Durban has become a force to be reckoned with and what better way to celebrate Durban’s bid to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games than with a Then and Now Tribute…

With its world-class facilities, beautiful sunshine and surf, Durban is the ideal city to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games. The city has come a long way since it first made people sit back and take notice in the early 70’s when it became a welcoming tourist destination. It’s always been famous for its gorgeous coastline and yearlong summer weather and now the thriving metropolis plays host to the Golden Mile, King Shaka International, Moses Mabhida Stadium, uShaka Marine World, Gateway Theatre of Shopping and Suncoast Casino and Entertainment World to name but a few.

A few of these pics reflect the changes the city has seen from the beachfront and streets to the transport and tourist attractions…

Ground Level Culture

In what is arguably South Africa’s most authentic African marketplace, Warwick Junction is a mashup of underground culture and true craftsmanship. Here you’ll find everything imaginable from Kanye West haircuts to traditional muti to fresh local produce. Walking the streets you’ll come across stalls laden with handmade crafts of all kinds which are beautifully crafted and feature items made in metal, ox-hide and wood.

Art-Deco Architecture

When it comes to Art-Deco architecture, Durban is considered to have one of the finest offerings in the world. Its ornamental and lavish style can still be seen in the city today with some of the residential blocks having been built back in the 1930’s and 1940’s. A simple drive along Margaret Mncadi Avenue will get you to Victoria Mansions and Willern Court and if you’re travelling along Musgrave Road look out for Cheviot Court and Surrey Mansions in Currie Road.

An Ode to the Bay of Natal

The Bay of Natal, as it used to be known, is one of the very few natural harbours on the East Coast of Africa.  The first harbour master was appointed back in 1840 and since then, the harbour has grown to become one of Africa’s busiest container ports and the 9th busiest harbour in the world.

The Golden Mile

Durban would not be Durban were it not for the cool sea air and sound of the crashing waves and the face of the iconic Golden Mile has changed dramatically in recent years but all for the better. Along with your traditional Rickshaws and great waves you’ll find brand new beachfront cafes and surf shops and a dashing new promenade.

Inspired to be a part of the journey?

Show your support and keep up to date on all the news and info on our progress towards becoming the Candidate City that will host one of the most celebrated sporting events in the world. Simply visit the Durban2022 homepage at http://www.durban-2022.com/ and follow them on social media @durban2022 Include the #ReadytoInspire to follow everything Durban2022 related.

The Socialite will also have exciting video content and interviews so follow us on social media @thesocialitesa and check out our new category dedicated to the Durban2022 bid on our homepage at www.thesocialite.co.za/Durban2022/