Location

Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa

Home to 4 million people and voted one of the worlds top 10 cities, Durban is Africa’s leading conference, tourism and business meeting place. Surrounded by game reserves and beaches, superb golf courses and vibrant nightlife, Durban is Africa’s best attraction.

It is the biggest city in the Zulu Kingdom and an important economic hub built around Africa’s biggest and busiest port. Durban’s attractions include beautiful parks, modern shopping centers and quaint markets, interesting museums and galleries and world class restaurants and entertainment.

Airport Transfers and Shuttle Bus Service

Durban International Airport is located 10 km from Durban and is 20 minutes from the ICC Durban. Details of airport transfer bookings will be made available in September 2009.

Currency/Banking Hours

The currency of the Republic of South Africa is the South African Rand. Banks quote exchange rates daily of the Rand against all major traded foreign currencies. Banking hours for the public are Monday to Friday 09:00 - 15:30, Saturday 08:30 - 11:00. There are many Automated Teller Machines (ATMs) outside most branches of banks in all towns and in the main tourist areas. Hotels, large shops and restaurants normally accept credit cards. Rates of exchange are published daily in the local press.

VAT

Value Added Tax (VAT) at the rate of 14% is levied on most goods and services and is included in the display price of most goods. International visitors are encouraged to keep their slips as they can reclaim VAT on goods (not services) priced higher than R250.00 at the airport on departure, some harbours and at Customs Offices.

Security

Like many major cities, Durban has both good and bad areas. It is advisable when walking in Durban, particularly at night, that one should be aware of people around you, and ideally you should not walk alone but in a group. Ostentatious displays of wealth should be avoided, and it is not advisable to look like a typical 'tourist'. Do not leave valuables unattended.

Weather

The weather in April is normally mild and pleasant, with daily temperatures ranging between 17ºC and 25ºC during the day and between 10ºC and 15ºC overnight. It is recommended that you bring warm clothes for the evenings and a jacket or raincoat.