naidu has come a long way with his property and hotel empire. His latest project, the four- star Coastlands Hotel, is to open in Umhlanga this month . He purchased the land for R43m within 24 hours three years ago. Naidu’s business acumen was acquired and nurtured by his involvement in the family business. Having spent 25 years as a financial adviser to the insurance industry, he went on to purchase his first commercial property, Coastlands Apartments, in 1993. It was just before the first democratic elections and established hoteliers in Durban’s city centre, uncertain about the future, were starting to sell their properties. “Coastlands consisted of mixed-use retail and self-catering apartments. My main interest was in commercial leasing; I knew nothing about hotel management ... Soon it became clear that to compete we had to convert the property to a hotel; that changed the direction of the company,” says Naidu (59). Today SN Group has 40 subsidiaries , including commercial property and three hotels, with a staff of 500 in KwaZulu Natal. For those wanting to enter the industry, Naidu advises: “Don’t expect to get rich overnight. It’s a long haul and needs a hands-on approach ... This market is dominated by old-school white businessmen. Government needs to provide more incentives for black hoteliers to enter [the sector] and compete with recognised names, and banks need to become softer on granting loans . It’s only then that the playing field can be levelled.”

http://www.fm.co.za/Article.aspx?id=125736

Coastlands Ridge - Musgrave

This 4 star property has been open over a year now

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs700.snc4/62023_435121911580_607111580_5661112_1208843_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs700.snc4/62023_435121906580_607111580_5661111_7413697_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs700.snc4/62023_435121901580_607111580_5661110_7680407_n.jpg

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc4/hs700.snc4/62023_435121916580_607111580_5661113_408974_n.jpg

^^ wow thats nice

i think its simply a CT mentality...very similar to how the DA run the province. "If we cant beat them, we will just have to run them down every time we lose and complain to a point where we just look utterly jealous"

Its all fact, and whether its "Revealed" sooner or later makes no difference to me.

Its all just a bit inconvient hearing the truth.

Mo : What truth is this?

We've had NO "confirmation" other than from you...

and when or if it appears in the news, then you will have it. Until then I'm not expecting anybody to believe me. You are free to contact bid officials from CT or JHB or even Durban.

Many are public figures, with e-mail address, which you are free to use.

Yawn.

Regardless of such alleged evidence emerging, the only objectively verifiable inconvenient truth is that CT didn't get the event. Seems some people can't come to terms with it. Shame.

If CT officials believe they were 'cheated' (it's interesting that even they haven't said so; Only one Internet poster keeps making this allegation on their behalf, without the mandate to do so), the onus is on them to adduce the evidence in support of this position. Almost a week since the announcement and they still haven't done so. If there's evidence, produce it and let government answer for it. Durbanites certainly won't have a problem with this. Until then, the only other inconvenient truth remains that all this fuss from one CT poster comes across as sour grapes from a bad Western Cape grape harvest.

The longer it takes for the alleged evidence to emerge, the more unlikely that the host city will change.

i'm tired of this diatribe. Until there is any proof to these comments this issue is closed

Blackstar in funding deal with Tanmac Trading
03/12/2010

StockMarketWire.com - Blackstar has gained exposure to industrial land and hotels in Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal, following a loan of £513,000 by its subsidiary, Blackstar Real Estate, to Tanmac Trading.

The assets consist of two properties - Hotel 64 on Gordon and Dockland Hotel.

Hotel 64 on Gordon is a 36-room boutique hotel situated in Durban's Gourmet District with easy access to all arterial routes and amenities.

Docklands Hotel is an 83-room designer hotel situated in Durban's Point Waterfront development with views over the Indian Ocean and harbour.

Blackstar will earn an 11% yield on its investment.

Story provided by StockMarketWire.com

LON:BLCK

http://www.stockmarketwire.com/display/?id=4024845&sectionId=standardNews

Great interview with Alan Vels CEO of the Signature Life Hotel group on 3 Talk with Noeleen

http://www.signaturelifehotels.com/the-news

Word of warning to the Industry across the board in South Africa. Focus on the right market segments. We seriously lack in the 2/3 star quality market.

Stars shine less brightly
Zweli MokgataThursday, 13 Jan 2011

Not only have international visitors stayed away from SA because of strained budgets, high air fares and the strong rand, South Africans have also opted to stay closer to home

The hospitality industry expects a slow recovery this year after three years of straight decline.

South Africans are still reeling from the 2008/2009 recession and hotel visits reflect the conservative spending culture that travellers have adopted.

While hotel occupancies are slowly improving from last year, the spending patterns have changed, says Martin Jansen van Vuuren, a director at Grant Thornton Strategic Solutions. “The top end of the market has definitely experienced a decline over this period.”

According to the latest Statistics SA data for last year , hotel occupancy rates between October 2009 and October 2010 were depressed, hovering between the low 50s and the high 40s.

This was after an average rate of 71% in 2008 and 61% in the following year.

The year’s low was reached in January 2010, when occupancy rates were 43,7%. Rates peaked in June at 57,4%.


Jansen van Vuuren says it is not just domestic travellers who have been opting for more economical options: “Foreign tourists have been trading down from five-star to three-star hotels. The strength of the rand has played a role in that,” he says .

Self-catering accommodation in the Western Cape was fully occupied during the December holiday period, according to Jansen van Vuuren, but Cape Town tourism didn’t experience an increase in overall occupancies, with a decline in the higher end.

In the nine months to November, five- star occupancy countrywide fell by one percentage point to 59%. The lowest five- star occupancies were in Durban.

Ironically, it was Durban that experienced the highest occupancies at Southern Sun hotels during December. Southern Sun MD Graham Wood says Cape Town reached nearly 90% occupancy rates on peak days and Durban hotels were filled to capacity during the vacation period. Johannesburg hotels were almost deserted as residents abandoned the city.

“We had a good festive season in Durban, particularly between December 20 and January 10, a period that was significantly up from last year.”

Wood says the guests were almost all domestic holiday makers and that there were very few international travellers. Cape Town occupancies were also up from last year, but they were not as high as was expected because of the decline in business from international travellers.

Not only have international visitors stayed away from SA because of strained budgets, high air fares and the strong rand, South Africans have also opted to stay closer to home.

Long-distance trips for residents of Gau- teng, such as to Cape Town, have been replaced by more affordable holidays within reasonable driving distance, such as the Kruger Park and the Drakensberg, says Jansen van Vuuren .

Looking ahead, Wood says: “The first six to nine months will show no big pick-up. Only when corporate travel increases will we see a significant rise. ”

The dual effects of technology and tighter travel budgets have conspired to keep mid year business travel from picking up, but Wood expects a gradual recovery.

“People are definitely thinking of teleconferencing and newly introduced high-definition tele- presence applications ,” he says.

Protea Hotels group marketing manager Nicholas Barenblatt says: “This year will remain challenging as markets haven’t fully recovered from the effects of the global recession.

“The traditional migration of the domestic holiday makers from the north to the coast is ever present; however, the lead time for bookings was shorter this year than in previous years.”



http://www.fm.co.za/Article.aspx?id=131377

Was driving through Greyville near bbb this afternoon and noticed that the development just around the corner from the two churches on second avenue had signs up. Yet another new hotel. The quite flashy signs said "Vintage Hotel" in exactly the same font and style as the Vintage restuarant next to BBB. Seems that the Vintage restaurant will be moving to the very large looking downstairs restaurant area and a hotel will be on the two other floors of this new build 3 storey building, that has been done in a harmonious way to blend in with all the old buildings which surround it. It appears to be a small hotel of no more than 40/50 rooms.

This will leave the Vintage restaurant site open for more development...and i can so see it being snapped up to keep this cultural foodie hub growing.


Only detail i can find on the net is as follows from the National Gazette:

(1) Vintage Hotel CC (CK 2009/189232/23), Reg Business address: 32/33 Second Avenue, Morningside, Durban, 4001 Postal address: 20 Windermere Road, Morningside, 4001. (2) Hotel Liquor Licence (on-consumption). (3) All kinds of liquor. (4) Vintage Hotel, 32/34 Second Avenue, Morningside, Durban, Erf 1376 1377 of Durban.

getting close to the crime and grime of greyville, umgeni rd, station, game city area. is this not going too far south of florida?

Ha! I have been wondering for months what was being developed there, and what was there originally! Was there an old substation or municipal building there that's been converted?

I think this plot literally represents the very edge of the Florida / Windermere Rd precinct, so should work. It's almost a stones-throw to the revamped Game City (now rebranded 'City View Mall'). It's not quite in a dodgy area as it's only just immediately past Independent Newspapers on its Stampford Hill Rd side that things gets dodgy with occasional taxi-related violence from the taxis that park there. The Umgeni Rd facing side of the Central Train Station is too far away to have impact on this hotel.

