Durban in KwaZulu-Natal is where you head for a sub-tropical beach holiday. The added bonus of being able to holiday here all year round means Durban accommodation not only caters to jet setting business executives during the winter months, but to those after a bit of sun from colder regions of South Africa, or overseas visitors after accommodation in Durban that satisfies their picture of sun-kissed beaches and friendly residents.
Durban’s position on the east coast of South Africa makes her one of the warmest places to be during winter. And in essence, the city is all about the beach, despite its cultural diversity, the allure of the Drakensberg Mountains just a few hours inland, and Zululand up the north coast.
From Durban’s Golden Mile all the way out to the now business hub of Umhlanga, the city has a series of enviable beaches. The city even has a surfing museum, the only one in the country, and a large surfing community who, like those from Cape Town, watch the waves from their corporate glass towers, heading into the waves directly after work.
Most of Durban is hilly. The central suburbs lie inland from the beaches up against what is termed ‘the ridge’, with the university on one end and the suburb of Overport on the other. Accommodation ranges from beach side 5-star Durban hotels with sea views, to suburban bed and breakfast and self-catering venues in the leafy suburbs of Morningside and Berea.
There is plenty to do and see in Durban, even if your aim is to soak up the sun on the beaches of the north and south coast. Visit the BAT Centre, uShaka Marine World, head down to the Point, which is now undergoing a complete resurgence, where the once run-down hotbed of local prostitution is now a series of new developments including restaurants and apartment buildings.
Sample a local curry or bunny chow, and whilst in town head to the spice market so that you can try your own when home. Go on a township tour, visit local mosques, and the Temple of Understanding.
