Joburg
The heartbeat of Africa
From its natural beauty to its magnificent architecture, delicious cuisine and vibrant people, Joburg is an event planner’s City of Gold.
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O MATTER WHAT you call it – Johannesburg, Jozi, Joburg, Joni, eGoli or Joeys – it is an extraordinary city. From its humble beginnings as a mining town, Joburg has grown into a vibrant metropolis. With incredible infrastructure, a dynamic transport system and a rich culture, it’s no wonder the world cannot stay away. AFRICA'S MOST VISITED CITY The city’s magnetic allure is difficult to ignore. This is why, in 2014, for
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the second year in a row, Joburg was the most visited city in Africa, according to the 2014 MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index.
From catering to venues, there is something for everyone here, leaving event planners spoilt for choice
HOSTING EVENTS A versatile business and mega-events destination, Joburg is capable of handling a vast array of events, be it a small meeting, a massive international gathering, convention, concert or sporting event. With an estimated population of 4.3 million in 2014, Joburg is the cultural centre and the economic hub of South Africa, making it an outstanding event destination. Offering the best access to versatile venues, technology, dynamic stand design, and audiovisual equipment, there is something suitable for any type of event, on whichever scale. Joburg’s eventfriendly environment provides excellent infrastructure and telecommunications – the quality demanded by the growing, vibrant MICE industry. GETTING AROUND Transport in Joburg is multifaceted, with metered taxis, minibus taxis, a railway system, bus services including the city’s Rea Vaya buses and the dynamic
Gautrain, getting around in Joburg is no hassle. Because Joburg is a diverse cosmopolitan city with a unique blend of first-world sophistication and emerging growth vitality, an event of any budget can be a success here. BRING SUNSCREEN Joburg enjoys some of the best weather with a subtropical highland climate – bright and sunny, with short, late afternoon downpours in the summery months of October to April, often accompanied by brilliant electric thunderstorms. Labelled the world’s largest urban forest, with more than ten million trees, Joburg not only attracts abundant birdlife but a number of visitors from all over the world. MELTING POT OF CULTURES Diverse cultures, languages, colours and customs make for an event planner’s dream; with so many options to choose from, this world-class city is a must-use destination. From catering to venues, there is something for everyone here, leaving event planners spoilt for choice.
JOBURG IN NUMBERS Joburg was founded in 1886, making it one of the youngest major cities in the world. The 50-storey Carlton Centre building in the Joburg CBD is the tallest skyscraper on the African continent. For the second year in a row, Joburg has remained the most popular destination city in Africa according to the MasterCard Global Destination Cities Index, with 4.3 million
overnight visitors expected by the end of 2014. Joburg has been rebuilt 4 times, starting out as a tented mining camp, evolving into a town of tin shanties, then a city of four-storey brick buildings and finally a city of modern high-rise skyscrapers.
40% of the world’s gold has been found in the Witwatersrand, the reef on which the city was built.
The greater Joburg metropolis covers an area of 2 300 km2 making it larger than Sydney, London or New York City. On what was once grassland now lies the world’s largest urban forest, with over 10 million trees attracting abundant birdlife. Joburg is home to the only street in the world that has housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners, Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela, who both lived on Vilakazi Street in Soweto. The 270 m Hillbrow Tower is the tallest tower in Africa. Joburg has an estimated population of 4.3 million.
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Joburg in numbers Must-use venues Things to do, places to see Blast from the past
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What’s on the menu? Shop till you drop Night out on the town
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Must use venues in Joburg From converted warehouses to plush venues, Joburg is home to many unique venues that are perfect for your next conference, meeting or event.
