Once the heart of resistance to the apartheid regime, it is today one of the most popular tourist destinations in South Africa. Port Elizabeth has been home to many famous heroes such as Thabo Mbeki, Steve Biko and Chris Hani, among others. It is also now known as Nelson Mandela Bay, after its most famous political figure.
Stadium
As for sports, South Africa is known for its champions in cricket, football and rugby. The Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium will host eight matches, including the match for the third place and a quarter final. Built just a year ago, it can hold 46,082 fans.
Most noted apartheid activist Nelson Mandela, Shawn Philips, international recording star, singer/songwriterAdrienne Camp
Nelson Mandela Bay/Port Elizabeth is often shortened to PE and nicknamed "The Friendly City" or "The Windy City"
What to see and do
As the country's second-oldest city, Nelson Mandela Bay offers a wealth of historical attractions and museums along with vibrant nightlife. The city also provides some gorgeous unspoiled beaches, such as Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach, King's Beach, etc, where you may spot dolphins at play.
The Boardwalk: Some of the best in entertainment and shopping is available in this stylish location on Port Elizabeth's beachfront.
Donkin Heritage Trail: Enjoy the rich history and culture on a walking trail that includes 47 places of historic interest along with Victorian and Edwardian buildings. Don't miss the white Carera marble statue of Queen Victoria outside the City Hall.
Wildlife safaris: Being the convergence of five biomes, the city offers a wide range of options for getting up close with nature. Take your pick for a safari in Settler's Park, Van Staden's Wild Flower Reserve, The Cape Recife Nature Reserve, Maitlands Nature Reserve, The Island Nature Reserve, Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area and Groendal Wilderness Area. Algoa Bay is the place to watch marine life year round.
Watersport capital of South Africa: Tagged thus, the city offers a variety in action-packed activities, and not just by getting wet. Apart from scuba diving, surfing and angling, try island cruising to bring you in contact with Cape Fur seals, sea birds and shipwrecks.
Holmeleigh Farmyard: Take the kids to experience first-hand caring, feeding and farm life.
The Sea Breeze Express: This miniature train is a good way to take in the views around Kings Beach promenade. Also hop on to the Port Elizabeth Model Locomotive Society in Sunridge Park.
Where to stay
>> Mid-range hotels
Poseidon Lodge Port Elizabeth: The hotel offers spacious rooms in African style with beach views.
Rates: From $57 (Dh209)
For more information log on to www.afrifun.com or write to info@beachlodge.me
Location: 22 Poseidon Crescent
Contact: +27 (0) 41 466 1114
Bishops Inn: Situated opposite Kings Beach, the hotel offers 19 sea-facing and 31 non-sea facing rooms and suites.
Rates: From $85 (Dh312)
For more information, log on to www.bishopsinn.co.za
Location: 14 Killarney Road
Contact: +27 - (0)41 - 585 6828
Radisson Blu Hotel: The hotel offers panoramic views of the Algoa Bay through many of its 173 rooms and is just a stone's throw away from Port Elizabeth beaches.
Rates: From $150 (Dh550)
For more information log on to www.radissonblu.com/hotel-portelizabeth or write to info.port-elizabeth@radissonblu.com
Location: Corner of Marine Drive and Ninth Avenue
Contact: +27 (0) 41 509 5000
Paxton Hotel: The hotel overlooks the harbour and offers views of Algoa Bay.
Rates: $174 (Dh639)
For more information log on to www.paxton.co.za or write to paxton@iafrica.com
Location: Carnarvon Place Humerail
Contact: (+27) 41 585-9655
Brooks Hill Suites: The hotel offers well-equipped guest rooms with a kitchenette.
Rates: from $206 (Dh756)
For more information log on to www.brookeshill.co.za or write to brookeshill@legacyhotels.co.za
Location: Brookes Hill Road, Off Beach Road, Humewood
Contact: +27 (0) 41 584 0444
Summerstrand Hotel: Nestled on the shores of Nelson Mandela Bay, between the Indian Ocean and the Humewood Links Golf Course, 170 rooms offer wonderful views of the beaches, golf course and private, landscaped gardens.
Rates: $224 (Dh822)
For more information log on to www.summerstrandhotel.co.za
Location: Marine Drive
Contact: +27 41 583 3131
Protea Marine Hotel: The hotel is situated within walking distance of safe, sandy beaches, various swimming pools, entertainment complex, not to mention the famous Oceanarium, Museum and Snake Park, and various sporting facilities, including golf.
Rates: $447 (Dh1,641)
For more information log on to www.proteahotels.com/protea-hotel-marine or write to info@proteahotels.com
Location: Corner of Marine Drive Summerstrand
Contact: +27 21 430 5000
Where to eat
>> Mixed eats
Here are few options:
34° South - The Boardwalk for seafood, Mediterranean and Sushi 0415831085
Barney's Tavern for steaks 0415834500
Café Brazilia for Portuguese, Continental, Mediterranean, Seafood 0415851482
De Kelder - Port Elizabeth for Grills, Continental, Game, Seafood 0415832750
Mamma Leone's for Italian, Continental, pastas, seafood 041 3652700
Raasoie Ethnic Indian Cuisine for Indian, Asian, halaal, vegetarian 041 581 0333
Royal Delhi Restaurant for Indian, grills, seafood, vegetarian 041 3738216
