Durban

Locals insist there’s no city in the world like Durban. “Durbs,” as it’s affectionately called, is a sizzling port-city perched on the east coast of South Africa’s KwaZulu-Natal province.

With warm Indian Ocean waters and weather that is hard to top, sunglasses and slops (flip flops) make the dress code. The winters are mild and the summers are temperate. While the humidity might take a little getting used to, it doesn’t stop holiday-makers flocking in their droves during the summer peak season from December to April.

The shimmering Durban beaches are a big drawcard, as is the vibe of the city, which is generally laid-back.

The third-largest city in South Africa, Durban is exceptionally easy to get to. There are numerous domestic airlines with direct services to and from Cape Town and Johannesburg. There are also numerous connections to other smaller airports and cities across the county.

The centre of Durban is a wonderful blend of beach meets business. Rows of skyscrapers and hotels extend out along the bay. This is also where you’ll find one of the best meeting complexes and exhibition venues in Africa, the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre (Durban ICC).

The city had a major facelift in preparation for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup, and since then, it hasn’t stopped evolving. New bars, restaurants and entertainment activities are launched just about every month.

Durban certainly offers a little bit of everything, from laid-back beach vibes and rich isiZulu culture to deep-rooted colonial history and the most life-changing Indian-inspired food.

Like most cities in South Africa, Durban has a complex past and boasts numerous historical sites, museums and galleries, which could keep visitors busy for days.