Garden Court South Beach

Of the four Holiday Inn hotels on the Durban beachfront, this one is the cheapest, and most basic. However, it is neat and although the rooms are quite small, they all have airconditioning (essential for the humid Durban heat) and fantastic views of the beachfront. The rooms have no particularly distinguishing character, no zing, but they have TVs. The breakfasts are great - buffet style, plenty of fresh food and a quiet view over the beach and public pool. They provide safe parking for your hired car around the corner from the hotel. The location is directly opposite the beach, but is at the wrong end of town for the tourist activity - you will need to drive most places (except the very crowded beach - do not take valuables!!!!!) Although the hotel itself is quiet, the chaos reigns outside (see my picture of New Year's Day at the beach). The hotel has no gym facilities of its own, but when we stayed you could get a guest membership at the gym across the road.