THEMBEKA KUNENE’S
Asked Thembeka Kunene to share her favourite things about Durban
Best place for a first date in the city.
I love doing a lot of crazy, adventurous, romantic things so I can’t really choose one specific place. Durban has too much to offer.
What’s the first thing you do when you arrive in Durban from out of town?
Go to the beach. I absolutely love our beaches.
Best meal you’ve had Durban, that’s not at home?
That’s a tough one! Durban has a lot of delicious food to offer, it’s really hard to choose.
What current local song can’t you stop listening to?
Omunye by Distruction Boyz ft Benny Maverick & Dladla Mshunqisi. I’m a really good dancer, believe it or not.
What’s the last South African movie you watched? in
Mrs Right Guy. I think. To be honest, I suck at this movie thing.
Earliest memory you have of Durban? Me eating spaghetti for the first time, I was so unsure of it at first (laughs).
If you were mayor for a day, what would you do? It’s far-fetched, but I’d settle all the tertiary fees of the students that study through the National Student Financial Aid Scheme. This suffering for education because of your financial background is heartbreaking.
Your favourite hang-out spot in Durban?
Quite a few actually. Views at 25, Tashas, Elangeni Panorama Bar. The list is endless. The best-kept secret in the city? It’s no secret that Durban is beautiful and one of the major centres of tourism because of the warm subtropical climate and extensive beaches.
Best place to down?
If letting your hair down is dancing all night with great music, then it has to be 47th Avenue and Azar nightclubs. let your hair
Who do you call when you want to have fun and where in the city do you go?
My friends, my partner and my brother. We go wherever the vibe is. Haha.
Three shops you rely on?
Zara, Legit and Cotton On – in no particular order. The best dressed person is… It has to be Bonang Matheba, Queen B. My absolute fave – she’s not from Durban but she is my number one.
Favourite Durban shop shop?
Definitely Zara, Legit and Style Closet SA. Their clothes just fit me so well, or do I make them look really good? Either way.
Which is your favourite market or mall in South Africa?
Gateway. There’s a lot choose from which makes so convenient.
Which building in Durban would you like to own?
Beverly Hills Hotel. Oh my! Oh my! Wouldn’t that be awesome?
Which building would you like to be locked in overnight? Gateway, with all the stores open and the cashiers locked out for the night. :) Haha.
What’s the one thing people need to stop doing in Durban? Comparing us to Joburg. It’s so overrated, come to to it on now.
Where Durban?
Wherever I can see the beach or Moses Mabhida Stadium – especially at night. Absolutely beautiful! Best place for a nightcap? For me, The Blue Dolphin in North Beach – just because my “nightcap” has to be accompanied by food and their pizzas are amazeballs!
What’s the one thing that differentiates Durban from other cities in South Africa? We have such friendly and genuine people here. We’re like a little family.
Where would you suggest first-time visitors go to get the best experience of the city?
Makaranga Botanical Garden or Shongweni Dam for the scenery. Olive & Oil or Market for great food. And that’s not even all of it.
What do you do on a Sunday morning?
Listen to Khaya Mthethwa’s music, go to church. If I’m not at church, I sleep. I love my sleep. is the best view of