Poelano Malema

Eating out this Christmas means no long hours in the kitchen - just good food and great company. It’s the perfect way to relax, connect with family, and soak up the holiday vibes. With Christmas just around the corner, restaurants across Johannesburg are already rolling out their festive specials. Get ready to indulge in mouth-watering feasts, festive flavours, and unforgettable dining experiences across the city. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Sipho Cecil Peter Mabuse, affectionately known as “Hotstix,” is a household name not only in South Africa but across the continent. You simply can’t talk about the jazz scene in this country without mentioning him. For the past several decades, Sipho has helped shape and influence South African music, putting the nation on the map with his unique, melodic and soul-healing sound. Now in his 70s, Sipho began playing musical instruments at the age of seven and became a professional musician by the time he was 15. He is a true multi-instrumentalist, skilled in drums, flute, piano, saxophone, kalimba, alto flute, timbales and various African drums. Known for classics such as Shikisha and Jive Soweto, Mabuse has earned several major accolades, including the GQ Lifetime Achievement Award (2021), the Silver Order of Ikhamanga for his contribution to music (2018), and a Lifetime Achievement Award at the 13th Annual South African Traditional Music Achievement Awards (SATMA). Born in the iconic township of Soweto, Sipho has taken African stories and rhythms to stages worldwide. His music has carried South Africans through some of the toughest seasons, offering comfort and hope - and when it’s time to celebrate, his sound is always there to lift the nation’s spirits. A proper custodian of culture, the music legend continues to mentor young musicians and remains deeply passionate about preserving African sounds and traditions. One of his mentees is a young South African artist, Billy Mona

From live music under city lights to art fairs, food markets, theatre, and cultural festivals – Johannesburg is alive with events that celebrate its creativity, diversity, and unstoppable energy. Whether you’re into jazz at sunset, rooftop parties, cutting-edge exhibitions, or family-friendly weekend plans, our curated guide brings you the best of what’s happening in the City of Gold. Stay plugged in and never miss a moment.RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

Here’s hoping you like excitement because the best things to do in Johannesburg will have you on the edge of your seat. That isn’t true if you take the Red Bus tour, as you can sit back comfortably and enjoy everything this famous South African city offers.Johannesburg is one of the biggest cities in Africa and the biggest in the world not built on a water source. Joburg was actually built on a goldmine, so keep that in the back pocket of your pub quiz team for future reference. So come along with us as we take a look at the best things to do in Johannesburg, from catching a live sports match and taking in the cultural vibes to walking in the footsteps of historical figures of great importance. RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! This guide includes affiliate links, which have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, see our affiliate guidelines.

Let’s face it, Joburg’s dining scene can get pricey, especially in the glitzier corners of Sandton. But eating out doesn’t have to mean emptying your wallet. In fact, with a bit of savvy, you can score seriously delicious meals that are big on flavour and light on the budget. This National Savings Month, we’re spotlighting spots where great food meets great value. We’re talking sit-down gems (no drive-thrus here) where you can tuck into everything from cult-fave shawarma to hidden Italian treasures, all for under R150, and sometimes even under R100. Here’s where to eat well without breaking the bank or your appetite.   RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍸 The best bars and pubs in Johannesburg🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg

Johannesburg might be known as the City of Gold, but it also shines in another way, with its gloriously dramatic summer storms. The weather here is generally kind all year round, never too hot or too cold, but between September and May, the Highveld comes alive with rolling thunder and sudden downpours. December is usually the wettest month, and this year, forecasters are predicting even wetter conditions stretching from spring into early summer. This isn’t your average drizzle either, Jozi’s subtropical climate and high altitude mean we see an unusually high number of lightning strikes (up to 20 flashes per square kilometre a year!), turning the sky into a light show on most summer afternoons. While it pays to be prepared - think checking the forecast, wearing proper shoes, packing a waterproof jacket, and driving carefully, sometimes the best move is to embrace it. Rainy days are a perfect excuse to slow down, switch gears, and explore a softer side of the city. So grab your umbrella and join us as we dive into the best things to do on a rainy day in Johannesburg, from cosy coffee spots and cultural hideaways to all-weather adventures worth braving the storm for.  RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram! 

