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 We extended our sleep period, taking advantage of the holiday. By the time we descended for breakfast, it was approximately 10:30. However, accessing the restaurant proved challenging, as it was situated on an elevated area requiring navigating a significant incline, numerous flights of stairs, and additional steps upon reaching the summit. This location was not particularly accessible.

 I was undoubtedly eager for a beverage upon our arrival. The entrance resembled a spa reception—bright, white, and inviting—featuring a lounge and bar area that evoked the ambiance of the Manor House Hotel and Spa back home

For breakfast, I attempted the chili scrambled eggs. The dish was so well-received that my entire family quickly expressed regret over their previous choices, unanimously indicating their intention to order it on future occasions.

After breakfast, we returned to the villa to prepare for our visit to uShaka Marine World, Durban’s renowned aquarium.

Travel tip: If accessibility is a priority, it is advisable to verify beforehand whether restaurants in South Africa are accessible, as many are situated on hilly terrain with numerous stairs.

🐠 Off to uShaka Marine World

On the walk there, I started feeling unwell — I needed the loo, but nothing happened, and then I suddenly got shaky and very thirsty. Luckily, Mum had packed my emergency chocolate bar (thanks to my sister’s stash!) and I took my regular meds too. Once I’d eaten and had a drink, I felt well enough to carry on.

Within the aquarium, I appreciated the opportunity to observe marine life at close proximity. Typically, such an experience would involve underwater activities such as scuba diving or shark cage diving, neither of which I am able to participate in. Therefore, this served as an ideal alternative.

Inside the aquarium, I loved being able to get up close to the marine life. Normally, that kind of experience would mean scuba diving or shark cage diving — neither of which I can do — so this was the perfect alternative.

🍟 A Quick Lunch Stop

The wrap I ordered turned out disappointingly tiny — they’d run out of the normal size — but the large fries made up for it. Mum was right: sometimes quick and easy really is best, especially when you’re not feeling 100%.

💡 Travel Tip: Individuals with health conditions should not feel guilty about choosing fast food options. Often, such selections are the most practical means to support rest.

🚗 Dropping Off My Cousin

On the way back, we dropped off my cousin Arron and collected the medicines Auntie Debbie had kindly picked up from the pharmacy. Mum also asked her to grab some mooty (South African slang for medicine) for my bladder, plus a capsule for thrush.

I did not pack any, believing they would not be necessary; however, travel often demonstrates otherwise.

When my mother and I read the capsule instructions—”Do not chew”—I experienced a moment of concern. I find it difficult to swallow tablets; however, my mother had recently instructed me on how to take them with yoghurt. Fortunately, we had some readily available, and the method proved to be effective

🌙 Early Night

By the time we got home, I went straight to bed. I don’t even think I had dinner — I just wasn’t up to it. Still, I could happily tick uShaka Marine World off my list.

Occasionally, such days serve as a reminder that we are indeed an ordinary family, even during holidays.