Take a break at beach accommodation

There's something about being at the seaside that makes one relax without really thinking about it. It just happens. Whether it's the sound of the waves crashing on to the shore in a heavy sea or the gentle fizz as they lap the sand on a calm day, or the smell of salt in the air, or the feel of sand between your toes as you walk barefoot among seagulls, sandpipers, crabs and sea shells, beach accommodation has all the ingredients for a great break.

 Interestingly, The Family Encyclopedia (Marshall Cavendish) by David B Jacoby and RM Youngson refutes the belief that sea air was recommended for convalescence in the past. They say it's a myth '" the only thing good about it is that the air is not polluted and therefore has benefits for those with lung problems. Yet, the balmy sub-tropical climate of South Africa's third largest city, Durban, has travellers flocking to its famous stretch of sea-facing hotels along the Marine Parade, called the Golden Mile. Beach accommodation like that offered by the Garden Court Marine Parade and Garden Court South Beach offers panoramic views of the Indian Ocean. The Garden Court Marine Parade features a glass-enclosed swimming pool on the 30th floor. If you prefer a more active exploration for body and mind, leave the comfort of your beach accommodation to join a bike tour and cycle for a couple of hours along the beach to the Moses Mabhida Stadium towards the north or to the harbour and nearby uShaka Marine World in the south. Golf enthusiasts will be delighted to know that Durban Country Club is close to this beach accommodation while those with an artistic bent can plan a visit to the Playhouse Theatre in the city centre, which is just a few minutes' drive away.

For decades, guests have been lured from their beach accommodation by the prospect of a rickshaw ride by one of only 20 registered rickshaw pullers in the city. It's difficult to resist their call as they pose in their handcrafted headdresses next to their brightly coloured, highly decorated rigs, waiting to give you a fun ride with no carbon footprint.

The rickshaws were introduced to Durban by sugar magnate Sir Marshall Campbell in the late 19th century. They were used to transport ladies and gentlemen to the suburb of Berea and back and were made available to seaside tourists.