Durban

Like Sydney and Rio de Janeiro, Durban is a city where life revolves around the beach. Lapped by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean, its long sandy beaches are perfect for relaxing and watching the locals at play: hedonistic young surfers, office workers jogging along the seafront and beautiful women soaking up the sun.

Durban has a rich and diverse culture with fascinating museums, colourful Indian markets, quirky shops and fine restaurants. Its Absa Stadium – formerly Kings Park – has seen some of South Africa’s most famous rugby victories. Redeveloped in 1995 for the Rugby World Cup, it has a huge screen, seating close to the pitch and a vibrant atmosphere.

Step out of Durban and you are in KwaZulu-Natal, one of South Africa’s most beautiful regions with stunning scenery, friendly people and world-class wildlife attractions. Dive with ragged-tooth sharks, try a white-water kayaking trip or go hiking in the Drakensberg, a Unesco World Heritage Site.

Durban International Airport, 14km south of the city, is served by numerous domestic and international flights. Johannesburg is just over an hour away by air.