Gauteng's
two major cities are just 50km apart, but could hardly be more different.
PRETORIA,
or ePitoli as it is known in the townships, has throughout much of its
history been the epitome of staid traditionalism, with its graceful government
buildings, wide avenues of purple flowering jacarandas, and staunchly Boer
farming origins. Yet, although South Africa's administrative capital was
long regarded as a bastion of Afrikanerdom, with its notorious supreme
court and massive prison, things are changing fast.
Ever
since the nation's re-acceptance into the international arena, Pretoria
has become increasingly cosmopolitan, with a substantial diplomatic community
living in Arcadia and Hatfield, east of the city centre. Furthermore, most
Pretorians are not Afrikaner, but Sotho and Ndebele, and the change of
government has brought many more well-educated and well-paid blacks into
the ranks of civil servants living in the capital.
The
city's Afrikaner community is hardly monolithic, either: As well as the
stereotypical khaki-shorted rednecks, there are thousands of students,
an active art scene and a thriving Afrikaans gay and lesbian community.
Pretoria
is close enough to Johannesburg's airport to provide a practical alternative
base in Gauteng, though don't fall into the blithe assumption that Pretoria
is crime-free. The main attractions are that it feels safer and less spread
out than Johannesburg, there are more conventional sites, some of which
are worth seeing, and the nightlife of Hatfield and Brooklyn is energetic
and fun...
Affectionately known as the
Jacaranda City for all the purple blossom-bedecked trees, which line its
thoroughfares in summer, Pretoria is an elegant, quiet city that's a perfect
contrast with its more frenetic neighbour, Johannesburg, just half an hour
away. Pretoria has a long, involved and fascinating history - first as
the capital of the independent Boer republic of the Transvaal, then as
one of the three capitals of South Africa, it became an international synonym
for apartheid. But that all changed in 1994. With Nelson Mandela's inauguration,
the Union Buildings morphed overnight from a symbol of white, neo-colonial
domination to one of true unity. And it's only one of the many landmarks
in this cultural city.
The
Transvaal Museum boasts excellent natural history displays and is
the home of Mrs Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at Sterkfontein
in the Cradle of Humankind. Artefacts from the Iron Age state of
Mapungubwe are exhibited at the Mapungubwe Museum at the University of
Pretoria. The famous golden rhino, golden sceptre, golden bowl and various
gold, ivory and copper ornaments, trade beads and Chinese ceramics are
on display.
Also worth visiting are the
Cultural History Museum and the Smuts Museum, in Irene, just outside Pretoria.
The fact that the iconic Voortrekker Monument still stands is a tribute
to the inclusiveness of the new regime in South Africa.
More adventurous travellers
could do a short horse trail at the Voortrekker Monument or through the
Premier Game Reserve, taking a careful look at some white rhino and a number
of eland. Or perhaps a tandem skydive or a first jump at the Pretoria Skydiving
Club, which is the largest in the country.
The nearby town of Cullinan
is the site of the discovery of the biggest diamond in the world. It's
worth a visit; there are mine tours, lovely restaurants, beautiful stone
buildings and - best of all - an on-site manufacturing jeweller where you
can buy a stone from the mine and have it mounted in a custom-designed
piece.
A
BnB to See, Waverley, PRETORIA A
rest above the best. A BnB to see is located in Breyer Avenue, Waverley.
Stunning view over Pretoria. Fully equipped with 6 Double ensuite rooms,
small conference facility, barbeque, 3 entertainment areas, pool table,
Jacuzzi. Safe parking. Shuttle services. Mini-bus taxi. A BnB to
see is situated in a quiet and serene area but still near to the center
of town. Lying at the foothills of the Magaliesberg mountain, A BnB to
see provides a tranquil home from home. Waverley is a city suburb with
a peaceful country-side ambience.
All
Seasons B&B, Moreleta Park, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Winners of Tshwane Tourist
Award: Best B&B in Pretoria 2007 and 2008. Family owned and managed,
All Seasons B&B invites guests to a memorable experience while on business
or on holiday. All Seasons offers personalized service, attention to detail
and incomparable stylishness, giving each guest a sense of belonging.
ll Seasons is situated on the East side of Pretoria on a ridge with a spectacular
view of Pretoria suburbs. Excellent shopping Malls, golf courses,
medical facilities, restaurants, Barnyard and The Preformer are all within
15 minute drive.
Amper
Bo Gastehuis, Bed and Breakfast, Riviera, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Upmarket, clean, comfortable
and secure bed and breakfast or self-catering accommodation located in
scenic Malan Street, Riviera, Pretoria. Amper Bo is easily accessible and
a short distance from historical landmarks, the zoo, main shopping centres,
hospitals, bus routes and major highways. Our property has 2 separate
guesthouses (Lower Guesthouse & Double Storey Guesthouse) each with
separate rooms, as well as 3 wooden lofts and a garden unit. Our
upmarket accommodation consisting of well equipped bedrooms includes daily
services.
Anderley
Guest House, Bed and Breakfast, Waterkloof Ridge, PRETORIA
(TSHWANE) Your hosts Michael and Wendy
provide a unique and special experience for their guests and you are immediately
made to feel comfortable and welcome. Spoil yourself by staying in
one of the luxurious double rooms that have been individually decorated
with superior finishes creating a fresh, bright atmosphere that immediately
make you feel at home and relaxed. In the morning a delicious full
English or Continental breakfast 'fit for a King' is served on the patio
or in the beautifully furnished dining room.
