The Living Room

The Living Room is an inner city rooftop oasis situated in the heart of Maboneng. We have such a beautiful city with its unique skyline and views, so why wouldn't you want to host a beautiful wedding at a stunning venue? You can dress it up however you wish or add your own personal touch to their boho urban eco style space. They also have catering partners that can assist with all your catering needs and a fully stocked bar with some of the best cocktails in the city. Just imagine it - a true Johannesburg wedding in the middle of the bustling city, surrounded by breathtaking panoramic views of the city. It doesn't get any better than that.

Arts on Main

We all know that Arts on Main in the cultural and artsy district of the city, the Maboneng Precinct, is THE place to go if you're looking to indulge and enjoy the inner city vibes, but did you know you can hire out a few of their venues for a wedding? We had no clue and absolutely love the idea! Just imagine saying your 'I dos' in The Olive and Lemon Grove Courtyard or the Event Space or celebrating your union at the Canteen Restaurant and Bar. This is definitely a unique and trendy setting if you want to incorporate the essence of Jozi's inner city.

Urban Tree

This venue is so elegant, extraordinary and stylish that we just had to mention it as an urban wedding venue contender. The Urban Tree is a third-floor roof garden on the very edge of Sandton, which overlooks the forest-like upmarket suburbs of Strathavon and Morningside. It is truly an industrial and architectural gem that exudes the feeling of urban chic. You can take your pick from hosting an open-air roof party or planning something inside with the venue's luxurious interior. This venue is VERY exclusive, so make sure you book a site visit to see exactly how extraordinary it is.

Katy’s Palace Bar

If you're looking to celebrate your wedding day on the rooftop of a venue in another part of town (let's say Kramerville), then you need to visit the hip, trendy and oh-so-urban Katy's Palace Bar. This venue hosts plenty of awesome parties throughout the year such as their popular Fiesta Fridays and Dancehall soirées, and best of all, it boasts amazing views of Sandton. This venue is an absolute gem, so if you're looking for the epitome of urban chic and style to add a little trendiness to your special day, this is the venue. You will not be disappointed.

The Thunder Walker

This venue definitely has to be one of our favourites due to its history and uniqueness! The Thunder Walker is located within a narrow old bank building in the the financial district of Johannesburg. This venue consists of various interlinked event spaces, namely, Thunder Walker Arcade and Thunder Walker Banqueting Hall. Another space that attracts visitors to this old building, called the Somerset House (built in 1904), is the Zwipi Underground Bar which is found a story underground, complete with its original lock boxes, bank vault doors, marble  floor and gold hand-lettered signage. This is truly a unique destination for a wedding reception.

Fox Junction Event Venue

This urban-industrial venue has been voted as the Best City Wedding Venue! Fox Junction Event Venue is just the space is you're looking for the ultimate feel of urban chic. Perfect for large weddings, this venue is not only unique and quite frankly a blank canvas, but it's also stylish and centrally located in the heart of the bustling city. They also offer a large selection of furniture as part of venue hire, including seating, tables and chairs, lounge pods, room dividers, as well as a draping service and set up crew to assist in the preparation for your special day.

The Rand Club

There's something so elegant and sophisticated about those bygone days. And a venue space that truly showcases the grandeur and style of the good old days is The Rand Club in Marshalltown. Exuding Joburg's history, this space offers guests and wedding couples an atmosphere and setting that's sure to impress. They have a selection of versatile rooms to suit small intimate functions of 10 to weddings of 250 guests. Don't forget to view their iconic staircase which leads to the lovely common area. This will make a stunning backdrop for your wedding pictures!

Welcome to Maboneng, one of the hippest hangouts in the inner city. On weekends, it filled to the brim with tourists and locals alike. The streets overflow with vendors selling everything from authentic artworks to super cool shades and everything in between. When the sun goes down, the rooftop bars fill up with cool kids who like to dance and have a good time. In between all of this excitement, you will find authentic African restaurants that cover everything from West to East Africa. Maboneng is also home to a handful of art galleries and an independent movie theatre. Recently rated among 12 coolest neighborhoods in the world by Forbes Magazine. Maboneng precinct is a collaborative hub of culture, business and lifestyle that entices curiosity, encourages exploration, promotes a sense of urban togetherness and provides a creative take on history, architecture, art and nature.

What Are You Looking?

Shopping
Restaurants
Entertainment
Hotels & Accommodation
Market On Main
Property

Shopping

Arts and crafts. That's the name of the game when it comes to shopping in Maboneng. Sure, there are clothing stores that stock indie designers, but it all comes down to the same thing: handmade, artisan type stuff and Maboneng is full of it! Take a look at all the exciting, unique and interesting retail spaces in this vibrant and up-and-coming inner-city suburb. Maboneng is home to the legendary David Krut Bookstore, the community art project I Was Shot In Joburg (which sells AMAZING photo prints taken by street kids), and, of course, Market On Main (which we've dedicated an entire section to on this page). What makes Maboneng a unique place to shop is the street vendors.

Explore Shopping In Maboneng.

