QUINTESSENTIALLY | Insider | City Guides

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A bustling hub of South African activity, people travelling to Johannesburg will be exposed to a variety of different cultures, traditions, cuisines, people and sights that can not be experienced anywhere else in the world.

There is never a dull moment in Johannesburg, as the locals are always on the move. Whether they are dashing around doing business during the day, or frequenting the many watering holes to unwind after work, people visiting this beautiful city will meet friendly people who live life by the motto of work hard and play harder.

With an immeasurable wealth of sights to see, places to go, and people to meet, there is never a lack of fun for visitors to do. Whether they are here on business or pleasure, the exquisite fauna, flora and climate will intrigue and amaze everyone.

Words simply cannot explain the sheer splendour of the incredible South African city. It has to be visited in person to experience the unique elegance, class and sheer wonder of this world class destination.


GO THERE FOR

The African Experience – Whether it’s dining at some of the African restaurants, taking a tour of Soweto, Nelson Mandela’s birthplace, any other historical township, or buying a hand made craft by some of the locals who create beautiful pieces of art from products ranging from cans and other recycled good, to beads, magnificent painting and sculptures - you experience a taste of Africa.

The City Of Gold – Originally a farm town in South Africa, it quickly became a hot spot for the mining industry when gold was discovered here. People can now take tours of the mines, and relive the history of the mining period.

The Nightlife – One cannot miss the incredible nightlife that Johannesburg has to offer. Johannesburg may be a buzz of life during the day thanks to business, but it does not stop there, the nights in Johannesburg are full of clubs and watering holes where international DJs, world class food, exquisite décor and interesting and exciting beverages abound.

The Theatre – Johannesburg has numerous theatres, where one can find world class acts. Including local productions which sometimes include protest theatre by the acclaimed Athol Fugard, international acts that have been brought to the city, South African takes on international productions or the annual pantomime, which usually occurs during the festive season in December - you'll have an inspiring time.


DON'T MISS

Hot Air Ballooning in The Cradle (Lanseria) - Get to know your fellow passengers as you enjoy a pre-flight cup of tea or coffee before joining the crew as they prepare the balloon for your adventure. Enjoy the peace and tranquillity while watching the sunrise over the horizon. The silence is broken only by the sound of the burners.  Toast the landing with a mimosa to celebrate your flight while the crew pack the balloon away. Then it's off to a local venue for a full breakfast. Your commemorative certificate is a permanent reminder that proves you defied the laws of gravity.

Sunrise and Sunset Flights over Magaliesburg - Scenic sunrise and sunset flights that take you across Hartbeespoort Dam, the Cradle of Human Kind and the Magaliesburg Mountains.

Maropeng and the Cradle of Humankind UNESCO World Heritage Site - Maropeng means “returning to the place of origin” in Setswana, the main indigenous language in this area of South Africa. The Cradle of Humankind is an easy drive of about an hour from Johannesburg or Pretoria. Ape-man fossils dating back 3 million years have been found in the area and by coming here, you are experiencing the birthplace of humanity. The Maropeng Visitor Centre is an exciting, world-class exhibition, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors over the past few million years.

Gold Reef City Theme Park – A theme park that is both fun and entertaining for the entire family, but also offers a glimpse into South Africa’s intriguing past.

A Tour of Newtown – Newton is always under the knife, undergoing a constant facelift to make the city centre into a beautiful and safe place for tourists and locals. A trip across Nelson Mandela Bridge is simply a must and visit the top of Carlton Centre, where the views of the city are simply breathtaking.

Sandton City Shopping Centre & Nelson Mandela Square – Where international shops line the vast hallways, with local talent hidden between them; Sandton City is the place to shop. With its infamous statue of the father of the nation, Nelson Mandela Square offers exquisite world class dining, in the comfort and convenience of Sandton Central.

A Tour of Constitution Hill – Where visitors are offered an insight into what it must have been like to be a prisoner during the dark days of Apartheid.


