Chasing Trains in Durban on The Holiday Express
Train rides are so much fun as you sit back and watch the world around whizz past. A few weeks ago I received an invite to explore the Shongweni Craft Market and Scottburgh on The Holiday Express Train. Having seen these trips advertised I was rather excited to head off to Explore Durban and KZN.
Mum and I headed off early on Saturday morning to Durban Bus Station. Following the directions online it was easy to find the Business Premier Lounge.There is a secure boom gated parking with car guards as well so no need to worry about your car while you are away.
As we entered the lounge a gorgeous “Love ” lit up sign caught my attention but I was then caught up meeting  the fun team the work on The Holiday Express. After a quick registration Mum and I headed off to have our pics taken at the Insta Photo Booth which is always fun.
After having our photos taken we headed down to board our train. As it was a rather hot day I had carried a flask of cold water, a few energy bars and some frozen boxes of fruit juice. Mum and I found some comfy seats with a table and we sat down to enjoy the ride. It felt good to just sit down and talk and spend quality time with each other.
On route we passed several stations , some we knew and some we didn’t, we kept trying to guess where exactly we where. It was interesting watching life besides the tracks and yes we passed an amazing waterfall and all I could think off was how great it would be to stand at the bottom and cool off.
On arrival at Shongweni Station, we were met by two buses who took us to the Market a short distance away. Having never visited this market before we headed off to explore the market. With numerous choices of things to eat , drink and buy we had too many choices. We opted for one of our favourite vendors Roti & Chai who make the most amazing Paneer Wraps. Tummies full we went off to do some shopping before we boarded the bus to catch our train back to Durban.
As a huge fan of the South Coast of Durban I was rather excited when I learnt that The Holiday Express would be heading down the coast to Scottburgh.Earlier in the year while researching things to do in Durban I came across this trip but was sad when I learnt it only ran on specific dates. So when I was offered tickets for the Sunday I knew this would be a perfect day out with the girls and we all love the South Coast.
The train for Scottburgh left much later than the one to Shongweni so we were able to grab a Mcdonalds breakfast to go. Despite the weather been overcast and threatening to rain our spirits were high as we were off on another adventure. After finding a coach we wanted sit we had a mini photo shoot of the bright yellow train as a backdrop. The platform used for The Holiday Express is different to the normal platforms. The seats are all super comfy and the ones we sat on were recliners just like in a plane and wait for it there was even plug points to charge your phone now this is something I really loved.
The train was filled with families and lots of couples.Everyone was well prepared with their picnic baskets for the beach.Besides spending time with the girls we just got to relax and enjoy the beautiful scenery and YES I took loads of pictures. On arrival in Scottburgh it was still overcast and drizzling, we were told what time we needed to return and which paths to follow to where.The girls and I having previously been to the area decided on going to The Blue Marlin Hotel for Sunday Lunch. This was a good idea as we were out of the rain, had a leisurely Sunday lunch and just spent time catching up. Many of our fellow travellers also opted to head to The Blue Marlin for lunch. The Sunday Buffet Lunch is R150 per person and includes Starters ,mains,desserts and hot beverages to end your meal. Feeling rather stuffed we decided to walk around the lovely property and came across a gorgeous large Chess set. After a few photos , a quick drink at the poolside bar we made our way back to the train and make our way back home to Durban.
Tips for The Holiday Express
- Wear comfortable shoes.
- Wear a hat.
- Carry a soft fabric bag to hold all your shopping from the market.
- Wear sunblock.
- Carry bottled water.
- Wear sunglasses.
- Carry cash for the market as not all vendors have card machines.
- Have Fun:)
The lovely folks at The Holiday Express are working on loads of really exciting ideas for train trips. The next Trip is during the Easter Weekend to Scottburgh. Check out the website here  for more details so you too can go discover KZN on a train.
When last did you go on a train ?
Be Inspired !
Ciao
xxx
I was a guest of The Holiday Express but as always my views are my own.