I can see this hotel being very popular during the Durban July. It's probably the closest hotel to any of the racecourse's entrances. Swaggering back to bed will be easy!

getting close to the crime and grime of greyville, umgeni rd, station, game city area. is this not going too far south of florida?

That area is going through a bit of a rejuvenation. Firstly Game City had a massive renovation is now known as City View Mall as jerome points out.

Secondly many of the 100 year old homes that are found around BBB have been getting major overhauls. The largest of which became the Concierge Boutique Hotel and Bungalows, with the award winning Freedom Cafe at its centre. This literally blew the roof on the area behind BBB that virtually no one knew existed. The homes around the public square in the middle are amazing heritage structures and a number of them are currently being completely transformed, into what i do not know though.

The St Mary's Hall is in constant use for multiple events and itself has had an upgrade. Therefore this new hotel, while yes a bit out of place, is part of the growth and transformation of this node. It makes a great addition to the two other hotels literally next door to it.

Ha! I have been wondering for months what was being developed there, and what was there originally! Was there an old substation or municipal building there that's been converted?

I think this plot literally represents the very edge of the Florida / Windermere Rd precinct, so should work. It's almost a stones-throw to the revamped Game City (now rebranded 'City View Mall'). It's not quite in a dodgy area as it's only just immediately past Independent Newspapers on its Stampford Hill Rd side that things gets dodgy with occasional taxi-related violence from the taxis that park there. The Umgeni Rd facing side of the Central Train Station is too far away to have impact on this hotel.

I can see this hotel being very popular during the Durban July. It's probably the closest hotel to any of the racecourse's entrances. Swaggering back to bed will be easy!

whats happening with all those peices of land fanced off on the Beach side of greyville race course next to natal newspapers?

Those parcels of land are collectively referred to as Block AK and they have a very sad history. Almost 5,000 families of different races lived there but they were forcefully removed in terms of the Group Areas Act during the apartheid era (circa 1963), and the area was proclaimed for white ownership and occupation (however, as was the case with Cato Manor, which was similarly cleared for white occupation, it remained empty, although Cato Manor was later occupied by thousands of informal settlers, who remain there until today). Some of the residents of Block AK were relocated to Phoenix and Chatsworth, and even some parts of the then Transvaal.

Some of those parcels of land are still the subject of a bitter land restitution claim. Just over 20 claims have been settled (22 owners have been paid approx R86,000 each), but others are still awaiting compensation.

Here's one of the last media reports on the issue:

-------------

Block AK body in push to get land from city.(News)

Sunday Tribune (South Africa)
January 4, 2009

BYLINE: Juggie Naran

THE Block AK Action Committee claims it is "sick and tired of broken promises" and is demanding eThekwini Municipality urgently sell 125 properties, expropriated under the Group Areas Act, to the Land Commission.

This follows the last-minute intervention by Deputy Minister of Communication Roy Padayachie in November that resulted in the cancellation of the auction of a multimillion-rand Telkom-owned site on First Avenue in Greyville that is subject to several land claims in Block AK.

Committee secretary Mohammed Vahed, who has led the campaign on behalf of former residents to reclaim their land, asked Padayachie to intervene.


http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1G1-191470608.html

^^ so not much will be happening on that land for quite awhile?

Best of KZN welcomes Pakamisa
January 25 2011 at 11:15am


Best of KZN, which promotes a collection of independent owner-operated destinations in the KwaZulu-Natal countryside, has announced the addition of Pakamisa Private Game Reserve to its collection. Pakamisa is a retreat in northern KwaZulu-Natal, situated within its own private game reserve. Known for its Arabian horses, this property also offers horse safaris.

Chairman of Best of KZN and owner of one of the five-star member properties, Hotel Izulu, Owen Williams said: “Best of KZN has grown significantly in brand share and product development during past year. With the service excellence, exquisite dining and exceptional hospitality that Best of KZN offers its clients, members have always sought to find only the very best products to add to such a uniquely stunning collection. The collection already boasts seven four- and five-star owner-driven properties within the portfolio, covering the beach, berg, battlefields and bush, each undeniably charming and filled with warmth and character.”

Pakamisa owner Isabella Stepski, said: “We are excited about joining the Best of KZN, and working with our member properties to package some of South Africa’s most spectacular destinations, which are all located in one province. Where else in the world can you experience majestic mountains, wildlife safaris, pristine beaches and historical tours in just one destination? Pakamisa is a perfect fit within the distinctive and personal collection that is the Best of KZN.”

Hosts Isabella and Anthony welcome both novices and experienced riders to view wildlife while on horseback. There is also a variety of activities to choose from such as archery, mountain biking, clay-target shooting and traditional game drives in open safari vehicles. For the more active, guided bush walks are available.

Other member properties within Best of KZN include Hotel Izulu, Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, Duma Manzi Eco Lodge and Spa, The St James on Venice, Thanda Private Reserve and Fugitives Drift. See www.bestofkzn.co.za or www.hotelizulu.com - Weekend Argus


http://www.iol.co.za/travel/south-africa/kwazulu-natal/best-of-kzn-welcomes-pakamisa-1.1016626

Coastlands on the Ridge invests R2m in future-proof guest technologies
Press release issued by Predictive Communications
9 Feb 2011

Coastlands on the Ridge is an innovative, hi-tech, modern luxury 101-room hotel commanding Durban's skyline, accommodating modern and sophisticated guests with its new hospitality solution and infrastructure from Alcatel-Lucent.

The designer room hotel, with views of the Moses Mabhida stadium and the Indian Ocean, has invested R2 million in telecommunications, networking, WiFi access for staff and guests, integration into its property management system, online billing for guests, WiFi billing, and network security.

“Coastlands on the Ridge can truly boast improved service and reduced costs through the flexible, integrated communications system that links key services including reservations, check-in and check-out, facility maintenance and guest service,” says Ashley Carr, account manager at Bytes Communications Systems. “The customised wireless solutions increase productivity because employees are connected at all times, and it's a service that increasingly technology-aware guests demand.”

Coastlands on the Ridge is the second hotel in the Saantha Naidu Group, Coastlands Hotels, to benefit from the Alcatel-Lucent hospitality solution, incorporating the Alcatel Lucent Omni PCX Enterprise platform for voice, Alcatel Lucent Omni for data, and Alcatel Lucent WiFi, from Bytes Communications Systems.

The hotel now delivers personalised in-room services. It is the ultimate user-centric guest experience using a customised telephone-based interface and a range of business phones that integrate seamlessly with hospitality applications, with direct access to voice mail, mobility tools and payment options through in-room phones that have video screens pre-programmed with a graphical menu of services.

It has a contact centre to handle guest reservations and inquiries effectively and efficiently by integrating front-office and communication systems, routing calls to the most appropriate agent in the guest's preferred language, providing quick check-in or complete check-in with additional information, and receiving a global overview of room availability and status.

In addition, it has wired and wireless services to keep guests connected wherever they are by offering quality of service options for online access to gaming, music, video, and collaboration, and providing bandwidth based on individual guest demand and broadband access and networking equipment for constant connectivity.

“Luxury hotels and resorts such as our Coastlands on the Ridge elevate the customer experience by offering this type of service,” says Rushen Naidu, special projects director at Saantha Naidu Group, Coastlands Hotels. “It is a fundamental component of future-proofing our business and staying at the head of the game.”

The project was awarded in February 2009, implementation kicked off in May 2009, and the project was completed in November 2009.


http://www.itweb.co.za/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=40902:coastlands-on-the-ridge-invests-r2m-in-futureproof-guest-technologies&catid=144&Itemid=92

Good exposure for / coverage of Durban's top hotels...

--------

Top business hotels in Durban
Sample the delights of Durban while staying in one of these luxury five-star hotels
BY: Melissa Rudd
Tue Mar 15, 2011

Travelling to Durban? African Business Review profiles the top three business hotels to make sure you enjoy your stay to the full, taking care of your business needs and social requirements, too.

ROYAL HOTEL
5 STAR - DURBAN
KWAZULU NATAL

http://www.africanbusinessreview.co.za/sites/default/files/imagecache/Slideshow_656x400/QUArters.jpg
View over Durban from the Royal Hotel (Courtesy of Royal Hotel)

An establishment that has truly incorporated age old traditions and ultra modern facilities, the Royal Hotel has stood in Durban’s centre for more than 165 years.

The hotel says that ‘five-star sophistication is the keynote’ throughout the rooms and suites, with rich décor and grand colour schemes exuding luxury for any guest benefiting from free Wi-Fi in all rooms.

Meanwhile, the introduction of a Business Centre allows for telecommunications and computer technology to be used at your convenience and conferencing facilities are comprehensive.

