SA keeps on klapping it! #Durban2022

And just like that, Durban wins the bid to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games. How apt for this news to roll in during Tourism Month for SA! Just as the Fifa World Cup was in 2010, 2022 will be yet another milestone as the African continent gets set to host it’s first ever Commonwealth Games.

Amidst all the social media fanfare following the announcement this morning, someone made the comment of: “We (South Africa) are not one of the best sport tourism destinations in the world by mistake.” Nail. On. The. Head.South Africa gets its fair share of flack from some international news networks and people abroad, but one thing they can’t take away from us is that when it comes to a world class destination for sport, tourism and culture, we’re right up there with the best of them. In my opinion. And Durban is one South African city who has damn well deserved the title to host the Commonwealth Games. I’ve spent the better part of my 25 years on this earth visiting Durban over the holidays, and in that time, I’ve seen 25 years worth of change where Durban as a city and popular family holiday destination has evolved and grown in leaps and bounds. Visit the newly renovated promenade on the doorstep of uShaka Marine World and you’ll feel like you’re strolling through Venice Beach in Miami. It’s THAT beautiful and puts a new perspective on what you’re “used to” on local beach holidays. Rent a bike and peddle along the promenade with the Indian Ocean acting as the backdrop, and stop at one of the many coffee and beachside bars as you roll by. Durban have put in so much focus, time and energy into becoming an even better version of the Durban we’ve all come to know and love, and for that, it’ll always be one of my favourite South African cities.Durban was set to run against the Edmonton, although the Canadian city pulled out of the race in February citing the negative impact of the fall in oil prices worldwide, leaving the door wide open for Durban to snatch up the title. Chairman of the Durban 2022 Bid Committee, Mark Alexander, says the bid to host the 2022 Commonwealth Games will accelerate the progress the city is making in construction and development. The event will fast track economic growth in the country, with many describing it as a game changer for the city. Durban won’t erect dozens of stadia that will sit unused in the future, instead, a sustainable approach will see many of the city’s existing developments upgraded and modernised.  Durban Mayor James Nxumalo told the committee Africa is ready. “Today marks a gigantic leap in the affirmation and positive trajectory for the continent of Africa. It is a moment to seize and firmly anchor our position as a decisive force in sport.”So Durban, here’s to you. We’ll be raising a glass of Morena in your honour, and look forward to seeing the magic you bring.