Page 64 - Destination Durban 2022

Useful Information
Population and climate
South Africa – 60.14 million • KwaZulu-Natal – 11.5 million • Durban – 3.8 million. Durban is in the subtropical zone. Summers are warm, with high levels of humidity and an average maximum temperature of 28°C. Winters are mild, with average temperatures around 18°C. The sea is warm, with winter temperatures seldom falling below 17°C and reaching a maximum of 24°C.
Weather info: 032 436 3820 / fadnfc@weathersa.co.za • Durban 082 231 1603 • Maritime 031 307 4135
Time zones
There is one time zone in South Africa, two hours ahead of GMT all year round.
Electricity
South Africa’s electricity supply runs at 220/230V, 50Hz AC. Sockets take round-pinned plugs. Most hotel rooms have sockets that will take 110V electric shavers, but for other appliances visitors might need adaptors.
Emergencies
The city has a number of excellent medical facilities, able to meet any medical emergency. You are advised to take out travel insurance to cover medical costs.
Malaria
Durban and most of KZN is malaria-free. However, it is recommended that visitors to the far northern game reserves consult their medical practitioners.
Internet
There are numerous internet cafés around the city, and most of the big hotels and public buildings have wireless internet hotspots.
Language
English and Zulu are the main languages spoken in Durban, however most inhabitants understand and can communicate in basic English.
Money matters
• South Africa uses the Rand (R) as its currency unit. Foreign currency may be exchanged at any commercial bank or foreign exchange bureau.
• Banking hours: Monday to Friday, 09h00-15h30; Saturday, 09h00-11h00.
• Outside banking hours, some hotels will change money, although this entails a fairly hefty commission. You can also change money at branches of American Express and Rennies Travel.
• ATMs are widespread and will accept most international bank & credit cards.
• Credit cards, including American Express, Visa, Diners Club and MasterCard, may be used at most hotels, restaurants, car hire companies etc.
Telecommunications
• Mobile phones: The country is well covered by all networks.
• You can use a GSM/tri-band phone in South Africa, if you arranged for international roaming before leaving home.
• International telephone dialling code is +27.
Drinking water
South Africa’s tap water is world class – it is safe to drink and tastes great.
62 Destination Durban Visitor’s Guide