Farewell, Durban: A Reflection on Nine Memorable Years

Recently, I bid farewell to the city I've called home for the past nine years—Durban, South Africa. It feels like just yesterday when I first set foot in this vibrant city in June 2011; it was love at first sight. The scenic beauty, the warm people, and the rich cultural heritage captivated me instantly. So, when the opportunity arose in 2013 to move to Durban from Dubai for work, I didn't think twice.

During my initial month in Durban, I encountered a few instances that served as eye-opening cultural shocks. As I navigated the streets, I often asked locals for directions, as Google Maps had yet to become well known. To my surprise, they would describe certain junctions using the term "robots." Initially, I was bewildered, envisioning actual robots controlling traffic in this country. However, I soon realized that they were referring to traffic lights. It was a charming quirk that became a fond memory.

The second culture shock came when I discovered that gas stations were called "garages" in Durban. As an outsider, I was accustomed to associating garages with the spaces attached to houses where cars were parked. It took some time to adjust my mindset and understand that a gas station and a home garage shared the same name in Durban. It was a small linguistic nuance, but it highlighted how language can vary from place to place, adding to the richness of cultural diversity.

The absolute culture shock I experienced was related to transportation. In Durban, my colleagues referred to minibusses as "taxis." Coming from a background where taxis were small vehicles accommodating only a few passengers, I couldn't wrap my head around the idea of a "taxi" fitting 15 people. It seemed absurd initially, but soon I realized that these minibusses were a popular and efficient mode of transportation in Durban, catering to many passengers at once.

Despite these initial surprises, I grew to love and appreciate Durban for all its quirks and idiosyncrasies. The city became my home, and its vibrant culture and warm-hearted people embraced me wholeheartedly. I relished exploring the breathtaking coastline, indulging in delicious street food, and immersing myself in the diverse communities that make Durban so unique.

While I embark on a new chapter of my life, I hold onto the hope that someday, in the not-too-distant future, I will return to this city that feels like home. Durban, with its vibrant spirit and undeniable charm, will forever hold a special place in my heart.

As I look back on my time in Durban, I can't help but smile at the cultural shocks that initially took me by surprise. Though seemingly small, these encounters served as a reminder of the richness and diversity of our world. With its unique vocabulary and everyday quirks, Durban became a testament to the beauty of embracing new experiences and immersing oneself in different cultures.

To Durban, thank you for the cherished memories, the personal growth, and the sense of belonging—Farewell for now, but not forever. Until we meet again, Durban, know that you will always be a part of my story.