KZN ROLLS OUT THE RED CARPET

The Vodacom Durban July draws revellers from across the continent to the East Coast and as the hospitality industry puts its best foot forward, like the socialites, celebrities and tycoons, you too can #DoKZN Luxury.

FROM helicopter flips over the Valley of a Thousand Hills or the Drakensberg Mountains to the forested retreats, sandy beaches and private yachts of the KwaZuluNatal North Coast, the province’s natural beauty can be experienced in true luxury.

And at this time of the year the KZN hospitality industry gets a cash injection as visitors to the Vodacom Durban July book out hotels to capacity. Which means if you’re a baller, there’s no end to how lavish and luxurious your stay in the Zulu Kingdom can be.

Here are some of the A-list options and what they have to offer:

BEVERLY HILLS HOTEL

The award-winning Beverly Hills Hotel, which first opened its doors in 1964, has become synonymous with elegance, gracious hospitality and intuitive service.

The hotel has hosted royalty, celebrities, sports stars and captains of industry and offers guests a choice of 89 beautifully appointed rooms, each with a private balcony and an uninterrupted view of the Indian Ocean.

One of the luxury suites in great demand is Cabana 10, a homely and elegant space offering a dressing room and a lounge area as well as a large wrap-around private balcony where you feel you can almost touch the lighthouse.

Privacy is paramount and the suite’s sun deck provides ample seating and loungers to relax and unwind.

A special feature of Cabana 10 is the luxurious, large, walk-in shower with a skylight and window as well as secluded courtyard leading off the bathroom.

Great care and consideration has been taken to ensure that the room is comfortable and relaxing. Additional benefits include a complimentary valet service on arrival, complimentary wi-fi, access to the hotel’s DVD library and, at a cost, a range of daily luxurious poolside massage treatments by experienced therapists.

“The Beverly Hills continues to surpass global standards of hospitality and meet the changing needs of today’s guests,” said general manager John Aritho, “and I, together with my team look forward to continuously setting new standards and raising the bar.”

The Beverly Hills is sure to evoke an iconic sense of nostalgia, timeless elegance and romance.

Beverly Hills: Cabana 10 is about R16 200 a person in July.

THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL

Perfectly positioned overlooking the magnificent Indian Ocean,

The Oyster Box reveals it’s most precious pearl – the spacious, stylish presidential suite. Split over two levels, with private access and lift, this suite is the epitome of luxury and comfort.

A beautiful Venetian glass chandelier sets an elegant tone in the dining room with seating for 10 guests, while mirrors add dimension and a sense of lightness and space.

The grand master bedroom incorporates an intimate personal study, “his” and “hers” marble bathrooms; “hers” with unparalleled sea views, from the large marble bath. The latest technology is at your fingertips, the chauffeur-driven Mercedes is available for airport transfers and shopping trips, there is a private rim-flow plunge pool, an in-suite butler service and even a “bath butler” – a spa specialist to run your bath.

A night will set you back about R50 500.

SUNCOAST TOWERS

The art deco-style design of the newly-revamped Suncoast Casino is echoed in the eight executive suits and 10 junior suites at the adjoining Suncoast Towers.

While the executives have kingsize beds and sleeper couches, the juniors have one bed, a lounge, office and Italian marble bathrooms. Wood panelling, plush rugs and upholstery evoke the glamorous roaring twenties; while shades of blue sync the rooms with their stunning ocean views.

Attention to detail includes a concierge call as to which pillows you prefer and what tipple you’d like in the mini bar.

“The proximity of the casino, Greyville Racecourse and Florida Road mean the most exclusive rooms are booked months in advance of the VDJ,” said rooms division manager Zane Potter.

He added that Durban July weekend was always animated and most guests topped off the celebrations with Champagne over Sunday brunch.

(The hotel penthouse is currently being revamped.)

Executive rooms can cost between R4500 and 7500 or more, depending on the time of year. All prices listed in this article are subject to change.

HILTON DURBAN

South Africa’s Leading Business

Hotel according to the World Travel Awards Africa & Indian Ocean Gala award ceremony 2019, the Hilton Durban has on offer a presidential suite and similarly priced, twobedroom apartments.

The executive suites are contemporary with large windows, to frame city views, designed to create bright and comfortable rooms.

Executive level guests all have access to an exclusive business lounge with complimentary refreshments throughout the day.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts have a 100-year history and more than

585 hotels across six continents. Therefore Hilton Honours members who book directly through preferred Hilton channels have access to instant benefits.

These top-tier rooms cost about R18 000 a night.

THE OYSTER BOX HOTEL