For over two decades, Ntokozo Mbambo has been one of Africa’s most celebrated and sought-after voices. Her healing and soulful sound has brought hope to millions, uniting music lovers from all walks of life. From singing for presidents to performing the National Anthem at the 2024 Springbok rugby match, Ntokozo continues to shine brightly as one of South Africa’s most inspiring artists. Her music has taken her across the world — performing in countries such as Nigeria and beyond — and earning her numerous accolades along the way. She has also collaborated with top African musicians and shared stages with Grammy Award-winning artists like CeCe Winans, cementing her place among gospel’s finest. Originally from Durban, Ntokozo now calls Johannesburg home. She says one of the things she loves most about the city is its vibrant, fast-paced energy. “So, I come from a coastal area. Down there, people are very relaxed — very chilled. I don’t know whether it’s the sea breeze,” she laughs. “But what I love about Jo’burg is that it’s fast-paced. Oh, and I also love that there’s not much traffic during Christmas — because everybody’s gone home!” Another thing that stands out for her is the city’s diverse culinary scene. “I love food, okay? I love eating,” she admits with a smile. “My husband and I always try to find new restaurants to experience something different. That’s why it’s hard to choose a favourite restaurant — there are just so many gems around the city to discover.” Join her

Who doesn’t love a great deal, especially when it involves good food and great company? Two-for-one meal specials have long been a favourite on the Joburg dining scene, giving us the perfect excuse to head out for a delicious bite without breaking the bank. So, if you’re craving a meal out but keeping an eye on your budget, don’t worry, we’ve got you. These buy-one-get-one-free or two-for-one specials make dining out feel like a proper treat (without the splurge). If you feel we've missed anything, please pop over to our social pages and let us know - Facebook. Let's share the good deals with everyone! NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up-to-date as possible. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook!    

Welcome to Local Intel, your guide to Johannesburg from the people who know it best. We chat with local personalities, tastemakers, and city enthusiasts to unlock their favourite spots and untold stories. Forget the guidebooks, this is authentic Joburg. From Soweto to the ends of the world, Xoli Zondo’s passion for sport has taken her across the globe, exposing her to different cities, yet her heart remains in Johannesburg. The media and radio personality says that no matter where she travels, Joburg will always be home. “Johannesburg is a vibrant and eclectic city. It’s a melting pot of different cultures. What also stands out is how varied the city’s landscape is; the North of Joburg is very different from the South, and it’s their uniqueness that makes living in this bustling city so enjoyable,” she says. When asked to describe Johannesburg in three words, she chooses bustling, eclectic, and fast-paced.  

There are few things better in life than rounding up your besties and heading for a brunch with mimosas and delicious eats. Then there is the wonder attached to a family breakfast in order to catch up on the latest happenings with some eggs benny or smashed avo on toast. Om nom nom. To help you decide on your next breakfast or brunch adventure, we've put together a guide of the best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

September is Heritage Month in South Africa, and what better way to celebrate than by indulging in some of Mzansi’s most loved street foods? Most of the dishes are paired with pap (maize meal), a popular staple in South African homes. Other people prefer ting ya mabele (fermented porridge), samp or steamed bread. To drink, the popular traditional drink is umqombothi (a South African traditional type of beer made from maize, maize malt, sorghum malt, yeast, and water) or ginger beer.  Street vendors often set up tables and chairs next to their mobile kitchens, creating a casual space for customers to enjoy their meals. These meals, commonly referred to as a “plate”, typically range from about R40 for pap with one type of meat and relish, to around R90 for a fuller option. Eating out on the street isn’t just about the food — it’s also a wonderful opportunity to mingle with locals and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.Below are some of the foods you can enjoy from local vendors who specialise in proudly South African dishes. TIME OUT RECOMMENDS: 😋 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍸 The best bars and pubs in Johannesburg🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Johannesburg☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Johannesburg Follow Time Out Johannesburg on Facebook, TikTok and Instagram!

