In the province of Gauteng and in the northeastern portion of South Africa, rests Johannesburg. Booming with growth, it is one of the biggest metropolitan areas in the world. Johannesburg has become South Africa’s center of commerce.
History of Johannesburg
The amazing growth of the city of Johannesburg became inevitable after prospector George Harrison from Australia discovered the Witwatersrand gold mines in 1886. He sold his claim for 10 pounds, unaware of the magnitude of what he had found. Hordes of treasure seekers were about to inundate what would become the famed “City Of Gold”.
Things to see in Johannesburg
Apartheid Museum
If you visit the Apartheid Museum, you’ll see a reflection of days gone by. You’ll see pictures of steel enclosures, and videos showing the underbelly of Apartheid. You’ll also be able to sit in the “Kasper,” a relic yellow and blue police van with and inside it you can watch footage from the Apartheid era. In addition, you’ll see weapons used to exact Apartheid-style injustice.
The Soweto Food Festival
The festival showcases both international cuisine and local food side. Cultural cafes demonstrate the preparations such as Venda, Tswana etcetera. Chef’s kitchen demonstrates tastes and techniques from around the globe without having to travel to other countries. The idea is to generate cultural exchange with food being the platform.
If you enjoy beer or wine tasting, you will find plenty of opportunities. For beer lovers, the Beer Garden is the best place to visit. If you prefer wine tasting, a relaxing drive along the wine route will acquaint you with the best wines in South Africa. If you happen to be traveling with children, there is a location with lots of fun activities available, where you can drop off your children before you begin your adventure.
Word’s deepest pub
While you travel underground in a worn out lift for 226 meters, you will find the donkey stables, which once upon a time housed the donkeys which were used to transport the gold filled rocks, from the worlds deepest and richest gold mines to the outer world. Now the stables have been transformed into a bar where tourists can go for a drink.
Gold Reef City
Gold Reef City that is situated about 6 kilometers south of the city, has an old mine which can be viewed to know how it was operated. Not only can you view the old mine but it also includes Gold Reef City hotel, restaurants and shops such as SA mint, which is the right place to buy silver and gold jewelry for cheap prices. A five-piece band is available in the town square to provide good music and entertain the listeners for the whole day.
People can also do hands on activities at the science centre where you can experiment with different machines. If you feel adventurous, you can take your pick of the 28 rides, such as the tower of terror and the river rapids.
Johannesburg was once a small mining town, but due to its high grade of cultural diversity at present, it has grown into a vibrant capitalist city. Any tourist with a catch for South African vibe is sure to enjoy this place.
You can also get cheap Johannesburg car rental deals online by going to Car Rentals South Africa.
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