I had to meet a client who has just spent a a load of money with us and I thought it was good business practice to head on down and at at least shake their hand. Hopefully they will be spending loads more with us.
I landed at the King Shaka Airport, hired a car from Avis and drove down to Umhlanga, which is about 20km south of the airport. I pulled into the parking lot at my client as was met by this:
It was a totally different vibe to the the hustle and bustle lifestyle I am used to in Johannesburg. Everyone is very relaxed and generally “chilled”.
I met with my client, took loads of pics of their server rooms for my records and then made my way to the Gateway Hotel. Checked in and went up to my room. My room was a little strange – couldn’t decide if the bedroom was in the bathroom, or the bathroom was in the bedroom. I could step out of bed and then step into the bath.
The hotel was attached to the Gateway shopping center so I tool a walk around after dinner that evening. Was quite surprised the shops were all open quite late as the shops don’t stay open late in Johannesburg.
Hardly slept that night as there was a car alarm beeping all night. My morning meeting with my client was cancelled as he had a doctors appointment or something, which meant I could get back to the airport earlier and head back home.
I would love to have spent more time there and at least walked on the beach. Maybe next time…..
I am dying!! To casually come across monkeys around my car- OH MY GOSH!!! That is so cool. The bathtub so close to the bed is really funny. I had a room one time similar to that with a jacuzzi instead of a bathtub. Too bad you didnt get to meet with your client though. Maybe you can go back.
Loved the monkeys! Hope they were the friendly sort.Visiting a client like that is always good form.Also, did you sleep in the bathtub or the bed? That's a crazy room!
I was in Johannesburg two years ago and it definitely fits into the "hustle and bustle of a big city" category. I was volunteering in Gaborone, Botswana at the time and to be honest, Johannesburg scared the crap out of me! I didn't manage to make it to any of the beautiful beaches that SA is known for unfortunately. In other news, I've nominated you for a Liebster Award – cheers!Brandy's Bustlings
Thanks for the award Brandy – I am honored indeed. I love Botswana – been a few times now and can't get enough of it.
The monkeys were very friendly. A very relaxed atmosphere down there. I slept in bed but if I fell out of bed it would have been straight into the bath.
I will definitely be going back. So looking forward to it.