Tag your little one along without worrying about paying extra for their dish. These Johannesburg restaurants have amazing deals that are sure to put a smile on every parent’s face. Please note that kids eat free when accompanied by a dining adult.  NB: Please note that these specials can change from time to time, and we have no control over if/when they do. We will do our best to keep the list as up-to-date as possible.

When I first stepped into The Maslow Time Square, I was utterly blown away by the interior décor. I couldn’t believe such a stunning hotel was tucked away in Pretoria. It made me reflect on all the times I travelled out of the province searching for luxury hotels, while something this exquisite was only 30km from home. Calling it “beautiful” almost feels like an understatement – modern, elegant, and effortlessly stylish. I arrived quite late in the evening (after 9pm), but the check-in process was seamless. Even before reaching reception, I was left impressed - as soon as I drove into the parking lot, the security guard already had my details from the booking, so there was no need to produce documents or dig through my luggage. At reception, I was warmly welcomed with a smile, and despite my late arrival, the staff made me feel completely at ease. The hotel itself is vast, and its scale alone impressed me. Another plus is its accessibility - even by public transport. Why stay at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? This hotel offers more than just luxury – it provides peace of mind and a homely feel. It provides a calm and relaxing environment. It is beautifully designed and boasts breathtaking city views. The service throughout my stay was excellent, with staff genuinely committed to making guests comfortable. It is also the ideal place to meet up with business associates or spoil yourself with a break. What are the rooms like at The Maslow Time Square Hotel? I slept in the median

Prison Break Market in Johannesburg is not only beautiful, but it has a huge variety of services including crafter stalls, restaurants, and crockery painting. It also boasts sprawling lawns and landscapes, making it the perfect spot to take beautiful photos for Instagram. What to expect during your visit: The market features nine sheds that accommodate a wide variety of products and services available at the market, including: Harvest Pantry Enjoy the comforting aroma of freshly baked bread from the onsite bakery. Pick up farm-fresh produce, seasonal fruits and authentic dairy products. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm The Yard Eatery A vibrant spot serving up everything from sweet indulgences to savoury meals. Ideal for a casual bite or a relaxed dining experience. • Thursday to Sunday: 10 am to 9 pm Crafters Shed Browse a wide array of arts and crafts, or take part in interactive workshops ranging from woodworking to jewellery making. • Wednesday to Friday: 9 am to 3 pm• Saturday and Sunday: 9 am to 4 pm Create Lonehill Let your imagination run wild at this ceramic painting shed – fun for all ages and perfect for a creative day out. • Tuesday to Sunday: 9 am to 5 pm Pourhouse Quench your thirst with a selection of craft beers, fine wines and artisan spirits in a relaxed setting. • Wednesday: 11 am to 7 pm • Thursday to Saturday: 11 am to 9 am Good to know: • Entry to the market is free. • The market is completely cashless.

Riversands Farm Village is a sought-after market in Johannesburg, providing locals with fresh produce and great entertainment.  It is environmentally friendly and an ideal place to go with your friends or family.  What to expect during your visit: Riversands Farm Village is a vibrant destination known for its organic food and lively weekend atmosphere, attracting over 850 visitors every weekend. At the heart of the village is its bustling market – a hub for fresh, preservative-free produce supplied directly by local farmers. The market also offers a variety of artisanal stalls, craft bars, and food vendors, making it the perfect spot for a relaxed and flavorful outing. The venue is dog-friendly – welcoming around 400 furry friends each weekend – and fully wheelchair-accessible, ensuring an inclusive experience for all. Health-conscious visitors can enjoy the scenic trails ideal for hiking or mountain biking, while those looking to unwind can sip on a glass of craft beer or wine at one of the many bar stalls. Families are especially welcome. The market features a dedicated kids’ play area with fun games, as well as exciting activities for all ages including a water park, treetop adventures, a zip-line, and paintball. To top it all off, live music from local artists adds to the festive atmosphere, creating the perfect soundtrack for a day of shopping, eating, and exploring. Operating hours: • Saturday: 8:30 am to 4 pm • Sunday: 8:30 am to 5 pm Price: • Entry is free

