Mispronouncing place names: Do you do it? | Deon G

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