Posh Shopping: SHOPPING IN THE NATAL MIDLANDS

I recently went on a drive to the Natal Midlands to test out the Posh Shopping Tours tour itineraries and do site inspections of the hotels offered on the overnight combo options.

I must say that I was extremely impressed by both the level of service of the shop assistants and the restaurant staff, as well as the quality and selection of the goods on sale. The one thing that I did find upsetting was that a lot of the people I spoke to all had the same complaint… that the number of tourists visiting the area has considerably decreased over the last few years.

I find this quite strange, as the area has so much to offer a tourist to South Africa. There is also a lot to interesting things for a South African who is visiting Natal, as well as people who live in Durban and only visit for the day. There is shopping, animal farms, local produce, restaurants, fishing, horse riding, walking trips, beautiful views, clean air and award winning hotels and guesthouses – and the list can go on.

These are some of the things I think deserve a special mention:

· I had the most delicious R15 Cappuccino at the Bistro in the Nottingham Road Junction Complex, as well as extremely good service from their waiter.

· The viewing balcony at the Howick Falls is a must see… You don’t have to climb up any rocks or hike anywhere to see the falls, you just drive up and step out of your car – Beautiful (see the photo below). The road leading up the falls is lined with stunning little shops, so consider parking at the top and walking down.

· The best shopping centre goes to The Piggly Wiggly Country Centre, it is on the R103 just past the Midmar Dam in the Lions River area. There are probably about 20-25 little shops, all selling something different, as well as a coffee shop. Well worth the stop!

· The Fordoun Hotel and Spa is breath-taking, and the spa stays open until 6pm each day. Each room has under floor heating throughout and the fine dining restaurant is stunning. The surroundings are so peaceful, this is where you want to stay if you need some decent rest and relaxation!

· Tsonga Shoes and Handbags is a must see – not cheap, but the quality and selection they offer is just too good to miss. (I found a pair of black leather boots there that I need to go back for, and have also been dreaming of their animal skin handbags).

If you stay in the Durban area, please do yourself a favour and plan a trip up to the Natal Midlands soon – just travel prepared with the warmest clothing that you own – it is at least 10 degrees colder than Durban during the winter months, and snow is expected there soon.

To book a Posh Shopping Tour, or to get more information about the Posh Shopping Tours on offer, please see the website http://www.poshshopping.co.za/Shopping+Tours or email info@poshshopping.co.za

Happy Shopping!