Endorsements by former guests such as Cecil John Rhodes, Rider Haggard, Marlene Dietrich, Mark Twain, Mangosuthu Buthelezi and Nelson Mandela ensure the Royal has great appeal.

HILTON HOTEL
5 STAR - DURBAN
KWAZULU NATAL

http://www.africanbusinessreview.co.za/sites/default/files/imagecache/Slideshow_656x400/hot1.jpg
Grand reception in the Hilton Durban (Courtesy of Hilton Durban)


The brand name speaks for itself, and this Hilton hotel couldn’t be better situated for business travellers.

The luxury 327 room skyscraper is located next to the famous International Convention Centre in Durban.

Just a short walk from the business district and a stone’s throw away from the city’s famous beaches, views from the rooms incorporate the stunning skyline and breathtaking views of golden sands and the Indian Ocean.

Business guests will also be able to take advantage of panoramic views in one of the nine meeting rooms available.

QUARTERS ON FLORIDA HOTEL

5 STAR - DURBAN
KWAZULU NATAL

http://www.africanbusinessreview.co.za/sites/default/files/imagecache/Slideshow_656x400/ACTQUARTE.jpg
Quarters on Florida (Courtesy of Quarters Hotel)


In the suburb of Berea, the Quarters Hotel is only minutes from Durban city centre. One of two branded hotels in the city, this one is situated near the best restaurants Durban has to offer so you can sample its culinary delights during your stay, however brief it may be.

Unlike the more conventional hotels, the Quarters is full of character, incorporating four fully restored lavish Victorian homes with charming décor to match.

A private room with a permanent antique boardroom table with private ante room and veranda is available, ideal for holding corporate meetings as well as


http://www.africanbusinessreview.co.za/tags/african-business-review/top-business-hotels-durban

Hilton is looking a bit dated now....

What about the Beverly Hills? Very business focussed. Or the Elangeni, which hosts the most conferences of any hotel in the city

elangani not 5* article about 5* properties

Its 4star+ but ok. Quarters are 4 star properties unless something has changed

Whats happening with the Coastlands ICC hotel?

The Gateway Hotel (aka the Green Hotel) is now open! Real nice inside

Oyster Box Hotel is receiving massive global attention because of the royal wedding reception. Good publicity for Durban's hospiltality industry.

Here's a snipet and some pics from a UK report...

-------------


Honeymoon healer? The lavish £4,600-a-night South African hotel where Prince Albert and Charlene are staying

By Peter Allen
Last updated at 11:41 AM on 6th July 2011

As honeymoon destinations go, it's as decadent as they come.

Prince Albert of Monaco is set to use a £4,600-a-night hotel suite in South Africa to try to 'persuade' his new bride that their marriage can work.

The 53-year-old Prince is believed to be taking the 33-year-old former Olympic swimmer on an opulent honeymoon in her home country of South Africa. Sources in Monaco say they will book into the Oyster Box Hotel in Umhlanga, which is on the Indian Ocean.

Albert, who is a billionaire, is believed to have booked the Presidential Suite, which is set on two floors and includes an ornate-leafed bed, its own swimming pool and a freestanding marble bath overlooking the Indian Ocean.

The suite, which has its own terrace overlooking the sea and a private dining area which can seat ten, is priced at £4,600 a night.

On Thursday, the royal couple are also expected to attend an International Olympic Committee banquet in their honour at the hotel.



Honeymoon hideaway: The entrance of the Oyster Box hotel in Durban, South Africa, where Prince Albert II and Princess Charlene of Monaco will spend their honeymoon
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/05/article-2011385-0CDD78EA00000578-79_634x557.jpg


Time for a dip: The hotel's premier suite includes a marble bath with a view of the
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/05/article-2011385-0CDF3E4A00000578-61_634x425.jpg


Magical: A fairytale suite fit for a prince and his princess
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/05/article-2011385-0CDF3D2200000578-247_634x421.jpg


Hard at work: A member of staff at the Oyster Box hotel in Durban puts the finishing touches to preparations for the arrival of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/05/article-2011385-0CDD769400000578-626_634x498.jpg


Important guests: Staff at The Oyster Box in Durban prepare to fly the Monaco flag in the foyer in preparations for the arrival of Prince Albert and Princess Charlene
http://i.dailymail.co.uk/i/pix/2011/07/05/article-2011385-0CDD786E00000578-541_634x411.jpg



Read more: http://www.dailymail.co.uk/travel/article-2011720/Monaco-Royal-Wedding-Prince-Albert-Charlene-Wittstocks-luxury-honeymoon.html#ixzz1RKdaxtC6

Royals lap up luxury at Oyster Box
July 6 2011 at 10:28am
By Joshua Howat Berger


http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/copy-of-si-oystervilla-1.1091802!/image/3315917498.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/3315917498.jpg
Oyster Box has both luxury and classic style

It's a venue fit for a prince and princess: a five-star hotel famous for sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and a presidential suite that lists for R50,000 ($7,400, 5,100 euros) a night.


The Oyster Box, one of South Africa's most lavish hotels, will host a reception for Prince Albert II of Monaco and his new bride, Charlene Wittstock, as they visit the eastern port city of Durban this week.

The royal newlyweds, who are in town for a meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) - of which Albert is a member - will be throwing a party at the seaside hotel for 400 guests on Thursday night.

The hotel, which opened in 1947, is famous as one of Africa's most opulent destinations.

It has hosted princes William and Harry, supermodel Naomi Campbell and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, among other notables and celebrities.

http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/copy-of-si-oyster-front-pool-sea-hr-1.1091803!/image/3167970691.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/3167970691.jpg
Oyster Box has both luxury and classic style.

Located in the resort town of Umhlanga, just north of Durban, it prides itself on its “colonial charm”, a historic lighthouse and oyster beds just offshore that supply the hotel's renowned Oyster Bar.

Joanne Hayes, chief of public relations for the hotel, said it's an obvious choice for an event like the royal reception.

“We're thrilled. It's a great honour. But as far as we're concerned, when you see the Oyster Box, there is no other choice really,” she told AFP.

The Oyster Box was built in 1869 and originally served as a navigational beacon before being converted to a hotel.

It recently underwent a two-year renovation, reopening in 2009. The new owners, the Red Carnation luxury hotel group, sought to blend new furnishings and technology with the original decor of the 1940s and 50s, when the old hotel was in its heyday.

Today the hotel has 86 “individually appointed” rooms and suites, including eight garden villas that each have their own plunge pool.

http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/iol-tonight-pic-royal-meeting-durbs-1.1094236!/image/1633554228.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/1633554228.jpg
Princess Charlene, left, with KwaZulu-Natal First Lady Dr May Mkhize, Prince Albert II and KZN Premier Dr Zweli Mkhize before the official IOC opening ceremony at The Playhouse Theatre in Durban last night. The royal couple are here for the 2018 Winter Olympics bid announcement today and will have a post-wedding party at the Oyster Box Hotel tomorrow. Picture: Reinhardt Hartzenberg


The crown jewel is the 450-square-metre (4,840-square-foot) presidential suite, a two-level room served by private lift, with a private swimming pool, private study and marble his-and-hers bathrooms.

South African media have reported that the couple are staying in the suite, but the hotel is tightlipped about its guests.

The Oyster Box boasts six restaurants overseen by executive chef Kevin Joseph, who trained at Michelin-starred establishments in London.

It also has an all-white ballroom adorned with crystal Venetian chandeliers, an infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean and a 24-seat movie theater that can be booked for private screenings with dinner and popcorn.

The royal reception is expected to spill into the various venues of the hotel, which will be reserved exclusively for invitees that night.

The hotel is keeping details of the function under wraps, but Joseph says he is planning a menu that is “seasonal, with a South African touch”.

Police and security are expected to set up a cordon around the property.

“This is a private function,” said general manager Wayne Coetzer.

“We will do all we can to ensure that the couple and their guests are able to enjoy the renowned Oyster Box hospitality to the fullest.” - Sapa-AFP


http://www.iol.co.za/tonight/royals-lap-up-luxury-at-oyster-box-1.1094237?cache=03D163D03D163D03D163D03D163Freport%3D19.111457.1300790576%2F7.120%3Freport%3D19.113148.1300960025%2F7.120%3Freport%3D19.114700.1301206310%2F7.120%3Freport%3D19.114712.1301209660%2F7.120%3Freport%3D19.118091.1301500456%3Fpage%3D2%3Fpage%3D4

Albert and Charlene to shell out the clams at Oyster Box

JOSHUA HOWAT BERGER DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA - Jul 06 2011 11:50
It's a venue fit for a prince and princess: a five-star hotel famous for its sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and a presidential suite that lists for R50 000 a night.

The Oyster Box, one of South Africa's most lavish hotels, will host a reception for Prince Albert II of Monaco and his new bride, Charlene Wittstock, as they visit Durban this week.

