The Edward

On the 16th of January 1994 I took one small step for me and one giant leap in my life when I stepped down onto the hot sun-baked tarmac at Durban Virginia International Airport. To mark thirty years, I was back in Durban, doing all the things, and more, I have grown to love over the years of visiting. The Cattleman Bar on the beach front is long gone but the memories are still vivid. It was in the Cattleman that a friend introduced me to a local lady. Who would have thought that a boy from the middle of England on his first and a one-off trip to South Africa would have his life changed forever. I married Melanie, that local lady, in 1997 and home maybe the middle of England but South Africa, and the province of KwaZulu Natal, is my travel passion destination. Back in 1994 I spent a few nights at the beautiful and history rich Edward Hotel. What better place to stay on this most recent adventure marking thirty years since that first visit to the seaside city of Durban. My memories may be vivid, but I had forgotten just how beautiful the Edward was and still is. The relatively small hotel opened its doors in 1911 and over the years has lost nothing of its charm and beauty. The art deco style hotel is stylish, beautifully decorated, with fine art ceiling murals, patterned tiled floors, sparkling chandeliers and highly polished dark wood trims. Rooms are a good size, some with balconies and all with ensuite bathrooms. There was a warm welcome at reception, in the foyer, the dining rooms and the bar on every visit. We feasted on a spectacular breakfast to kick start our days and finished them on the terrace bar enjoying an ice-cold beer combating the evening heat. To cool down and relax there is also the roof top hotel pool with views across the city and beyond. Located on the Durban Golden mile, with off road parking, the hotel is ideally positioned for exploring the city. Just like 1994 I spent some time at Kingsmead Cricket Stadium, walking distance from The Edward Hotel, but things have changed on the field. In January the ground becomes the home of The Durban Super Giants in the relatively new franchised South African T20 cricket tournament. The competition has proved to be a great success and see’s the ground packed with local cricket fans. I am not a big fan of T20 cricket but have really enjoyed everything about my recent evenings spent at Kingsmead. The atmosphere is electric, aided by DJ’s, live bands, flames and fireworks. There are not many better places in the world than here to watch cricket on balmy nights under floodlights. With South African teams now taking part in the European Challenge Cup, rugby is a near all year-round sport. On a scorching hot Saturday in January, we had a big family trip to Kings Park and a great day out. I am big fan of summer rugby as a spectator, but it is tough for the players. We parked on the grass surrounds to the stadium and set up camp comprising of chairs, tables, parasols, cool boxes and braai (

Shady neighborhood.. we asked for two dishes at the pool we got one.. told us we could charge it on the room then chased us for the whole hotel to pay immediately. There are renovation works (loud and workers everywhere at the pool) and they didn’t advice upon reservation, as would be polite and due. The air conditioning is so loud that it was very difficult to sleep

The best hotel to stay in for a quick tripp or vacation. Most beautifull front of house amd spacious rooms. Friendlies staff member, and very helpfull. Check in was quick and easy. Best food served in the restuarant and delicious breakfasts are served in the morning. Nicest waiters serving in the restuarant. Secure Underground parking and entry from inside parking area into the hotel. Would highly recommend The Edward Hotel anytime.

Best hotel on Durban beachfront. Wow moments since we checked-in. Rooms awesome, spacious with a balcony. Great breakfast spread and even better dinner. But i must say, the staff make this hotel very very unique. Cant thank them enough for the wonderful and friendly service. Stayed in almost all the hotels on Durban beachfront but this one is our new home. Well done Edward hotel

HOSPITALITY PAR EXCELLENCE To place this review in context, it is necessary to explain the reason of my visit. My wife has become incapacitated after a few strokes. She suffers frequent memory lapses. When the Edward was a Protea Hotel my wife and I used to make weekly visits. We had a preferred table and we would spend hours watching the beach and the passers by. I thought it prudent to take my wife back to our Edward to assist with her well being. Many fears cautioned against this venture. First time would we be leaving home with the wheel chair in the boot. Would we manage? Would my wife cope? Nevertheless we literally took the plunge. The experience was so fruitful that we even made a repeat vist without the many apprehensions we experienced before. The staff were excellent - from the door keeper, reception desk and waitering staff. Special mention must be made of the Chef and the Kitchen staff. The meal provided was of the highest standard and tastefully served. Repeated visits to the table to ensure that all was well cannot be dismissed without mention and appreciation. I must confess that we were thoroughly impressed. On the next occasion we were even more delighted and we gained insight into the warmth radiated by each member of staff we encountered. The General Manageress joined us at our table and she has, without doubt, the qualities of one who brings noteworthy praise to the hospitality industry. My wife and I have identified our "haunt" of choice. My highest compliments and gratitude to the Management and Staff of Edward. You are a shining example of Ubuntu and the high standards of South African hospitality. Would I recommend Edward? My wife and I have travelled to hundreds of hotels over the years in several countries and our experience at the Edward recently would rate amongst the Very Best!

Just a one night stay in this stunning art deco hotel. Time constraints meant us taking dinner in the restaurant but we were not disappointed, choosing from a wide ranging menu. Our room was spacious and well appointed, with a view over the Golden Mile; the buffet breakfast extensive and the staff were friendly and helpful.