Since the reopening of northern beaches (barring a 1km exclusion zone around the Ohlanga lagoon) following the UPL chemical spill in July, it’s been all systems go for uMhlanga as locals and holidaymakers flock down to the premier seaside resort for their dose of vitamin ‘sea’.
Chairman of the KZN Restaurant Association of South Africa, Duncan Heafield says: “uMhlanga’s beaches are intrinsically part of its seaside vacation experience. The reopening has resulted in a massive spike in bookings for restaurants and hospitality establishments alike. Open beaches not only allow for an increase in tourism to uMhlanga but provide a massive boost for the entire KZN east coast as well.”
uMhlanga Tourism vice chairman Sabelo Didi said that events of the past 18 months had been tough on the economy and the beach reopening and subsequent influx of people could not have come at a better time. “Holidaymakers come to uMhlanga for the beach and holiday establishments rely on them for business. However, it’s the locals we need as well to come out again and enjoy the beauty of their town,” he said.
While overseas tourism will be hampered by the emergence of Omicron, Sabelo encouraged Durbanites and people from other towns and provinces to book a mini vacation and enjoy uMhlanga’s many facilities and attractions on offer.
Visit www.umhlangatourism.co.za for more information.