BASICS

Quintessentially South Africa
Fredman Towers - 4th Floor, 13 Fredman Drive, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Telephone: +27 (0)11 911 4201
Email: askqsa@quintessentially.com

Country Code: +27
City Code: 011
Emergency Services: 10111
Electricity: 220/230V, South African 3-pin plug
Languages: Afrikaans, English
Currency: Rand (ZAR)
Exchange Rate: GBP 1= ZAR 11.5. 1 ZAR = 0.09 GBP
Time: SAST (UTC +2)
OR Tambo International Airport
General Enquiries: +27 (0)11 921 6262
Flight Information: +27 (0)86 727 7888
www.airports.co.za/home.asp?pid=228


GETTING AROUND

The only way to travel in and around Johannesburg, if you are not a local and used to the intense roads, is chauffer driven cars. A luxury car will collect you from OR Tambo International and take you to your desired destination. It is a 45 minute drive from OR Tambo International to Johannesburg city centre and to Sandton central.
Chauffeur drives can be organized through your hotel, or through us, and can take you to the place of your choice, throughout your stay. Please be advised that the Johannesburg roads are always busy, can be tricky to navigate and are often dangerous if you are unfamiliar with them, so even though renting a car is an option for a Johannesburg visitor, it is only recommended if you are familiar with the city.


WHEN TO GO

There is never a bad time to visit Johannesburg; it is purely a matter of personal choice.
For a warm climate where the nights are seductively warm, and the days even hotter, an ideal time to experience the true lifestyle of the Johannesburg locals, and enjoy some of the many refreshing beverages and outdoor dining experiences available, visit Johannesburg during its summer months from November to February (average high 25˚C/77˚F).
For a cooler climate, which is the most ideal time to enjoy some of the more spicy and daring local cuisines and beverages on offer, come to Johannesburg between March and August (average high 19˚C/67˚F and average low 7.5˚C/45.5˚F).

Public Holidays:
1st January – New Year’s Day
21st March – Human Rights Day
Variable – Good Friday
Variable (Monday after Easter Sunday) – Family Day
27th April – Freedom Day
1st May – Worker’s Day
16th June – Youth Day
9th August – National Women’s Day
24th September – Heritage Day
16th December – Day of Reconciliation
25th December – Christmas Day
26th December – Day of Goodwill


WHERE TO STAY

Boutique Hotels

The Monarch Hotel
Rosebank
After extensive refurbishment, the Monarch Hotel welcomes guests to enjoy the forefront of personalised hospitality. The dining room offers lunches and dinners and a seven course tasting menu or à la carte dining whilst the bar offers cocktails and a menu of choice morsels. The hotel has revived stuffy old world charm by introducing contemporary South African artworks into period-like interiors whilst selected music creates an upbeat ambiance. The hotel offers a royal apartment and twelve suites, all equipped with internet access, DVD, CD, DSTV and dining facilities while beds are dressed with Frette linen. The royal apartment seats up to 8 guests and is served from a dedicated chef’s kitchen. It has a celebrity entrance, private security and grand piano.

The Westcliff
Johannesburg is lively and cosmopolitan; offering an array of superb restaurants elegant boutiques and world-class shopping centre, yet it is also fresh and breezy with golf courses, botanical gardens and parks dotted amongst its modern amenities. All of The Westcliff's 115 spacious bedrooms are individually furnished and have private balconies with spectacular views.

The Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
Alma Road, Morningside Manor, Sandton, Johannesburg
Taking inspiration from the old days, and combining it with today’s modern lifestyle, this five star hotel is an exquisite masterpiece where form and function work hand in hand.

The Saxon Boutique Hotel & Spa
36 Saxon Road, Sandhurst, Sandton, Johannesburg
An award winning boutique hotel, and part of The Leading Small Hotels of the World group, The Saxon is an exclusive retreat that transports its guests to a place of sheer luxury and opulence.

10 2nd Avenue Houghton Estates
No 10 Second Avenue, Houghton Estate
Situated in the established suburb of Houghton Estate, where the atmosphere is gracious and exclusive, this prestigious property offers the discerning traveller 'Gracious Living in Luxury’. The Mansion, with deep recessed verandas, quaint balconies and grand bay windows, is nestled in a landscaped garden that offers the perfect setting for an intimate wedding or special occasion. The neoclassical interior is strongly influenced by the nature of this refined and handsome old house with its distinct sense of place. Dining areas and ambient lounges provide warm splendour with romantic fireplaces and plush furnishings. The muted colour palette underlines the understated elegance of the interiors, heightening the sense of quiet comfort.