The Johannesburg City Library, situated in the city's central business district, houses millions of books, audiovisual materials, and offers engaging services such as literacy classes and storytelling sessions. What to expect during your visit: The library boasts a collection of over 1.5 million books and serves more than 250,000 members.   The premises also house several specialist libraries, including the Central Reference Library, Children’s Library, Michaelis Art Library, Multimedia Library, Music Library, Harold Strange Library of African Studies, and the Newspaper Reading Room. Good to know: To use the library, you must present your identity document and proof of residence upon entrance. You can also take out a membership card, which allows you to borrow four books or fewer for free.

Enjoy a unique drive-through movie experience on Father's Day. Enjoy an unforgettable day filled with laughter, stars, classics, and quality time with the special man in your life. Watch action on camera while indulging in delicious food, snacks, and beverages.  The event is held at the livery stable, Inanda Country Base, in Kyalami.  It starts with Finding Nemo film followed by Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back at20:30.  The following day, Saturday, features two movies - Sing and Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade.   

Join award-winning actor, director and children’s author Upile uThixo Bongco at Bridge Books as she reads and tells the story of a young boy with two dads. Her book, Big Shoes to Fill, is the basis for the storytelling event.  The book talks about the enormous amount of love the young man receives from his fathers.  The books are translated into isiXhosa, isiZulu, and Afrikaans.  It will be a storytelling event featuring fun activities for the kids, including building their treasure box.  Upile will be joined by multi-talented artist Donovan Yaards.  The book is currently selling for R185 and can be purchased here. Bridge Books The venue, Bridge Books, is a bookstore with hundreds of books in different languages and is based in downtown Johannesburg. So after the event, feel free to explore Johannesburg. Here are the 27 best things to do in Johannesburg.   

Located in the heart of downtown Johannesburg, Bridge Books is more than just a place to find your next great read. Whether you're looking to explore new stories, host an event, or even publish your own writing, Bridge Books offers a welcoming space for readers and writers alike. What to expect during your visit: Bridge Books hosts events including book launches, Silent Reading Clubs, and live readings. It's also a family-friendly space, with dedicated areas for children to enjoy storytelling sessions and educational games. The store features a diverse and thoughtfully curated collection of books, ranging from contemporary fiction to titles in African languages, celebrating local voices and global perspectives. Operating hours: • Monday to Friday: 9 am to 5 pm • Saturday: 10 am to 4 pm • Sunday: closed 

It is often said, 'the way to a man's heart is through his stomach'.  Spoil dad with a tasty meal from Le Bon Goût café in Olifantsfontein. The Father's Day event features a live perfomance from a surprise guest artist.  What's on the plate?  - Welcome drink -  Bread, butter and jam- Main meal ( Potatoes, onions and mushrooms, lamb and chicken roast)  - Dessert (Malva pudding and custard).  The meal costs R380 per person and under 13s pay R150.     

Carnival City and Entertainment World is hosting a great Father's Day lunch event this Sunday.  Dads will be pampered with delicious food, gifts and a welcoming drink. What's cool about the event is that children are welcome, ensuring that dad doesn't have to spend the day alone. Children aged 4-12 pay only R200 per meal.  Carnival City and Entertainment World is loved for its vibrancy. The entertainment venue has stunning interio, ideal for taking Instagram worthy photos with dad.  The venue also has varied selection of eateries which sell traditional to international dishes.  You can also seal the night with a movie at one of the cinemas on the premises.   

Golf is one of the popular sports for men, so why not show dad how special he is by taking him to the World of Golf ? Whether he is a good golfer or a beginner, he is in for a great time.  The venue is hosting a variety of activities planned to ensure dad has the best day of his life.  Apart from golf, dad will be spoiled with delicious lunch. The venue is hosting a braai.  There will also live entertainment and live music, alongside other surprises.  

