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Portfolio offers a variety of accommodation from fine country houses, hotels, private game reserves and game lodges, guest houses, country inns, villas and apartments, self-contained cottages and farm stays. Whether you are on safari, or planning a honeymoon, travelling with the family or seeking a romantic weekend away or simply travelling South Africa, the choices are endless with over 900 accommodation establishments to choose from countrywide. Whether you are seeking a golfing holiday, eco-safari or cultural experience, the Portfolio Collection has it all.
Johannesburg rapidly developed from a gold mining village in 1886 into the commercial centre of South Africa. Johannesburg International Airport is a popular gateway for travellers en route to Cape Town, Durban, the Kruger National Park and for travellers going on safari in Limpopo, Mpumalanga as well as Botswana and Namibia. Also known as Egoli (place of gold) or more affectionately as "Jozi", Johannesburg is a vibrant city surrounded by established suburbs. Quality accommodation in the north, is to be found in the older, gracious suburbs of Parktown, Rosebank and Westcliff, and newer areas of Sandton, Randburg and Midrand. Soweto in the south offers a unique glimpse into township life, enjoy an unforgettable overnight township stay (page 22). Johannesburg is a buzzing vibey city, and the shopping mecca of South Africa, with a wonderful range of shops, markets and crafters selling their wares.
The Apartheid Museum, near Gold Reef City, is the first of its kind and illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid. www.apartheidmuseum.org or tel 011 309 4700.
Constitution Hill is the new home of the Constitutional Court, and also the site of Johannesburg's notorious Old Fort Prison, where thousands of people were brutally punished. Many leading political activists, including Nelson Mandela, were detained there. www.constitutionhill.org.za or tel 011 274 5300.
Michael Mount Organic Market in Bryanston, operates on Thursdays from 9am, Fridays from 11am, Saturdays from 9am, tel 011 706 6125.
Gold Reef City is a great place for families. Step back in time to the days of the gold rush, theme shops, restaurants, casino and fun rides for all the family. Go down an original mine shaft.
Nelson Mandela Square at Sandton City in Sandton has a new larger than life bronze statue of Nelson Mandela. Eat on the square, alfresco or in restaurants, then visit stylish boutiques and shops in the centre.
Auckland Park and Milpark, 44 Stanley Avenue is where it's at, great new trendy area of shops, cafés and restaurants.
Greenside is Café Society, a food fundi's paradise, with one restaurant after the other along Gleneagles Road and Greenway.
Melville is hip and happening in 7th Street and 4th Avenue, packed with arty shops, studios, cafés, restaurants and jazzy joints. Street vendors sell their whacky wire creations.
The Newtown Market Theatre is over the impressive new Mandela Bridge, catch the afro-chic vibe at jazz clubs, theatres and bistros in the precinct.
Parktown North, visit Kim Sacks Gallery for great local art. Down 7th Avenue is where the delis are as well as creative new restaurants.
Parkhurst is where trendies eat and locals like to be seen. Buy fresh flowers, antiques and browse the boutiques in 4th Avenue.
In Rosebank, the Sunday Rooftop market in the Mall is a must, catch an art movie at Cinema Nouveau or stroll through the African Craft Village. Loads of shops and a buzzy vibe. | 