The royal newlyweds, who are in town for a meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) -- of which Albert is a member -- will be throwing a party at the seaside hotel for 400 guests on Thursday night.

The hotel, which opened in 1947, is famous as one of Africa's most opulent destinations.

It has hosted princes William and Harry, supermodel Naomi Campbell and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, among other celebrities.

Located in Umhlanga, just north of Durban, it prides itself on its "colonial charm", a historic lighthouse and oyster beds just offshore that supply the hotel's renowned Oyster Bar.

Joanne Hayes, chief of public relations for the hotel, said it's an obvious choice for an event like the royal reception.

'No other choice'
"We're thrilled. It's a great honour. But as far as we're concerned, when you see the Oyster Box, there is no other choice really," she told Agence France-Presse.

The Oyster Box was built in 1869 and originally served as a navigational beacon before being converted to a hotel.

It recently underwent a two-year renovation, reopening in 2009. The new owners, the Red Carnation luxury hotel group, sought to blend new furnishings and technology with the original decor of the 1940s and 50s, when the hotel was in its heyday.

Today the hotel has 86 "individually appointed" rooms and suites, including eight garden villas, each with their own plunge pool.

The crown jewel is the 450-square-metre presidential suite -- a two-level room with a private lift, with a private swimming pool, private study and marble his-and-hers bathrooms.

South African media have reported that the couple are staying in the suite, but the hotel is tightlipped about its guests.

The Oyster Box boasts six restaurants overseen by executive chef Kevin Joseph, who trained at Michelin-starred establishments in London.

It also has an all-white ballroom adorned with crystal Venetian chandeliers, an infinity pool overlooking the Indian Ocean and a 24-seat movie theatre that can be booked for private screenings with dinner and popcorn.

The royal reception is expected to spill into the various venues of the hotel, which will be reserved exclusively for invitees that night.

The hotel is keeping details of the function under wraps, but Joseph says he is planning a menu that is "seasonal, with a South African touch".

Police and security are expected to set up a cordon around the property.

"This is a private function," said general manager Wayne Coetzer.

"We will do all we can to ensure that the couple and their guests are able to enjoy the renowned Oyster Box hospitality to the fullest." - AFP

http://mg.co.za/article/2011-07-06-albert-and-charlene-to-shell-out-the-clams-at-oyster-box

definately great for the hotel attracting an endless stream of new guests!

Princess Charlene's world the Oyster Box

NIVASHNI NAIR
07 July, 2011 23:22

South African-born Princess Charlene and her husband, Prince Albert of Monaco, posed for a "quick" photograph in Durban yesterday for foreign and local media who had reported that the former Olympic swimmer had tried to flee the small Riviera principality on the eve of her wedding.

Despite rumours of her unhappiness after the prospect of even more illegitimate stepchildren surfacing, Princess Charlene went all the way by concluding her wedding celebrations with a glitzy reception at Umhlanga's five-star Oyster Box hotel.

The atmosphere at the entrance of the hotel was electrifying, with Zulu dancers stamping their feet and banging drums as guests stepped onto the red carpet to the much anticipated reception.

The couple's 400 guests consisted of their private friends and members of the International Olympic Committee in Durban for its annual plenary session.

Olympic gold medallist Penny Heyns waved from the red carpet, while local IOC chairman Sam Ramsamy greeted journalists.

Justice Minister Jeff Radebe, in a black pinstripe suit, arrived as eThekwini's mayor, James Nxumalo, entered the hotel.

Durban municipal speaker Logie Naidoo arrived in a dazzling white suit and matching shoes.

Also there were two of President Jacob Zuma's wives, Nompumelelo Ntuli and Thobeka Madiba.

By late yesterday afternoon, the buzz around the hotel was that of intrigue.

Hotel manager Wayne Coetzer, who has been mum on details of the reception since the couple announced that they would host 400 guests at the elite hotel, yesterday afternoon said "it was all systems go" for the function, which was scheduled for 7pm.

He said the all-white Pearl Room with its Venetian chandeliers and views of the Indian Ocean, was a remarkable venue.

"I have just seen one of the venues and everything looks fantastic. The couple spent a fortune on flowers and decor. So it has all come together wonderfully."

He said while there was a "buzz" in the hotel, it was a normal day of work for the staff.

"The staff is used to it because we are used to hosting people of their calibre. So it's a normal day for us," he said.

The hotel's management had hired two security companies and asked the South African Police Service to close two roads surrounding the premises.


http://www.timeslive.co.za/thetimes/2011/07/07/princess-charlene-s-world-the-oyster-box

Hoy Park hotel development site up for auction

Auction Date: Thursday, 18 August 2011 @ 12:00 PM
Auction Location: Hilton Hotel, 138 Rivonia Road, Sandton


Detailed description:



Physical address: Corner of Sylvester Ntuli & K.E Masinga (Formerly known as corner Olt fort road & Brickhill.

Erven Number - 12571

Township – Durban

Land size - +/- 7501m2

Zoning – Business 3 (Hotel usage only)



Land

· General Business 3 Zoning

· Restricted to hotel usage

· Coverage: 50%

· Height: 6 Stories

· FAR/BULK: 3

Below the building, 100% coverage allowed up to 1 metre above the lowest point of the s level surrounding pavement – all open areas to be landscaped


http://www.aucor.com/templates/images/Hoy72820111029461.jpg

why not have auction in Durban? phaaa

umm because it is part of the Aucor joint auctions. does it matter where it is?

If these are all the proposed / available hotel sites in that vacinity, I'm intrigued by the DEC site option 1. There's currently a listed building there. Could work as a small boutique hotel, unless a bigger development is planned to replace it?

Getty grandson buys KZN lodge
2011-08-14 21:35

Johannesburg - Tara Getty, the grandson of billionaire United States oil tycoon J Paul Getty, has bought a game farm in northern KwaZulu-Natal, the Sunday Times reported.

According to the newspaper, the world's jet set were clamouring to rent it out for R29 347 a night when Tara and his wife Jessica were not using it.

The retreat in the 12 700ha Phinda Private Game Reserve boasted a chef, butler and game guide, and offered bush walks, excursions to local villages, bird-watching and leopard-research safaris.

"The Gettys do not wish to have their home written about," Getty's personal assistant Maria Anagnostellis told the newspaper.

The Getty property is next door to the 40 000ha Phinda Mkuse National Park and the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, which together were designated a World Heritage site in 1999.

"The Getty house is a fantastic place, there is so much to do there," said a United Kingdom tour operator's general manager Illona Cross.

She considered the R29 347 a night price tag a bargain.


- SAPA

http://www.news24.com/SouthAfrica/News/Getty-grandson-buys-KZN-lodge-20110814

The Getty's have had it for many years

If these are all the proposed / available hotel sites in that vacinity, I'm intrigued by the DEC site option 1. There's currently a listed building there. Could work as a small boutique hotel, unless a bigger development is planned to replace it?

This is an old image. The hotel was either on the ICC site of the DEC site. Coastlands will be building on the ICC site, therefore the DEC site hotel will not happen...not any time soon.

Durban hotels doing better than the rest
October 5 2011 at 01:04pm

Suren Naidoo


DURBAN’S city centre hotels were outperforming new hotels in decentralised business areas including Umhlanga Ridge, Ballito and the rest of the KwaZulu-Natal.

And, despite the impact of the poor global economic situation and the oversupply of hotel rooms since the World Cup, the city’s tourism sector was also doing better than Cape Town and Joburg. That’s the word from local hotelier and Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry deputy president Mike Jackson.

He was one of the tourism industry heavyweights attending the latest Standard Bank Sector Focus Business Breakfast, which was hosted in association with The Mercury. The forum, which put the spotlight on the KZN tourism industry and coincided with Tourism Month in September, was moderated by noted KZN development economist Professor Jeff McCarthy.

Jackson, who is also deputy regional chairman of the Federated Hospitality Association of South Africa and general manager of the biggest hotel in Durban – the Southern Sun Elangeni – said the industry was under pressure in general. However, Durban was doing better than other areas because of increased conferencing business.

“I agree with Prof McCarthy’s opening sentiments that the South African hotel industry is in a tough spot at the moment with lower occupancies. We are dealing with a double whammy of increased hotel stock after the World Cup and the global economic situation… But, in this context, Durban is doing relatively well. We are having a very good conferencing business year and have seen no major hotels closing their doors,” he said.

“Besides hosting lots of smaller conferences and business events, we hosted the International Olympic Committee Session in July. There’s the huge UN COP17 climate change meeting set to take place in the city in November and early December, which some people estimate could see R1 billion direct and indirect economic spinoffs.

“We are also continuing to win big conference bids, thanks to the Durban-KZN Conventions Bureau. The head of the bureau, James Seymour, is really doing some great work. We have to get behind the bureau, because it will bring more business to KZN,” added Jackson.

