Johannesburg is an exciting, dynamic city to visit in its own right, even though it's often visited before or after a safari adventure in Kruger National Park. There are works by Rodin, Picasso, and South African artists at the Johannesburg Art Gallery, but don't miss the vibrant contemporary art scene, including the Wits Art Museum, nearby private galleries, and the monthly Artists Under the Sun. If you're a jazz lover, check out the International Jazz Festival in August, or the free Jazz on the Lake in September, not to mention the Bassline Jazz Club in Newtown. Need some retail therapy? World class shopping malls in Sandton, Westgate, Cresta and Maponya beckon, or search for some souvenirs at the African Craft Market in Rosebank. Make time during your stay for a sobering look at apartheid at the Apartheid Museum, where you're randomly assigned white or non-white status and enter through separate turnstiles. At the end of the day, rejuvenate at one of our top luxury hotel picks, each of them a beautiful and peaceful place to unwind before another adventurous day.
A splurge for all but the very wealthy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. If you want the best that money can buy in a boutique setting in Johannesburg, the Saxon Boutique Hotel is it. Even the entry level Egoli Suites are incredibly spacious, at 861 square feet, and impeccably appointed with luxurious yet modern finishes such as hardwood floors, sitting area with glass coffee table, HDTV, Blu-ray DVD player, surround sound music system and digital movie library. Don't miss the world class Spa and gym, or a dip in the heated swimming pool with underwater music. And while a few years ago the dining wasn't quite as polished as the facilities or the superb service, with the new Executive Chef David Higgs, the restaurant, particularly the Chef's Table, is truly one of the best dining experiences in Johannesburg. Save your pennies, the Saxon is worth it.
If you're looking for a truly boutique, design hotel experience in Johannesburg, Ten Bompas is your place. Each of the 10 suites was individually designed by one of ten local interior designers, but all enjoy great natural light, a separate bedroom and living area, a private balcony or ground floor patio, and a cozy fireplace. WiFi, minibar, and even laundry service are all complimentary. The breakfast, with cooked to order items as well as cereals, pastries and fruits, is fantastic and also included in the rate. In fact, it's so good you'll probably be tempted to eat at least one meal at the Ten Bompas Restaurant, which features vegetables and herbs grown in the hotel's own garden. Try the Roasted Scottish Salmon with fresh herb green curry, or the Ostrich Burger with sweet potato fries and roasted vegetable chutney, then finish with Rhubarb Strawberry Crumble and Custard. The only thing missing is a fitness center, but there is a lovely lap pool for an invigorating swim.
The Westcliff is a grand dame hotel, and part of the Orient-Express luxury hotel collection. Dramatically carved into the cliffs, it offers stunning views of the Johannesburg skyline and of the lush greenery of the Johannesburg Zoo–in fact, don't be surprised to be awakened by the distant roar of lions in the morning. The resort is quite spread out (it was originally designed as an elite residential estate) so our recommendation is to request a room or suite near the top, both for the views and to be closer to the infinity pool, restaurant and bar. The rooms offer old world elegance, and you're assured a blissful night's sleep in sumptuous high thread count linens. There's also complimentary WiFi, a rarity in most luxury hotels, although thankfully more prevalent among Johannesburg hotels. Breakfast is good, although not quite up to the standards of Ten Bompas. Instead, we'd suggest opting for an indulgent Afternoon Tea, replete with quiche, finger sandwiches, scones with jam and clotted cream, and a number of cakes and pastries. Or, enjoy a drink at the Pool Bar, by the infinity pool. If we had to quibble, in-room technology could use updating, service could be a bit more attentive, and the lovely infinity pool could be heated more in winter.