THE FORUM | TURBINE HALL has been designed to accommodate a wide range of requirements and offers five-star service, state-of-the-art technology, exceptional food, decor and style. The venue is located in the heart of Joburg’s arts and culture precinct, Newtown. Facilities comprise conference rooms and function venues with a capacity to host exhibitions or conferences varying from 10 to 500 pax, dinners for up to 320 and cocktail parties for up to 800 pax. There is also a trendy upmarket bar, private dining area and chef’s table. With plenty of parking, turbine hall is the perfect venue for any event. +27 (0)11 492 3888 info@theforum.co.za | theforum.co.za
KATY’S PALACE BAR takes inspiration from the great palaces of India and the towers and turrets of the Sandton skyline. Katy’s Palace is one of Joburg’s foremost attractions catering to urban royals, fashionable courtiers and aristocrats of fun. Found in the heart of a largely commercial and industrial area, a total venue space of 500 m2 is made up of various adjoined spaces – the main open floor space, a mezzanine level overlooking the venue and an outside covered patio with an incredible view of Sandton. The venue can accommodate 350 pax cocktail style and 120 banquet style. 35 +27 (0)72 607 4235 cebar.co.za info@katyspalacebar.co.za co.za katyspalacebar.co.za
SANDTON CONVENTION CENTRE
is a leading multipurpose convention venue adjacent to one of the country’s top shopping and entertainment complexes, Sandton City. With over 22 000 m2 of convention, exhibition and special event space, the Sandton Convention Centre is the perfect event for any sized event. The 12-storey structure is designed and built to provide convention, exhibition and special event space over five main levels. The Sandton Convention Centre has a passionate team of highly skilled professionals who will provide everything you need to host an unforgettable event. +27 (0)11 779 0000 scc.info@tsogosun.com saconvention.co.za
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THE WALTER SISULU SQUARE in Soweto is a township entertainment centre that embraces a unique historical background. This is South African culture at its best, mingled with modern urbanisation, and provides visitors with a taste of South Africa’s diverse cultures. Celebrating what township life represents, the square provides an historical experience while allowing you to embrace the freedom of the present. With a large multipurpose, four-levelled conference hall, which can accommodate 1 600 pax on cinema seating and dining foyers that can take up to 600 pax at any given time, the Walter Sisulu Square will give delegates a memorable event experience. +27 (0)11 945 2200 | charlotte@dijalo.co.za | waltersisulusquare.co.za
SIR JAMES VAN DER MERWE is an experience, a concoction of old-time charm infused with laidback sophistication and a twist of Joburg. Strike up casual conversations, linger over a game of billiards and raise a glass to good company. Sir James is a specialty bar that caters for the good old times – right now. Easy-going and laid-back with a unique decor that recreates the classic and mixes in the quirky, and a bar fully stocked with the good stuff, this is a fine place to enjoy the good life. Sir James can accommodate 130 pax cocktail style and 60 banquet style. +27 (0)72 607 4235 katyspalacebar.co.za/sir-james-vdm HOLIDAY INN SANDTON, RIVONIA ROAD THE BANNISTER HOTEL offers quality at the most affordable price. The hotel is fast becoming the venue of choice in Braamfontein. With a seating capacity of 80 cinema style, the hotel’s 75 m2 multifunctional space is perfect for conferences, private dinners or an intimate music concert. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available. The hotel boasts 31 comfortable en-suite rooms, a restaurant and bar. The kitchen can cater for specific requests. If you want to explore the city, the hotel is close to Joburg’s best bars, restaurants and coffee shops. +27 (0)11 403 6888 reservations@bannisterhotel.co.za bannisterhotel.co.za
combines a world-class brand with local hospitality. The hotel is located one block away from the Sandton Gautrain station. An entire floor of the hotel is dedicated to six conference venues – three conference rooms seating up to 70 pax, cinema style, and three boardrooms seating up to 16 pax. The hotel’s 301 spacious rooms provide the ultimate in comfort and style. With a kitchen located on the conferencing floor, all your catering requirements will be taken care of. +27 (0)11 282 0000 conferencing@hisandton.co.za hisandton.co.za
THE REEF HOTEL is a refreshing location for business travellers. It is located in the financial district in Joburg. Two well-appointed conference rooms can seat up to 80 pax each or be integrated into one venue to seat 160. The hotel offers well-appointed, modern accommodation in 120 en-suite rooms. A variety of dining options is available. +27 (0)11 689 1000 reservations@reefhotels.co.za reefhotels.co.za
54 ON BATH has a signature blend of luxury and style, not to mention its sought-after location in Rosebank; it is no wonder that 54 on Bath is a firm favourite with event organisers. The hotel is in walking distance from the Rosebank Gautrain station. The hotel offers a range of options that cater to your function requirements. Here you can choose from three well-appointed and flexible meeting rooms for up to 120 pax as well as a boardroom for 20, located on the second floor. The rooms at 54 on Bath are elegantly styled with views over the garden or over the abundantly green city skyline. There are 75 en-suite rooms available. The hotel’s skilled executive chef will consult on special menus and catering to ensure that your event is a culinary success. +27 (0)11 344 8500 | 54onbath.reservations@tsogosun.com | tsogosun.com