Restaurants

One can't simply visit the City Of Gold and not sample some of its cuisines! Laced with restaurants and cafés exploring both local and international cuisine, you are sure to find many restaurants that live up to your palate's expectations. From award-winning curries to pizza and popcorn, Maboneng is a foodie's dream come true. Thanks to the number of hotels and hostels in the neighbourhood, the food services in Maboneng marches to the beat of a very funky drum.

Explore Restaurants In Maboneng.

Entertainment In Maboneng

Known as 'the other' city that never sleeps, Jozi has got a nightlife so unique that you can't replicate it anywhere else on earth. Maboneng is filled to brim with rooftop bars and night clubs for visitors and residents in the area to explore and enjoy. Whether you're looking for laid back live music and lekker drinks or an all-nighter next to a big sparkling pool, Maboneng has the entertainment you're craving.

Explore Entertainment In Maboneng.

Hotels & Accomodation

With its ample amount of hotels, hostels, and even AirBnB offerings, Maboneng is the place to lay your head when you're all partied out. From the world-famous Zebra Inn to the legendary Main Street Life, there's a place with a warm bed and a hot shower around almost every corner in this area. Check out Maboneng's accommodation offerings and book your stay soon!

Explore Hotels And Accommodation In Maboneng.

The Maboneng Market On Main

Launched in January 2011, Market on Main has established itself as Johannesburg’s leading urban food and design market. Market on Main was started by design entrepreneurs Jacques van der Watt of fashion label Black Coffee and Bradley Kirshenbaum of Love Jozi – with the vision to give top food and design entrepreneurs a beautiful space to trade weekly. Our goal is to encourage inner-city lifestyle and provide a relaxed and creative space for makers to trade, and for locals and visitors to spend their weekend leisure time.

Explore The Maboneng Market On Main.

Property In Maboneng

Filled to the brim with young, hip and creative people, this area is where the up-and-coming starter-uppers choose to reside. Thanks to the number of cafes and restaurants that offer free Wi-Fi, the streets are your office. Whether you're looking to rent a studio apartment built out of old shipping containers or looking for a loft with a view, there's something sure to suit your needs. Maboneng encourages the artistic and entrepreneurial spirit, has reasonably priced apartments– priced from around R500,000 – and offers residents an alternative to suburban living.

Explore Property In Maboneng.

Dlala Nje

Dlala Nje is a dedicated NGO, working to change hearts and minds. The organisation supports underprivileged youth at their community centre in Hillbrow, through changing perceptions about what it means to live and play in the inner city. Due to the outbreak of COVID-19 and lockdown restrictions, Dlala Nje have had to halt all of their walking tours, rooftop yoga and sundowner events. As a result, they are struggling to maintain operational costs and keep the community centre afloat.

Help support this local business by purchasing from a range of experience packages on offer to enjoy after lockdown. These packages include Dlala Nje's Urban Hike and Queer Hillbrow experiences. If you purchase one package now, you will get another free to enjoy once this dystopian nightmare has come to an end. Don't miss out!

Purchase your experience package here.

Soweto Backpackers

Have you always wanted to go on a bicycle tour of Orlando? Lebo's Soweto Backpackers welcome visitors from around the city (and the world), to their backpackers lodge and exhilarating tours around Soweto year round. Over the last five weeks under lockdown, this has been impossible and like most local businesses, Lebo's Soweto Backpackers will need your help to survive.

Help keep Lebo's Soweto Backpackers going through lockdown and beyond by purchasing an experience package, valid for a whole year! Many of their tours have been discounted by up to 20%, so you can save a few pennies while still helping a local business. We like the sound of their two-hour bike ride through Soweto followed by a wholesome lunch. Here are the other experiences on offer for post-lockdown:

• Tuk Tuk tour
• Food & Cooking tour
• Potjiekos buffet 

Get booking now!

https://www.instagram.com/p/B-eu0TVDIJz/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

The Bioscope Independent Cinema 

Shortly before lockdown was implemented, The Bioscope Independent Cinema announced big news - they will be moving out of Maboneng and into the 44 Stanley complex in Milpark! This move was intended to offer faithful Bioscope audiences a greater variety of events and more space to enjoy world-class independent cinema. While we may not be able to enjoy this space for some time, you can help keep The Bioscope running from behind the scenes by purchasing one of their new benefit packages:

1. Popcorn Benefit (R500 per person) – Complimentary and bottomless popcorn every time you visit The Bioscope in 2020, your name on the Friends Of The Bioscope plaque and automatic sign-up to The Cine Society club.
2. Ticket Benefit (R1500 per person) – Complimentary access into ANY public screening in 2020 (subject to booking ahead via email). Complimentary and bottomless popcorn every time you visit The Bioscope in 2020, your name on the Friends Of The Bioscope plaque and automatic sign-up to The Cine Society club.
3. Private Party Benefit (R3000) – For individuals and companies. This ticket gets you exclusive use of the cinema room for your own screening event! This will be for a date and time agreed upon in writing over email and gets you two hours in the cinema room. During this event, The Bioscope will offer all your guests complimentary, bottomless popcorn!

