There’s gold an hour out of Durban at the end of the railway tracks.
In one direction out of the city, there’s Ballito with its waves; in another lies Shongweni with its country market.
Train trips on special party carriages for 18 people to both destinations are part of a prize on offer at the KZN Travel and Adventure Show, which ends next Sunday, at the Durban Exhibition Centre. It aims to showcase the province’s destinations and to promote its travel and tourism.
The Holiday Express Train experience starts at Durban station’s Premier Lounge. The north-bound journey ends at Compensation, an iconic spot in KwaZulu-Natal’s sugar history. Coaches then take passengers to Willards Beach to spend the better part of the winter’s day at the world-class Ballito Pro International Surfing Competition event.
Then, before the evening chill sets in and the sun goes down, it’ll be back on track, bound for Durban.
The train trips to both destinations are scheduled for July 8, 9 and 16. The first two dates coincide with the finals of the surfing competition.
The inland journey is into territory better known for horses and the famous Shongweni farmers' and craft market.
In addition to the R6 000 train experience, the prize includes a Personality Power Mini Team Build for a maximum of 40 people from The Success Company, valued at R8 550.
A major drawcard to the show, positioned prominently at the main entrance of the ECR House and Garden Show, is the array of travel specials and competitions offering valuable prizes to local and international resorts and game lodges.
Eighty top exhibitors, ranging from destinations, venues and resorts to travel operators, will offer specials, competitions, tips, information and an exciting array of things to do.
Further prizes include a two-night stay for two, including dinner, bed and breakfast, at the iconic Cathedral Peak Hotel, set in the majestic scenery of the northern Drakensberg, valued at R6 000.
There’s also a third prize that will take winners into that neck of the wood: a self-catering weekend for six people at Cathkin House, valued at R5 600.
Visit: www.kzntravelandadventure.co.za
WIN WIN WIN
Ten lucky readers will win double tickets to the House and Garden Show which runs at the Durban Exhibition Centre until Sunday, July 9.
To win SMS, TIOSGarden to 33258 by noon on Monday. SMSes are charged at R1.50. Terms and conditions apply.