Durban and New York is not even remotely alike except in one aspect: A city that never sleeps.

The same tropical climate as Mozambique and the islands make Durban a very popular destination. A constant warm breeze sweeps the palm trees back and forth. Sunsets over the ocean create magic in the sky.

WHAT TO DO IN DURBAN

The beach area in Durban is very commersialised and extremely busy. For a more relaxed area drive a few kilometers out of Durban to Umhlanga Rocks, Amamzintoti or Scottsborough.

Ushaka Marine World is one of the major attractions along the Durban beach. Visit the aquarium inside an old shipwreck or get an adrenalin fix on the Torpedo slide at the fresh water pool. If surfing has always been your dream, sign up with one of the surf coaches for a quick lesson. For more extreme fun take a kayak ride on the waves, an ocean walk or a plunge in the shark cage. A traditional African dance group performs before the Dolphin show in the ABSA Dolphin Stadium.

Factory shops in the city centre will help for that shopping crave.

Rickshaws have been around the beachfront for many years. With their colourful headdress and costume they will offer you a short ride at quite an expensive price. If you rather want to spend your money on something lasting buy some beadwork, baskets or carved wooden products from the open air market at the beachfront.

Gateway shopping centre is the best Mall around and has its own Barnyard Theatre.

The Japanese Gardens, Botanical Gardens, Essenwood Saturday Market, Waterfront market are all worth a visit.

WHERE TO STAY IN DURBAN

The beachfront has an array of hotels and apartments with a good view over the activities on the beach.

If the hustle and bustle excites you try the Elangeni, Southern Sun North Beach or Tropicana hotel.

For a quieter experience venture a bit out of the city to the Riverside Hotel on the banks of the Umgeni River or one of the many accommodation options in Umhlanga.

In Amanzimtoti there are lovely beachfront apartments and guesthouses. El Palma offers real luxury without bankrupting you.

WHERE TO EAT IN DURBAN

For curry lovers this is the place to be. Real Indian curry made by real Indian people.

Mahal El Nur at Ushaka has a wide variety of curries from mild to very hot. The choice is yours. The staff is friendly and helpful and the balcony area has a great view of the beach and ocean.

The Beach Hotel has become a bit run down but a drink on the terrace will give you that real Durban feeling.

Roma, the revolving restaurant, on top of John Ross house, is the best choice for an exquisite experience. Views over the harbour and city change constantly while you are feasting on some of the excellent dishes. The dessert trolley is the biggest temptation but an ultimate delight.

Experience a bit of the balmy magic the east coast of South Africa has to offer and spend some time in the always on the go city of Durban.