Joburg, Johannesburg and Egoli. Pictures and Traveller’s Suggestions

READERS’ SUGGESTIONS OF WHERE TO GO

(Some of these have been included in SAPeople’s own 20 Sizzling Spots of Joburg)

1. The largest mural painting in South Africa

The Orlando Power Station. “After years of neglect, they have been transformed into an entertainment area – bungee jumping and a restaurant – and they also serve as giant billboards, one specifically with artistic murals encompassing the lifestyle in Soweto and its people.”

2. Boutique hostel with fascinating history

“Curiosity Backpackers is operated by a young, talented photographer called Bheki Dube and his influence is everywhere – the hostel decor is fantastic – think industrial-chic warehouse apartment with lots of quirky touches. The hostel organises regular events including walking tours, bike excursions and community volunteering projects to encourage guests to get under the skin of this city.”

3. A bookshop in which to lose yourself

“The Collectors’ Treasury, at 244 Commissioner Street, in the weather-beaten central business district (CBD), is a secondhand bookstore spread across several floors and comprised of many thousands of books you’d have difficulty finding anywhere else on this continent. You truly can lose yourself in this haven of books.”

4. Indie bliss at 44 Stanley

“…the guidebooks can talk about Constitution Hill and the rest but after you’ve done that, head to 44 Stanley for a beer or a bite to eat. This buzzy complex with art studios and the like exudes indie character…”

5. Soweto cycle tour

“A cycle tour round Soweto was a “fun” way to hear of that part of the apartheid history and see the people there, without feeling intrusive or like it is “poverty tourism” – it’s not, people want you to visit.”

6. Where football stars are born: Diepkloof, Soweto

“Diepkloof has consistently produced world-class soccer players, from Kaizer Chief and national team star Jimmy Tau to Lucas Radebe, who played for Leeds United during the late 1990s. … The atmosphere is epic and, if you want to explore and enjoy the township football atmosphere, make your way to DK.”

7. Joburg Red Bus

“The red sightseeing bus is a good way to get around Johannesburg. … (Make) sure you stop at the Apartheid Museum, and Neighbourgoods Market (great food, and cheap).”

8. Johannesburg Apartheid Museum

“I love museums and am yet to find a better curated museum than the JAM. Visitors begin their navigation by being allocated a race card and this determines your experience in the first part of the exhibition. The museum then goes chronologically through the history of South Africa…”

9. An injera worth supporting

“Little Addis Cafe in the Maboneng Precinct is a delightful little hole-in the-wall, which serves a tasty injera-with-all-the-extras for a pittance.”

10. Cube Tasting Kitchen, Parktown North

“For a great dining experience comprising 10 courses (using fresh sustainable produce) paired with a drink, you have to try Cube Tasting Kitchen in Parktown North. It only seats 30 people and it’s in demand, so you have to book in advance.”

11. Newtown: site of activists past and present

“With its street vendors and little shops trading shoes and spices mixed with bank employees and lawyers on their way to the Magistrate Court, the area already lends itself to engagement with people from all walks of South African life.”