Vanessa Ankiah, Mrs India South Africa 2016 finalist, and Grant Morgan, Dolphins coach, tell us about their neighbourhood.
About the area
Situated in Durban North, La Lucia has experienced an explosion of interest and growth. This area is a bustling region that attracts well-to-do individuals and families, and, more broadly, a younger market. Private Property recently highlighted Lightstone statistics showing that around 43% of recent buyers in the La Lucia area are aged between 36 and 49. La Lucia is a small area that has a lot to offer. It is conveniently close to Umhlanga, central Durban, and a short drive to King Shaka International Airport. This area is easily accessed via the M4 and is not too far from the N2. La Lucia is home to businesses, an array of trendy restaurants, the popular La Lucia Mall, the beach, and a few well-known Durbanites.
Vanessa Ankiah, Mrs India South Africa 2016 finalist, and Grant Morgan, Dolphins coach, tell us what they love about their home town. “I love the gardens and homes of La Lucia, the Taphouse bar and restaurant, as well as the road and the suburb I live in, especially the easy access to amenities and the mall,” says Grant. With so many different things to do in and around La Lucia, Grant enjoys spending his Sundays at home or at the beach. He recommends the beach and the Midlands as the best places to explore nature and experience the outdoors.
Having returned from the Middle East four years ago, Vanessa chose to live in La Lucia. “La Lucia is an affluent and picturesque suburb. I love the tranquillity and quietness, stunning sea views, pristine nature reserves and beautiful palm trees. I chose my home, which is in a cul-de-sac, because of the privacy and security it afforded my family. The highlight of my home is the spaciousness and warm sunlight that streams through every day,” says Vanessa. Sundays are very relaxed family days for Vanessa.
However, there are a few spots she frequents. “Al Firenze, a walk down the road from me, is an all-time favourite for most La Lucia residents. My favourite coffee shop is Europa situated in La Lucia Mall. The service is always warm and welcoming. Jack Salmon is another favourite, situated in Glenore Centre,” says Vanessa. La Lucia has incredible natural surroundings and outdoor amenities.
“The ideal spot to enjoy would be the pristine and tranquil beaches and surrounding nature reserves. Living in La Lucia is like being on permanent holiday because of tranquillity and beautiful nature,” says Vanessa.
Best in food:
- The Taphouse
- Al Firenze
- Jack Salmon
- Europa at La Lucia Mall
- Mugg and Bean
Things to do:
- Shopping at the popular La Lucia Mall or at Gateway Theatre of Shopping further into Umhlanga.
- Pack your sunglasses and towel and head to the beach.
- Take a break at one of the luxury health spas within La Lucia.
- Play a round of golf at either the Durban Country Club or one of the popular clubs further along the North Coast.
Top schools nearby:
- Crawford College La Lucia
- Danville Park Girls’ High School
- Northlands Girls’ High School
- Victory Christian Academy
Buying in La Lucia
The monthly bond repayment to purchase a typical property in La Lucia, namely a four-bedroom house with the median asking price of R5,547m, is R55,385 per month over 20 years at prime of 10,5% with no deposit.
This article originally appeared in Neighbourhood, Sunday Times.