5 Star Hotels

The Michelangelo Towers
8 Maude Street, Sandton Central
The exquisite Michelangelo Towers rises an impressive 143 metres above the Sandton skyline. The Towers offers panoramic views of the Magaliesberg and Gauteng. This all-suite hotel offers unparalleled luxury conveniently located next to the Sandton City and the Sandton Convention Centre and even boasts its own mall where you are sure to find the perfect gift for someone that seems to have everything.

Tintswalo Waterfall Estate
Tintswalo at Waterfall is an intimate hotel offering unparalleled cuisine, exceptional luxury and typical Tintswalo standards of service. This boutique destination has a spectacular 360˚ view and is designed as a typical barn, with thick stone clad walls, double volume spaces and heavy bolted timber roof trusses. The 16 luxury rooms look out over the pristine polo fields, the estate dam and have superb views of the distant Magaliesberg Mountains and surrounding countryside. Tintswalo at Waterfall is located within the Waterfall Country & Equestrian Estate, a 200 hectare secure country estate less than 10 minutes drive north of the Sandton Central Business District, between Woodmead and Kyalami. It is a 40 minute drive from Oliver Tambo International Airport.

The Hyatt Regency
191 Oxford Road, Rosebank
A world-class hotel for the discerning traveller, the Hyatt Regency Johannesburg is situated in the leafy, cosmopolitan suburb of Rosebank, north of Johannesburg. A leading luxury Johannesburg hotel, it is located in one of the cities most important social and business districts, and is the business travellers’ hotel of choice in South Africa. There's plenty to keep you occupied while visiting. Whether you're an exercise enthusiast, a shopping buff or a relaxation addict, they've got just the right activity for you and your family.

The Melrose Arch Hotel
1 Melrose Sq, Athol Oaklands Rd, Melrose
The Melrose Arch Hotel's unique and contemporary design promises not only to be highly pleasing to the eye, but guarantees guests the ultimate in service and technology. The bedrooms will attract those who take pleasure in modern elegance and sophistication. Each room boasts a flat screen TV, DVD player with surround sound and internet connections. Free internet access is available for guests travelling with their laptops for the duration of their stay.

Apartments

Weom Apartments
2nd Floor, West Tower, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg
An alternative to five star hotel accommodation, the Weom Apartments offer guests the ultimate in modern city living with the convenience of being in the heart of Sandton.

The Raphael Penthouse Suites
South Tower, Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton, Johannesburg
Manhattan style living, personified. The Raphael Penthouse Suites offers its residents views of The Nelson Mandela Square, with sheer luxury and attention to detail inside the suites.


WHERE TO EAT

Roots
Forum Homini Hotel
Roots gourmet restaurant is renowned as one of Johannesburg’s top fine dining restaurants. Indulge in delectable dishes inspired by French, African and Asian influences. Philippe and his team create new menus daily. Dinner is six-courses, lunch and breakfast four (unless you're in a hurry!). Gourmet dishes are served with wine matched to complement each dish. The cellar boasts wines handpicked from top South African wine estates. Five-course Saturday brunches & six-course Sunday lunches are highly popular and reservations are essential to avoid any disappointment. Sharing exquisite food and wine inside Roots, or al fresco on the sun deck, with views over the lake and the veld, must be one of the most delightful things one can do. The Roots food and wine concept sets a new benchmark in South Africa cuisine.

Casalinga
Muldersdrift
Casalinga was built by Jenny and Peter De Luca in 1989 as an extension of their home in Muldersdrift. Situated on the outskirts of Randburg, Casalinga overlooks the rolling hills of the Magaliesburg. The restaurant was constructed from sections of demolished houses from the Randfontein Gold Mine estates and the aged wood, stained glass windows and rich décor transport one back to a more revered and relaxed era. The beautiful gardens and the home-grown produce make this a true country restaurant. Herbs, fruit and vegetables are organically grown in the restaurant’s gardens. For the more exclusive Casalinga luncheon or dinner, the private dining room can accommodate a maximum of twenty-four people.

