Swimming with the fishes

Thursday 4th December

Durban

Today's new experience was my first time diving - on this occasion using a bell jar helmet rather than scuba equipment.  A huge array of barracuda, stingray, manta ray and other large fish swarmed around us.

As well as that, and a touristy visit to a waterpark boasting Africa's tallest slide, we met up with a friend of my mum and dad from their time here.  It was great to see Noelene in her home country - I've only ever met her in Holland before.

Afterwards, we took a drive through Durban's city centre and Indian quarter - altogether less picturesque than the postcard-perfect seafront.  Clearly parts of this city have seen great regeneration in recent years and I really hope they succeed in their bid for the 2022 Commonwealth Games so that the infrastructure continues to improve.

As well as featuring the Juma Musjid, the largest mosque in the southern hemisphere (despite being in a predominantly Hindu area), the Indian quarter featured a vast array of markets and bazaars selling spices, fruits and clothing.

What better way, then, to finish the day than with a meal at one of Durban's most popular Indian restaurants?