From its early beginnings back in 1990, Splashy Fen has evolved into one of South Africa’s premier music festivals which nowadays sees thousands of people making the annual pilgrimage to Underberg in KwaZulu-Natal for what is regarded by many as the ‘ultimate outdoor experience’. (more…)

For those of you who don’t know much about Mpumalanga, here is a little History of the land, and some really nice places to stay at while on  holiday. (more…)

Ratha-yatra, or the Festival of Chariots, is a joyous event celebrated for thousands of years in the Indian holy city of Jagannatha Puri, and now celebrated in Durban and more recently by Hare Krishna devotees in cities around the world. Another name for Krishna, Jagannatha refers to the ecstatic form of the Lord with large eyes and rugged features who is carried on a gigantic chariot during this festival (and worshiped in an ancient temple at the center of Jagannath Puri). (more…)

In case you were wondering what to do this Easter, for those of you who maybe do not have family or friends to visit – why not try something different, SURF with the Easter bunny

If you already HAVE your family and friends, perhaps think about booking a surf weekend away for everyone to enjoy over Easter!

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So, as it turns out, Top Gear hits Durban on 15 – 16 June 2013! If you feel the need for speed come on over to Durb’s for some fun in the sun!

Great cars, great music, pretty girls and lots of beer and Braai’s happening over that weekend.  If you are looking for accommodation well then you have come to the right place FINALLY! (more…)

So we all know that Easter is around the corner. A time for eating chocolate bunnies and not really worrying about ones waistline.

If you have not yet booked your Easter accommodation, we recommend you do it NOW before it is too late. Call Optima on 0860 333 666 to find your dream holiday resort. In the meantime, take a few minutes to relax and read this article. (more…)

Spiga D’Oro

Established in 1835, Spiga is renowned for its exceptional quality Italian cuisine.  With having always offered fantastic service, with a friendly smile, the atmosphere is to die for and very original for Durban. Located on 200 Florida Road, Spiga is a definite MUST for Valentines day or any other day for that matter. (more…)

While we tend to think most of romance around Valentine’s Day, our favorite romantic getaways are guaranteed to rekindle a long-standing romance, or kick a new one up a notch, all year long. Whether you choose to cuddle up on a gondola ride in Venice; snuggle under a blanket on a caleche ride in Quebec City; dance cheek-to-cheek in Buenos Aires; spend long days canoodling on spectacular islands like Bora Bora, Santorini, and Nevis; cruise magical Halong Bay; or discover breathtaking Dubrovnik together, you’re bound to feel a renewed (or new) sense of intimacy with your partner. Of course, no list of this sort would be complete without a nod to Paris, the epitome of romantic getaways (and site of countless marriage proposals), but dear Santa Barbara, closer to home, is just as ripe for a tryst, with countless spas and vineyards in the vicinity that are sure to help you and yours relax – and lose your inhibitions. (more…)

Here at Optima we must congratulate our boys for drawing 2-2 against Morocco on Sunday.  South Africa will face the Group B runners-up at the Moses Mabhida Stadium on Saturday this week. Kick-off is at 20h30. (more…)