A way to a man's heart is through the stomach, so why not spoil dad with delicious lunch at Grande View Prime View Adventure and Leisure in Midrand this Father's Day?  For only R185, dad will enjoy 500g T-Bone steak with fried egg and chips. The lunch is from 11:00 - 18:00.  If T-bone is not dad's favourite, you can also spoil him with other variety of meals served at the restaurant.  The venue has several eateries and a large area for chilling while overlooking a dam. Dad can bond with loved ones while admiring the beautiful outdoor setting.   After eating lunch, dad can go fishing on the premises while the little ones get entertained at the large kids' play area.   Quinch the thirst with non-alcoholic and alcoholic beverages available at the restaurant. The venue also hires a live DJ from time to time, so prepare for surprises.   

Give dad an experience of a lifetime by heading to the Kyalami Equestrian Park for a stargazing event. The stargazing is done in a secure, quite, dark park.  Let dad connect with nature while looking at the stars.  The laser-guided sky tour will include seeing the Orion’s Belt.  According to Quicket, the event will feature a laser-guided sky tour and a turn at our powerful telescopes as attendees explore: The mighty Jupiter, and hopefully a few of its moonsThe Moon’s incredible craters and surface detail (after 9pm)The warm, steady glow of MarsOrion’s Belt and other deep-sky surprises you never knew were out there! This is definitely a nice and unique gift for dad! 

The Department of Home Affairs (DHA) is spreading the festive cheer. Joburgers looking to apply for smart IDs or passports have something to smile about this festive season. The department has officially extended its operating hours. With the holiday rush in full swing and many people preparing to travel or update personal records, the timing couldn't be better. Selected Home Affairs offices will now be open until 18:00, which is great news, especially in a congested city such as Johannesburg, where millions of South Africans reside.  "On these days, offices will close at 18:00, instead of 16:00. Services offered during the extended hours will be available at offices equipped to process Smart ID Cards and Passports," states Home Affairs.  South Africans know that a visit to the Home Affairs can turn into a nightmare. If you don't arrive early in the morning, you risk being turned away without assistance. So, the announcement comes as a relief. Now residents have extra time to sort out those essential documents without worrying about taking time off work or rearranging their entire day.  This means that if you were planning to travel and was dealing with expired or lost documents that need urgent attention, now you have more time to get things sorted.   The Minister of Home Affairs, Dr Leon Schreiber, says: “We remain committed to providing accessible and people-centred services. With our offices operating on extended hours ahead of and during the festive season, I encourage S

Joburg’s favourite malls are turning up the holiday spirit with extended trading hours - giving shoppers even more time to find the perfect gifts, browse their favourite stores, or simply soak in the festive energy.   From twinkling décor to family-friendly activities, malls across the city have pulled out all the stops to make this festive season feel magical, so not only will you enjoy later shopping, but you can also unwind and make special memories while at it. Mall of Africa If you’re in and around Midrand, or looking for a big festive shopping experience, the largest mall on the continent is ready to welcome you. Mall of Africa is giving shoppers plenty of extra time to enjoy the over 300 stores it has to offer.  5–18 December: The mall will stay open until 21:00, giving shoppers just a little more time to grab that outfit, gadget, or enjoy a delicious meal at one of its restaurants.19–23 December: The mall will stay open until 22:00, perfect for those post-work shopping trips. 24 December: The mall will open from 09:00–18:00, ideal for the last-minute Christmas shopping. 25 December: Trading hours will differ from store to store, so it’s best to check ahead before you go.26–30 December: The mall goes back to normal hours: 09:00–20:00.31 December: The mall will open from 09:00–18:00 as everyone prepares for New Year’s celebrations.1 January: The mall will open from 09:00–14:00.  Rosebank Mall If you love the trendy, stylish atmosphere of Rosebank Mall, you’

