The Elangeni & Maharani redevelopment project in Durban, led by Southern Sun Hotel Group, is set to transform two beloved hotels with a massive R1 billion investment. This exciting plan aims to blend luxury with local heritage, making Durban even more attractive to tourists. As the hotels get a fresh look, the project also promises to restore the beautiful Sunken Gardens, creating a lively public space for everyone to enjoy. With the summer tourist season approaching, Durban is gearing up for a vibrant influx of visitors eager to explore its charm and culture, making this redevelopment a key part of the city’s bright future.
Explore South Africa’s vibrant art scene through visits to the diverse and dynamic galleries of BKhz Gallery in Johannesburg, KZNSA Gallery in Durban, Christopher Moller Gallery in Cape Town, and Oliewenhuis Art Museum in Bloemfontein. These galleries showcase contemporary African art and foster meaningful conversations around social justice, identity, and belonging, while supporting emerging artists and preserving South Africa’s visual heritage. Each gallery offers a unique perspective on the country’s artistic landscape, blending tradition with modernity, and promoting inclusivity and cultural change.
Durban, South Africa, is facing neglect, pollution, and labor protests, resulting in potential health risks for its inhabitants and visitors. The city’s decline is due to a culmination of factors, including contamination of its popular beaches, continuous water shortages, and power interruptions. Prominent local figures, including Siv Ngesi and Gareth Cliff, have expressed their outrage at the city’s downfall, which serves as a warning for other cities to prioritize effective governance, environmental responsibility, and an informed and active populace.
The murder case of Kiernan ‘AKA’ Forbes and Tebello ‘Tibz’ Motsoane has captured national attention as the complex legal proceedings continue. Five out of seven accused individuals, including some rumored to be linked to the taxi industry, are facing charges of murder, attempted murder, possession of firearms, ammunition, and conspiracy to commit murder. The case has taken a new turn as more charges of money laundering were added against four of the accused, further entangling them in the legal proceedings. The case’s complexity highlights the influence of various societal elements, making the road to justice a long and intricate journey.
Durban’s beaches, famous for their golden sand and crystalclear waters, have been temporarily closed due to poor water quality. The closure of popular beaches like uShaka, South, North, Point, Battery, and Country Club has caused concern among tourists and locals alike. Causes of the contamination are uncertain, but the eThekwini Municipality has teamed up with environmental organizations to identify and mitigate the sources of pollution. Despite the setback, Durban remains committed to environmental preservation and promises to provide updates on the resampling and monitoring process.
Durban’s Trail of Lights is a stunning annual tradition that brings the Botanic Gardens to life with twinkling lights. This enchanting spectacle is a mustsee for both locals and visitors, and is a cherished part of Durban’s festive season celebrations. The Gardens are transformed into a glowing wonderland, creating an unforgettable holiday tradition that captures the magic and joy of the season. Booking tickets in advance is highly recommended to secure your spot at this exclusive event.
The annual Africa’s Travel Indaba, a prominent tourism marketing event in Africa, is happening on May 10 and 11, 2023, in Durban, KwaZuluNatal. The event brings together international buyers and media to showcase the best tourism products in Southern Africa.
The South African national rugby team, the Springboks, are preparing for the upcoming 2023 international season. The team is gearing up for two preparation camps in Durban, aimed at establishing their onandofffield structures. ### Preparation Camps
The South African Supreme Court of Appeal has ruled that exhibiting the old South African flag in public is a form of hate speech, unfair discrimination based on race, and harassment following equality legislation. The decision comes after nationwide demonstrations by Afriforum, a group that played a leading role in the Black Monday protests highlighting the murders of farmers. The old flag was displayed during these demonstrations, prompting the Nelson Mandela Foundation Trust (NMFT) to file a complaint against Afriforum.
For 80 years, Durban Funworld has been a beloved amusement park on the beachfront of Durban, South Africa. Generations of visitors have flocked to the park to enjoy its rides and attractions and to make memories with their families and friends. However, the park’s current owner, Nic Steyn, has announced that it will cease operations on May 1, 2021.