The aptly-named Three Cities Waterfront Hotel and Spa overlooks the Indian Ocean and Durban harbour. Ask for a room that overlooks the waterfront rather than the courtyard, so as to appreciate its unique location, as you watch ships come and go from your window or balcony.

Within short walking distance of the hotel is uShaka Marine World, and the free bus route to the Durban International Conference Centre (which operates during the annual Indaba travel trade show each May). A number of other tourist attractions, such as Moses Mabhida Stadium, the Durban Botanical Gardens, Cato Manor Heritage Centre and popular beaches are a bus or Uber ride away.

The hotel’s front facade and the walls surrounding the parking area are part of an old building with heritage status. These elements have been restored to their original look to preserve the history of the Point area. The building has a modern, industrial feel to it, with red brick walls in certain places that are complemented with high-end finishings and elegant decor elements. The rooms are very spacious and there are no bathroom doors, just a curtain, but the toilet has an enclosed cubicle and the bathroom is positioned in such a way as to ensure privacy.

The Waterfront prides itself in its open spaces, where guests are often seen relaxing. The front desk flows into an open lounge area and bar, which can cater to either afternoon tea accompanied with a pastry or something of the stronger variety. Guests enjoy sundowners from Wodka restaurant and bar at the tables arranged around the water fountain in the courtyard, while others sit on the couches reading or making use of the free Wi-Fi throughout the hotel. The tranquil courtyard is also the ideal place to relax after a treatment at the spa.

Wodka’s menu boasts global fusion cuisine that also caters to special diets such as kosher, vegetarian, vegan and halaal, so every guest feels accommodated. Talk to the executive chef about your preferences and he’ll delight your palate with South African flavours.

This is a ideal hotel for a businessperson, due to its location, reliable Wi-Fi and business centre and conferencing facilities that can host up to 400 guests.