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Lavish luxury for Monaco royals

Durban - It's a venue fit for a prince and princess: A five-star hotel famous for sweeping views of the Indian Ocean and a presidential suite that lists for R50 000 a night.

The Oyster Box, one of South Africa's most lavish hotels, will host a reception for Prince Albert II of Monaco and his new bride, Charlene Wittstock, as they visit the city of Durban this week.

The royal newlyweds, who are in town for a meeting of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) - of which Albert is a member - will be throwing a party at the seaside hotel for 400 guests on Thursday.

The hotel has hosted princes William and Harry, supermodel Naomi Campbell and Chelsea owner Roman Abramovich, among other notables and celebrities.

Located in the resort town of Umhlanga, just north of Durban, it prides itself on its "colonial charm", a historic lighthouse and oyster beds just offshore that supply the hotel's renowned Oyster Bar.

The crown jewel

Today the hotel has 86 "individually appointed" rooms and suites, including eight garden villas that each have their own plunge pool.

The crown jewel is the 450-square-metre presidential suite - a two-level room served by private lift, with a private swimming pool, private study and marble his-and-hers bathrooms.

South African media have reported that the couple are staying in the suite, but the hotel is tightlipped about its guests.

Royal reception

It also has an all-white ballroom called the Pearl Room, adorned with crystal Venetian chandeliers – which is where the main wedding reception will be taking place, according to EWN.  

The royal reception is however expected to spill into the various venues of the hotel, which will be reserved exclusively for invitees on the night.

Police and security are expected to set up a cordon around the property.

"This is a private function," said general manager Wayne Coetzer.

"We will do all we can to ensure that the couple and their guests are able to enjoy the renowned Oyster Box hospitality to the fullest."

The royal couple will meet President Jacob Zuma for lunch later on Wednesday before their celebration on Thursday.

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