Sabrina Claudio has become the latest international celebrity to fall in love with the city of Joburg, joining the likes of Oprah Winfrey and Idris Elba.  The award-winning singer visited Johannesburg over the weekend for her YFM's LYFE Festival performance at Marks Park in Randburg.  Sabrina not only serenaded her South African fans but also fell in love with the crowd and city. Of course, this comes as no surprise - Joburg is known for its warmth, vibrancy and unforgettable energy.  The singer was exposed to the beauty of Joburg when she visited some of its iconic townships - Soweto and Orlando, and is now officially a fan of the city. After a few days in town, she left, saying she'd fallen in love - proof once again that Jozi's charm is impossible to resist.  Inspired by Sabrina's visit, here are some must-do activities when visiting Joburg:  Visit the township Sabrina shared a photo of herself on the historic streets of Soweto, where some of South Africa's icons, Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, lived. The streets showcase the spirit of Mzansi.  One thing that makes the townships in Jozi stand out is the authentic African experience - you feel the culture, the rhythm, and the people, so do yourself a favour and visit some of the townships. For the best experiences in Soweto, check out - How to choose the best Soweto tour for your visit.  Try amazing, proudly South African dishes One thing that makes South Africa stand out is its incredible cuisine and the uniqu

Johannesburg has once again proven to be the ideal host city for festivals. Known for major events such as DSTV Delicious and the Joburg Street Food Festival, the city has now been chosen to host South Africa's first-ever dedicated pastry festival, The Pastry Playhouse. The festival promises a sensory feast like no other.  If the sound of freshly baked cakes and muffins puts a smile on your face, then this festival is designed with you in mind. Think aromas of freshly baked goodies, colourful creations and opportunities to engage with industry experts. It's also perfect for anyone with a sweet tooth, offering an irresistible selection of treats.   The festival is coming to Parktown on Saturday, 13 December, at The Empire Building. It features some of the country's top pastry chefs. Some popular names in the baking circles include Doug Momberg, Kyle Van Ross and Maseehah Karodia. Their expertise will be on full display through a range of experiences, including live bake-offs, interactive workshops, tasting sessions, demonstrations, and pop-up pastry markets. This makes the festival not only a fun event, but the ideal place to shop and learn.  The festival promises a vibrant atmosphere, bringing together lovers of mouth-watering baked creations. Visitors can look forward to creativity, unique flavours, fun and family-friendly experiences.   The event will also be open to aspiring bakers, giving them a platform to showcase their talents. "Our pastry dream is only just beginning

Step into Johannesburg - one of Africa's most attractive and dynamic metros, and this is not just wishful thinking or Joburg pride talking, official results now back it. Johannesburg has secured 7th place on this year's Africa's Top 10 Most Attractive Metros by Jeune Afrique. The survey ranked the 30 most attractive cities in Africa. It conducted an extensive study with 7,877 respondents across 41 cities on the continent, and Joburg proudly made it onto the list.  The study ranked cities based on key factors, including:  Quality of life Access to essential services Economic dynamism Quality of infrastructure and transport.   Top 10 Most Attractive Metros in Africa:   Cairo Kigali Nairobi  Cape Town Casablanca Rabat Johannesburg Lagos Pretoria Tangier Eight of the top ten metros also appeared in the 2024 list. The ranking is based on 'a methodology that combines survey data with both the value and number of foreign investments'.  Time Out Says…  Johannesburg is an attractive city, not only because of its quality of life, access to essential services, economic dynamism, and high-quality infrastructure and transport, but also because of its rich culture and the energy of its people. One of its true strengths also lies in diversity, innovation and a sense of community.   What makes the city stand out is that many neighbourhoods enjoy strong access to essential services, making it an appealing place to live, work, and invest.  Johannesburg hosts several reputable hospitals, in

