Johannesburg

Johannesburg is the hub for most international flights to and from Southern Africa. The city grew rapidly following the discovery in 1886 of immense gold reserves beneath a low range of hills known as the Witwatersrand. Today it is a vibrant, anarchic place of more than 4 million people. The city has a serious crime problem, but security in the suburbs is omnipresent and sufficiently effective. If you opt to stay at the airport, we recommend the 138-room InterContinental, across from the main terminal, with well-appointed accommodations, an attractive restaurant and a health spa/fitness center with an indoor pool. If you have time in the city, visit the Wits Art Museum, housing a fascinating collection of works dating from 4 B.C. to the present.

Editor Tips

Contemporary South African Cuisine

The dining scene in Johannesburg is not as sophisticated as it is in Cape Town, but dw eleven-13 (Dunkeld West Shopping Centre, corner of Jan Smuts and Bompas Streets. Tel. [27] 11-341-0663) sets a high standard. The menu of contemporary South African cooking presents that delightful conundrum: Everything is appealing, so what to order? A standout starter is the roasted quail with broccoli, grapes, poached quail egg, mushroom purée and a sherry velouté. The fennel-roasted pork belly with scallop, celeriac purée, corn, lentil, baby marrow, apricot gel and pork jus is a delicious main course.

Unique African Gifts

In the Kramerville section of town not far from the Fairlawns hotel, Amatuli (6 Desmond Street) holds an extraordinary trove of crafts, furniture, art and decorative pieces from all over Africa. Curated by Mark and Christine Valentine, the selection can be overwhelming, but you will depart laden with easy-to-carry, one-of-a-kind gifts.

A Wonderful Art Collection

Although best known as South Africa’s commercial center, Joburg celebrates the arts with great style. I particularly like the Wits Art Museum (University Corner, Bertha and Jorissen Streets), which is part of the University of the Witwatersrand. The museum opened in 2012 and brings together a fascinating collection of more than 9,000 items, with works dating from 4 B.C. to the present.