Signature
Morningside
Signature Restaurant is one of the most exciting new fashionable restaurants in Sandton, offering a unique mix of exclusivity, flexibility, comfort, sophistication and design. The restaurant boasts an exquisite lunch and dinner menu, with a local and international wine menu for even the most discerning palate. Floor to ceiling windows frame a panoramic view and set the scene for magnificent sunsets and of course signature cocktails.

Pigalle
Melrose Arch
Pigalle Melrose Arch offers a warm and contemporary feel that stays true to the Arch’s metropolitan ideology. The restaurant combines the trendy with the elegant; lavish gold trims with rich chocolate browns and butter soft suede chairs, and sparkling crystal with soft lighting to create a perfectly balanced eclectic and comfortable space. The menu is diverse and boasts a variety of meat and poultry dishes perfected by their chef. The shellfish is grilled to perfection with the use of their age old recipes that are sure to impress.

Koi
Sandton
Koi is a delightful restaurant in the very heart of Sandton. The décor is contemporary and welcoming, offering a great atmosphere in the centre of a concrete jungle. The Japanese and Chinese chefs prepare meals with originality and great flair, making the restaurant not only celebrated but legendary for its innovative cuisine. From stunningly presented sushi, fish and meat dishes - fresh seafood is flown in daily from around the world - and accompaniments of fresh noodles and mouth-watering desserts; Koi has it all in abundant supply.

Annica’s Deli
Sandton
Annica’s Deli is a boutique restaurant and bar located in The Michelangelo Hotel in the heart of Sandton. Their exclusive Privè Lounge offers a unique taste of sophistication where you can enjoy either an indulgent high tea or romantic dinner in a stylish yet cosy atmosphere with panoramic views of Sandton. They are open daily for coffee, breakfast, lunch and dinner, and their extensive menu features dishes from around the world.

La Belle Terrasse
Westcliff
Along with its vantage point offering awe-inspiring views of the most vibrant city in Southern Africa, Westcliff’s signature restaurant, La Belle Terrasse, provides guests with the unique opportunity of dining with a view of elephants and the roar of lions, from the Johannesburg Zoological Gardens. Boasting a wine list which includes wines from some of the finest vintners in the country, La Belle Terrasse harvested a five-star rating for its wine selection.

Browns of Rivonia
21 Wessels Road, Rivonia
Browns of Rivonia has a mouth watering menu and has received numerous awards including being voted the best business lunch venue for eight years running. It is fast becoming one of Johannesburg’s favourite restaurants.

The Cradle Restaurant
Route T9, Kromdraai Road
Situated in the heart of The Cradle of Humankind, this restaurant offers incredible views to its guests. Housed in a unique building, the delicious food is influenced by Italian country food, while the atmosphere encourages a relaxed, leisurely experience.

DW 11-13 Restaurant
Dunkeld West Shopping Centre
With passion comes pride; with pride comes perfection. These are the words that should flow through your mind as you indulge in the serene simplicity that is the cuisine of chef Marthinus Ferreira of the fabulous DW 11 – 13 restaurant. He is a man who draws on a wealth of experience from working in some of the finest dining destinations in the United Kingdom.

Ami Restaurant
Ami Restaurant and Champagne Bar creates an intimate dining experience which can be rated amongst the top restaurants in Johannesburg. Designed in glamorous black, white and gold, the restaurant is an alluring display of French, Asian and South African fusion that offers a high attention to detail, showcased in the presentation and in the taste of the cuisine on offer. The restaurant menu includes breakfast, lunch and à la carte with scrumptious dessert choices as well.


BARS, PUBS AND NIGHTLIFE

Moloko
Rosebank
Moloko is an upmarket bar and lounge, situated in one of the most fashionable areas of Johannesburg. An intimate venue with warm textures, sleek surfaces and dim lighting, Moloko creates the perfect relaxed environment to just sit back, relax and indulge in a few drinks. For those who can't resist getting up and moving to the music, Moloko's resident DJ Bego is sure to get you going with his great selection of classic and contemporary R&B and hip hop, smooth house and even a bit of Latino.

fashiontv dining lounge
Shop LO9 Michelangelo Towers
An upmarket, trendy club, where the young and beautiful go to play. Elements of the television channel are obvious, and this luxurious club offers its patrons a playground filled with fun and fabulous fashion.

