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Durban, the second most populous city in South Africa, is the central area of the
‘eThekwini’ metropolitan municipality.
It is the biggest city in KwaZulu-Natal Province and is renowned as the busiest
port in Africa. It is also the world's ninth busiest port.
In addition, the city is a key tourism centre, largely due to its warm subtropical
climate and beaches.
Durban is home to one of the country’s most well-known pre-colonisation nations
- the great Zulu nation. The city is a mixture of African, European and Asian influences.
With its captivating history of immigrants from across the globe, the city is often
described as a ‘cultural melting pot’. Since the arrival of the first Europeans
and Indian labourers, the city has cultivated a style and feel that is all its own.
In one major survey of six South African cities, Durban was voted the friendliest,
and is widely considered by many in the know to be among the world’s most welcoming
cities.
The Durban Metropolitan Area has a considerable and diversified economy, with robust
manufacturing, tourism, transportation, finance and government segments.
Among other factors, the area’s economy is boosted by its coastal location and sizeable
port. The area boasts an economy that instils significant confidence, with the benefits
of a sub-tropical climate, successful local government and solid infrastructure
investment.
Durban's economic development has been gaining importance for several decades. The
city’s sugar terminal is the largest in the world and became one of many mainstays
of Durban's economy, along with the tourism industry. In recent years, Durban has
also established itself as the South Africa’s premier convention centre.
Seven key reasons for Durban’s attraction as an excellent business and leisure locale
are widely cited:
- Award-Winning Municipality: The city is considered to possess the best
run and financially strongest local government on the African continent, and has
been the recipient of various awards recognising it as the best-run city in South
Africa. In addition, international credit rating agencies have given Durban investment
grade credit ratings of AA+.
- Lifestyle of Business & Pleasure: Durban is considered to be a place that
offers an equally attractive environment for living and working here.
- Large Human Resource Base: The city attracts a large contingent of skilled
labour, and is the home of Africa’s largest university.
- Highest Growth Rates: Durban’s economic growth rates are higher than the
country’s average and that of the other major centres worldwide.
- Infrastructure Leader: The infrastructure base here is considered to be
the best on the continent, including Africa’s best electricity distribution, a vast
roads network, the best and largest water treatment and supply base, and a superior
telecommunications network.
- Tourism Crown: Durban is by far the largest domestic tourism destination
in South Africa, due in part to its tourism drive aimed at both business and pleasure
travellers. Its International Convention Centre has been named as Africa’s best
convention centre for several years running.
- Substantial, Successful & Growing Business Base: The city possesses the
second largest business and industrial base in the country.
Combined, these “Super 7” factors make Durban exceedingly attractive to business
and leisure residents alike.
Durban is the country’s sub-tropical beach escape haven. The city overlooks an extensive,
golden beach that is likely Africa’s most culturally diverse location.
The ideal climate of the metropolitan area, with agreeable winters and balmy summers
attracts Expats and tourists from far and wide, and the pleasant weather affords
Durban’s residents the ability to enjoy a wide choice of outdoor activities.
Bordered by sugar cane fields and subtropical vegetation, Durban is the ideal place
to take a tour of one of the townships or explore the harbour, which was once a
natural lagoon. Visitors who arrive by boat come into the harbour mouth between
the piers and against the green backdrop of the Bluff, a long untouched forest peninsula
that provides protection from ocean winds. The harbour offers endless views across
the central city and of the residential Berea Ridge.
The ‘Golden Mile’ lies on the other side of the harbour, a beautiful beachfront
lined with hotels. Water sports are among the most popular pastimes here, including
swimming, scuba diving, surfing, sailing and fishing.
For leisure-seekers not interested in the beautiful beaches, fear not. Durban has
loads to offer. Theatres, art galleries, shopping centres, museums and an exciting
nightlife are but a few of your leisure choices. Durban has something for everyone.
Durban's cultural attractions are considered among its most alluring leisure activities.
Visit Zulu cultural villages, take a tour of townships or explore the stunning Temple
of Understanding.
Durban’s Botanical Gardens on Sydenham Hill Road are famous for Africa’s unparalleled
collection of plant life. The Gardens are the city’s oldest natural attraction,
where visitors stroll among enormous native, exotic trees while watching the extensive
birdlife.
As with most of South Africa, the city is a sports fanatic’s utopia. Thanks to the
excellent weather, sports enthusiasts abound. Joggers, cyclists and water sports
aficionados are everywhere, as are cricket, rugby and soccer players.
Restaurants here are famous for both their international and local cuisines. The
most popular choice is seafood, which is available almost everywhere in the city.
And don’t miss the famous Durban curry. Durban is considered by many to be the “spice
capital” of the country, and is known for quality curry and spices.
A superior business location. An excellent leisure spot. One of the world’s friendliest
cities. That’s Durban!
For further information about Durban we recommend that you visit http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durban
where you will find many useful links and informative articles to prepare you for
your move.
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