“Seascapes is a modern sea facing villa with stunning ocean and coastal views. It’s perfectly located for a relaxing getaway free from the hustle and bustle of city life. From the minute you walk through the door of this beachside home, you will be blown away by the incredible view, amazing space and more especially, the atmosphere that whispers ‘relaxation.’
Light and bright, the welcoming homely setting will give you a bird’s eye view of the coastline. You can wander down to the sandy beaches and even explore the rock pools. I was so happy to chat to owner, Diana Everett about her “home away from home.” –Samantha Gounden
So Diana, tell us a little about your beautiful place here?
Hi Sam, lovely to meet you. I’m Di. I run Seascapes, a self-catering house. I have a lovely position here, overlooking the sea. It feels like you’re on a cruise ship haha. Seascapes is the bed and breakfast part and I called the actual house “The Lighthouse.”
About 30 years ago, we were in Johannesburg, so we built a house just six houses away, on the beach. Then when my husband retired, we decided to come down here, and we started a B&B. I’ve been doing this for nearly 26 years, and I love it. I just love meeting people. I get a lot of return guests especially from overseas. Just the other day, I had a couple from Germany. They were coming out on a nostalgic trip and they found me, came and stayed here again. It was amazing.
What inspired the concept?
You see, when we started this business, it wasn’t that popular in South Africa. So, I mainly had international guests that were coming through – and only a few locals. Now, I think the economy has changed and people are exploring more of South Africa. So, I’m getting a lot more local traffic – and I enjoy that.
What would you say is unique and special about Seascapes?
Mmmm…I think the position, and the view – it’s ever-changing. It always looks so fresh. People always ask me if I ever get tired of it and I say, “I definitely don’t.” My dog and my parrot are also a part of my home. My parrot is Chi-Chi, an African Grey and my dog is Sarafina. We call her Fina. My guests love interacting with my pets.
What’s your recipe for success?
Well, my mother was a very warm and welcoming person. She had open arms and I only hope that I give off that sort of feeling too.
What book are you currently reading?
I’m reading a book that’s a little old by Alexandra Fuller. It’s called Cocktail Hour Under the Tree of Forgetfulness.
Why did you choose iKhokha?
For years and years, I have had the bank card machines but, as we moved over to modern technology with internet banking and everything, I found it less and less used. I was paying a rental fee every month and not really using machine because a lot of money had been paid to me over the internet by international clients.
I found iKhokha and dealt with Dylan who’s been great. He’s a local surfer and he enjoys the area. You know, he takes such a personal interest in his clients and he really could not have done more for me.
Your vision for Seascapes?
I just pray that it grows.
What’s your advice to young business owners who are just starting out?
You must have a passion for it. You must want to do what you are doing. It must not be about just labour; it must be fun. That’s when you know. You just know.
The most rewarding thing about Seascapes?
Well, I do mostly take holiday bookings, so people are always in a great mood. It’s fun for them, and it’s definitely fun for me. The other nice thing is that I use the property as well haha. I can entertain here and have get-togethers when it’s not booked.
How do people get a hold of you?
Find us on Instagram, on our website or on Where To Stay. You can also call (or WhatsApp me) on 082 569 7242.
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