Taboo
24 Central, Fredman Drive
Sophisticated and stylish, this multi-level club offers its patrons unparalleled entertainment in the heart of Sandton. Taboo pushes the boundaries of function and leisure and offers a truly unique experience, which can be compared to many clubs around the world.

Latinova
160 Jan Smuts Avenue
This plush and indulgent environment offers fun never before experienced in South Africa. International Latino DJs spin their seductive tunes, while raucous entertainers authenticate the Latino feeling of the club; a truly unique and absolutely fantastic clubbing experience.

Inc.
39-41 Juta Street, Braamfontein
Most exclusive venues in Johannesburg are based around Rivonia, but Lee Shong feels that Johannesburg CBD is the place to be. "When you look at clubbing internationally, the hotspots are always focused around the CBD, and Johannesburg should be no different". A lot of money has been pumped into the area which is on the rise to become a serious shopping and party destination within the city. Inc. hopes that its success will pave the way for further development.


WHERE TO SHOP

Fabiani (Quintessentially Members’ Benefits)
Melrose Arch and Shop U43A, Upper Level, Sandton City
Recognised as the leading luxury menswear retailer in Southern Africa, Fabiani has become famous among locals, nationals and internationals for its exceptional quality, happy colours, distinctive styling and world class service. Thanks to its two unique stores located in the prime shopping areas of Johannesburg, Fabiani dominates the menswear fashion scene in the city.

Jenna Clifford
Launched in 1992, Jenna Clifford set a new trend in the jewellery industry globally. The concept of purchasing jewellery in a personal environment was, and is, a great success. With the right mix of personal attention and privacy, opulent decor and exclusive atmosphere, clients feel unhurried, relaxed and inclined to indulge. Through this personal consultation, Jenna Clifford provides the message that an investment in timeless jewellery is an expression of beauty, complementing your lifestyle and personality.

G2 by Gerani
Befordview
G2 by Gerani is an exclusive Italian menswear fashion outlet with a philosophy of doing business with passion and taking great care and time with everything that they do. As one of the first retailers to bring high-end Italian men’s fashion to South African shores, they have an intimate knowledge of not only fine Italian tailoring, but also elegant Italian casual wear. 100% of their merchandise is imported, providing only the best quality designer clothing and accessories to sophisticated individuals.

Croft & Co
Croft & Co is an exclusive men’s boutique and accessories store located in Tyrone Avenue in Parkview. They stock an array of fashionable items for the man about town; ranging from Akubra hats, Swaine Addney & Bright bags to Reyn Spooner T shirts and Riedel crystal glasses. They also carry a formidable range of Montblanc products, a variety of Cuban cigars, and accessories by the Art of Shaving. Other popular brands stocked are Hierbas De Ibiza, Vilebrequin, Truefitt & Hill, Billy Kirk, Jack Spade and Headblade.

Catheryne Gaeyla Fashion
HydePark
At Catheryne Gaeyla Fashion, you will feel as if you have just stepped into one of the world's top fashion boutiques as it provides the idyllic backdrop to some of the world's most beautiful imports. For the past ten years Catheryne Gaeyla has been importing world fashion and accessories into South Africa; she represents top international brands including Dior, Dolce & Gabbana, Roberto Cavalli, Misssoni, Sonia Rykiel, Barbara Bui and Kenzo.

Sandton City Shopping Centre
With over 300 shops and with the world's finest luxury brands all present and correct, Sandton City is a thriving shopping centre and it contains absolutely everything you could possibly need and plenty more. Truly the ultimate retail experience!

Soteri Collections (Quintessentially Members’ Benefits)
Atholl Square, Cnr Katherine and Weirda Rd, Sandton, 2196
This positively fabulous shoe store offers sassy shoppers the very latest in desirable footwear, aptly dubbed 'foot art'. Originating from the footwear fashion capitals of the world - including Italy, Germany, Brazil and Greece - Soteri Collections carry high-quality, classically beautiful footwear for both sexes ranging from Swarovski adorned shoes to classic summer sandals and loafers.