It’s the busiest season of the year. The December period brings excitement, movement, and high energy. As people around the city go up and down - vibing, shopping, and catching up with friends and family, the demand for e-hailing services usually shoots up. Because the festive season is packed with all kinds of fun activities, knowing that you can have fun without stressing about driving is a relief. Whether you choose to take a nap, scroll through your phone, or just enjoy the quiet moment between destinations, if you are planning to catch a ride this festive season, here are some safety tips to follow: Request a ride from an official e-hailing app. Even if the car has an e-hailing company sign, do not assume it's legitimate.  Verify all the details of your ride before getting in. Check the number plate, car model, and driver photo. Ask the driver for their name. Do not ask, "Are you *insert driver's name*?". Make sure to confirm that the ride is actually for you, especially if there are other people standing nearby. Do not say your name - ask the driver who they are there to collect. Share your live location to keep your loved ones updated about your journey. Verify the fee before leaving the vehicle and dispute any amount that doesn’t match the initial booking price. If there’s a dispute about the fare, don’t hand your mobile phone to the driver. Instead, let them guide you on the steps to take. Don’t give out personal details to the driver. Wear your seat

It’s the season to get merry, and what better way to unwind than with great food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant atmosphere? News Cafe has stepped into summer with fresh energy, unveiling a revamped menu that promises bold flavours and plenty of reasons to celebrate.The cafe has expanded its drinks offering, adding cocktails that capture the spirit of the season. The Diablo - a blend that brings together silver tequila, passion fruit, vanilla, apple juice, and sour mix, finished with a splash of Schweppes ginger ale for an added kick. Another newcomer, The Don, features Don Julio Blanco, lime juice, agave syrup, and a salt tincture.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luxe Cocktail Bar, Restaurant & Ent Venue (@newscafeza) The menu additions go beyond the bar. The cafe has also added new dishes to its breakfast menu to satisfy early-morning cravings. The Boerie Benedict elevates a South African favourite, pairing two perfectly poached eggs with boerewors spirals, chakalaka, and hollandaise atop a toasted English muffin. There is also the new Waffle Benedict, which features two poached eggs over a golden waffle, complemented by bacon, avocado, and the signature hollandaise sauce. The cafe invites guests to sip, savour, and soak up the summer mood. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Luxe Cocktail Bar, Restaurant & Ent Venue (@newscafeza)   RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels

Two major African airlines, South African Airways and TAAG Angola Airlines, have just dropped some exciting news. The two carriers have officially entered into a new codeshare agreement. In simple terms, this means you can book a single ticket and enjoy coordinated flights across both airlines - a significant win for anyone planning to explore Africa or jet off to international destinations with ease. The announcement was made earlier this week, perfectly timed for the holiday rush and adding an extra spark of excitement for travel lovers everywhere. The codeshare flights kicked off on 1 December - right as millions of travellers prepare to explore the world, reunite with loved ones, discover amazing holiday spots across the continent, or squeeze in one last adventure before the year wraps up. With demand rising throughout December, the timing couldn't be better. Passengers can look forward to smoother journeys, simpler connections, and a much more seamless link between the two networks. CEO of TAAG, Nelson Rodrigues de Oliveira, emphasised how the new deal comes with benefits for tourism within the networks.  "This alliance with South African Airways enhances our continental connectivity, opening new international destinations for our customers. It also strengthens Angola's role as a strategic hub, benefiting our economy and tourism sector. We are thrilled about this partnership, which aligns with our growth strategy and market expansion," said Nelson Rodrigues de Olive

Johannesburg's newest culinary gem, The SALT Road Houghton, is already making waves and winning awards! The eatery has earned its first major accolade despite opening a couple of months ago, in July. It was crowned Best Culinary Experience of the Year 2025 by Our-Venue.com's Spotlight of Recognition Awards, making it a must-visit dining destination for Joburgers seeking an exceptional food experience with amazing vibes. The restaurant shared the exciting news on its social media platforms earlier this week. In its announcement, the eatery paid tribute to the people who work the magic - the chefs and staff. It also expressed heartfelt gratitude to its supporters and guests, citing that the support has helped it become one of Jozi's most celebrated and loved restaurants. "We're incredibly honoured to share that The Salt Road Houghton has been awarded Best Culinary Experience of the Year 2025 by Our-Venue.com's Spotlight of Recognition Awards," it celebrated on Instagram. "This achievement is a reflection of our team's passion, the artistry of our chefs, and the unwavering support of our guests who make every service worth perfecting. Thank you for dining, sharing, and celebrating with us; this one's for you. #restaurant" View this post on Instagram A post shared by The SALT Road Houghton (@thesaltroad_houghton) The restaurant is an ode to the Cape Winelands, priding itself on bringing a touch of coastal charm and vineyard elegance to Johannesburg.

