The morning after a hectic night of partying often results in a sore head, but waking up with sore hands is a bit unusual: unless you've been at Cool Runnings in Durban.
Almost two decades after opening its doors, the club is one of the city's most loved institutions, resulting in spinoffs in other cities (including Fourways, Benoni and Pretoria) - but, as one Durban resident tells me: "You haven't been to Cool Runnings until you've been to the real Cool Runnings."
And he's right.
But back to the sore hands. On the Thursday night that I'm at the bar, there is a drum circle. Anyone can pick up one of the many drums available, grab a seat and add their own beat to the rhythmic noise.
After an hour of watching people play musical chairs with the drums, drink in hand, I decide to stop being such a drip and to embrace my inner hippie.
It doesn't matter whether or not you are a talented musician: It's about having a good time and losing yourself in the music.
That also perfectly describes the vibe at Cool Runnings. There are none of the bodycon dresses and killer heels you would find at your usual club. No cool guys wearing sunglasses indoors, at night. It's not about the look. It's not about adding posts to your Instagram account.
It's about a good time.
The lighting is dim, there are a lot of wooden benches to sit on and the air is thick with smoke, yet Cool Runnings manages to be dingy without feeling dirty. If you get tired of being inside, there's an outside area where people congregate, enjoy the night breeze, some beers and a ciggie or two. If you get hungry, there are some light meals to snack on.
There's only one rule: no jerks. A sign on the wall warns patrons: "Right of admission reserved. No racists allowed." One love.
- Cool Runnings is located at 49 Milne Street in Durban. Contact them on 084-701-6912.
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