The Bioscope will be selling Benefit Tickets through their online ticketing system. Alternatively, you can contact them via email at [email protected]

Once In Joburg 

Joburg's only official 'poshtel' is the place to go for urban adventures on a budget. And, we can't think of any better way to celebrate once lockdown has ended. However, for the time being, Once In Joburg will be functioning as a safe haven for health care workers under the Ubuntu Beds Initiative. They are helping to prevent the spread of COVID-19 by offering doctors, nurses and stranded travellers a warm bed at night and a safe place to self-isolate.

You can show Once In Joburg just how much you appreciate their efforts by buying an experience package now, to enjoy later. Visit the Once Travel website to find out what experiences they have on offer. You can also donate to the Once Tribe Fund to help support the 57 of the hostel's most vulnerable staff during this time.

Underground Booksellers Tour 

Bridge Books is an independent seller of new and second-hand books with a focus on African literature. Their Underground Booksellers Tour is legendary for highlighting the rich literary culture of Johannesburg and showing people that there is more to the inner city than crime and degradation.

You can help support Bridge Books from under lockdown in various ways. The most simple of course, is to pre-order books for delivery after lockdown. However, you can also book your spot for the Underground Booksellers Tour (at half-price!) and their isiZulu classes, which will be taking place online until 29 April 2020.

Bridge Books will furthermore be running a crowdfunding campaign to support their non-profit project called the African Book Trust. Through this initiative, the store has sent thousands of books to rural and township schools and libraries all over the country. However, their focus for 2020 is on their own neighbourhood in the Joburg CBD. This community faces an uphill battle in light of the COVID-19 crisis, and as such Bridge Books are calling on their supporters for help. You can read more about this here.

Joburg Places

Another absolute must-visit Jozi tour is Joburg Places Migrant Cuisine Storytelling Dinner. Guests are treated to a delightful dinner at the Zwipi Underground Bar, before being whisked away on a night-time adventure through the inner city. Seeing as the only midnight expeditions we will be going on in the near future is to the fridge and back to bed, Joburg Places has reached out to their patrons for help.

You can help keep Joburg Places going for the rest of April by purchasing a ticket to a storytelling dinner or walking tour, to be enjoyed at the end of the lockdown period. When you purchase a spot at a future storytelling dinner, you get four seats for the price of three! Alternatively, you can simply buy a Forward Voucher to be redeemed at a later date. Your small contribution will go a long way towards assisting their staff and keeping them afloat until such time that they can resume normal activity. Buy your voucher here.

Do you know of any other local businesses offering experience packages that can be used post-lockdown? Let us know about them! 

What Is It?

The Jozi City Takeover Photo Walk is back! Since its first edition in 2018, this inner city walking event has drawn in people from all over Joburg looking to discover its hidden gems. This Human Rights weekend, join the Jozi City Takeover and take back your city! Don't forget to bring your cameras.

Schedule:

• The walk will start at 15:30 from The Sheds and continue to Gandhi Square for sunset.
• From here, Joburg Places has given tour walkers the opportunity to see their remarkable Zwipi Underground Bar.
• Afterwards the group will head back to The Sheds just after sunset, taking a saunter through the old mining district.

When Is It?

Sunday, 22 March 2020 at 15:00 - 19:30.

Where Is It?

Starting point: 1 Fox Sheds, 14 Alexander Street, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

The event is free to join, but you must register online beforehand.

For more information

Click here for more information.

What Is It?

Thunder Walker and Joburg Places present their Town treasures and Summer on the Square Market this December. Come through to the iconic Gandhi Square for five days of shopping for town treasures, combined with leisurely food and drinks at the coolest venue in the Joburg inner-city. You can expect delectable street food and gourmet braai menu, live entertainment from DJs and trinket hunting with Charlie Moyo and Gerald Garner. Shop around for Ethiopian coffee and tea sets, Izimbadada (sandals), hand-crafted jewellery, stunning carpets, homeware (cutlery and crockery), books (new and second hand), original art and prints of famous local artists, as well as antiques and collectables, deli items such as olives, preserves, sauces and much more. Don't miss it!

When Is It?

Thursday, 12 December 2019 - Monday, 16 December 2019 from 12:00 - 22:00 daily.

Where Is It?

The Thunder Walker, Gandhi Square, 110 Fox Street, 2001 Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

To book a table or to book underground parking, send an email to [email protected] or send a Whatsapp to 082 894 5216.

For more information 

Follow Joburg Places on Facebook for more information.

What Is It?

Get ready for a fabulous Saturday at their next Farmer's Market. Where you can indulge in homemade treats, community vendors, fresh coffee and baked goods, organic veg and herbs, they literally have everything you need and more. All their art galleries and studios will be open. Don't you worry yourself about parking because there will be parking along Viljoen Street and their covered Victoria Road. Enjoy the day in a safe environment. Lots to do for the kids as well, they can look forward to face painting, balloon twisters, and stilt walker and live music all day.

When Is It?

Saturday, 28 September 2019 at 09:30 - 14:00.

