Travelbeat Inside Information THE OYSTER BOX THE REBIRTH OF A LEGEND Located in Umhlanga, near Durban in South Africa, The Oyster Box Hotel, with its long celebrated history - and following an extensive renovation and refurbishment programme - will again open her doors for business on October 1, 2009, with previous General Manager Wayne Coetzer, at the helm. With all the luxurious comforts, elegance and charm of a bygone era, together with its historic lighthouse and breathtaking views, the new Oyster Box promises to exceed the expectations of even the most discerning visitor and hopefully launch it straight to the top of South Africa's own hotel 'A-list' always giving value to the guests. Staff training ensures the utmost in service delivery and is at the core of the Oyster Box's operation. Over 30 staff have been retained from the old Oyster Box and in preparation for the opening, have undergone extensive training both internationally, with the Red Carnation Collection in Europe and locally, at sister hotels within the Red Carnation Hotels Collection, the Twelve Apostles in Cape Town, and Bushman's Kloof Wilderness Reserve & Wellness Spa in the Cederberg Mountains. Both Coetzer and Chef Kevin Joseph recently spent a month at the world-renowned Raffles Hotel in Singapore. Luxury abounds at the new Oyster Box, with 90 beautifully appointed rooms and suites, eight Garden Villas, each with its own private pool and a magnificent 450 sqm Presidential Suite, complete with private pool. The varied accommodation options will suit the needs of every guest, from individuals, to honeymoon couples and families (including pets). Children are welcome with special facilities and a Kids Club provided. For those who remember the old Oyster Box there are sure to be a number of nostalgic moments when elements of the previous building are recognised. From the grand, revolving door at the entrance, which has welcomed so many guests in the past, to the reception with its magnificent carved, antique marble clock, which once graced the lobby of Christie's of London. The familiar wrought-iron balustrade and original hand-painted tiles are still intact. The restored 'Ocean Terrace' patio, overlooking the stylish rim flow pool and ocean beyond, will undoubtedly be a first-stop for the legions of Oyster Box fans. In harmony with the restored areas, an exciting lightness and spaciousness has been introduced with the stylish use of clear glass and luxurious finishes and textures, as well as the addition of valuable and unique furniture, fittings and artwork. The Oyster Box's art collection has been carefully selected over a 3-year period and comprises works by European and South African artists; it also includes paintings by local KwaZulu-Natal artists. 'The Clock Library' will house an impressive collection of antique clocks collected from around the world, as well as provide a quiet area to relax, read or play a game of Backgammon. A host of gathering spots such as the familiar 'Chukka Bar', with its authentic character, the new 'Lighthouse Bar' situated on the rooftop overlooking the famous lighthouse and the magnificent, marbled 'Oyster Bar', serving freshly plucked oysters from the hotel's own oyster beds, offers something for everyone. Cuisine-wise, Executive Chef Kevin Joseph and his team have been honing their skills and creating menus to tantalise the taste-buds, with something to suit every palate. From the casual and laid-back 'Ocean Terrace', complete with pizza and Tandoori ovens, serving the finest seafood and authentic curries, to the famous Dinner & Dance in 'The Grill Room'. For that special occasion, the sunken wine cellar, with its glass ceiling and impressive wine list of the best local and International wines, allows for private functions for up to 10 persons. Back by popular demand, guests can enjoy a traditional 'High Tea' with all the trappings at the new Oyster Box. Savour the freshly prepared, home-baked, cakes, biscuits, finger sandwiches and savouries daily from 14:00-18:00, in the conservatory-like, palm-lined 'Palm Court', resplendent with chandeliers purchased from the 'old' Savoy Hotel in London. Each one of the four banqueting rooms, is individually decorated. The hand-blown, crystal Venetian chandeliers in the mirrored 'Pearl Room' add an air of luxury and opulence and when combined with the adjoining 'Shell Room', can accommodate up to 170 people seated, for a dinner function. Personal touches, such as the original memorabilia in the 'Durban July' and 'Union Castle' Rooms, are sure to conjure up interesting stories and memories alike. The Oyster Box's versatile range of venue offerings, promises to once again, position the property as the region's conference, wedding and event venue of 'first choice'. In addition, the new property boasts a luxurious 24-seat movie theatre, offering special dinner, hot popcorn and movie packages for hotel guests and private hirers. A fully-equipped business centre with complimentary high-speed internet facilities is on hand for the business traveller. Guests need not even leave the property to meet their health and wellness needs, with everything close to hand. From the new, state-of-the-art Spa, housing a unique, beautifully-appointed Hamman, to the gym, boasting the latest equipment and technology. The hotel is set amidst a cornucopia of lush vegetation and landscaped gardens. Creative water features and ponds, a second swimming pool and antique bird aviary lend an air of peace and tranquility. An intricate Victorian-style Gazebo, with a small amphitheatre, nestles amidst this garden paradise and is sure to add a special element to any wedding party. Many of the matured plants such as aloes, frangipani and hibiscus, which were re-located and nurtured during the refurbishment, will be returned to the property, in time for the opening. Coetzer looks forward to welcoming back the 'other' regular patrons, including Scabenga, the cat and the resident monkeys. (The Red Carnation Hotel Collection) Back to Front Page