Take a Vacation in Durban South Africa: It's a Great Place to Visit

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By The Fanboy

Durban, South Africa, is located in the province of Kwa-Zulu Natal and has been a popular tourist destination for many years thanks to its scenic beaches, tropical climate and relaxing, friendly atmosphere, and is one of many dream holiday destinations in South Africa. The city has gained even more exposure thanks to the recent 2010 FIFA World Cup which was hosted in South Africa to much local and international acclaim.

Durban's beachfront, also known as the golden mile, is very reminiscent of the city of Miami in Florida, USA, a popular destination for celebrities and party goers alike, thanks to its vibrant nightlife and laid back, fun atmosphere.

aerial shot of durban beachfront
See all 9 photos
aerial shot of durban beachfront

Durban is home to the native Zulu population in addition to having the largest concentration of Indians in South Africa. In 1860, 342 indentured laborers from India arrived in Durban Bay on the SS Truro to work on the sugar cane fields. They, along with many more Indians who arrived over the years made Durban their home.

Durban is very culturally diverse thanks to the mix of different races and religions that have settled in this gorgeous coastal city.

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Map of Durban South Africa

One of the most popular destinations is the new Moses Mabida Stadium where all the soccer action of the 2010 FIFA World Cup took place in Durban. Visitors can take a tour of the world class stadium, dine at one of the great restaurants, or take a cable car ride to the top of stadiums arch and get a breathtaking 360 degree view of the city of Durban. If you're here at the right time you can even catch a soccer match and experience the local soccer scene, a unique experience that will be the cherry on top of your visit to the stadium.

Moses Mabida Soccer Stadium, built in 2010 for the FIFA World Cup
Moses Mabida Soccer Stadium, built in 2010 for the FIFA World Cup

South Africa's Finest Cuisine

Thanks to the ethnic and cultural diversity present in Durban, visitors are spoiled for choice when it comes to experiencing the finest local foods from traditional African fare to Afrikaaner favorites such as boerewors to spicy Indian delights such as curries, bunny chows and savouries. If you're not into the local cuisines, you'll find something to suit your palett at any of the many wonderful restaurants, cafes or fast food franchises located all around town.

Hotels & Tourist Spots in Durban South Africa

Durban is home to some of the finest hotels in South Africa, and there really are too many to mention. Among them you'll find the Royal Hotel, a five star hotel in the heart of the city, internationally acclaimed Hilton Hotel which is located next to Durbans International Convention Centre (ICC), The Suncoast Hotel and Casino located on Durbans beachfront, and the scenic Oyster Box overlooking the ocean on the Umhlanga coastline.

Royal Hotel, adjacent to Durban City Hall
Royal Hotel, adjacent to Durban City Hall
Durban Hilton Hotel
Durban Hilton Hotel
view from the Oyster Box in Umhlanga
view from the Oyster Box in Umhlanga
dine with the sharks at uShaka Marine World
dine with the sharks at uShaka Marine World

Another great tourist destination is the uShaka Marine World, located on Durbans Golden Mile. uShaka Marine World is a water park, entertainment center, shopping mall and marine life exhibition center all rolled into one. You can splash around in the water park, do some shopping, eat at one of the fantastic restaurants and even dine with the sharks with nothing but a plate glass window seperating you.


Durban City Hall
Durban City Hall

These attractions are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to fun and entertainment in Durban South Africa.

There are a host of restaurants, bars, museums, nightclubs, marinas, and other great attractions for everyone of every age.

Hope to see you there soon!


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