Where Is It?

Victoria Yards, 16 Viljoen Road, Lorentzville, Victoria Yards, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Not mentioned.

For More Information

Visit this Facebook page or contact 010 594 5210 or [email protected] for more information.

What Is It?

The coffee and cycling culture in Jozi has grown and that is why the Jozi Coffee Cycle Tour is just what you need. You get to enjoy an amazing cup of coffee and head on your way with the cycle tour. During the tour, you get to visit amazing coffee spots  and admire the incomparable architecture in the city. Definitely worth while! So, make sure you book now while there is still availability for good coffee and an awesome cycle experience.

When Is It?

Saturday, 24 August 2019 at 09:00 - 14:00.

Where Is It?

The Cosmopolitan, 24 Albrecht Street, Jeppestown, Maboneng, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Tickets are R450 with bike rental per person and R350 own bike  per person (includes free coffee at the start).

For More Information.

For more information, visit Here.

What Is It?

Bridge Books is an independent book store and coffee shop situated in the Joburg CBD and Maboneng Precinct. They regularly host workshops and events for Jozi book lovers eager to learn more about the history and legacy of Southern African literature. This May they will be hosting the Underground Booksellers Tour. Join Griffin Shea of Bridge Books City Central for a guided walk through the inner-city’s literary history. Trace Joburg’s informal book trade and its rich reading culture. The walk starts with coffee at Bridge Books, before meandering through Joburg's historic financial district. Stop off at heritage buildings such as the Meischke’s Building (which housed Joburg’s first bookshop and is now home to a thriving Nigerian chapbooks store), the beautiful Italianate Johannesburg City Library, colourful bookstores dedicated to African political memoirs and inner-city book markets that specialise in Southern African literature.

When Is It?

Saturday, 11 May 2019 at 10:00 - 12:25.

Where Is It?

Bridge Books City Central, 95 Commissioner Street, Johannesburg. 

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R200 per person. Book your tickets online via Quicket.

For More Information

For more information, visit Bridge Book's Facebook page.

Contact them on 079 708 4461 or via email at [email protected]

Work has started on the first new residential building in Jewel City on Main Street and, in addition, the first residential conversion of an existing building on site is now underway. The Jewel City redevelopment initiative is a substantial investment in Joburg by Divercity, a new investment fund that is renewing and re-energising South Africa’s urban centres with unique inner-city precinct development.

Phase One Of Divercity's Project

The estimated time of occupation in the residential section is expected to be in November 2019 as the first floors of the development are completed. Upper floors will become available first, moving down the buildings until all floors are finished, with Phase 1 completion in April 2020.

Divercity combines commercial buildings with affordable residential accommodation to create inclusive and diverse neighbourhoods. Its key shareholders and stakeholders are Atterbury Property, Ithemba Property and Talis Property Fund, and its cornerstone investors are RMH Property and Nedbank Property Partners.

A Remodeled Jewel City

By remodelling Jewel City’s existing buildings and constructing new buildings of over 40 000sqm, Divercity is converting a formerly closed-off area of the city into a thriving, modern inner-city neighbourhood. Jewel City will reopen to the public in 2020 as a vibrant mixed-use precinct, including 1 200 new residential apartments in its first phase and up to 1 000 in its second phase.

Leading South African property developer and investor, Atterbury, is managing the development for Divercity and reports that Nomad Construction is the appointed contractor of the first residential redevelopment, Block One. WBHO/Matheo JV is the appointed contractor for the first new residential building, Block Six, and all other elements of the development.

The master programme for Jewel City has been orchestrated so the development of all six buildings of the first phase will be completed at the same time. “There will be a crescendo of activity as those buildings that require less time for completion are progressively added to the active construction programme,” explains Derrick Pautz, Atterbury Development Manager.

The amenity-rich mixed-use precinct also includes commercial space and parking. There is already good progress on leasing the development’s first 14 000sqm of commercial space, which includes a primary and high school, as well as medical facilities.

“Jewel City is enjoying excellent buy-in from major national retailers, which are showing keen interest and commitment,” reports Pautz.

The world-class "live, work, play" Jewel City will connect with two other Divercity projects, being the new Towers Main redevelopment in the ABSA precinct and its vibey Maboneng residential addresses. This link will be facilitated with a people-friendly walkway along Fox Street.

“We’re excited to break down the walls of Jewel City and open up great living opportunities and enhanced quality of life for people in the city,” says Pautz.

The development is a massive boost for the economy of Joburg. It will create an estimated 1 279 temporary jobs and 25 permanent jobs, and add to both the municipal and national tax base. Jewel City is expected to have a total development value of more than R1.2bn once complete.

What Is It?

There's so much history in our city! Most of the time, we don't even realise how much has taken place in the CBD itself. The JoburgPlaces Money, Banks & Vaults Tour covers the historic financial district of the inner city around Marshalltown. Many of the most historic buildings in this part of town are the erstwhile bank buildings. Money, banks and vaults were at the heart and soul of Joburg's Gold Rush inception and development. Here, you'll get to experience these remarkable spaces and hear their fascinating stories.

