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We can’t speak for everyone when we say this, but we’re pretty sure most of you will agree that January isn’t the best month when it comes to money. We often get our salaries early, which is great when buying presents in December but it leaves January with a deficit. But there’s no need to sit at home and do absolutely nothing until payday as there are lots of great things you can still do without spending a fortune. Don’t let January get the best of you – grab your camera and make the most of this otherwise dull month!

Joburg’s Bustling Art Scene

Have you done an art tour of Joburg yet? No? Well, then Now is your chance! Johannesburg is home to some iconic galleries, not to mention a barrage of modern, niche spaces and they all host the most thought-provoking and inspirational local art.

Galleries are spread throughout the city but I suggest doing one of the ‘art routes’, as they are now being called. My favourite is the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank which boasts a bunch of the best galleries, and they are all within close proximity to each other. Start at Circa on Jellicoe and make your way through Speke, SMAC, Southern Guild and WHATIFTHEWORLD.

The Healthy Option – Join ParkRun South Africa

For those of you that aren’t familiar with the Park Runs, they are 5km routes which take place in the most stunning parks and are open to all to enjoy. But you might be wondering how this is different to you just running around the block a few times? Well, the Park Runs are firstly stunning considering they take place in some of Joburg’s best parks (Delta Park, Modderfontein Park, etc) but also make for a lot of fun because the whole community gets involved. Both walkers and runners are welcome! Click here to find out more and to register for free!#

Visit A Market

Markets are great when you’re trying to work to a budget because unlike a restaurant, you don’t have to eat a meal to relax and take in the atmosphere. You can enjoy a day filled with plenty of entertainment for the kids, relaxing seating areas in the shade, some good food and a fantastic vibe. And best of all, some markets have no entrance fee, so you can walk in and suss out everything for FREE. You could wander the market, grab a drink, let the kids mission around and you’d likely spend under R100 for the whole afternoon. Visit the Modderfontein Farmers’ Market that takes place every first and last Saturday of the month (27 January 2018 is the next one!), it has plenty of fun for the whole family.

Head To A Park

People think Joburg is all cement and urban jungle but the opposite is actually true. Joburg is home to an abundance of parks. It seems that the Joburg municipality always placed a strong emphasis on keeping the city green and it has paid off in the form of well-kept and luscious parks. There is a park in almost every area so you have no excuse! Take your pick from James and Ethel Gray Park in Melrose, George Lea Park in Sandton, Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens (there s an entrance fee here), Modderfontein Reserve (small charge to get into this one), Delta Park in the Blairgowrie area and Gillooly’s Farm in Bedfordview. So, pack some picnic goodies, get the friends and family together and head down to your local park for a day of old-fashioned fun on a budget.

Take A Hike!

And while you’re out and about in nature, why not take a hike? Not only is it a great way to kickstart burning off those extra kilos gained over the festive season, but it’s also not too heavy on your wallet. You can head to Melville Koppies for a day of walking and gently climbing in sectors East and West, or book your spot for a guided hiking tour through the Central sector. It’s child-friendly, cheap and safe. You can also go to Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens and hike through a variety of trails and check out the eagles that take up residence near the waterfall.

Explore The City With City Sightseeing Tours

When was the last time you explored the city like a tourist? If you can’t remember, then make sure you take a day or two enjoying the sights and points of interest of Johannesburg with City Sightseeing Tours. Sure, it will cost you a little under R200 for the day, but it is totally worth it considering you’ll be hopping on and off an open-top red bus to see and explore the city’s top 20 attractions. It’s a must! A few attractions on the list include the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill and SAB World of Beer, just to name a few.

Jump About At BOUNCE Inc

If there’s one thing you need to blow your last hundred-and-something bucks on, it’s a fun jumping session at BOUNCE Inc! And trust us, this isn’t just fun that for the young ones. Spend a few hours bumping from trampoline to trampoline, slam-dunking, dodgeballing, climbing, flipping and flopping. It’s great exercise, an awesome idea if you’re looking to hang out with friends who are also on a budget, and loads of fun! Make sure you book your session, you can even do so online at Bounce Inc. General admission is R100* for junior jumper and student sessions and R125* per adult.

Please note: The prices mentioned in this article were correct at the time of writing and are subject to change. Please check with venues about prices before booking or visiting.

Have you been to any of these spots or done any of these activities? Tell us about your experience below!