The Christmas holiday marks my third visit to South Africa in the last year. I thought I explore Johannesburg during the holiday season. Before now, I used to think its just a city without lots of tourist attraction to offer compared to Capetown and Durban. I am no foodie but when it comes to holidaying in South Africa all I think about is the food and wine. The thought of it got me salivating already.
I stayed in a rented apartment in Sandton which is a major city in Johannesburg. So I had to cater to myself but trust me there was no dulling moment as my partner was with me and we shopped the finest wine, lamb chops and steak which we made barbecue out of. Had all my itinerary for sightseeing and places to visit in place. Without further do, lets get into it.
SIGHTSEEING AND VISITS
CHRISTMAS BRUNCH AT THE FOUR SEASONS RESORT, WESTCLIFFC
Had a lovely Christmas brunch at the flame restaurant at the Four Seasons, Westcliff. Although, it rained that morning and it was really cold so I couldn’t sit outside to get the phenomenal views I have booked a seat to see.
However, the live band and food was amazing and really felt christmassy with other lovely people around as well.
NELSON MANDELA SQUARE, SANDTON CITYN
One of the things I was looking forward to on this holiday was visiting the Nelson Mandela Square. After a few shopping here and there at the Sandton mall, I had a walk around the square and took a couple of pictures. I later had some tea and finger food at a nearby restaurant. Then, I left for Melrose Arch Hotel where I played billiard and had a few drinks before I called it a day.
CABLE CAR, HAARTBEESPORT DAMC
Now this is one trip I am still excited about. The journey there alone was a tour on its own, it still amazes me how beautiful one country can be based on nature. The forest, blue sky, wildlife etc.
Now imagine viewing nature and the beauty of Johannesburg from a cliff. It is phenomenal (for a lack of a better word). The cable car takes you to the top where you can view the entire city.
THE GREAT MOSCOW CIRCUS, MONTE CASINOT
I haven’t been to a circus before. I must say this was amazing and the stunts were mind boggling. I can only imagine how long those guys train before coming on stage. It was a lot of fun and laugh with positive and happy people.
MANGWANANI AFRICAN FULL DAY SPA
Yes! you read it right! It is a full day massage. This was a great experience. The bus leaves from Monte Casino in the morning to the spa (which is about 30 minutes drive) after collecting everyone with an appointment on that day. On getting there, a group of massage therapists welcomed us singing the local songs for about five minutes, then we were given bath robe and slippers to change into before we were led to our table for a light breakfast.
On finishing our breakfast, we were all divided into groups for different form of massages which included full body massage, facials, head massage, shoulder massage, reflexology, hand massage, foot massage, exfoliation (a light lunch was served in between).
It was an outdoor massage so you could hear the sound of the river and birds chirping amongst other nature related sounds. Also, every oil and product used was organic and handmade.
Each masseuse registered their name in your booklet so you could grade them at the end of the massage. The entire massage lasted around nine hours and we were served some Amarula before heading back to Monte Casino.
The team was amazing and I will visit again next time I am in Johannesburg.
LION AND SAFARI PARKL
The holiday won’t be complete without a safari. We all know Africa isn’t for sissies. This lion park had different breeds of Lions and other animals such as Cheetah, Leopard, Girraffe (my fave), wild dogs, Hyenas, Ostrich etc but no Elephants.
There were different tours which included the Lion walk (literally walking with a lion) but I opted for the safari drive where I get to see all the animals.
Another great experience!
FOOD AND WINE
From coffee to five star fine dinning, the food was excellent and did not cost an arm and a leg. Ate at regular restaurants as well as the finest restaurants such as Tashas, The Meat Co, Signature restaurant, Pomodoro, Adeg Portuguese restaurant (I managed to capture some footage).
The selection of South African wine such as Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon blanc and Cabernet Sauvignon were lovely as well. It will be unfair to choose a favourite as I enjoyed them all.
I hope to do a full post on the South African dinning someday.