Typical tour schedule:

• 10:00 - Tour starts with introduction on Gandhi Square
• 10:15 - Introduction with coffee and scones at Scatterlings Restaurant
• 10:40 - Walk to City Central
• 10:50 - Arrive at City Central, 85 Commissioner, Barclays Bank Head Office
• 11:10 - Walk to National Bank House (First Colonial Bank of the Transvaal Colony and later the banking hall of First National Bank)
• 11:20 - Arrive at National Bank House and tour the banking hall.
• 11:45 - Walk across Library Gardens (Beyers Naude Square and through the Bank City complex, down Kerk Street to the old Johannesburg Stock Exchange, now known as the JSE Newtown)
• 12:00 - Arrive at JSE Newtown and visit the old stock exchange trading floor
• 12:25 - Walk down Ferreira Street past Anglo American to the Old French Bank and on to Standard Bank.
• 13:00 - Arrive at Standard Bank where we visit the Mine Shaft Museum
• 13:30 - Walk to Gandhi Square
• 13:40 - Arrive at the Thunder Walker and proceed to Zwipi Underground Bar
• 14:00 - Harvest table lunch at the Zwipi Underground Bar
• 15:30 - Tour ends

When Is It?

Saturday, 13 April 2019 from 10:00 - 15:30.

Where Is It?

Thunder Walker, Gandhi Square or 110 Fox Street, Johannesburg CBD.

How Much Is It?

R495 per person. To book, contact Gerald Garner on [email protected] or 082 894 5216.

Cost includes: coffee with scones in the morning and a scrumptious harvest-table lunch. Any other drinks for your own account.

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit JoburgPlaces on Facebook.

What Is It?

Is exploring your city on your 2019 bucket list? Then be sure not to miss out on the opportunity to suss out Newtown has to offer with a walking tour! This is your chance to learn a little more about the inner city and its history, public art and urban renewal. There'll also be refreshment stops, trivia and fun for the whole family. The tour starts and ends at Newtown Junction which will offer  secure underground parking. Book your spot now before it's too late.

When Is It?

Sunday, 20 January 2019 from 09:30 - 12:00.

Where Is It?

The tour starts at Newtown Junction, 100 Carr Street, Newtown, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

R150 per person. Email [email protected] for details on booking and payment.

For More Information

For more information about this tour, visit Jozi Jammin' on Facebook.

What Is It?

Zwipi Underground Bar returns with their safari and secret underground dinner events for 2019. This unique inner city experience comes with a three course meal, beverage pairings and a guided tour through Ghandi Square. Diners can expect two paired drinks with their starters and desserts. Depending on the menu for the evening, these drinks will either be gin and tonics or a glass of wine and port. The delicious main course meal will be served at Zwipi Underground Bar.

When Is It?

Saturday, 6 April 2019 from 19:00 - 23:00.

Where Is It?

Zwipi Underground Bar, 110 Fox Street, 2000 Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

R595 per person, including two paired drinks, city tour and a three-course meal. Contact 082 894 5216 for tickets.

For More Information

Visit their Facebook page for all the info you need.

What Is It?

For a unique and interesting night out, don't miss Burger King® SA & Yay Abe hosted by Sneaker LAB. It's an evening dedicated to art, sneakers, delicious food and just having a good time. This First Thursday event is in celebration of local illustrator, Russell Abrahams from YAY ABE, and his collaboration with Burger King South Africa. From 19:00, Russell and BK will be welcoming guests and offering a little insight into the collaboration and what to expect. You can also catch a glimpse of the behind-the-scenes with a video projected on the wall.

This event will be taking place at Sneaker LAB in Braam. And there's an exciting lineup to look forward to, which includes everything from refreshing drinks and awesome music from DJ Khanya to sneaker cleaning for your beloved sneaks, as well as BIG KING™ burgers which will be delivered throughout the evening. It's going to be a night out you don't want to miss!

When Is It?

Thursday, 06 December 2018 from 19:00 to 22:00

Where Is It?

Sneaker LAB, 70 Juta Street, Braamfontein, Johannesburg.

How Much Is It?

Entrance is FREE!

For More Information

For more information about this event, visit their Facebook event listing.

Don't forget to visit Burger King South Africa, Sneaker Lab and First Thursdays Johannesburg on Facebook.

Also, don't forget to follow Burger King South Africa on Instagram and Twitter.

Ever Heard Of A Poshtel?

Once in Joburg exploded onto the Jozi scene at the end of 2016, as the first *poshtel, identified under the umbrella company Once Travel, with sister hotel Once in Cape Town. A poshtel - AKA a posh hostel - combines the luxuries of a boutique hotel with the energy and excitement of a backpackers hostel! It's a unique concept and is definitely something you need to check out if you're looking to experience the best of Joburg. And with the launch of their brand-new “Once Business” concept, it's a new space where you can do it all - sleep, eat, work and explore.

So, What's The Accommodation Like?