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Things to do and places to see in Joburg With the multitude of places to see and fun things to do in Joburg, delegates are bound to find entertainment to suit their tastes and budgets. RENAISSANCE DAY SPA is situated high above the streets of Sandton, and is an oasis of serenity in the heart of this cultural and financial hub. Their professional therapists are waiting to give you the luxury spa treatment of your choice, tailored to meet your unique needs. +27 (0)11 783 9904 | renaissancespa.co.za
GOLD REEF CITY is where Joburg comes to play, eat and relax. The centre is a theme park and casino, and offers the widest range of attractions. Join the young at heart and test drive any of the more than 30 adrenalineboosting rides. +27 (0)11 248 6800 | goldreefcity.co.za goldreef.reservations@tsogosun.com
THE LION PARK has a wealth of exciting activities to ensure an unforgettable wildlife experience. Guests are guaranteed to get extremely close to white lion, wild dog, hyena and over 20 other African wildlife species. There are grazing areas where you will see zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, springbuck and blesbok, just to mention a few. This experience provides visitors with the rare opportunity to get up close and personal with wonderful African animals. Nowhere else can you get closer to a pride of lions and other animals and still feel completely secure. +27 (0)11 691 9904 | info@lionpark.com lion-park.com
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THE JOBURG ZOO opened in 1904 and houses around 2 000 animals on 81 hectares. Five of the animals at the zoo are world-record holders: largest rodent (capybara), tallest mammal (giraffe), the smallest canid (fennec fox), the largest predatory bird (Andean condor) and the fastest land mammal (cheetah). Visitors to the zoo get to see tigers, elephants, gorillas, chimpanzees, bat-eared foxes, among others. The zoo offers smell, hear, touch and feel programmes throughout the year, as well as feeding-time visits and talks on the weekends. +27 (0)11 646 2000 | jhbzoo.org.za
THE SAB WORLD OF BEER is an interactive tourist experience that delves into the brewing process and the history of beer. Visitors can take a 90-minute guided tour through the centre’s seven exhibition rooms. The tour covers a fascinating history of beer that begins in ancient Mesopotamia and continues through Africa and Europe, depicting Joburg’s mining camp days and a traditional Soweto shebeen, in order to provide a backdrop to the brew. A walk through SAB’s sample brewery gives one an idea of the scale of production of a drink most of us take for granted. The tour ends in the legendary Tap Room where the group can enjoy a few cold ones. +27 (0)11 836 4900 events.co-ordinator@za.sabmiller.com worldofbeer.co.za
WITS ART MUSEUM (WAM) is home to an extraordinary collection of African art, including contemporary and historical art from South Africa and art from West and Central Africa. Currently numbering over 9 000 items, the three major collecting areas of classical, historical and contemporary artworks are unique in their breadth, geographical range and local specialisation. The museum is one of Johannesburg’s premier tourist attractions, along with the Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill. The WAM Cafe is a fun place to meet friends and enjoy delicious food and coffee. Guided tours of exhibitions are available. +27 (0)11 717 1000 info.wam@wits.ac.za wits.ac.za
CITY SIGHTSEEING open-top bus tour is the best way to go sightseeing in Joburg. The bus operates on a hop-on, hop-off basis, allowing sightseers the chance to get off the bus at any of the designated stops along the route and then get back on a later bus at their leisure. The Johannesburg City Sightseeing tour provides a unique way of exploring this fascinating, culturally and historically rich city and opens up a whole new side to the 'streets of gold'. Stops along the route (which will begin at the Gautrain Park Station) are: Gandhi Square, the Roof of Africa, the Carlton Centre, the James Hall Transport Museum, the Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, the mining district, the World of Beer, Newtown Precinct, the Origins Centre, Wits Campus and Constitution Hill. +27 (0)86 173 3287 | info@citysightseeing.co.za | citysightseeing.co.za
ALEXANDRA TOURS is a group of young, dynamic people who were born and raised in Alexandra, who would like to introduce their friendly township to people from around the globe. Tours are experienced on a bicycle, which allows tourists the opportunity to get much closer to the people living in the township and enjoy this historic region from a truly unique perspective. Tours are either two or four hours long, affording busy tourists the option to add this experience to their visit of Joburg in between other attractions, meetings or flights. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover one of the oldest townships in the country, as well as probably the most enigmatic for the people of Joburg, in strong contrast to its upmarket neighbour of Sandton, Joburg’s financial centre, which is situated just a stone's throw away. +27 (0)71 279 3654 mulaudzi.fours@gmail.com alexandratours.co.za
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Blast from the past Just over 125 years old, Joburg is drenched in history and heritage. Experience the history of the city of gold, and celebrate how far it has come.
