Durban is the perfect convention destination. Since being sighted by Vasco da Gama in 1497, its natural harbour has given birth to a vibrant, go-ahead and ever changing city. Apart from having the busiest harbour in Africa, Durban is served by its own international airport only 15 minutes from its Central Business District. The attractive Yacht basin near the hub continues to provide anchorage and a safe haven for sailors from around the globe. Durban is an ideal base from which to explore the beauty and splendors of Southern Africa. Within two hours you could be on a safari at one of the countries renowned game reserves - home to some of the world's rarest and most exotic species - or you could be in the fairest Cape. Ninety minutes by road and you could be hiking or trout fishing in the magnificent Drakensberg mountains. Other options - a day or two away could put you in the midst of a miraculous flower transformation in the Namaqualand Desert, or at the origins of man in the Sterkfontein Caves. You could be etching into memory the glorious sunsets and camp fires of the Kruger National Park, or the majesty of the Victoria Falls. There are many faces to Durban - city of great beauty and cultural diversity where you can witness the Dance of the Virgins, a Zulu war dance and attend a performance of the ballet or Opera all in the same day. The only constant is the famous South African weather - and Durban can serve up the best of it, with an average of 320 sunny days a year. A surfer's paradise and international holiday mecca. Mile upon mile of unspoiled, sun-soaked beaches, bronzed life guards and bikini beauties. Seagulls, pelicans and exotic birds. Colourful rickshas, beautiful parks, sidewalk cafes and restaurants. Here architecture encapsulates the diverse histories and cultures of the people. Graceful Victorian buildings, exotic temples and dignified mosques all stand side by side. Accommodation is plentiful in the Sunshine City, over 7200 ranging from luxury, tourist and budget hotels, to all well-appointed serviced apartments, many of which are on the beachfront overlooking the Indian Ocean. Centrally situated and within walking distance of all this, is the International Convention Centre - Durban.