D E S T I N A T I O N
JOHANNESBURG As Emirates announces the deployment of an A380 service to Johannesburg, there’s never been a better time to visit South Africa’s largest city Johannesburg has everything you could want from a modern city, meaning that a contemporary restaurant culture, numerous shopping options and an eclectic nightlife awaits. Even the weather is something of a draw, thanks to a subtropical highland climate that offers year-round sun, occasionally punctuated by some spectacular lightning storms. Johannesburg has a rich and complicated history. Nelson Mandela studied law here, and there are numerous ways in which you can learn more about his incredible life and the country’s social struggles.
You’re in a good location if you’d like to book a safari tour. Kruger National Park is four hours away, but there are many closer parks worth visiting, too. If you’d rather something a little more relaxed, you can pick up a bargain at Rosebank Finders Keepers Market, or head to Ellis Park stadium to catch some rugby or football. Finally, no mention of this city would be right without talking food. Unsurprisingly, meat is the star of the show, so be sure to try South African classics like bredies (a local stew) and boboties (a meat and egg stew). We guarantee you’ll want to take the recipes home.
EAT
STAY
DO
TASHAS This popular brand goes from strength to strength, so you can still expect a queue, but the quality of the bistro-style food will leave you glad you waited. Popular with families and those grabbing a simple but stylish bite to eat, there’s plenty to love, especially the Turkish eggs. tashascafe.com
SAXON HOTEL, VILLAS AND SPA History and culture aficionados will stop here purely on the basis that Nelson Mandela stayed at the property to finish his biography Long Walk To Freedom. Beautiful, lush landscaped gardens combine with impeccably designed rooms to create a relaxing stay in the city. saxon.co.za
GET READY TO SPEND AT SANDTON CITY One of the most popular malls in the city, the luxury brand boutiques are a great draw for international tourists. Don’t fancy the mall trawl? Head there for a bite to eat or for a trip to the cinema instead. sandtoncity.com
CUBE TASTING KITCHEN Still considered one of the best restaurants in the city, Cube is the place for special occasions. Expect 10 or more courses of cutting-edge dishes, but don’t forget to tour the wine cellar first and pick out your perfect bottle to accompany your meal. cubekitchen.co.za
54 ON BATH Exuding elegance, this boutique property is the ideal spot for tourists who love the convenience of a shopping mall on your doorstep. Ideal for visiting landmarks such as Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City and Melrose Arch. tsogosun.com/54-on-bath
D6 DISTRICT SIX EATERY Authentic Cape Malay food can be found throughout the region, but few compare with the slow-cooked delights of this rustic gem. Curries, rotis and a fantastic milk tart, combined with the charm of owner Grace Fourie, have helped garner an army of fans. districtsixeatery.co.za
THE OASIS BOUTIQUE HOTEL Beautifully designed with traditional interiors, guests love the rain showers and comfortable beds. This property is hidden away in suburbia, but is an ideal launch pad for exploring Joburg and beyond. The pool is always a welcome sight after a long day of sightseeing. oasis.sa.com
REFLECT IN THE APARTHEID MUSEUM The Apartheid Museum houses a powerful and thought provoking example of South Africa’s struggle with race relations. Historians, filmmakers and designers have created a sobering, yet evocative sense of the coming to terms with the past while striving to move forward. apartheidmuseum.org FALL IN LOVE WITH LIONS An impressive 600 hectares of wilderness await, and you’re guaranteed to see some of the most magnificent animals on the planet. Lion cubs are a family favourite, while cheetahs and hyenas, alongside a wealth of game, will all leave a lasting impression. lionandsafaripark.com
EMIRATES STAFF TIPS Lauren Labuschagne AIRPORT SERVICES AGENT
GO CENTRAL
Head to Nelson Mandela Square for restaurants, bars, spectacular fountains, and the largerthan-life statue of the man himself.
Noko Hlabolwa CUSTOMER SERVICE AND SALES AGENT
GO DANCING
Dance the night away at Katzy’s in Rosebank, a popular Joburg suburb that has the best live bands in town.
EK761 will depart Dubai at 04.40am and arrive in Johannesburg at 10.55am. The return flight, EK762, will depart Johannesburg at 1.25pm and arrive in Dubai at 11.45pm.
| 73 |