Travel alert - OR Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) is currently undergoing significant infrastructure upgrades, and travellers are being cautioned about disruptions affecting the arrivals section of the airport. According to Airports Company South Africa (ACSA), there is a partial closure of the lower road at OR Tambo International Airport. This closure forms part of a broader revamp aimed at improving airport operations and safety. “This temporary closure forms part of ongoing infrastructure upgrades aimed at enhancing airport security, improving traffic flow, and preventing unauthorised parking at designated pick-up zones,” ACSA said in a statement. As part of the new temporary arrangements, motorists will no longer be able to pick up passengers directly on the lower arrivals road in some sections. Instead, the airport has advised travellers and those fetching or dropping off passengers to use Parkade 2 North and South on Levels 3 and 4. Each level offers a 30-minute grace period, allowing for short, free stopovers.  “Should a passenger or their loved one arrive on the lower (arrivals) road, they will be rerouted to the parkade for collection and drop-off,” ACSA added. The upgrades are being carried out ahead of the busy festive season, during which many locals and guests will be travelling. OR Tambo is the largest and busiest airport in Gauteng, facilitating over 21 million passengers annually. ACSA has urged travellers "to factor in the delays, plan for additional trav

Great news for motorists across South Africa. The South African National Roads Agency (SANRAL) has announced a significant upgrade to its toll payment system, designed to address the increasing number of fraudulent transactions involving bank cards at toll booths. The agency took to social media to announce that, effective 1 December 2025, magnetic swipe cards will no longer function at any SANRAL-operated toll plazas. Instead, motorists will now utilise the Tap & Go payment option, powered by EMV contactless technology.  The decision comes after numerous incidents where criminals exploited swipe card technology at toll gates by capturing card information and using it for unauthorised transactions. With the introduction of Tap & Go, motorists can tap their cards or mobile phones without handing them to toll operators, offering stronger security and significantly reducing the risk of card skimming or data theft. Beyond safety, the new system is also designed to improve efficiency. Card-swiping and cash transactions often cause delays at toll gates, especially during peak holiday traffic. The contactless system enables faster processing, helping to ease congestion and reduce waiting times. For motorists who regularly travel long distances for work or leisure, the upgrade promises a smoother, quicker experience. The timing of the announcement could not be more relevant as South Africa approaches the festive season - one of the busiest travel periods of the year. Millions of peop

Flight to catch? Phone in hand, laptop in your backpack, earbuds charged and ready to go? That’s the reality for most gadget lovers. But what many travellers don’t realise is that all these everyday devices are powered by lithium batteries - and flying with them comes with safety risks if proper precautions aren’t taken. When overheated, damaged, or short-circuited, lithium batteries can catch fire, and in some cases may even interfere with an aircraft’s equipment. With the holiday season just days away, millions of people are gearing up to travel, explore new destinations, and reconnect with loved ones - making it more critical than ever to understand how to fly safely with your favourite tech. According to statistics from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), 83% of travellers carry a mobile phone, 60% bring a laptop, and 44% pack a power bank when they fly. With so many lithium-powered items on board, IATA has launched its global ‘Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries’ campaign to educate travellers on safer ways to pack, charge, and carry their devices. "Lithium-powered devices are safe when handled properly, but they can pose a risk if damaged or packed incorrectly. As more travellers fly with these devices, our Travel Smart with Lithium Batteries campaign will help airlines educate their passengers on the simple rules they must keep in mind when travelling with the electronic devices that have become an essential part of their daily lives,” said Nick Careen,