Joburg - South Africa's bustling heart

Sitting at home, as I have been for nearly two months, has got me thinking about my own hometown – the energetic, dynamic and friendly city of Johannesburg, known to locals as Joburg or Jozi. There is a vibrancy here that makes up for the lack of obvious natural beauty, such as sweeping coastlines or dramatic mountains. Jozi is the largest city in South Africa – both by population and by sheer size – but although it is a gateway into Africa thanks to its excellent infrastructure, it is often overlooked by both local and foreign visitors. The city holds a certain allure that makes it an exciting place to visit, and that is why I still call Joziburg my home!

Joburg pumps with an energy and a buzz that lies just below the surface, along with the constant brrrrping of the minibus taxi tooting their way through the traffic. Home to magnificent sunsets and vibrant shanty towns, the city is best enjoyed with insider knowledge and a healthy serving of bravado. Joburg moves fast and the only way to fit in is to keep up – whether in the crazy traffic or the chic nightclubs. It only takes one peek at some of the top local restaurants to understand that the moniker “the City of Gold” refers not only to the precious metal, but to the luxury that the city holds should you know where to look.

Of course, Joburg is also home to some top historical attractions, which cover a lot of the intricacies of the former political regime. Mostly notably amongst these is the Apartheid Museum, which takes you on a poignant journey through the oppression of the system and how it eventually gave way to the birth of democracy. Constitution Hill is a living museum that tells the story of South Africa's modern historical journey, and also home to the country's Constitutional Court, which endorses the rights of all citizens. Gold Reef City satisfies thrill seekers with its light-hearted view of the region's industrial history through mining-themed attractions.

Then towards the south of the city the area of Soweto covers a vast distance with everything from shanty towns to multi-storey houses. An abbreviation for "southwestern townships," Soweto birthed the freedom movement, and one street in the city is the former home of three Nobel Peace Prize recipients. Guided tours of the townships often include a visit to the Mandela House, now a national monument. Top-end restaurants jostle for space with food trucks and the area is a popular tourist haunt.

When all of the must-see sites have been visited, and pause given to South Africa’s complicated journey to political freedom, visitors will be ready to explore the city’s hidden nature, startling architecture and exceptional food and drink experiences.

Head to the local favourite, the village within a city, Parkhurst, to see barristers competing for the ultimate latte, before grabbing a craft beer and a pizza around the corner in funky Greenside. Then it's a short trip to the Westcliff Hill and the Four Seasons, for the best view of the sunset in town – with a couple of elephants in the nearby zoo for good measure. Wander through the streets of Sandton with a good camera to find Insta-fodder for architecture lovers, and when you're up for craft gin and tapas pairings, Urbanologi in vibrant central Jozi is the spot to be. A visit to the Neighbourgoods Market provides the ideal insight into the local hipster scene – where Gucci sneakers are combined with vintage jeans and everyone, EVERYONE, is gorgeous. There’s even a beach club in this landlocked city if you know where to look...

For foreign visitors the city is great value for money, and the standards of bars, restaurants and hotels is far higher than most expect. Guests can comfortably enjoy award-winning cuisine and the country’s crisp wines without spending more than $ 50.00. Hotels of a three-star grade are comfortable and under $ 100.00 a night, although the ultra-luxurious market will also find superb lodgings in the city. This means that stays of a few days are within reach for most travelers, and day trips to the nearby Hartbeespoort Dam can be combined with decadent long lunches in country bistros, and visits to the Cradle of Humankind can easily be topped with safari-experiences at the Lion Park.

Joburg is a city bustling with pride and energy, that needs a local’s love to really show herself off best. She's my home town, and I love watching people's wonder as they realise that there is so much more to this sprawling, treefilled metropolis than just grime and an airport. Get in touch today if you'd like to talk your custom Jozi-experience!