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The City
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Third-largest by population, after Cape Town and Johannesburg, Durban (often called 'Durbs' and eThekwini in Zulu) is known for its mix of African, colonial European and Indian influences. The city boasts the largest Indian community outside of India, evident in neighbourhoods like Phoenix, Chatsworth and Tongaat with their Indian eateries and shops. The northern suburbs serve as refined homes for resort hotels and fine dining restaurants. Areas like Umlazi and KwaMashu predominantly feature African communities, while downtown Durban unites these diverse cultures, creating a multifaceted representation of Africa itself.
With its extensive coastline of first-class beaches, it's little surprise that local recreation heavily focuses on water sports, particularly surfing. Places like South Beach and New Pier attract the most surfers. Nearly anywhere along the Golden Mile — as well as some beaches to the north and south of the central area — offers good waves. February marks the surfing high season.
Durban also boasts a thriving nightlife and a flourishing arts scene. Places like the BAT Center aim to support local creatives by providing a platform for artistic work. In the evenings, local bars buzz with guests who later head to Durban’s gqom-playing clubs, dancing to the genre's infectious rhythms well into the night.
With its extensive coastline of first-class beaches, it's little surprise that local recreation heavily focuses on water sports, particularly surfing. Places like South Beach and New Pier attract the most surfers. Nearly anywhere along the Golden Mile — as well as some beaches to the north and south of the central area — offers good waves. February marks the surfing high season.
Durban also boasts a thriving nightlife and a flourishing arts scene. Places like the BAT Center aim to support local creatives by providing a platform for artistic work. In the evenings, local bars buzz with guests who later head to Durban’s gqom-playing clubs, dancing to the genre's infectious rhythms well into the night.