The vibrant and pulsating city of Johannesburg is one of South Africa’s gems with its economic powerhouse and large urban space. The visitors of this beautiful place are always left astonished.
If you’re planning to take a trip on this sprawling city with modern districts and rich history, lucky for you because in this article, let’s answer the question –“Is it really worth it to visit Johannesburg?” By defining what not to miss and how to enjoy your visit while you were there.
Johannesburg and its rich history
Jo’burg or Jozi to the locals is considered sub-Saharan Africa’s economic powerhouse that has been dominated by both Edwardian and Victorian colonial architecture and enormous glass skyscrapers – but before the Johannesburg achieved all of this world-renowned state, vibrant cultural scene, sparkling tower blocks, and thriving modern metropolis, it has been built stronger from the past.
From the last great gold rush, vast mining operation, establishments of new laws, to political tensions and improved security. The city of Jozi continues to rise up above a brighter and better future.
Best time to visit Johannesburg
Summer runs in Jo’burg runs between the month of December and February, while winter typically runs between the months of June to August. During summer, most hotel rooms are crowded but between March and May, the number of people will decrease and the room rates will eventually come down – which makes it the best time to visit the Johannesburg, South Africa.
Johannesburg
Getting Around
If you’re going to visit the numerous places in Jozi, you will need to have a car mainly because of the restless drive as simple as that. You should also grab some good and handy map of the city and plan your route before you need set off.
Here are some options for getting around the city:
· Public transport and taxis
Public transport is often scheduled within the metropolitan area and the fare will depend on how many zones are crossed, you can also buy pre-paid tickets from several kiosks in shopping malls. On the other hand, shared taxi is cheap and fast but some are unsafe and poor condition. So, it is better to opt for a metered taxi for more convenience day or night –trip.
· Self-drive and Car Hire
The roads and highways on Jozi are great and there are several parking lots with multi-storey car parks across the city. So you don’t need to worry where to park your car. However, if don’t want to get stuck in traffic on the busy highways, especially during rush-hours, contacting cheap car hire Johannesburg will work just fine especially for excursions to outlying areas.
What not to miss in Johannesburg
From museums to historic properties, Johannesburg will definitely catch your eye. Here are some things you should not miss in Johannesburg.
· Apartheid Museum
This museum reflects the rich political history of the city as it highlights the room where 121 nooses hanging from the ceiling during the apartheid and Nelson Mandela’s remarkable video footage which reminds every tourist a slice of history of Jozi.
· Gold Reef City theme park and casino
After the restless drive using your own car or a rental car, one thing you should never miss while you’re in there with your family is to visit the fun theme park and casino of Gold reef city. The park offers numerous numbers of attractions including a 60-table casino, Globe and Lyric theatre, and the southern hemisphere’s largest rollercoaster.
· Art Galleries
Music and art are gems in Johannesburg, you can discover the wonderful and unique arts in the several art galleries that range from corporate to private as well as off-beat to mainstream art. For example, the Edward Lutyens art gallery contains traditional African arts and landscapes.
Where to shop
Drive to the downtown Jo’burg while feeding your soul, heart, and creativity as it offers numerous choices for shoppers at affordable prices. From colorful fabrics, glamorous accessories, to authentic display and books, you will find them available.
Where to eat
There are a lot of ways to taste the authentic foods in Johannesburg from Vilamoura, the Butcher Shop and Grill, Moyo Melrose Arch, Linger Longer, La BelleTerrasse and Loggia, and so much more.
Johannesburg truly is a wonderful and amazing place that everyone should visit and experience. From the rich history, music, arts, and heritage, exquisite gastronomy and must-explore markets and shopping areas, to great architectures – Johannesburg truly leaves everyone in wonder.
Image credit: https://www.flickr.com/
Alfred Stallion
Author Bio: Alfred Stallion is a travelling freak who has travelled many destinations around the world. He also loves writing about his traveling experiences and the places he has explored.
Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