He said while Durban was leveraging off its position as the top domestic tourism destination in the country and the conferencing market, things were not all rosy. “The question is: are we doing enough? Are we doing enough in the regeneration of our city in areas such as the Point? The investment in the upgrade of beachfront was great, but we have to improve our overall package as a destination. We have to get local events back. With more local tourism, international tourism will come,” he said.

Saantha Naidu, chief executive officer of Coastlands Hotels and Resorts, said while occupancy rates at his Durban city property had dropped, it was still around 70 percent. “Yes, conferencing business is supporting our other properties in the current market. But, more needs to be done in attracting tourists from Africa to Durban and KZN,” he said.

Coastlands executive director, Roshini Naidu, said domestic tourism and conferencing has kept Durban going, but the city also needed to be put on the map internationally. “SA Tourism has always put more emphasis on promoting Cape Town and Joburg internationally, but Durban and KZN have been left behind. This needs to change, but thankfully we’re also doing it on our own through organisations such as the conventions bureau,” she said.

Eugene Boniface, marketing manager of Durban-based Three Cities Group, said the conference business was a tough market with increasing competition. He said KZN needed to continue to focus on building on its strong position in domestic tourism, while working on its international tourism appeal.

“We have peaks, such as July, which is always a hummer for Durban. But, on the events side, we have too many events during this part of the year. We need to look at spreading them out for good business all the year round and focus on the major drawcards such as the Mr Price Pro, which Durban lost to Ballito,” he said.

Trenley Tillbrook, chief executive officer of the iLembe Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Tourism, joked that he was happy to have the Mr Price Pro stay in Ballito. He said officials had secured the event for another three years. “Events such as the Mr Price Pro and upcoming World Amateur Golf Championships are important for us too… Leisure hotel bookings are down, but conferencing is up in Ballito and events also boost tourism to the North Coast,” he said.

On the eventing front in Durban, Jackson said he and members of the Durban Chamber’s tourism committee were not happy. “While we’ve done well, we are not taking advantage of our new beachfront from a local events perspective. We’ve lost major events and sponsors don’t want to do events here because of how difficult it is to deal with the city,” he said.

“During July, tourism committee members took pictures of events on the Durban beachfront and Ballito area… Ballito was busier with the Mr Price Pro and Durban did not have major local events for local tourists to be a part of. “The local eventing strategy in Durban needs to be looked at. The problem is that approval of events has been centralised with the Strategic Projects Unit and the city manager’s office. Durban Tourism is doing a good job, but they need to be given some of the eventing power back,” said Jackson.

Boniface said while having the events coordination in the city under one unit made sense, it did not work out practically. “The unit has too much to do and it seems not to have enough capacity,” he said.

Dumi Mbatha of Durban Tourism said events in the city were now handled by the Strategic Projects Unit and the industry needed to engage with the unit on the issue of events. However, she said it was still Durban Tourism’s mandate to promote Durban as a tourist and events destination in the city.

“In terms of promoting Durban, we are doing several things… For our winter campaign, we had a launch with the trade in Joburg. Southern Sun was a part of that and we are going to Joburg again for our summer holiday launch.

“We also had a promotion presence at the Soweto Festival and the Macufe Festival in Bloemfontein. However, the industry also needs to play its part in promoting Durban,” she said.

Jackson said Durban Tourism had ‘come alive this year in promoting the city’, but the cause for concern was how events were being handled, especially on the beachfront. “Local events build excitement for tourists and if nothing is happening they will ultimately go somewhere else where the action is. We need to sort this issue out to build on the momentum we got from the World Cup,” he said.

McCarthy said that from the debate, it was clear there was an event management issue that could effect domestic and leisure tourism in the city. He said despite Durban performing better, the sector was at a low point due to economic conditions. It needed to look at repositioning itself for the next boom.

Tillbrook said the private sector needed to play its role in promoting tourism. He said there needed to be a more cohesive strategy with the tourism industry working together in this effort.

Meanwhile, Naleli Wasa, chief operating officer Tourism KZN, said the province was finalising its Tourism Masterplan. She said one of the key elements of the plan was to promote Durban as the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal. “We are working to lift it up from a image and destination point of view… Durban is the gateway to the province and internationally it’s what will ultimately make or break KZN as a destination. So, we need to address our weaknesses, whether it’s in our products, infrastructure or quality of our experiences and environment,” she said.

“Whether we like it or not, the fact is that the Durban city centre goes to sleep after 6pm. Things like this need to be addressed if we want to become a serious international destination,” added Wasa.

McCarthy said Wasa made an interesting point, but there seemed to be a will to change things in Durban. James Seymour agreed. He said there was a vibrancy back at the Durban beachfront since the upgrade of the promenade. “There are lots of things to be excited about and we must not lose sight of this,” he said.

http://www.iol.co.za/mercury/durban-hotels-doing-better-than-the-rest-1.1151152

Good article.

but it does show that alot more work is still needed. Good that all the role players meet frequently though. The city must already have the most active events strategy and list out of all the cities in this country, and they still think it is not enough? Good to be bold and keep pushing for more i say.

More accolades for Oyster Box...

-----------

Oyster Box goes big on beauty
November 17 2011 at 12:38pm

Umhlanga’s Oyster Box Spa has just notched up three firsts: it has been named “Country Winner: Best Luxury Wellness Spa” in the World Luxury Spa Awards, “Country Winner: Luxury Hotel” in the World Luxury Hotel Awards (WLHA) and it has just launched a unique range of body care products and professional spa treatments that combines indigenous African plant extracts with the health properties of the sea.

Named B Africa, after Bea Tollman, founder and president of the Red Carnation hotel group which owns the Oyster Box, the spa products are being used in Red Carnation properties around the country. Active ingredients include baobab tree oil, marula oil, avocado butter, honey, rooibos, Mongongo nut, Ximenia kernel oil and West Coast Atlantic sea salts.

The range uses sustainable harvesting practices, renewable indigenous species, no synthetic pesticides or fertilisers, and is not tested on animals.

All the natural product suppliers support organic certification, sustainability and Fair Trade.

B Africa treatment packages, like B Together, claim to ease emotional imbalance, B Purified uses the healing properties of water in a salt scrub, steam session and body massage, and B Harmonised targets stressed areas of the body. – Daily News


http://www.iol.co.za/lifestyle/style/beauty/oyster-box-goes-big-on-beauty-1.1180645

Ok so i want to give some feedback on my recent experience in the Coastlands hotel on West street. I was there for 10 days as a facilitator of the International Junior Science Olympiad that was hel in Durban from 1st Dec-10th. We ended up looking after 250 students from 41 countries.

Ok first of all, the fact that i never even knew there was a coastlands on WestStreet was a shock as the brand in Durban is growing and more people are becoming aware of it due to their amazing hotels on the ridge and in umhlanga.

THIS PLACE WAS A SHOCKER!!!!!!!

ok so apparently its ok to smoke where you want in this hotel including staff in front of customers (this included security smoking whiklst talking to me right next to a massivge sign that states no smoking or else removal from the hotel and a fine)

First night whilst registering students as they arrived, the manager went to bed and refused to allocate rooms to students that had arrived after 7pm. This resulted in us having to phone the owner for help (these students had to sit in a room for +- 4 hours after 24 hours travelling waiting for a room to get some rest.

The entire 8th floor was infested with cockroaches. Bath, beds, fridge, dining room, EVERWHERE!!! This all in front of int'lb students who some have no idea how this occurs in any hotel and some of these students from the likes of Singapore, cant bare to stay in this type of environment never mind for 10 days. After informing reception to send cleaning staff, they told us that it could only happen in the morning, so i myself had to go into the rooms and 1 by 1 kill any bug i could find, clean the bath and fridge as well as beds...Great:/

after the 2nd night it was apparent that theft was a problem. Ranging from food, money, hairdryers, etc. I went to security to ask to see camera footage and find the cleaning staff that cleaned the room. I wasnt allowed to see the footage but the security manager assured me that it wasnt the cleaning staff as he trusted them and "they would never do such a thing" FML...so now the staff were covering for each other!!! this was made all more obvious when one of the faciltators saw one of the elevator staff apparently trying to sell a hairdryer(stolen one?) to other staff in the hotel.

Food was average, considering the circumstances but being served mealies, chicken stiry fry, curried hamburger patties and potatoes for breakfast was just not cool at all.

Staff beyond rude screaming at the students and myself included.

All in all it was a forgettable experience, something i think the owners of coastlands should take to mind. the saddest was after speaking to the students about what they thought of Durban, they said that they would never return (based on thir experince at this hotel and the surrounding area) this might just be their lack of maturity but it has to count for something.

