Digitlab, Author at City Lodge Hotel Group

A “Taste of Home” at City Lodge Hotels this Heritage Day

September 22, 2023 No Comments

With September being Heritage Month, it’s only natural that we should talk about food. After all, food is a big part of our heritage as South Africans, as well as our heritage in general. Every culture around the world, in one way or another, has traditional dishes that probably date back centuries. The same is true for South African heritage, whether Zulu, Xhosa, Indian, or Afrikaans. Because food is such an important part of our different traditions as South Africans, we decided to sit down with a couple of our top chefs here at City Lodge Hotels to find out what a “taste of home” means to them. We interviewed Devandra Narismulu, Executive Chef at City Lodge Hotel at OR Tambo International Airport, and Trevor Boyd, General Manager of Operations for Food and Beverage at City Lodge Hotels support office. Here’s what they had to say. What dish…

Where to stay near the JP Cooper concert in Cape Town

August 2, 2023 No Comments

JP Cooper is bringing his phenomenal musical talents to South Africa for the first time ever! If you’re in Cape Town on 24 August, you can catch him live at Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill. In this blog post, we’re introducing you to JP Cooper (for those who live under a rock), providing some background information about his South African tour, and offering up six affordable, quality accommodation options if you’re looking for a place to spend the night. Who is JP Cooper? JP Cooper is an English singer and songwriter. He is best known for featuring on the Jonas Blue single “Perfect Strangers”, which went platinum in the UK. His follow-up solo single was “September Song”, which also reached the top 10 in the UK charts. Cooper has released two studio albums, “Raised in Flames” (2016) and “She” (2019). His music has been described as “soulful pop” with “a touch…

How to enjoy T20 cricket in Durban: Proteas vs Australia

August 2, 2023 No Comments

Fans of T20 cricket are set to be treated to three enthralling matches between the Proteas and Australia in Durban, with the first contest taking place on the 30th of August at Hollywoodbets Kingsmead Stadium. It’s only the third time that the historic ground will host these two powerhouse nations, the last time being back in 2016. More about the game Cricket in South Africa has seen a renaissance of sorts this year, with the first edition of the SA20 competition in January igniting a fire in the hearts of fans all over the country. Cricket grounds were sold out across the provinces as fans got to witness some of the best players in the world in action. There’s little doubt that fans in Durban have experienced a rebirth of passion, and with the Aussies coming to town we’re sure to witness that passion in full force. With the…

How to rest well in a busy world

August 2, 2023 No Comments

In today’s fast-paced, frenetic world, it can be easy to get swept up in the rat race of life and forget to take a break. The concept of rest has taken on many forms throughout history, with each period needing its own version of the idea to combat the culture of the day. We’re currently in a digital-heavy, side-hustle kind of culture, which potentially requires a different kind of rest than what’s come before us. We love to over-work and over-play, but the key to finding peace and balance in these areas is to ensure healthy rest for your mind and body. We discuss a few ideas around what this kind of rest could look like for you, below: Just go to sleep Sometimes the best, most healthy thing that you could do for yourself is to call it a night. Sleep has gone through the wringer since more…

A history of the most remarkable women in South Africa

August 2, 2023 No Comments

South Africa has been home to numerous remarkable women whose achievements have garnered international acclaim. In this article, we delve into the inspiring stories of five extraordinary women in South Africa who have made significant contributions in diverse fields such as science, arts, activism, technology, and politics. Let’s explore their remarkable feats and when they achieved them. Dr. Mamphela Ramphele (Political Activism, 1970s): Dr. Mamphela Ramphele is a prominent anti-apartheid activist, political leader, and academic. In 1976, she played a pivotal role in organising the youth protests against the discriminatory education system during the Soweto Uprising. Her unwavering commitment to social justice and equality has shaped South Africa’s political landscape. Dr. Olive Shisana (Science, 1990s): Dr. Olive Shisana is an accomplished scientist and researcher. In 1994, she became the first black South African woman to earn a PhD in Research Psychology. Her groundbreaking work in public health and epidemiology has…

