Durban – February 2019
In search of a warm and relaxing weekend, we took a one-hour flight from Joburg to Durban. Durban is on the east coast of Africa, on the Indian Ocean and is known as “Surf City”.
The city’s highlight is the “golden mile” – a 4-mile boardwalk along the ocean/beach with plenty of space for sunbathing, swimming, walking and biking. There were sand sculptures, plenty of public pools, an aquarium, vendors, restaurants, bars, people watching, and surfers. The area on the golden mile – called the Suncoast area – was a much more upscale area with a mall, cinema and restaurants and we were also entertained watching some monkeys.
Interestingly, the food on the golden mile was mainly burgers and pizza. The pizza toppings and combinations were definitely different but still it was not exactly the food choices I was expecting in South Africa. But sitting at a café with a cold beverage or lunch and looking out at the Indian Ocean and the people is certainly worthy of a few hours.
We were repeatedly told by people and hotel staff that we should not walk anywhere after dark and to only take a taxi or uber after dark. We did just that and never experienced anything uncomfortable but security in South Africa, including Durban is serious. And everything is guarded and seriously fenced. I mean there is a fence of some kind, then on top of that there is a second layer of fencing which includes barbed or electric wire. You must use common sense and not carry or wear things that will attract attention.
Off the Golden Mile, there were lots of good-looking restaurant choices. The House of Curries on Florida Road was recommended to us and we were not disappointed as the place had many locals and the curry was an interesting and delicious combination of Indian and Caribbean flavors. We also discovered Chip Chow- like poutine but with meat and cheese. The area of Morningside and Florida Road had quite a selection of restaurants, bars and shops to explore.
Overall – Durban is a beach town and worthy of a relaxing, warm weekend. If you are a surfer, bring or rent a board. Durban is not a destination, but it is a good stop while in South Africa to enjoy a warm, beach weekend. Also, there are many safaris nearby, so it works as a good layover place.
