So many things make Durban special – from its gorgeous location and unique mix of colonial, African and Indian influences to its generally laid back, friendly people. It’s also the location of XtraSpace Durban, which offers gorgeous serviced office facilities.
Here we offer an overview of just some of the attractions that make Durban a great city to work and live in.
Attractive business opportunities
Durban is a busy urban centre, with economic growth rates in the region of 6.5% – higher than the country’s average and above the growth rate of other major business centres.
Durban’s world-class International Convention Centre attracts business travellers from around the world, and the city is South Africa’s second most important manufacturing hub. It has the best electricity distribution on the continent, and is home to the busiest port in Africa.
Especially in the tourism, maritime, services and logistics industries, Durban presents a wealth of business opportunities for SMEs and entrepreneurs.
The beaches, of course
Durban is famous for its long stretches of beach and its warm coastal waters. The promenade along the Golden Mile – a 6-kilometre stretch of sandy beach – is ideal for an energetic jog or cycle, or a more leisurely stroll during your lunch break. It’s also a good spot for grabbing lunch, with its laid-back cafés, bars and restaurants.
Interesting places to explore
Instead of working through lunch, take a proper break and explore some of the city’s attractions. You’ll get some exercise, and find it easier to concentrate on work once you’re back at your desk.
Among Durban’s architectural highlights are the Edwardian City Hall, which was modelled after the Belfast City Hall; the International Convention Centre; the Juma Musjid Mosque; the Emmanuel Cathedral; the Anglican Church; Farewell Square; and the first City Hall (now the main post office).
Durban is also home to a number of museums. The City Hall houses the Natural Science Museum and the Durban Art Gallery, which exhibits a vibrant collection of South African art. You could also take in the Old Courthouse Museum, which chronicles early colonial life in South Africa, and the KwaMuhle Museum, where you can learn about South Africa’s more recent past.
Fantastic food
As a seaside city, Durban offers abundant, fresh seafood. It’s also known for its eclectic cuisine, combining Zulu and Indian influences.
On lunch breaks, visit the docks, the beachfront, festive Florida Road or lively Helen Joseph Road to try local dishes, from bunny chow to fish curry rotis.
Socialising after work
Durban’s nightlife is typically relaxed, and a large number of laid-back clubs and bars provide good opportunities for socialising after work. Many are concentrated in the districts of Kloof, Hillcrest, Umhlanga, Glenwood and Florida Road, as well as along the beachfront.
For more upmarket entertainment, many of the city’s hotels, casinos and shopping centres house trendy clubs and cocktail bars.
Shopping
In Durban, you can pick up Indian spices and fresh produce at the Victoria Street Market, the Essenwood Market, the Spice Emporium and the Indian district in downtown Durban.
Alternatively, head for one of Durban’s many shopping centres, from the popular Chatsworth Centre to upmarket La Lucia Mall and the Galleria, the Pavilion Shopping Centre or the expansive Gateway Theatre of Shopping.
Weekend adventures
Durban provides plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities such as canoeing, windsurfing, deep-sea fishing, biking, hiking and horse riding. It’s also a good place for boat cruises, shark cage diving and dolphin watching.
For outings with family or friends, there’s the Durban Country Club, Durban Ice Arena, uShaka Wet ‘n Wild water park, and Big Rush Urban Adrenaline theme and water park. The city also boasts top-class sporting facilities and sports grounds, among them Kingsmead Cricket Ground, Kings Park Stadium, the iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium and Greyville Racecourse.
Wonderful wildlife
Each May to July, millions of sardines make their way along the Durban coast during their annual migration. This “sardine run” attracts large numbers of birds, sharks, dolphins and whales.
On weekends and holidays, you can head to any of a number of nearby wildlife reserves. Among the best known are Phezulu Safari Park, Shongweni Dam and Game Reserve, Umgeni River Bird Park and Kenneth Stainbank Nature Reserve.
Durban FlexiOffices by XtraSpace
Looking for Durban office space? Located in central Durban, XtraSpace FlexiOffices offer affordable but stylish serviced offices (furnished or unfurnished), with access to high-speed internet, meeting rooms and a range of on-site business services. Contact us for more information or to book a tour of our Durban branch.