HEALTH AND BEAUTY

The Rosebank Hotel Spa
Since 2004 they have offered treatments, cosmetics and associated products especially designed in luxurious spas and well being salons in Mauritius. The philosophy of Seven Colours is based on the interaction and balance of life giving energy and colours. Charged with energy, colours are absorbed by our bodies, by our skin, and influence our whole beings, our emotions and our moods.

The Saxon Hotel Spa
The Saxon redefines the ultimate escape from life with the exquisite Spa and Studio, a peaceful retreat where you can unwind and enjoy the tranquil ambience and quiet, discreet service, from the privacy of the treatment gazebos to the various relaxation areas. This is the pièce de resistance, a world-class resort spa that has been designed with the most up-to-date equipment and beauty, health and wellness treatments, from a bouquet of hydrotherapies to the innovative Rasul Chamber. The Signature Sound Therapy uses gongs, cymbals, singing bowls and bells, offering a holistic experience that incorporates Colour Therapy for enhanced effectiveness.

Botanica Spa
The Westcliff Hotel
The hotel's spa is tucked away amidst cascading gardens of the Westcliff's hillside village with the soothing sounds of birdsong and gently tinkling fountains - an oasis of indulgence, pleasure, relaxation and radiant transformation in Johannesburg. Three beautifully spacious hotel suites have been converted into calming treatment rooms with en-suite bathrooms and changing areas, where highly trained skincare specialists offer an all-encompassing range of facial and body treatments to suit your specific needs. The elite range of Pevonia Botanica products made from the finest natural marine and botanical ingredients ensure visibly outstanding results.

Rejuve (Quintessentially Members’ Benefits)
2nd Floor Edinburgh Gate, Hyde Park Lane, Hyde Park, Gauteng 2196
A mobile beauty salon and spa that will visit your hotel room or office, offering a range of massages and healing and beauty work.

My Personal Trainer (Quintessentially Members’ Benefits)
Melrose Arch, Corlett Drive, Sandton, Johannesburg 2196
Personal trainers that come to your hotel or house with all the right equipment and knowledge, assess your fitness and lead you through a full cardio/core strength workout.

Soulstice Day Spa
At Soulstice Day Spa, they are very proud of their range of treatments, some of which are unique to the spa, and cannot be enjoyed anywhere else. Tantalize your desire for indulgent pampering by perusing over the treatments below, every one of which will soothe and relax, easing away all the stresses of daily life. Pick from a range of 10 different packages and treatments for males and females. Saunas, steam rooms, heated rock pool, Swiss showers and an indoor heated pool. Inspired and named after the ancient Sun Goddess of Wellness, the Solstice Sulis range of signature treatments adhere to the philosophy preached by Sulis: “Take time to restore yourself.”

WHAT TO SEE

Safari, Nature Reserves and National Parks - There is more wildlife to see around Johannesburg than you could ever manage to explore in a lifetime, so you should at least make a start on it during your stay. Whether you want to head out to see the Big Five (lions, elephants, buffalo, rhinos and leopards), other game and bush wildlife, bird-watch or simply look out onto some of the most breathtaking natural sights then rest assured there will be plenty of options for you. Quintessentially can, of course, arrange a full itinerary for its members.

Constitution Hill - A place of both historical significance and contemporary importance, Constitution Hill was once the site of Johannesburg’s infamous Old Fort Prison Complex (where Mahatma Gandhi and Nelson Mandela were detained, amongst others) but now houses the Constitutional Court. A fascinating insight into old and new South Africa, it is a popular spot for tourists to visit as you can gain access to the court and tour around various sections of the Old Fort.

Soweto - Situated about 20km outside of Johannesburg, a trip out to Soweto is an absolute must and more than worth the short journey. There are a number of tour guides and operators who take daily excursions out to the township visiting all the famous sights such as the former home of Nelson Mandela, the Hector Peterson Memorial and Freedom Square.

Gold Reef City - A perfect idea for families, this theme park have a number of adventure rides and fun activities for the kids and offers an interesting insight into the gold rush of the late 19th century.