BY Aurelia Mbokazi-Kashe
East Coast Radio presenter, motivational speaker, and author, Carol Ofori, celebrates World Radio Day by sharing with us what she and her family got up to on a festive season holiday across two diverse regions of KZN.
What was your most recent trip and how long were you away for?
I recently returned from Cape Town for a short business trip with Pre-Sona. However, my most recent lengthy trip was my vacation in December 2023 spent in Northern KZN (Jozini) as well as the Drakensburg. I spent just under a week in each location.
Was it for business or pleasure, or a combination of both?
This was for Christmas and New Year. Both were very much for pleasure and family.
Who did you travel with?
I went to Jozini with my hubby, kids, and mom. The Drakensburg we made the circle bigger with my sister and her family joining in on the fun.
What was your favorite part about your holiday?
It was definitely the views and the food, a killer combo for a person who just wants to relax and unwind.
Is there anything you wish you had done differently?
Over New Year I just wish we had more sun for more time in the pool. Maybe if I could have done something differently, it would have been to travel with more of my own favourite bubbly since it was a struggle to find.
What touristy things did you get up to and what was the overall experience?
In Jozini we did the amazing boat cruise on the dam. The views in Jozini are insane, so breathtaking. In the Drakensberg we enjoyed some beer tasting, which was fun especially if someone is filming you as you taste.
What was the best thing you ate on your trip and what did you splurge on?
The chicken thighs at Jozini were the best. The fact that I did not have to sift through backs and wings was a bonus. The entire dish was filled with chicken thighs. It was a dream. They also served delicious malva pudding. I did a little shopping, but not much of a splurge. I treated myself to a massage and my daughter to a mani and pedi, she loved it.
Would you advise someone to go and if so, what should they do differently to you?
Absolutely. Check out the Jozini Tiger Lodge. The food is great, the views amazing, and the cruise a must-do.
Drakensberg Sun is also quite nice, although a little pricey over the festive period. They have fun activities to do as a family like karaoke and board games. Their rooms are rather old and need some refurbishment.
What websites or services did you find the most helpful for planning/booking your trip?
I go to Bookings.com and Trip Advisor. They usually have lots of pictures so you can get some idea of the place you are visiting. Word of mouth is also a bonus.
What advice would you give someone going there for the first time?
In Jozini, always make room in your tummy for the delicious buffet for dinner and breakfast. At Drakensburg Sun, arrange to take the boat cruise. We could not because the dam had debris although it looked nice. Brush up on your karaoke as well as Michelle the entertainment manager will be out ready to pull you on the dance floor. She is a ball of fun.
Today is World Radio Day, does it mean anything to you?
Radio Day is a beautiful day to celebrate the medium that is radio. I have always loved and respected radio and I find it enthralling and captivating. You can make up your visions and paint your pictures while driving in a car and listening to someone talking on the radio. I feel very privileged to have been part of the longest media industries in the world.