YOURE ONLY AS GOOD AS YOUR WEAKEST LINK!! any int'l visitor after staying at this hotel would avoid the Coastlands brand in the future without knowing that the other 2 hotels fair far better in every category.

Rant over:) just thought id share my experience

That is an absolute shocker if you ask me...

I also never knew there was a Coastlands hotel in West Street.... but after your review, I won't be staying there (if i ever need to stay in a hotel in DBN), and I'll think twice about using a Coastlands hotel in general as well.

Coastlands West Street is the first hotel they ever took over over 10 years ago. Only recently with the opening of their Umhlanga and Berea hotels have they moved into the upmarket space of hotel offerings. Their West Street hotel is a 2 star hotel.

Agree thats a shocking experience, but additionally one should read up on hotels before booking. In the aftermath of this i hope you have contacted the chains head office to complain

Coastlands West Street is the first hotel they ever took over over 10 years ago. Only recently with the opening of their Umhlanga and Berea hotels have they moved into the upmarket space of hotel offerings. Their West Street hotel is a 2 star hotel.

Agree thats a shocking experience, but additionally one should read up on hotels before booking. In the aftermath of this i hope you have contacted the chains head office to complain

the municipality were the organisors of the event and have been in planning for over 2 years. The students were booked into the blue waters hotel however when Durban got COP17, The UN got first priority with hotels for delegates so the only remaining hotel in the city that had space was Coastlands..:ohno:

The owners know exactly what happened as there was a meeting regarding the problems with them and the organisers.

Only place left with space during COP? Then not surprised it is so terrible. Not a nice experience and unfortunate running at same time as COP. Hopefully Coastlands can take this and upgrade it!!!

Not at all good for the Coastlands brand to have such a bad hotel under the same banner when they're trying to grow in the 4* segment.

Hey guys a few questions:

On page 27 I think it was I was surprised to see a comment about Hyatt Place! It is indeed a fantastic product and one that is killing most competition because it really is proving to be superior in alot of ways to other similar market options. (of course, I am a bit biased) Anything in SA of a similar scale?

Likewise I think it's been mentioned that the Hilton is 5-star? I have no doubt it's a great place, but is the rating system different in SA? or rather is that property just really top-notch? Because it is rare or even non-existant for a Hilton to be considered 5 star in the States. There is a definate line between upscale, full-service brands and 5 star.

Finally, Marriott has released a few statements (even fairly recently) about a 162 room Marriott in Durbs due to open in 2012. Any ideas or info about this? I tried to skim this thread to find some news but must've missed it.

Much appreciated fellas! :)

ps. Dysan...pm me when you get a chance hey.

Durban landmark sold
January 31 2012 at 10:37am
By Barbara Cole

Durban’s iconic 167-year-old Royal Hotel has been sold to a tycoon from Swaziland for an undisclosed amount.

The new owner, Moses Motsa, who will take over the legendary four-star hotel on Wednesday, said that he was “over the moon” at acquiring such a historic hotel.

“I’m very excited,” he said, adding that he was still working on his vision for the Royal.

“These things take time.”

Motsa already owns Durban’s Beach Hotel, which is leased to the Gooderson Hotel Group, and said he would definitely acquire other hotels if the opportunity arose.

“I would like about four. The way I look at it, no matter what happens, Durban will always stand out as a holiday destination.”

The details of the sale of the 278-bedroom hotel were finalised last week. Motsa has agreed to keep on all 150 staff.

“We’ve been working on the deal for three months,” said the chairman of the Three Cities Hotel Group, Russell Stevens. The group owns all the shares in Durban Hotels Limited, which Motsa has now bought. Three Cities will continue to assist the new owner in the operation of the historic landmark, where kings, queens, princes, politicians and a host of luminaries have stayed down the years.

Some of the hotel rooms had previously been sold on a fractional title basis, with the owners receiving returns from the rental pool. These rooms have also been included in the deal.

When Motsa broached the deal with Stevens, he wanted to buy the entire hotel. However, if he could not buy it all because of the fractional title rooms, he said, he would carry on with the rental pool.

“Three Cities was able to buy back all the fractional title units, thus enabling Moses to buy the entire hotel,” said Stevens.

In its heyday, the Royal Hotel – once rated five-star – was voted the best hotel in South Africa five years in a row.


“Moses has stayed in the hotel and is very passionate about it. He is committed to running a first-class establishment,” Stevens said.

For Stevens, responsible for rebuilding the hotel “from scratch” and involved in it for 41 years, the sale was a “very personal and emotional”.

In the 1970s, as director and then managing director of Durban Hotels Ltd, Stevens was the mastermind behind the hotel being virtually rebuilt.

He envisaged a city-centre hotel of international class and as the new Royal emerged, he regarded the redevelopment as an obsessive hobby rather than a job.

He even bought a yellowwood forest in the Eastern Cape and used the wood as a theme throughout much of the new-look hotel.

Stevens formed the management company, Three Cities Hotels, which operated the Royal which bought all the Durban Hotels Ltd shares five years ago.


As the chairman of the Three Cities group with about 35 hotels to look after, he has plenty to keep him busy. But when he checked out of the Royal Hotel after a visit last week, it was for the last time.


http://www.iol.co.za/dailynews/news/durban-landmark-sold-1.1223960

This guy obviously has big $$$$$

-----------------

Motsa considers one more hotel in Durban

By CASSANDRA SHAW on January 31,2012

MANZINI – Businessman Moses Motsa still has an interest of acquiring one more hotel in South Africa’s favourite tourism destination, Durban.

Motsa, in an interview confessed that he had plans of getting at least one more hotel to add to his three others.

He currently owns The George Hotel in Manzini where he also manages the business.

He also owns the Beach Hotel in Durban, South Africa though he is leasing out the premises.

Motsa, last week concluded the purchase of one of Durban’s upmarket and oldest hotels, the Royal Hotel.

"If there is a chance of getting another hotel in Durban, I can consider it. I will concentrate on Durban because it is a tourist destination area," he said.

When asked if he was now changing his business interest to the hospitality industry, he said the commercial property business was his key interest and focus area.

Commercial

"I am still in commercial property. Even with the hotels, I am more on the property side. With The George Hotel, I bought the business as well, so for now, I’m running it. I will continue doing so until I get someone to run the business component," he said.

Motsa has acquired several properties under his business known as Mvulane Investments but the acquisition of the Royal Hotel seems to be his most exciting catch.

"I am over the moon and excited with this new acquisition and I believe it is a good business move. The market could be changing from time to time but it’s solid," he explained.

The hotel, since its establishment on 1845 gained a reputation for being host to royalty and other dignitaries including Queen Elizabeth 11, King Goodwill Zwelithini, Cecil John Rhodes, Rider Haggard, Marlene Dietrich, Mark Twain, Mangosuthu Buthelezi and Nelson Mandela, among others.

Boasting over 160 years in business, the Royal Hotel has survived the Zulu War, Boer War and two World Wars and the war against apartheid in South Africa and has won many awards over the years.


http://www.times.co.sz/News/37185.html

If he plows money into it and returns it to its former glory than good for him...

But its nice to see that its in the hands of someone who has the money and hopefully the willpower to make it the hotel it should be.

If he plows money into it and returns it to its former glory than good for him...

But its nice to see that its in the hands of someone who has the money and hopefully the willpower to make it the hotel it should be.

I agree, I was at the royal the other day. And while it's dating a little, there's a lot of potential to do some pretty economical refurb work.

Not sure what the back of house looks like though.

I'd be eager to see which firm gets asked to revamp.

I thought it went thru quite a major revamp the last two years? Same time as when they converted the front to offices and offered sectional title

Mesami Hotel is a new eco hotel that has been open a few months in Currie Road on the Berea... 27 rooms.

http://mesamihotel.co.za/Images/mesami_logo_JP.jpg

http://mesamihotel.co.za/Images/DSC_2668%20(300x200).jpg

http://mesamihotel.co.za/Images/DSC_2660%20(300x200).jpg

R52m hotel overhaul
March 22 2012 at 03:21pm
By Suren Naidoo

One of Durban’s landmark beachfront hotels, the 32-storey Southern Sun North Beach, is in the midst of a R52 million makeover.

The plan, revealed to The Mercury, is the biggest private sector tourism investment in Durban’s Golden Mile since the opening of the Suncoast Hotel in 2006.

Hotel manager Samantha Croft said the investment came in the wake of the eThekwini Municipality’s R200m upgrade of the beachfront promenade.

“This is a major investment that we’re making in the beachfront and is the biggest revamp in the hotel’s history,” she said.

In its heyday in the late 1970s and 1980s it was known as the Maharani Hotel, a 5-star establishment that attracted Durban’s elite. It was later purchased by illustrious SA hotelier Sol Kerzner, who developed the neighbouring Elangeni Hotel and Umhlanga’s Beverley Hills Hotel.

