Durban is a vibrant modern city, which is increasingly recognised as a global tourism destination.

The New York Times named Durban as one of the 52 Places to Go in 2015.

In December 2014, Durban was named as one of the New7Wonders Cities together with Beirut, Doha, Havana, Kuala Lumpur, La Paz and Vigan. There were 1 200 nominees from 220 countries for this award.

Jean-Paul de la Fuente, Director of New7Wonders stated, "We welcome Durban into the world's voted and chosen New7Wonders Cities. As the sole representative from the African continent, Durban now joins a unique group of cities from across the globe. Congratulations and well done to all the supporters and fans of Durban worldwide!"

Phillip Sithole, Head of Durban Tourism eagerly stated that this prestigious award is a true reflection that the City of Durban is fast becoming a global destination and the increased international marketing efforts have greatly contributed towards this success.

On Tuesday the 9th of December 2014 the Durban Chamber of Commerce and Industry in partnership with ACSA hosted the Tourism Awards at Maxi's Lifestyle in Umlazi.

Trip Advisor was used to determine the winners of the Durban Chamber Tourism Awards. This international site has high credibility and depends on the opinions expressed by actual tourists, the people who count the most in our industry.

The Minister of Tourism, Mr Derek Hanekom, was the keynote speaker at the event. He said that the potential of our natural resources to benefit our people can only be fully realised when we put these resources together with great facilities for tourists - like accommodation, guided tours, excellent meals and a high quality of service. In so doing we create the basis of a flourishing, growing tourism industry.

The Minister congratulated the winners of the award, saying "- they have helped to cement Durban's position as an attractive city for domestic and international travellers."

Receiving the awards on behalf of the 2014 DCCI Tourism Awards are:
 
The Best Hotel:
The Oyster Box Hotel. (Joanne Hayes).

The Best Bargain Hotel:
The Concierge Boutique Bungalows (Robin Charnaud).

The Top Bed & Breakfast:
The Manaar House, The Glenview Guest House (Michele Rust) and The Westville B&B
(Emma Jacobs).

The Top Hotels in KZN:
Teremok Marine (Kim Davidson), The Cabana Beach Resort (Ron Klambt) and The Beverly Hills.

The Best Value Hotel:
The Teremok Marine (Kim Davidson), African Pride Audacia Manor and The Benjamin (Ariel Pasqualini).

The Best Restaurant:
The Little Havanna (Martin Lombaard), The Ile Maurice (Christian Lenferna De La Motta) and The 9th Avenue Bistro (Gina Neilson).

The Best Best Attractions:
Sea World Aquarium (Judy Mann) and the Moses Mabhida Stadium (Vusi Mazibuko).