Hostels in DURBAN, SOUTH AFRICA

Exploring Durban, a Jewel along the Eastern Coast of Africa
 
The city of Durban is located in KwaZulu-Natal province in South Africa. The city has some of the liveliest beaches along the eastern coast of Africa. The densely populated city is the 3rd largest city of South Africa. Durban is the busiest port in South Africa and is known for its share of tourists coming to this part of the world.

Accommodation Options
Durban is a major tourist attraction; it has hotels and other type of accommodations to suit every pocket - from budget hotels to 5 star hotel facilities. As Durban is known for its educational facilities, youth hostels and lodges are also gaining popularity. Night life in the city provides many theme parties, live music and dance. Guest houses, beach houses and bed and breakfasts are also available for people travelling through Durban.
 
History
The city of Durban means ‘eThekwini’ as per the Zulu language. The city got its name in honour of Sir Benjamin d'Urban, the then governor of the Cape Colony. Durban was first sighted by Vasco da Gama (famous Portuguese explorer) around 1497 during the famous journey from Europe to India. He named this area as ‘Natal’ which means Christmas in Portuguese language.
 
Climate
Durban experiences a subtropical type mild climate characterized by wet and warm summers while winters are dry and mildly moist. It gets an annual rainfall of 39.7 inches.
 
Popular Places
Durban forms an important link in the ever growing South African tourism. Popular places in the city include Golden Mile, the Esplanade (Victoria embankment), uShaka marine world and Umgeni River Bird Park.  The International Convention Centre is a leading conference centre in Africa.  When it comes to sports and fitness, Greyville racecourse, Durban country club and Sahara stadium (Kingsmead) are popular with locals as well as tourists.
 
Getting Around
King Shaka international airport serves Durban with both domestic and international flights. Durban is well connected through railways. Major freeways connecting Durban are N3 western freeway and N2 outer ring road. The city has a system of dual arterial metropolitan routes and freeways which support better connectivity. Other popular modes of transport include buses, taxis and rickshaws. Getting a local guide to add spice to your trip in Durban is easy and advisable.
 
Places of Entertainment
Florida road in Durban is famous for its night life with bars, restaurants and nightclubs with live music and all major world cuisines available. Marine parade has popular beach bars, sports pubs and theme restaurants. Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World and Sibaya Casino are also famous with travellers. The city has many shopping centres which includes the Gateway Theatre of Shopping. Transport of the city is known for being tourist oriented. Not many cities can boast of being hosts to world cups of 2 popular sports- cricket (2003) and football (2010).  

Languages Spoken
Afrikaans and Zulu are popular with locals while English is popular with travellers who halt at Durban and with locals as well. Some other African languages and dialects are also spoken by people here.
 
Currency
Rand (ZAR) and cents form the currency accepted in Durban. Travellers can get news and updates of currency exchange rates at all major banks and at the airport.