Lifestyle and Shopping in Johannesburg

Expats relocating to the The ‘City of Gold’ will find plenty of attractions and activities to enjoy, it may just come as a surprise that the majority of what's on is behind high walls and heavy gates. 

Though what the city lacks in open, outdoor activity it makes up for with fabulous shopping opportunities, a vibrant nightlife and an eclectic mix of restaurants and eateries; Johannesburg also features good entertainment venues, unforgettable annual events, world-class sports facilities and luxurious spas.

With everything from designer boutiques and haute couture to bargain buys at local markets and department stores, Johannesburg has it all. The trendy Sandton City is a good place to start where everything can be found under one roof while the adjacent Mandela Square makes a fabulous refuelling centre to stop and people watch. On Sundays and public holidays head to the Rosebank Rooftop Market where just about everything can be found, or head to Northgate or Fourways Mall if shopping malls are your thing, while the Bruma Flea Market specialises in African souvenirs and crafts – perfect for decking out your new home.

Johannesburg has a lot of money with the nightlife to match so there’s no shortage of world-class clubs, discos, bars, cocktail lounges and theatres. For theatre and shows head to the Civic Theatre for a cultured night out, while those looking to shake a tail feather should spend a night out in the city centre round Orange Grove or Melville, while the posh suburbs of Hyde Park, Sandton and Melrose Arch ooze with plush clubs and expats shouldn’t be surprised if they bump into some local celebrities at these hangouts.