The 285-room hotel was rebranded Southern Sun North Beach years back as a 4-star establishment. But, the hotel lost its status as a society hotspot in Durban.

“We want to bring some of the glamour back to the hotel with the revamp,” said Croft. “The R52m we’re spending will see all the rooms and bathrooms refurbished. All the main lifts are being replaced and the hotel will get a massive plumbing overhaul, which will see all the pipes replaced.

“I am glad this hotel is getting the attention it deserves. It’s a massive overhaul and there are some exciting plans being finalised,” she said.

“The entrance foyer received a revamp a few years ago and the building got a new coat of paint, as did the Southern Sun Elangeni, before the World Cup. The hotel is still one of the most modern buildings on Durban’s beachfront… It was a cutting- edge design in its time and one of the tallest hotels overlooking the promenade, hence the façade won’t be changing as part of the revamp,” said Croft.

She said as part of the upgrade the hotel would introduce an energy-saving card access system, which would control lights in the rooms. A new fitness centre would also be opened and the hotel’s 200-seat conference facility would be upgraded.

The upgrade began in January and would be done in phases to ensure minimum disruption to people staying at the hotel. In the first phase, 60 rooms would be refurbished before the busy Easter holidays in April. The revamp would be complete in September.

Durban Tourism CEO Philip Sithole said the R52m upgrade of Southern Sun North Beach was “great news” and a significant investment in the Durban beachfront.

“It will enhance the tourism profile of the beachfront and shows the city’s beachfront investment is delivering further spinoffs.

“The move shows private sector confidence in the area and will encourage others to refurbish their buildings,” he said.

Hotel development expert Joop Demes, CEO of Pam Golding Hospitality, said the investment was a “brilliant” move by Southern Sun.

“It comes as the World Cup benefits of increased tourism is starting to kick in… Durban’s hotel industry was the best performer last year, recording positive Revpar (Revenue Per Available Room) growth while both Cape Town and Joburg Revpar was negative. This investment is a result of exciting things happening in Durban’s tourism sector,” he said.

http://www.iol.co.za/mercury/r52m-ho...haul-1.1261882

poor reporing. hotel was built by sol not bought by sol

Top hoteliers for Durban conference

March 20th, 2012 by Andrew Moth | Categories: government, hotels, industry, tourism, training

The line-up of speakers for HICA 2012, which takes place in Durban in May, includes international and regional experts in the hotel industry. Among them are David Classen, director of development for Four Seasons Hotels and Resorts, Sandro Fabris (above), regional MD of Orient-Express in Africa, and Graham Wood, MD of Southern Sun.

They will be joined by the ministers of tourism for a number of African countries, including Marthinus van Schalkwyk, South Africa’s Minister of Tourism. In addition, HICA will also feature leading economist Chris Hart who will take delegates through a review of the tourism sector’s prospects for recovery in 2012.

Experts in other fields such as the finance and investment sector, hotel development and architecture, as well as those who specialise in the area of building green and sustainable hotel operations also feature in the conference programme.

HICA 2012 will also see the introduction of a number of new sessions debating issues such as airlift and air access, travel and tourism policy in the region, as well as the opportunities and challenges in the safari lodge industry. Adding value to HICA 2012 is its direct link to Indaba, Africa’s largest tourism trade marketing show taking place from 12 to 15 May, at the Durban International Convention Centre. The organisers have arranged a complimentary day-pass to Indaba for HICA 2012 delegates provided that they register online and pay in full.

HICA 2012 takes place from 9 to 11 May at the Elangeni Hotel in Durban. Up to 450 delegates are expected.

For more details on the HICA conference programme, speaker line-up and registration fees, log on to www.hica.co.za.

Umhlanga Sands Resort Reopens after Renovations
April 9th, 2012 | Travel News

By Andrew Gibson

The Umhlanga Sands Resort closed for the first time in 37 years to undergo renovations. It closed on the 15th January 2012 and will be open from 7th April with a full complement of 1000 guests. The renovations have cost R68m which is equivalent to R680,000 per day of closure.


The general manager, Derek McKillop said that it was a bold move to close the resort straight after the busy holiday season in December but because all rooms needed to be completely renovated, it was the only thing that they could do. Builders would be on site and they could not have guests staying at that time. They had 100% occupancy and then zero and will go back up to 100% in April. He said that time-share owners have been given exchange fees for the period so that they can swap their time within the next three years. He went on to explain that renovations have gone well.

They have done a lot of work including adding environmentally friendly options like auto switch off air conditioners and LED lights. They also have tinted windows to cut down the heat in the rooms. There are also new beds, mirrors, doors, linen, lamps, carpets and upholstery in rooms. The electrics, air conditioning and fire systems have been improved as well as sewers, water pipes and cabling. The restaurants have been refitted and the games area updated. The hotel was built in 1976 and was timeshare in 2004. The climate in Durban is mild and so it is popular all year and some owners have even handed their properties down through their families.

im attending HICA

interesting... let us know if anything interesting comes up...surprised if any substantial hotel developments are about to be launched

This initiative has been in the works and marks an interesting new chapter in the history of Inchanga Hotel....

---------------

Inchanga facility to serve as training hospital for DUT

April 30 2012 at 10:15am
By Keith Ross

The Durban University of Technology (DUT) signed an agreement at the weekend with the new Healing Hills hospital in Inchanga to use the hospital as a training facility for final-year students.

Healing Hills, a psychiatric hospital, is soon to open in the old Inchanga Hotel and will give students experience in a working environment.

“The students will be there under the supervision of their lecturers and mentorship of our professional staff,” said the hospital’s executive director, Dr Lochan Naidoo.

Naidoo said students learning at the hospital would be from the Faculty of Health Services and Hotel School.

He said the students would offer patients complementary medical care, such as body massages and reflexology.

The hospital would also benefit from the “memorandum of understanding” with the DUT that lets the hospital “tap into many of the university’s resources”.

Naidoo said the old Inchanga Hotel buildings had been renovated and now offered a high standard of accommodation for 45 patients.

He said the hospital would have 35 professional staff, including psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and physiotherapists.

His fellow hospital director, Professor Dan Mkize, the former head of psychiatry at the University of KwaZulu-Natal, said Healing Hills would cater mainly for patients who were “not too psychotic”. It would offer treatment in peaceful surroundings for those suffering from depression, anxiety, stress, bipolar mood disorders, panic attacks, schizophrenia and other ailments.

“We will offer short to medium-term treatment,” he said. “Many patients will come for a short term of only one to seven days, some for up to 30 days. Most should be fit enough to go home after 30 days.”

Mkize said the hospital’s overall approach would be to view the patient in his or her family context. “We want families to get involved in the treatment of the patient. We will encourage family visits.”

He said Healing Hills would eventually like to enter into a private-public partnership with the government. “That is our aim, especially after the introduction of national health insurance.”

Healing Hills, he said, was looking forward to serving the community.


http://www.iol.co.za/dailynews/news/inchanga-facility-to-serve-as-training-hospital-for-dut-1.1286034

Signature Life hotels in court battle

May 3 2012 at 09:48am
By Suren Naidoo

http://www.iol.co.za/polopoly_fs/nm-docklands1-1.1288050!/image/1787494855.jpg_gen/derivatives/box_300/1787494855.jpg
The Docklands Hotel at the Point Waterfront.

Durban hotel management group Signature Life Hospitality is caught up in legal battles involving the owners of four hotels it previously managed, who are claiming R4 million in debts and damages.

The owners of three hotels accuse the group of breaching its management agreement.

In the latest incident in April, Signature Life staff were forced off the Docklands Hotel property at the Durban Point Waterfront.

Owners of Hotel 64 on Gordon (64 Gordon Road, Berea), Hotel on the Park (296 Steven Dlamini/Essenwood Road) and the Boulevard 44 Hotel (formerly Caledon Hotel) in Ballito have all taken legal action against Signature Life.

Boulevard 44 Hotel’s shareholders include Mandla Gcaba and Khulubuse Zuma, nephews of President Jacob Zuma.

The action by Hotel 64 is set to be heard in the Durban High Court on Friday.

Signature Life Hospitality director Alan Vels told The Mercury that all cases related to commercial disputes over money allegedly owed. He said in certain cases the group was counter-suing for damages.

Manogh Maharaj, of Maharaj Attorneys, who represents Hotel 64 and the Docklands Hotel, said: “Signature Life breached its management agreements and had not paid off debts/commission owed to the hotel owners.”

He confirmed that Docklands Hotel had cancelled its management agreement with Signature Life in April.

“Hotel 64 had to resort to instituting legal proceedings... because it contravened its management agreement, which resulted in my client being unable to pay taxes and rates on the property,” he said.

Amalta Seevnaraiyan, also of Maharaj Attorneys, who is dealing with the case, said Hotel 64’s owners were claiming R580 543 in debt owed by Signature Life.