This hybrid accommodation concept boasts both private double and twin standard rooms, and four-bed multi-share dorms, all with en suite bathrooms. All rooms offer basic luxuries such as hair conditioner, crisp white linen, flat screen TVs (privates only), safety deposit box and block out curtains. As for the multi-share rooms, they provide a more budget-friendly option for the solo traveller or a group of friends look for adventure. Costs start from R190 per person*.

Let's move onto the facilities! This includes a cinema room, small conference and meeting rooms, co-working space, communal entertainment area, large open kitchen, free Wi-Fi, free on-site parking, a restaurant and bar, laundry service, bike hire and 24-hour reception. Breakfast is included at the on-site restaurant and bar called The Immigrant.

Location, Location, Location!

Once in Joburg is centrally located in trendy downtown Braamfontein. The Braamfontein precinct is up and coming, offering inner-city goers endless options of co-working spaces, art galleries, museums, designer boutiques, vintage shopping, nightlife hot spots, farmer’s markets and so much more.

The dynamic team curates a variety of experiences to showcase the best of our bustling city. Join in on local adventures such as the Braam By Bike tour which is curated, owned and led by Zodwa, a local Sowetan. She will take you around the neighbourhood on a bicycle, uncovering street art, culture, history and cuisine. It's an absolute must! Try a traditional beer brewing experience (umqomboti) set in a family home in Soweto, or attend their monthly First Thursdays with live DJs and film screenings.

There's also daily free walking tours, graffiti walks, yoga classes and pub crawls leave from reception – locals are more than welcome to join in! Let's not forget to mention, an artist exchange is offered where a large blank canvas in every room is painted by an artist, both local and international, in exchange for accommodation. It brings people from different parts of the world together to share stories and experiences, as well as culture, music and art. How unique!

This One Is For The Music Lovers!

If you're a virtuoso, then make sure you hop on an overland truck with Once in Joburg and go on a musical journey to the coolest events around the country, such as AfrikaBurn (Africa’s version of Burning Man: Karoo - April), Bushfire Festival (Swaziland - May), Rocking The Daisies (Darling – September), OppiKoppi (Limpopo – October), and Afropunk which will be returning to Constitution Hill for NYE 2018 – a stones throw from Once in Joburg. Join the festivities: you’re never alone and never without a local.

For More Information

For bookings or more information about Once In Joburg, call 087 057 2638 or visit www.once.travel.

Don't forget to give them a follow on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

It's Surrounded By History, Culture & Heritage

The Marabi Club is a hidden gem that you definitely need to experience if you're paying the inner city a visit. This unique jazz venue was established in 2017 by TJ Steyn and Dale de Ruig, and has formed part of the inner-city regeneration. This space was an abandoned basement parking lot in an old diamond industry building before it was recreated into a trendy and interesting live music hotspot which harnesses the vibe and grit of real, down-town Jozi.

The thing is, you need to know where to find it! Tucked underneath 46 hotel rooms, a conference centre, gym, spa and rooftop bar, The Marabi Club isn't as obvious as you'd think. It can be found at the very bottom of Maboneng’s iconic, Hallmark House. If you're having trouble locating it, just keep an eye out for the discreet black canopy above a small metal door. Quick tip: make use of their valet service for parking!

The Decor Will Take You Back In Time

We believe that Marabi Club is a well disguised time machine. It teleports visitors back in time with their 20s inspired décor, yet also spends you straight into the future with their trendy, cosmopolitan style and new age African ambiance. The careful detail that captures the history of the building and surrounds as well as the present culture and diversity in the inner city definitely makes it a truly unique venue to relax, indulge and enjoy a few pleasures, which we will get into shortly. Not only that, from the moment you step in through the door, it certainly doesn't feel like you're in the heart of Jozi anymore! With all the interesting décor and atmosphere, it feels more like you've fallen down a rabbit hole and landed in one jazzy, top-notch kind of place.

The Chef Is Remarkable!

The Marabi Club's Head Chef, Vusi Ndlovu, is the master behind the amazing menu! His take on the tapas menu has pushed guests to experience something new and explore the boundaries of dishes they thought they would never try. Oysters and beef fat, calamari and grapes are a few of the dishes he serves to his diners. Vibrant, assertive and confident; Vusi lives up to the reputation that he has built, a chef who challenges the norms and pushes the envelop to create unique and astonishing food that'll wow your senses.

He was named one of the top seven in the 2018 San Pellegrino Best Young Chef Awards and the top-ranked in Middle East and Africa, using skills, techniques and flavour combinations learnt from his tenure under Chef David Higgs as well as in one of Europe’s top restaurants, In de Wulf in Belgium. Vusi’s menu is true to the Marabi style and is a progressive representation of Joburg’s fusion of tradition and future.

The Food Is Incredible

The cuisine at The Marabi Club is not what you expect it to be. The food here is not your traditional bar basket grub, oh no! It's far more than that. Vusi really wanted to do something creative, interesting and exquisite with The cuisine at Marabi Club and designed a menu that'll blow your mind (and taste buds). A great example of his creativity and skill on a plate is with his twist on broccoli. When you think of this simple vegetable, what comes to mind? Little green trees of not-so-goodness? Well, then you need to try the broccoli here - it was prepared with various different textures, flavours and surprises, our taste buds didn't know what hit them. It’s certainly not what you'd think it would be - it's even better!

