IT seems the rain has slowed down slightly and the sun has come out to play again. What a beautiful week it’s been and a wonderful week to explore our city. We often miss the magic and wonder of our own cities as we travel to other provinces or even abroad, whenever we get the chance. I decided to check out some of the great spots right here in Jozi when Southern Sun offered me the chance.

The staff at every hotel are absolutely stand out and they are refurbishing every property. I checked into the phenomenal 5-star Sandton Towers opposite the Sandton Sun and what an exquisite hotel it is. All 28 floors are incredibly beautiful and I’m so ready to move into the presidential suite right now. Wow. The Atrium has filled my tummy with all kinds of deliciousness and I’m ready to hit the streets.

First stop, Liliesleaf Farm in Rivonia is an incredible lesson in history and heritage honouring the South African liberation movement. It tells the story of it being a safe house in the early 60s for African National Congress activists during the apartheid era. It housed Nelson Mandela as he posed as a gardener named David Motsamayi and it also focused on the Rivonia Trial. It’s beautifully preserved and tells these stories so well. More info at www.liliesleaf.co.za and prices are R60-R110. Kids under seven enter for free.

Next we topped off the historical part of the tour by stopping off at Nelson Mandela Centre of Memory. The car from the Long Walk To Freedom flick is housed here and it’s pretty special standing in Madiba’s office too. Our colourful city is so rich in culture, history, beauty, good food and even better company so next, why not play a spot of croquet on the lawns at 54 on Bath? Guests can have a swim, sip on the gorgeous cocktails in the Level Four Terrace Bar and enjoy the sensational cuisine. Grab your mallet and ball and off you go! What about getting your creative juices flowing after all those sporting activities? Rosebank Art & Craft Market is next on the agenda and it’s all about beading, arts and crafts especially if you have overseas visitors with you.

It’s obviously also the place to be for all things fashion, home and lifestyle in the mall plus there are restaurants to feed any craving. It’s always fun popping into Soko District where you can keep on supporting local small businesses and our incredible artists. Just around the corner you can also explore some magnificent art along the Keyes Art Mile which has tons to offer in all shapes and forms and in many different mediums by so many of our greatest creators. Don’t forget you can Hop On - Hop Off on the official sightseeing tour of Joburg and Soweto which includes 12 bus stops and 1 Soweto extension tour.

Stops include Melrose Arch, Gold Reef City, Newtown and many more very interesting locations while extending your trip means you can swing by Soccer City, Mandela House, Hector Peterson Memorial and have a shebeen experience. Doesn’t that sound like a whole bunch of fun? That's rhetorical. Lastly, now that you’re all adventured out you’ll need a foot rub at the Camelot Spa at Southern Sun Rosebank. What better way to see your city, take guests around town and spoil yourself a little?! Go on over to www.citysightseeing.co.za to jump on the bus and search for your closest hotel at southernsun.com for a cozy overnight stay or a mouthwatering meal. Safe travels and may you have many exciting, happy, fun experiences around our eGoli.

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The Hangout: Adventures in the city of gold