Durban
Introduction
Durban- affectionately called “Durbs” is South Africa’s
third-largest city in size, an exciting hub around a busy harbour on
the edge of the warm Indian Ocean. The city is well-known for its
pleasant climate and welcoming beaches. Over three million people live
in Durban.
The city of Durban is hosting the national soccer teams of
South Africa, Angola, Cape Verde and Morocco.
The stadium: Moses Mabhida Stadium
The matches in Durban will take place at the Moses Mabhida
Stadium.
The most outstanding feature is the steel arch which spans the
length of the pitch. Spectators have the opportunity to access the arch
via a high-tech cableway that runs along the structure to a viewing
platform, 106 metres at the arch's peak. The platform provides the most
spectacular view of the 70 000-seat stadium and the pitch below.
In addition, the Moses Mabhida Stadium features a restaurant,
more than 7 000m² of retail space and a fascinating sports museum and
you can also bungee jump off the stadium.
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Weather
The Africa Cup of Nations 2013 takes place during the months
of January and February 2013. The weather in Durban is forecasted to be
pure sunshine, ideal for sightseeing and enjoying leisure activities in
and around the city. Durban is known as ‘the warmest place to be’where
the sun welcomes you every day.
Remember to pack your floppy sun-hats, plenty of sunscreen,
flip flops, shorts and light clothes.
Accommodation
Durban has a wide range of accommodation offerings, from
star-graded B&B’s and guesthouses to luxury hotels.
To get a list of star -graded accommodation in Mbombela please visit
the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa www.tourismgrading.co.za.
Things to do in Durban
Durban boasts top sporting facilities, world-class resorts and
nature reserves. The city offers excellent urban vibes, including a mix
of design, art, music and food – peppered with fascinating cultural
influences. Leisure options, including swimming, surfing, tanning, kite
surfing, abseiling, hiking, diving, snorkelling, body-boarding,
walking, cycling, quad biking, skateboarding, climbing, rambling,
bird-watching, tennis, bowls and loads more. After enjoying a day at
the beach, enjoy cocktails at a beach pub before heading out on the
town.
uShaka Marine World is a real highlight for daytime fun. Known
as one of the world's best theme parks, this Marine fantasy park really
is one of a kind. There's an aquarium, dolphinarium, dive tank and a
wide range of adrenalin-inducing fun slides and rides.
Or head off for the day to Wilson’s Wharf, Durban’s trendy
waterfront development on Victoria embankment, a fusion of fun, food,
shows and crafts, all set against the rustic interface of a boating
marina and working slipways. A 20-minute drive north of Durban is the
holiday resort town of Umhlanga, which makes another excellent day out.
Lavish pamper sessions are also conveniently available in and around
Durban, which boasts an award-winning spa at the Oyster Box Hotel and
Spa in Umhlanga on the north coast.
The beach is a great place to spend your time. In Durban there
are also tour operators who organise trips on luxury yachts and
catamarans for groups, with a full bar service included.
Florida road is the city’s hottest night life spot. Point road
in Durban city centre is another popular nightlife hub, while the
city’s hottest DJ’s are on a perennial wave at Joe Cool’s, an iconic
club on Durban’s north beach.
If you want a break from the city head to the Midlands, The
Valley of a 1000 hills goes on forever. Stop at Nottingham Road and
visit Nottingham Road Brewery Company and taste their own special beer.
Eating out in Durban
Florida Road is the place to be. Lined with quirky
restaurants, pubs and late-night venues, Durban's (eThekwini's) most
popular stretch of tar beats to its own rhythm, and the locals are only
too eager to invite you to join in.
Durban has a wealth of wonderful restaurants, from relaxed
eateries to superb seafood restaurants. A real highlight is, of course,
a traditional Indian curry at one of the city's fine Indian restaurants
(try House of Curries in Florida Road), and if you get the munchies you
must try out Durban's famous takeaway bunny chow (curry in a hollowed
out half loaf of bread).
How to get here
King Shaka International airport is the gateway to Durban.
Durban is well served by taxis and busses. Or catch a
colourful rickshaw ride along the beachfront to the stadium!
To find out more contact:
eThekwini Municipality
303 West Street , 26 th Floor, Old Mutual Centre, Durban
Tel: +27 31 336-2546
Fax: +27 31 336-2614
www.durban.gov.za
www.kzn.org.za
Website: www.southafrica.net