Another must are their cocktails. They're everything you'd want in a cocktail and are definitely dream-worthy. Just like the venue, they're flamboyant and quirky, and will have you coming back for more. Other than the top-class food and trendy cocktails, they also have a fantastic selection of wine as well as cigars to indulge your senses. This combination of delights presents a 360˚ experience that is one-of-a-kind for its visitors.

"And All That Jazz!"

The music at The Marabi Club reflects the popular genre during Joburg’s heyday. During the gold rush, Marabi's music and lifestyle was born - blues, jazz and soul, the perfect remedy when one needs to escape the hardships of the working week in the 20s and 30s.

The stage at The Marabi Club is the focal point of the restaurant, offering diners a platform for a premium jazz experience. Pictures of the Master of Jazz pantheon adorn the walls and it is the ideal stage for talented emerging artists wanting to perform and share their craft. Guests will be delighted with a variety of solo artists and bands throughout the evenings.

For More Information

For more information about the Marabi Club, visit www.themarabiclub.com. You can also call the on 010 591 2879 or email them at [email protected].

Don't forget to give them a follow on Instagram and Facebook.

What The Red Bull Music Festival Is All About

The festival, is set to take over the city as it takes place at various venues around town. With over 80 artists expected to perform, Jozi will be spoiled for choice. More acts will be added to the massive lineup set to take over Johannesburg. The City’s iconic venues, which have become home to the most accomplished local performers will provide the best entertainment experience for music revelers. The Orbit, Bassline, AND Club, Kitcheners, Great Dane, Fox Junction and Zone 6 are some of the venues that will host the Red Bull Music Festival. Red Bull Music Festival Johannesburg is a global celebration of 20 years of the Red Bull Music Academy. The Academy is a world-traveling series of music workshops and festivals. Festival goers of all ages visiting the city will undoubtedly celebrate Johannesburg in its legendary light. The festival has been held in various cities including Los Angeles, New York City and Paris and espouses the values of the RBMA: to create, collaborate and celebrate the SA music scene.

 

Who's Jamming At The Red Bull Music Festival?

The second night at Orbit will offer a different taste to the music lover’s pallet. The night will feature a musical arrangement fostering creativity in sound creation and collaboration in a never to be heard again Round Robin performance. Round Robin is a performance where a musician takes the stage for a five minute solo performance before being joined by other musicians from multifaceted backgrounds, who improvise together in segments of 5 minutes each. This will be a celebration of Jozi’s diverse, iconic sounds. Artists such as pianist, Luyanda Madope, drummer Tlale Makhene and vocalist Keorapetse Kolwane are amongst some of the artists who will perform this once off music experience.

The festival kicks off on Tuesday, 3 April, by paying homage some of the greats who have played a role in shaping the South African and the global music scenes. Friday, 6 April, will be the busiest night at the festival, with no less than four venues hosting individual party experiences. AND Club, which boasts one of the best sound systems in Jozi, will provide the best techno sounds. DJ Lag, Stiff Pap and Angel Ho will bring the house down at Kitcheners and Sean Munnik, Rouge and K-$ will show how millennials like to throw it down at Great Dane.

At the same time on Friday at Republic of 94, the legacy of Kwaito will be celebrated, going back to the mid-tempo mixture of house, hip-hop and pantsula culture of Trompies through to the sped up Afro-House sounds of Oskido and Afrontainment. Music enthusiasts will re-enact the the 90s style and edgy attitude inspired by icons such as Brenda Fassie, and Lebo Mathosa.

Saturday sees modern soul music trailblazers Shekhinah, Langa Mavuso, 340 Million, Gina Jeanz and legendary ghetto funk pioneer Egyptian Lover take over Fox Junction. The venue will have three captivating stages which will cater for diverse music tastes. Audiences will enjoy new genres such as trip hop, house future R&B and everything in between.

Closing the weekend on 8 April at Zone 6, Sjava and Shomadjozi will demonstrate their maverick styles and how they combine modern hip-hop with the traditional sounds of Maskandi and XiTsonga music respectively. South African deep-house royalty Da Capo and hip-hop chief AKA round off the night and festival to conclude the week’s celebrations.

When And Where Is It?

Tuesday, 3 April 2018 to Saturday, 8 April 2018.

Orbit (Tuesday and Wednesday), Republic Of 94 (Friday), Great Dane (Friday) Kitcheners (Friday), AND Club (Friday), Fox Junction (Saturday), Zone 6 (Sunday)

Tickets to the Red Bull Music Festival are available on www.redbullmusicfestivaljhb.com, priced from R100 – R350.

By Shawn GReyling

What Is It?

Kick off your weekend at the Weekend Market JHB as they host the popular and delicious Gin & Craft Beer Festival. You can expect a day filled with all things yummy, fun and family-friendly! The entertainment lineup on the day includes live bands, a scrumptious food market, flea market for a little retail therapy, plenty of kids' activities, and quad bikes, go-karting, carnival vibes and more. Best of all... entrance is FREE!

