Where in South Africa can you combine thrilling surf with ancient Indian customs and traditions? Durban, South Africa's surf capital is also home to the largest population of Indians living outside India, so why not combine the two on a beach and Bollywood break.
Durban - The Beach
MISSIONS TRIPS AFRICA
If you like nothing better on holiday than catching rays and chasing waves, then Durban is the perfect destination for you. The lifestyle in Durban is all about the beach and the area is home to South Africa's most laidback crowd. Durban is also home to the only surfing museum in South Africa and among the exhibits you'll find ancient surfboards and photographs of surfing through the centuries. Although surfing is the main attraction, the main beach at Durban also boasts two yacht clubs, where you can hire a yacht for the afternoon or simply take a stroll past and have a look at how the other half live. It's virtually impossible to visit the beach at Durban and not catch a surfer, but if you choose to ignore the popular Ethekwini Beach and instead go to the less populated North and South beaches, you'll discover an area popular with the Kwa-Zulu Natal locals, and instead of surfers you'll catch people training for marathons and enjoying leisurely runs down the beach. The beaches of Durban are also home to some of the best nightlife in South Africa and after a day spent in the surf you can join the locals for a drink and dance in Joe Cools, or instead, gamble away your holiday allowance in the huge Suncoast Casino.
Durban - A Bollywood Break
The largest population of Indians outside India live in Durban, and this becomes apparent when you approach the Grey Streets area of town and are instantly hit by a pungent aroma of spices. Indian labourers were first brought to this area of South Africa to work in the emerging sugar industry and many decided to stay on and make their home in Durban, bringing customs and traditions from their home country with them. Many men and women still adopt the traditional Indian dress and it can be hard to believe you're in South Africa while sari-clad women mix spices next to you.
No visit to Durban is complete without a trip to the Victoria Street Market. The market specialises in exotic spices like cumin, saffron and turmeric, but you can also purchase electrical goods and even shoes and fabric from the vendors. In fact, the Victoria Street Market is the best place in South Africa to pick up a bargain, so don't buy any holiday souvenirs without searching here first.
The best time to visit Durban is towards the end of October, when South Africa's weather is still pleasant and festivities are under way for the Indian festival of Diwali. Diwali, also known as the festival of lights, is celebrated in style in Durban. The skies are lit up with colourful fireworks displays and thousands of people take to the beaches.
Beach and Bollywood in Durban MISSIONS TRIPS AFRICA
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