MANDELA HOUSE is where Nelson Mandela lived from 1946 to 1962 while staying in Soweto. It is located at No. 8115, at the corner of Vilakazi and Ngakane streets – a short distance from the home of Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu. About the house, Mandela wrote, “That night I returned with Winnie to No. 8115 in Orlando West. It was only then that I knew in my heart I had left prison. For me, No. 8115 was the centre point of my world, the place marked with an X in my mental geography.” Visit this monument to embrace Mandela’s history and a house that helped shape the South African identity. +27 (0)11 936 7754 info@mandelahouse.org mandelahouse.co.za
THE APARTHEID MUSEUM illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid. The museum is a superb example of design, space and landscape offering the international community a unique South African experience. A series of 22 individual exhibition areas takes the visitor through a dramatic emotional journey that tells the story of a state-sanctioned system based on racial discrimination and the struggle of the majority to overthrow this tyranny. For anyone wanting to understand and experience what apartheid in South Africa was really like, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is fundamental. +27 (0)11 309 4700 info@apartheidmusueum.org apartheidmuseum.org
LILIESLEAF FARM , was once the nerve centre of the liberation movement and a place of refuge for its leaders. Today, Liliesleaf is one of South Africa’s foremost, award-winning heritage sites, where the journey to democracy in South Africa is honoured. Take time to tour Lilislief Farm where people from diverse backgrounds, but with a common vision, met to discuss South Africa’s emancipation from an oppressive apartheid regime. Today the farm is a repository for those conversations, and a place where the fruits of a free and equal South Africa are recounted and celebrated. +27 (0)11 803 7882/3/4 | nic@llt.co.za liliesleaf.co.za
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CONSTITUTION HILL is a symbol of South Africa’s unique and triumphant democracy. Situated on a hill overlooking the bustling Johannesburg city and the fostered suburbs, Constitution Hill provides a unique perspective of Johannesburg and its rich history. The site is home to the Women’s Gaol museum, Number Four museum, and Old Fort museum. These areas host gripping exhibitions with themes that showcase South Africa’s rich heritage and advocate human rights. +27 (0)11 381 3100 | info@constitutionhill.org.za | constitutionhill.org.za
What's on the menu? Exploding with flavours and variety, Joburg’s food spots celebrate the diversity of the city and are bound to tickle your taste buds.
44 STANLEY was once a series of industrial 1930s buildings and has been developed into a collection of speciality boutiques, foodie stops and design studios. Meander through the shady arcades and courtyards to savour delightful fare. No visit would be complete without a stop at il Giardino. The venue offers a gorgeous setting that will make your celebration an everlasting memory. +27 (0)11 482 4978 | 44stanley.co.za ilgiardino.co.za
4TH AVENUE IN PARKHURST is a foodie’s haven. For the best burgers in town, visit The Wolfpack (pictured above), a burger joint with a twist. The decor borrows from nature, with plants hanging upside down from the ceiling. The menu offers a variety of gourmet, somewhat exotic burgers such as the ostrich burger served on a vetkoek with watercress, baby spinach and rocket. If you’re looking for something lighter, walk a few steps down and find the decadent Vovo Telo. A light and airy space with a menu to die for. With a delicious, delightful bakery menu, Vovo Telo offers patrons a truly unique experience. With a wide selection of breads to choose from, patrons will be left hard-pressed on what to eat. The smell of fresh bread fills this alluring bakery and visitors will love the decor. 4thavenue.co.za facebook.com/thewolfpackparkhurst vovotelo.co.za
SOWETO is a must-stop on any culinary-fare journey. Chaf Pozi, the upmarket shebeenstyle restaurant and entertainment venue, not only offers mouth-watering cuisine but amazing venues in the Orlando Towers. The menu covers delicious cuts of mutton, beef, chicken, pork and traditional wors as well as a variety of tasty side dishes. The dishes are prepared daily on an open flame in front of guests. If you’re looking for a wholesome environment, visit Wandies Place in Dube. With a touch of exotic, Wandies serves indigenous cuisine in the form of dumplings, mogodu (tripe), pap and plenty more. The food is served buffet style so visitors are able to dish out seconds and thirds of the variety of traditional food. chafpozi.wozaonline.co.za wandies.co.za
THE SHEDS@1FOX calls a historic warehouse its home. The warehouse has been refurbished into a thriving marketplace, an artisanal food and produce market surrounded by eateries and bars. The Sheds is a relaxed environment, perfect for families and friends to gather and enjoy great company, great food and drinks. With a number of vendors to choose from, visitors can purchase goods, including a great selection of craft beer – a great way to spend your afternoon. +27 (0)82 894 5216 | 1fox.co.za
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Shop till you drop If there’s one thing that no other city in South Africa can offer like Joburg, it’s shopping!