When Is It?

Saturday, 28 April 2018 from 09:00.

Where Is It?

Weekend Market JHB, 01 Rifle Range Road, Ridgeway, Johannesburg CBD.

How Much Is It?

Entrance is FREE.

For More Information

Visit www.weekendmarketjhb.co.za or check them out on Facebook.

Welcome to the VW #VIVOnation Festival

Volkswagen South Africa’s exciting two-day music and lifestyle festival, VW VIVOnation, is back! VW VIVOnation is set to take over The Container Yard in downtown Johannesburg once again for an unmissable weekend of music, food, friends, high octane, tyre-screeching fun and new experiences, brought to you by the Volkswagen Polo Vivo.

This year, they're doing it again. Over 100 containers will be moved around The Container Yard and repurposed to create a bespoke festival layout and experience. Fans will get to enjoy exhilarating rides around the Vivo autocross track and sing their hearts out to win a road trip in the Vivo lip sync competition. A few firsts will include a beach bar, lifestyle pop-up shops and a fresh selection of food and drinks stalls.

And that's not all! As a proudly South African brand, Polo Vivo has curated an exceptional line-up of the biggest and hottest names in music from across the country, all on one stage: AKA, Sho Madjozi, Shane Eagle, Busiswa, DJ Maphorisa, Rouge, DJ Kent, Simmy , Sjava, Mlindo The Vocalist and DJ Zan-D.

VW VIVOnation is proudly partnered with YFM.

No under 18’s. Terms and conditions apply.

When Is It?

Saturday, 06 April 2019 and Sunday, 07 April 2019. 

Where Is It?

The Container Yard, Impex Avenue, City Deep, downtown Joburg.

How Much Is It?

Tickets cost R50 per person for either Saturday or Sunday* and are available at www.vwvivonation.co.za.

Your R50 ticket will be converted into a free R50 food and drink voucher upon arrival. Also, there will be loads of spot prizes up for grabs throughout the day for ticket holders who arrive between 13:00 and 15:00.

Please note: You can buy a maximum of FOUR tickets. Each ticket needs to be assigned to a unique email address at the time of purchase. Each person will be sent their ticket individually to the email address supplied (so make sure it’s correct).

*You can only get a ticket for either Saturday or Sunday, not both days.

Hurry, tickets are limited!

For More Information

For information on the new Volkswagen Polo Vivo, visit www.vw.co.za.

Join the hype by posting and searching with #VIVOnation and #VWLive.

The VW #VIVOnation is proudly partnered with YFM.

The VW #VIVOnation Festival is a no under 18’s event. Terms and conditions apply.

What Is It?

Experience Joburg culture to the MAX with great food, good people and exciting music at the Taste of Jozi Food Festival featuring the best food vendors in town. All dishes will be priced according to each stall owner (there will be over 50 specially selected food vendors from which to choose), plus a Beer Garden and craft beers, food trucks, DJs and live performances, and security throughout the event.

When Is It?

Friday, 30 March 2018 from 13:00 - 23:00.

Where Is It?

Old JHB Train Station, Newtown, Johannesburg CBD.

How Much Is It?

Early bird tickets cost R60 per person and are available at Nutickets from now until 09 February 2018. Thereafter, they'll cost R100 and R150 at the gate.

For More Information

Visit www.tasteofjozifoodfestival.co.za. You can also contact them at [email protected].

The original artist and hipster hangout, Maboneng, had humble beginnings at Fox Street’s Arts on Main in 2009. Soon it evolved into an inner-city suburb, the brainchild of property development group Propertuity. Their projects include the Work + Art Building, which, as the name suggests, is a workspace combined with an art showcase, and Maboneng’s flagship accommodation and hotel development, Hallmark House.

The renovation of this precinct has played a significant role in the transformation of Johannesburg. A decade ago, this section of Jeppestown was a dirty and dangerous place, but now, it's as if the sun has risen anew on the City of Gold to reveal this marvel of design, enterprise and regeneration.

In June 2016, RMB Holdings swooped in and bought a third of Propertuity. RMB's stake in this company was its first venture into specialist portfolios that focus on niche areas of the property sector. With this, the developers realised their vision for the Maboneng Precinct, which they aim to reach by 2020. They have said:

"The current Maboneng footprint is so large that some argue it may be the world’s largest privately led regeneration project by size. The scale is such that the growth can amount to a neighbourhood of over 20 000 residents by 2020. This neighbourhood will include people living in buildings that Propertuity does not own but fall within the geography of the broader Maboneng area."

Propertuity will continue to steer Maboneng but can't control ownership nor all the operations of the public space – all they can do is try to influence it.

So, what does the expansion entail? Finishing six developments, including the much-anticipated, mix-use space, Evolution House. Propertuity also owns developments in Durban and is currently setting its sights on the Pretoria CBD.

By Shawn Greyling

Have you seen any new developments around Maboneng lately? Let us know what you think of this in the comments section below.

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