Johannesburg: Tourism, shopping and much more!
The city of Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, as well as the provincial capital of the Gauteng province. Established back in 1886 after the discovery of gold on a farm in the region, Johannesburg evolved into a financial and industrial giant. Today, the city is affectionately known to locals as ‘Jozi’ or ‘Joburg’, and houses a population of over 7.7 million residents.
Johannesburg enjoys a subtropical highland climate. During the summer, afternoon showers and cooler evenings are not uncommon. And the city’s winter is the exact opposite of Cape Town’s: dry and sunny days. Johannesburg’s rather mild climate is due to its high elevation of over 1,7 m. And although snow is a rare occurrence in South Africa, the city reported the countrys highest snowfall in the winter of 1981.
Johannesburg’s tourism is a bustling business, with various heritage sites and landmarks portraying the city’s rich history. Constitution Hill, for example, was a former prison complex that now operates as a living museum dedicated to South Africa’s history of democracy. But there are also seemingly endless opportunities for fun and relaxation. Gold Reef City, only 8 km from the city centre, is a family-friendly attraction stuffed with theme park rides, swimming pools and water slides, historical exhibits, a petting zoo, and much more. And the Lion & Safari Park allows locals and tourists to get up close with lion cubs, cheetahs, zebras, and a host of other wildlife. For a thrilling sports game or musical performance, there’s the Johannesburg Stadium in Doornfontein. Or how about hopping aboard the Gautrain trains and buses to explore the city’s ins and outs – maybe see what special discounts and promotions are on offer at the shops scattered all over Johannesburg?
Johannesburg: Map for shopping
Shopaholics will surely not be disappointed by Johannesburg’s wealth of shopping options. From gigantic shopping malls to outdoor flea markets, the city offers a variety of shopping experiences and locations.
Sandton City Shopping Centre remains one of the most high-class shopping malls. Conveniently located in the middle of Sandton, shoppers can have their pick from 300+ retail brands and dining experiences (such as H&M and Ocean Basket). Over in Bedfordview there’s the Eastgate Shopping Centre which is focused on fun for the whole family (like that fantastic IMAX Theatre). Hyde Park Corner keeps it glamorous with its sophisticated designs and international brands spread over 130+ stores (Old Khaki and Sunglass Hut being two of them). Mall of Africa in Waterfall City is one of Johannesburg’s newest shopping locations and presents customers with over 130 000m² of convenient shopping space (and the potential to encounter some terrific specials and promotions). Some of the more well-known brands located here include Carrol Boyes, Jeep, and Häagen-Dazs. Those who prefer their shopping, food and entertainment in a more open environment can head over to the Rosebank Sunday Market. Here, more than 500 stalls of vibrancy await shoppers looking for hand-made items, creative crafts, market stalls, live music (on the last Sunday of every month), children’s entertainment, and numerous gourmet food traders.