This past weekend in Durban, as the city lit up with the excitement of the Durban July, I had the immense pleasure of staying once again at my home away from home — Bayside Hotel Group. And what a weekend it was!
If Durban was giving main character energy, then Bayside was the entire ensemble cast, the backstage crew, the red carpet, and the standing ovation all in one.
From dazzling fashion designers and overbooked stylists to journalists scribbling harder than their unfiltered Twitter drafts, Bayside was buzzing! Honestly, if the Durban July was a blockbuster, Bayside was the behind-the-scenes documentary with better lighting and sass.
As I was tucked into my cozy suite — robe on, slippers secured, and Wi-Fi faster than local gossip — Durban was alive. There was the unforgettable fashion parade, the never-ending laughs from the corridors of Bayside, and of course, the press briefing by the ever-bold Lieutenant-General Mkhwanazi shaking the whole country like a plot twist in a telenovela.
I also had the pleasure of sitting down with Mr. Reggie, the general manager of Bayside, and this man isn’t just managing a hotel — he’s managing a vision, a vibe, and possibly the emotional well-being of hundreds. Our conversation about collaborating on marketing the hotel left me floating like a fashionista in six-inch heels with zero regrets and perfect posture.
I’m beyond thrilled to be partnering with a brand that not only gets hospitality right but also serves looks, love, and local impact.
Let’s talk facilities, shall we? The rooms are spotless and modern — the kind of place that makes you forget your actual home needs new curtains. The bedding? So soft you’ll wonder if it was woven by grandmothers in heaven. The lighting is so flattering, you’ll want to take selfies, TikToks, and maybe even start your own YouTube channel. And the showers? They don’t just rinse you — they baptize you.
But what’s a good room without Wi-Fi, right? Fear not. The internet connection at Bayside is so fast and reliable, you’ll feel like you’re plugged directly into NASA. Whether you’re working remotely, bingeing your favorite series, or stalking your ex’s new fling (I said stop it!), Bayside’s got your digital back. And yes — it’s free. Truly, Wi-Fi fit for royalty.
Now, let’s talk safety. Durban was abuzz, yes, but the moment you step into Bayside, you’re wrapped in a blanket of security. The hotel is secure, calm, and well-patrolled — a peaceful oasis in a weekend of loud fashion and louder headlines. Whether you’re solo, with kids, or part of a group of rowdy-but-adorable Grade 7s, you’ll feel safe and at ease.
And then — the Bayside Bar. Oh honey, let me tell you. This place is a whole mood. Affordable drinks, good music, and a crowd so friendly you might just end up invited to someone’s wedding. The bar has that special mix of classy and cozy, like a lounge where everyone knows your name — or is at least happy to learn it.
The real stars of the show, however, are the staff. From the front desk to the cleaners to the bar crew, Bayside’s team treats you like family — the fun kind, not the ones who ask why you’re still single. The energy is genuine, the smiles warm, and the service exceptional. They call you “Sisi” and mean it. (A special thank you sis Amanda Mkhize and bhuti Brian Madondo)
And let’s not forget — Bayside isn’t just about beds and breakfasts. This is a company that gives back. I was moved to learn about their ongoing work supporting needy communities in Durban.
Bayside is proof that you can run a business and still care, that luxury and love can share a roof.
To Bayside Hotel Group: thank you. For the comfort, the creativity, and the collaboration. For the clean sheets and the wild nights. For the Wi-Fi and the warmth. Here’s to more memories, more blogs, and more fabulous stays.
If you see me in the lobby, blogging in a gown with my coffee and curls, just know — I’m home.
Come through, Bayside. You really did the most.
