Johannesburg, South Africa
Due to its rich cultural diversity and captivating heritage, Johannesburg isn’t just the gateway to Southern Africa. I used to think that a one night stopover was plenty, just to recuperate from jetlag after such a long flight. But with the city’s fascinating past, it offers a good understanding of Africa’s history before continuing on safari.
There are numerous and diverse attractions in the vicinity of the airport, such as Soweto, the Apartheid Museum, and the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site. The famous fossil filled caves have produced some of the oldest hominin skeletons ever found, some dating back as far as 3.5 million years ago.
Johannesburg offers a wide range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets. I spent two nights in Johannesburg exploring the various hotel options available before heading to Namibia. Each property I visited was unique in its own way, but wanted to touch on my three favorite.
The Saxon Hotel is situated on ten landscaped acres in Johannesburg’s neighborhood of Sandhurst, which is known for its quiet tree-lined avenues. I love this area because it’s so peaceful and I didn’t feel like I was in the city.
The Michelangelo Hotel, located in the heart of Sandton on Nelson Mandela Square, is within walking distance to some of the city’s finest shops, restaurants and theatres. The hotel itself is very quaint and elegant, yet only steps away from two exclusive shopping malls and numerous sidewalk cafes. Since I was traveling alone, I especially enjoyed staying here because
I could walk around freely without worrying about getting a taxi. I sipped my first Castle Lager Beer at the Hard Rock Café, while people watching at Mandela Square.
The Four Seasons Westcliff Hotel, situated in Johannesburg’s most exclusive residential suburb, has recently been refurbished with a fresh new look. The hillside setting with cascading gardens has the most beautiful, relaxing view of the city, and offers magnificent sunsets.
I spent my last night in Johannesburg at the O.R. Tambo Intercontinental Hotel in anticipation of my adventure to Namibia the following day. The Intercontinental is a five star property, and in the most convenient location within walking distance to the airport.