Durban's Sticky Secrets: A Sweat-Drenched Diary
okay, so i’m pretty sure i’m running on fumes and lukewarm coffee. i landed in durban like, 36 hours ago and honestly, it’s… a lot. the humidity is clinging to everything - my clothes, my hair, my sanity. i just checked and it's...there right now, hope you like that kind of thing. it’s like stepping into a warm, slightly damp hug that’s trying to suffocate you.
seriously, the air is thick. it’s like breathing through a sponge. i’m trying to document everything, but my brain feels like it’s wading through molasses. i’m mostly just trying to avoid melting into the pavement.
found a spot near the golden mile - it’s… intense. a lot of people, a lot of sun, a lot of questionable swimwear. i’m sticking to the shade, mostly. someone told me that the best fish and chips are down by the harbor, but i’m skeptical. i heard that the local curries are legendary, though. definitely worth investigating. check out some local eats here: https://www.yelp.com/
my accommodation is… rustic. let’s just say it’s “characterful.” it’s a little guesthouse run by a woman named zola who makes the most incredible homemade ginger beer. she’s a total legend. if you get bored, pietermaritzburg is just a short drive away.
spent the afternoon wandering through the victoria street market. it’s a chaotic explosion of colors, smells, and sounds. i bought a ridiculously oversized beaded necklace and a bag of dried mango. i’m pretty sure i haggled way too aggressively, but hey, it’s part of the experience, right? i overheard a group of guys talking about a secret speakeasy hidden somewhere in the city - apparently, it only opens on Tuesdays. i’m adding that to my list.
*gear list (because i’m a mess)
lightweight linen shirts (essential)
wide-brimmed hat (for sun protection - duh)
portable fan (seriously, it’s a lifesaver)
electrolyte tablets (hydration is key)
a ridiculously large water bottle
noise-canceling headphones (for when the chaos gets too much)
camera (obviously)
*pro-tip: don’t trust anyone who offers you a “traditional Zulu dance.” it’s usually followed by an aggressive attempt to sell you something.
local gossip: i heard that the city council is trying to gentrify the waterfront, which is causing a lot of outrage among the locals. they’re building a fancy new hotel, but it’s supposedly going to displace a lot of small businesses.
seriously, the heat is brutal. i’m considering investing in a personal cooling unit. i’m also contemplating moving to a cooler climate entirely.
found a great place to check out local events: https://www.tripadvisor.com/
overall, durban is… overwhelming. it’s not a place you just “visit.” it’s a place you feel. it’s sticky, it’s loud, it’s chaotic, and it’s utterly captivating. i’m not sure i’m ready to leave, but i know i’ll be back. maybe. probably. definitely after a very, very large iced coffee.
final thought:* if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation, this isn’t it. but if you’re looking for an adventure, a sensory overload, and a serious dose of reality, then durban might just be your thing. just bring a lot of sunscreen. and maybe a therapist.