HYDE PARK CORNER opened in 1969 and at the time was the first fully enclosed shopping centre in South Africa. The shopping centre is bound to give you a larger than life shopping experience. With dozens of chic stores to choose from, Hyde Park Corner gives shoppers variety like no other. With events and shop promotions on all the time, Hyde Park Corner certainly has something for you. +27 (0)11 325 4340 hydeparkcorner.co.za
MABONENG PRECINCT is home to several independent retailers, boasting a unique retail experience with stores located on street level throughout the neighbourhood. Independent retailers stocking a variety of local design and crafts, make Maboneng a showcase of the best in fashion, art, furniture and more. One of the stores you must visit is 1886 Boutique Joburg, which stocks household objects from taxi hand-sign printed tea towels to ceramics bearing the image of the Hillbrow Tower. mabonengprecinct.com 1886boutiquejoburg.co.za
ORIENTAL PLAZA provides a unique shopping experience. Stores offer buyers food, clothing, household items, fabric and even wedding wear. Surround yourself with the spicy mystique that fills the air and the rich colours that draw the heart. A taste of the orient, right in central Joburg. +27 (0)11 838 6752 orientalplazafordsburg@gmail.com orientalplaza.co.za
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SANDTON CITY , is one of Africa’s leading and most prestigious shopping centres. The centre offers an unparalleled shopping experience that combines the world’s most desirable brands with everyday leisure and entertainment. With about 300 leading local and international retailers, Sandton City is a one-of-a-kind premier fashion and leisure destination. It’s an energetic hub of Afrocosmopolitan glamour – international shopping with South African flair. Perfect for the Joburg visitor looking to splurge. +27 (0)11 217 6000 | sandtoncity.com
Night out on the town Joburg boasts a vibrant nightlife, ranging from exclusive clubs to some of the best bars, pubs and restaurants in the country.
KATZY’S in Rosebank is a premier cigar lounge, music, dining and entertainment venue. With resident bands performing five nights a week, the Grillhouse menu, a stellar wine collection, cocktail and cigar list, and more than 100 different whiskeys, fine cognacs and bourbons to choose from, Katzy’s will leave quite the impression. This is a sophisticated venue for a visitor looking for a fun night out. +27 (0)11 880 3945 | info@katzys.co.za katzys.co.za
THE ORBIT is located in the heart of Braamfontein and offers a permanent space where Joburg’s jazz community can be sure of the highest-quality live music, warm hospitality, fresh bistro food and free Wi-Fi. The venue’s stellar line-up includes jazz stalwarts such as trumpeter Feya Faku, bass guitarist Concord Nkabinde and singer Sibongile Khumalo. International artists are set to perform but the key focus will remain local. A visit to Joburg will not be complete without catching a performance at the The Orbit. +27 (0)11 339 6645 info@theorbit.co.za theorbit.co.za
TEATRO MONTECASINO is a world-class theatre destination, featuring the best musical, drama or comedy entertainment options. It can accommodate 1 870 pax to full capacity. Despite the vast number of seats, the Teatro has an unmistakable intimacy and no seat is further than 33 m from the stage. The Teatro is acoustically designed for large-scale musical productions but is also host to some intimate shows. Whatever you’re looking for, the Teatro is sure to entertain. +27 (0)11 510 7472 | montecasino.co.za
ELEVATE is located on the 16th floor of the Reef Hotel and offers breath-taking 360 degree views of the city of Joburg. With stylish design and decor, this upmarket venue is versatile and unique. A wall of glass stack-away doors allows for panoramic views of the sun setting over the peaks of Joburg’s tallest buildings. As night falls, the city lights illuminate the dance floor. With lovely food and flowing drinks, Elevate is the perfect location a night out on the town. +27 (0)11 689 1010 | info@elevatevenue.co.za | elevatevenue.co.za
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For business and leisure the City of Johannesburg is the most visited city in Africa for the 2nd year running.