Tried La Bordello last time I was in Durban as it is part of the “Bean Bag Bohemia” restaurant which is fantastic. Nice idea for a slightly different budget hotel. The hotel is decorated with some flair and the slight air of decay doesn’t really feel out of place. It’s all a little informal, with check in happening in the bar next door and parking somewhere on the street. The rooms are basic, but clean with some rose petals on the bed. The downstairs rooms all have big glass doors facing to the walkway around the hotel. It was pretty noisy though, what with being next door to one of the happening night spots, and as my room was next to the kitchen I was woken at 6am by breakfast preparations again. The breakfast was great though with really friendly staff. In the summer the dining “corridor” will be pretty hot and humid, but it’s quite nice in the winter.

Good place to crash after a heavy party night, but not something for a relaxing stay.

When my long term partner and I decided to get married we did not have time for a honeymoon but booked in to La Bordello for one romantic night. The location was convenient for our limited time frame and we were totally delighted with our stay. We dined sumptuously at the adjoining Bean Bag Bohemia, breakfasted the following morning privately on the patio adjoining our room to the sound of the gentle fountain. Rose petals scattered in the Moroccan/retro style suite added to the ambience, the bath was large enough for two and though near a fairly busy road the peace and quiet were wonderful. Though there is no off road parking there is sufficient security for parking alongside the place. I would recommend La Bordello for similar romantics who don't want to travel far from Durban.

I stayed at La Bordello for 8 days and it truly made the trip. I was there for a conference and was so pleased I didn't stay in a beach resort. The staff here were outstanding. Great breakfast and the adjoining restaurant offered great food, atmosphere, and convenience. The area is trendy and much safer than other parts of town where my colleagues shared stories of bad experiences. Some rooms are small, but the housekeepers and staff made you feel right at home. very relaxing and the price can't be beat.

Great small & very stylish boutique hotel in one of the towns former bordellos - beautifully decorated in Moorish style with earth tone colours, hanging lanterns & arches - wonderful bathrooms [ours had a double shower and bath] and with very comfortable beds + the best breakfast in South Africa served by great breakfast ladies.
Pricing is more than reasonable - book on their website.
Owned by the same people as the excellent Bean Bag Bohemia restaurant & bar next door, so a great dinner is a very short walk away.
Located in one of Durban's safe suburbs [ie you can walk on busy streets in daylight ] which is a definite plus because this town really does have security problems