After Hours

Ah, the age-old question that's caused countless awkward fumbles at restaurant tables: who picks up the tab?

Traditionally, the etiquette dictated that the inviter pays, but times (and wallets) are changing. So, should this custom stay or should it go?

An invitation can be seen as an extension of hospitality, like inviting someone to your home. Picking up the bill shows you value their company and want to treat them.

If you extend a specific invitation to a fancy restaurant, it implies you're prepared to cover the cost. This can be a nice way to celebrate a special occasion.

Remember that not everyone has the same budget and if everyone pays their fair share, you can avoid financial strain or awkwardness. In 2024, traditional roles are evolving. Splitting the bill reflects a more egalitarian approach to dining out with friends or colleagues.

Miss Manners, known as the 'Queen of Etiquette' herself, offered a different perspective in her column.

Miss Manners makes a valid point. Extending an invitation with the implicit expectation of others paying is not ideal. It's better to be upfront and realistic about your budget.

Remember, the true goal is to celebrate your achievement and bond. Your enthusiasm and genuine appreciation for their support will shine through, regardless of the setting. ECR site

Deon G asked East Coasters to tell him about the best and worst advice they've been given. Before opening the line for KZN to speak up, traffic lead Andi James and sports lead Faheedah Crouch shared their stories. We suggest you get a pen and notebook ready before listening in! ECR site

Deon G had the opportunity to chat with former Springbok flyhalf Butch James about Chasing the Sun 2. The five-part documentary series displays the awe-inspiring journey of the Springbok team in the 2023 Rugby World Cup. ECR site

Ah, KwaZulu-Natal - a land of stunning beauty, vibrant culture, and... places that trip up even the most seasoned travellers.

Don't worry, it happens to the best of us! But fear not, fellow explorer (and residents), as we’re here to equip you with the knowledge to confidently navigate KZN's trickier pronunciations.

Firstly, let's address the "H" that likes to hide in "Hluhluwe". A common misconception is that “Hl” is pronounced “Shl”.

Ever taken a trip to the coastal town of Mtunzini? Do you pronounce the “m” and “t” together or are you guilty of saying "Moo-tun-zi-nee"?

What about Ballito? Are you accidentally replacing the “a” with an “e” or maybe adding an extra “I” in the mix? Resist the urge! It's simply "Ba-lee-toe".

Let’s move on to something more common that is often mispronounced, East Coast Radio’s home - Umhlanga! We’ve heard “uhm-shlang-gah”, “Oom-shlang-ah”, and much much more.

Conquering these pronunciations may seem daunting, but with a little practice, you'll be a KZN naming pro in no time. Remember, the locals will appreciate your effort, and you'll feel even more immersed in this incredible province. ECR site

Deon G had the opportunity to chat with Dolphins Cricket Ladies Captain Nondumiso Shangase and Vice-Captain Courtney Gounden following their one-day cup win. ECR site

Over the past year, East Coast Radio has unveiled striking murals across three locations in KwaZulu-Natal. These murals are not just artworks; they are vibrant symbols of community pride and unity.

Don't miss the excitement of the upcoming mural reveal event this weekend. We're thrilled to share where this burst of colour will be next. Discover ECR's Murals: Where to Find Them in KwaZulu-Natal · ECR site

Deon G asked KZN if they were to describe their pay cheque as a move title, what would it be? East Coasters did not disappoint with their creativity and hilarious responses. Listeners of all generations shared movie titles that left the team laughing their socks. ECR site

Remember those epic pre-pandemic movie nights? Apparently, things have gotten a bit more lit... expensive, that is.

Ster-Kinekor and Nu-Metro, the cinema kings of SA, have jacked up their prices. We're talking double, even triple what they were charging back in 2014!

Some folks blame the pandemic for this box office bummer, but streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime have been stealing the show for years. These services offer blockbusters for a fraction of the price.

There's a plot twist though! Big-budget flicks like 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' are making a comeback, raking in serious dough at the box office. Even 'Dune: Part Two' is crushing it globally.

Apple and Amazon are looking at things differently, releasing some of their biggest hits in cinemas first. However, our local cinemas know a blockbuster a month isn't enough to keep the popcorn machine churning. They're switching things up, planning to screen live music and sporting events to fill those seats.

MyBroadband revealed how much these price hikes hurt our movie nights. It turns out that ticket prices have skyrocketed way faster than the inflation monster. On top of that, the rand has gotten weaker, making those dollar-priced movies even more expensive.

For example, a regular ticket in 2014 would set you back R21, but now you're looking at R64.90 and up! Those VIP cinemas? Yeah, they'll charge you a whopping R220 - more than double what it used to cost! ECR site

Mike V is on a mission to get you to the Suncoast East Coast Radio Big Walk on 26 May 2024. If you haven’t bought your tickets yet then this is your sign.

Shaina-Rae is a local runner and East Coast Coast Radio presenter who has pledged to Mike V that she and her running friends will attend the Big Walk. Mike V's three unusual reasons to walk the Big Walk · ECR site

R11 000 is up for grabs in Darren Maule's Quick Quiz. Mike V is in the host seat this week and has first time contestant, Pearl on this show.

In a twisted turn of events, Pearl has the chance to win this money. Did she do it? Take a listen... ECR site