Quarto com estilo num apartamento elegante, hospedado pelo Sr. Dr. e...

You can tell a lot from upfront communication. From initial enquiry, through to the days leading up to my arrival, Raymond's messages were engaging, curious, suitably disclosing and full of energy ; anticipation of a 'decent' few days accommodation was therefore high. But what I was anticipating, I now realise could never have been imagined. R290 (£13) and a straightforward 40 minute Uber ride delivered me to Bryanston, a smart district of J’burg and one benefitting from ideal transport links and an adjacent, well resourced shopping centre. As the security gates opened, I was welcomed by Raymond personally and immediately put at ease. He's a force of nature - in all the right ways - and once inside, the next 3 hours vanished. Conversation is not lacking in this household - intelligent, insightful, frivolous, some serious, a lot not...the chat flowed until it was suggested that I be taken on a brief orientation of the immediate vicinity and beyond that, Sandton. This was already proving to be much more than just a 'bed for the night'. Landing back home and Ockert had returned from work. Like Raymond, he's immediately likeable, if not more measured, quieter, considered and thoughtful. Both are charismatic; one is yin to the other's yang. Together, a potent partnership and with me in the mix, an ‘easy’ dynamic was quickly established between us. This home is set in some really lovely grounds, where everything feels secure and with very much a community spirit at play. Inside, a strong sense of identity & style immediately impacts, not least from the impressive artwork - unique & eclectic, traditional & contemporary. My room was comfortable and having a next door bathroom was a bonus and easily shared. Here, ‘our home is your home' is a very apparent ethos. I'd hoped for a socially interactive and relaxing experience. What I got was the richness of friendship around an intent to show me Johannesburg in all its wonderfully competing glory with the oft-perceived ‘jewel’ of Africa that is Cape Town. Pretoria Boeremark ( arriving at 06.30 was SO worth it ), a totally absorbing performance at The Market Theatre, driving the streets of the old CBD, delicious homemade bobotie, the joy of JQC...and I’ve not even mentioned Sister Jenny ! What a privilege to experience so much local ‘bounty’ through hospitality of the highest order. Outstanding value all round and the most confident of recommendations.