She said Hotel 64 and Docklands Hotel had a mutual shareholder in Charles Taberer.

However, Hotel 64 was the client taking court action against Signature Life.

Voreshka Gosai of Farrell Inc Attorneys, who represents Majestic Silver Trading Pty Ltd (owners of Hotel on the Park), said that after protracted litigation Signature Life was evicted from the property last year. It was owned by Dave Jones.

“We are now computing damages of over R3m against Signature Life on behalf of our client,” she said.

Gosai said Farrell Inc also represented Boulevard 44 Hotel. “This is a separate case, which we are finalising. Boulevard 44 Hotel’s management agreement was mutually ended last year, but the owners are owed money from Signature Life. We are also claiming for the unlawful removal of furniture from the hotel by Signature Life. Together with the debt we will be claiming about R400 000,” she said.

Responding to questions from The Mercury, Signature Life’s lawyer Gavin Price, of Gavin Price Attorneys, said in each case, the group had instituted or was in the process of instituting claims against the hotels for non-payment of contractual fees and damages for breach or repudiation of written management contracts.

“Signature Life has already suffered defamation at the hands of these hotels and their representatives and will be instituting action against them for damages,” he said.

Price said in the Docklands Hotel matter, cancellation of the management contract with Signature Life was being disputed through pending legal action.

“The so-called cancellation is integrally tied into a failure by the Docklands Hotel to pay the amount which is due in respect of the purchase of Wodka Restaurant and the conference facility (at the hotel).”

Regarding Hotel 64’s case, Price said: “(It) is a contrived dispute based on manipulated accounts where a dispute is sought to be created where none exists… All amounts which are owing to Hotel 64 have been paid.”

In the Hotel on the Park’s case, Farrell Inc’s suggestion that it was owned by Majestic Silver was incorrect. “Majestic Silver was the landlord whilst the company set up to operate the hotel was Equistock Properties… The problem which arose was that Dave Jones, the common director of the Dave Jones Family Trust which was a shareholder in both companies, undercapitalised the management company… such that it was unable to pay for goods and services rendered by Signature Life,” he said.

Price claimed the situation resulted in Jones attempting to cancel not only the lease agreements, but also the management agreement with Signature Life. He denied that Signature Life was evicted from the property and said the exit was based on Jones’s voluntary liquidation of the operating company.

Price said Signature Life’s claims and damages against Hotel on the Park included R209 412 for improvements carried out by the group; R160 574 in unpaid marketing and management fees; and damages of more than R1.9m for termination of the contract.

In the Boulevard 44 case, the hotel’s owners had “misguidedly elected to pursue proceedings against Signature Life for the value of the furniture”.

“Signature Life have defended that claim and countersued for R258 880 for unpaid management and marketing fees.” - The Mercury

http://www.iol.co.za/news/crime-courts/signature-life-hotels-in-court-battle-1.1288051

Where there is smoke... There must be fire?

I would be very wary of saying that... purely because Khulubuse Zuma is involved, and we know he has massive financial difficulties atm, has even been visited by the Sheriff recently.

Correct for one out of the three Hotels mentioned... But as I am saying what about the other two Hotels?

Yeah..something seems to be fishy in Signature Life...

Docklands has quickly moved stables...

----------------

Docklands Hotel Durban joins Three Cities
yesterday

Located on Durban’s Point Waterfront, Docklands Hotel boasts 83 rooms which each have incredible views of either the harbour or the Indian Ocean.

The Docklands hotel offers a blended palette of dramatic shapes, colours and textures ensuring a fresh and trendy atmosphere.

Eclectic combinations of urban contemporary features with inspiring designs are fused to offer you maximum comfort in a post-industrial decorated ambiance.

Three Cities, CEO, Mike Lambert commented, “We are excited to welcome Docklands to our flagship of Exceptional City Hotels and look forward to offering our travelers a diverse selection of hospitality offerings in the greater Durban region.”

Lambert went on to comment that all current hotel reservations would be honoured.

The Docklands Hotel Durban’s airport shuttle service, free Wi-Fi and bedrooms equipped with all the modern amenities, have been designed to cater for the business travelers every need.

Docklands also offers three conference venues which comfortably seat up to 600 guests and an eclectic Russian-inspired restaurant called Wodka.

With uShaka Marine World and a variety of beaches in close proximity, this makes Docklands an ideal holiday destination with easy access for any leisure traveler wishing to explore Durban’s golden mile of beaches.

http://www.breakingtravelnews.com/news/article/docklands-hotel-durban-joins-three-cities/

good to see three cities being aggressive again at taking up new properties

Hotel court showdown put on hold
May 7 2012 at 08:16am
By Leanne Jansen

The high court showdown between Durban hotel management group Signature Life Hospitality and Hotel 64 on Gordon has been put on hold indefinitely.

Hotel 64 is one of four establishments, previously managed by the group, jointly claiming about R4 million in debt and damages. The action by Hotel 64 was set to be heard in the Durban High Court on Friday, but the application was adjourned to allow Hotel 64 to supplement its application.

Amalta Seevnaraiyan, of Maharaj Attorneys, acting on behalf of Hotel 64, explained that once the complete papers were filed, the matter would be set down on the opposed motion roll to be argued. According to Seevnaraiyan, Hotel 64’s owners are claiming R580 543 in debt from Signature Life.

However, Signature Life director Alan Vels told The Mercury last week that all the cases related to commercial disputes over money allegedly owed.

He said in certain cases, the group was counter-suing for damages.

Manogh Maharaj, also of Maharaj Attorneys, who represents both Hotel 64 and the Docklands Hotel, said: “Signature Life breached its management agreements and had not paid off debts/commission owed to the hotel owners.”


However, attorney Gavin Price, acting on behalf of Signature Life, said that all amounts owing to Hotel 64 had been paid. Price confirmed that the parties had agreed to adjourn the application on Friday to “facilitate the delivery of supplementary papers by Hotel 64 and a full and detailed opposing affidavit by Signature Life”.

Hotel on the Park (Steven Dlamini/Essenwood Road), the Docklands Hotel, and the Boulevard 44 Hotel in Ballito are also taking legal action.

Price, however, said that the group was instituting claims against the hotels for non-payment of contractual fees and damages for breach or repudiation of management contracts.


http://www.iol.co.za/mercury/hotel-court-showdown-put-on-hold-1.1290333

Gooderson invests in leisure resorts

EDWARD WEST
Published: 2012/05/15 09:29:53 AM


DURBAN — Gooderson Leisure was investing in new resorts and developing its portfolio despite the tough environment in the tourism industry, sales and marketing GM Gail McCann Westphal said last week.





The company acquired the Monks Cowl resort in the Drakensberg last month for R9,2m.





Ms McCann Westphal said she expected conditions in the sector to improve next year.





Christine Engelbrecht, the head of the Industrial Development Corporation’s tourism strategic business unit, said the industry was close to a rebound. "We are still reeling from ... the worst economic downturns, but indications on the ground point to an uptick," she said.





Gooderson announced the sale recently of one of its two hotel businesses in Durban, the Beachfront Hotel, for R20m.





Interviewed ahead of the Indaba tourism show in Durban on Friday, Ms McCann Westphal said Monks Cowl held "huge potential" and that extensions were planned for the resort.





Gooderson has another Drakensberg resort, Drakensberg Gardens, which is about two-and-a-half hours’ drive from Durban and is aimed at that market. Monks Cowl is about the same distance from Gauteng, and the intention is to attract more visitors from that province.





Last November, Gooderson acquired the Kloppenheim Country Estate from Fabcos Property Four in Mpumalanga. It is SA’s oldest hotel group at 55 years.





Ms McCann Westphal said what separated Gooderson from traditional hotel groups was the diversity of its resorts, offering game viewing, cultural tourism, natural spas and mountain, beach and country resorts. The company also operated timeshare facilities.





Ms McCann Westphal said room occupancies had not been great over the past two years, but the company had a few resorts that continued to generate cash during tough periods.

With the re-branding of Tsongo Sun as the main mother group, which includes the 14 casinos and the Southern Sun, Garden Court, Sun Square and Formula 1 hotel brands recently (ie see the ad with Gold Reef, Suncoast, Monte Casinos ect) ... couple of things for KZN
Suncoast will be promoted as two different hotels
* Suncoast Towers - 37-room Five Star Hotel
* SunSquare @ Suncoast - +140 room Four Star Hotel

Following the buyout of Gold Reef, they own the Golden Horse Casino in PMB. The four star hotel in PMB, will be converted and upgraded into a Southern Sun, when the lease with Three Cities comes to an end.

Very interesting! So, Suncoast will offer the only 5 star hotel on the beachfront. I wish they would convert the old Maharani Hotel back to a 5-star too.