5 ways to be more like Nelson Mandela every day

June 28, 2023 No Comments

Nelson Mandela, an extraordinary leader and a beacon of hope, left an indelible mark on the world with his unwavering commitment to justice, equality, and reconciliation. As we reflect on the remarkable life of this iconic figure, we take a moment to pay tribute to him by exploring five ways to be more like Nelson Mandela every day. From his positive mindset to his unwavering determination, Mandela’s qualities continue to inspire and guide us in our own journeys. Join us as we delve into these qualities and draw inspiration from the incredible legacy of Nelson Mandela. Thinking Positively Nelson Mandela possessed an unwavering belief in the power of positive thinking. Despite enduring decades of imprisonment, he never allowed bitterness or negativity to consume him. Mandela chose to focus on hope, unity, and a brighter future for all. His positive mindset serves as a reminder that even in the face of…

Winter travel tips: how to plan the perfect mid-year getaway

June 28, 2023 No Comments

As the mid-year season approaches, many South African travellers start dreaming of a winter getaway. With a diverse landscape and a multitude of experiences to offer, South Africa is an excellent destination for those seeking a unique winter adventure. To help you make the most of your mid-year escape, we’ve put together ten winter travel tips specifically tailored to South African travellers. So, grab a cup of hot chocolate and get ready to plan your perfect winter retreat! Embrace the Mild Climate One of the best things about winter in South Africa is the mild climate in many regions. Take advantage of this by exploring outdoor activities that may be too hot during the summer months. From hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains to exploring the Garden Route, the pleasant winter weather allows you to enjoy the great outdoors without the scorching heat. Pack for Variable Weather While South Africa’s winter…

Where to stay near the Healthy Living Expo 2023 in Sandton

June 28, 2023 No Comments

The Healthy Living Expo is a great opportunity to learn about all things healthy living. From fitness and nutrition to beauty and wellness, there’s something for everyone at this annual event held at the Sandton Convention Centre. And if you’re planning on attending the expo in Sandton, you’ll need a place to stay. A short history of the Healthy Living Expo The expo was first held in 2009. It has since grown to become one of the largest health and wellness expos in Africa. It features over 200 exhibitors, offering a wide range of products and services. There are also a number of talks, demonstrations, and workshops, as well as a fitness zone and a children’s area. What to expect at this year’s expo This event is a great opportunity to learn more about health and wellness. Visitors can expect to find information on a wide range of topics, including:…

What to expect at the 2023 Gas Motorshow in Durban

June 28, 2023 No Comments

The Gas Motorshow is a biannual auto event held in Durban, South Africa. The first Gas Motorshow was held in 2017, and it has since become one of the largest and most popular automotive gatherings in Africa. The show features a wide variety of vehicles, from classic cars to modern supercars. There are also a number of other attractions at the show, including stunt shows, live music, and food vendors. History of The Motorshow In its short history, this event has already become a must-attend for car enthusiasts from all over the world. It’s a great place to see some of the most amazing vehicles on the planet and a great way to learn about the latest automotive trends and technologies. What to expect The 2023 Gas Motorshow will be held on July 15-16 at Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World in Durban. The show will feature over 1,000 vehicles, including…

10 Epic Father’s Day Gift Ideas That Aren’t Biltong

June 1, 2023 No Comments

Father’s Day is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like us, you’re probably starting to panic about what to get your dad. Sure, biltong is always a great go-to gift, but let’s be real – how many bags of dried meat can one dad really handle? Fear not, our fellow South Africans, for we have compiled a list of 10 epic Father’s Day gift ideas that aren’t biltong: Braai masterclass If your dad loves nothing more than firing up the grill, consider signing him up for a braai masterclass. Learn how to make the perfect steak, cook up a storm of sides, and impress your guests with your newfound skills. Relaxing getaway Give your dad the gift of a relaxing getaway with a stay at a City Lodge Hotel Group property. Whether he prefers a beachfront hotel in Durban, a city centre hotel in Johannesburg, or a quiet…