At
Sunset View B&B, Bed and Breakfast, Self-catering, Riviera, PRETORIA
(TSHWANE) Situated in the suburb of
Riviera, on a hill overlooking the city of Pretoria and a magnificent view
of the beautiful African sunset. Close to the city yet in tranquil surroundings:
set in a lush evergreen garden with a beautiful and fun featured rock pool.
We offer 6 tastefully decorated en-suite rooms. Communal TV. All rooms
have access to a balcony and some rooms have private patios and entrances.
Transfers from Johannesburg International Airport can be arranged as well
as tours in and around Pretoria.
Bed
& Breakfast At Ted's Place, Wapadrand, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Experience superb hospitality
and personal service in this beautiful private home where guests are always
welcome. Ted's Place offers the discerning traveller four tastefully
decorated ensuite double bedrooms all with television. There is a private
lounge and games room. Safe, secure lock-up garages leading directly into
the home is a further convenience. A full breakfast is served. Nestling
on
the gentle slope of the Bronberg Mountain with its breathtaking views it
is close to all major highways. This residence provides quick access leading
to the inner city or 'Big Five' game parks and Mpumalanga to the east.
Capital
B&B, Self Catering / Guest House, Capital Park, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Older Suburb (older type
house)One of the 1st suburbs in Pretoria... Affordable accomodation - Budget
Beaters. Do not expect modern - Older Establishment. Personal
Service and a quiet relaxed atmosphere, clean, friendliness, helpfulness,
safe surroundings and secure parking are all part of our service.
Well–kept gardens, with a stone built braai for those times when you would
like to do your own barbeques. Charcoal, wood, etc. for sale. Nostalgic
journey into the past! Cottage furniture, Art, Wood carvings, old copper
street lights, stained glass windows complete the charm of the pressed
ceilings and wooden floors.
Jakaranda
Lodge, Luxury accommodation & self catering, Rietfontein PRETORIA
(TSHWANE) Jakaranda Lodge now offers
a variety of 3 & 4 star luxury accommodations at affordable rates.
The new four star suites and studios are all air-conditioned. You
have a choice of and suites or studio, B & B room or self catering
units. Each room has tea/coffee facilities, cleaning service, telephone,
TV and parking. Jakaranda Lodge is situated in a quiet neighbourhood near
hospitals and educational institutions etc. The lodge also has an on premises
restaurant and conference facilities.
Kloof
B & B, Bed & Breakfast / Self Catering, Moreleta Park, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Kloof B & B is situated
in the Moreleta nature reserve with impala and Blesbok. Enjoy peace
and tranquility in our quiet tree filled suburb with its abundant bird
life. Kloof is near Menlyn shopping centre with a variety of restaurants
and over 300 shops. Close proximity to many golf courses. Top class medical
facilities at Kloof, Denmar and Pretoria East hospitals. We have
a spacious double room, en-suite fully equipped kitchen, lounge, separate
entrance, lock-up garage, pool and 24 hr security.
Maribelle's
Bed & Breakfast, Lynnwood Ridge, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Feel at home with our Inter-national
hospitality in the eastern suburbs of Pretoria. Exquisitely furnished rooms,
lead into a relaxing swimming pool area surrounded by subtropical plants.
Observe and listen to the abundant bird life. Enjoy your breakfast on the
patio or under palm trees in a tranquil setting at the poolside. We speak
English, Afrikaans, German, Dutch & Polish fluently. Maribelle's
B&B has a homely atmosphere with an African theme. Hosts, Chris and
Isabelle go out of their way to make their visitors feel welcome.
Separate entrance and private living area.
Park
Gables of Arcadia, Bed and Breakfast, Arcadia, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Friendly yet unobtrusive
hospitality in a gracious, homely atmosphere; with scrumptious health and
English-style breakfasts. Dinner available by prior arrangement.
High premium is placed on comfort and privacy. 12 en suite bedrooms
with sparkling white linen and towels, each with own TV (M-Net) and telephone.
Laundry facilities and secure parking available. Easy walking distance
to Pretoria Art Museum and Minolta/Loftus sports complex and many embassies.
Close to State Theatre, Union Buildings, Hatfield commercial and trendy
night-life attractions, University of Pretoria, several hospitals, clinics
and schools.
Pebble
Fountain Guest House, Bed & Breakfast, Self-catering, Brooklyn, PRETORIA
(TSHWANE) The Pebble Fountain is situated
in a safe & beautiful eastern suburb of Pretoria. We are located
opposite the University of Pretoria and within walking distance from various
schools, Loftus Versfeld, churches & main shopping centres. Our
seven luxury rooms are all en-suite, air-conditioned, with T.V, DSTV, telephones
and tea and coffee making facilities. Wifi in all rooms. We also
have 3 fully equipped luxury self catering units. Monthly rates are available
on request. An outdoor swimming pool, laundry facilities and transport
& tours can be arranged.
Royal
Ridge Guest House, Bed and Breakfast, Self-catering, Waterkloof
Ridge, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Situated in the prestigious
suburb of Waterkloof Ridge Pretoria/Tshwane. Accommodation is offered in
stylish en suite bedrooms with private entrances. Added comfort includes
satelite TV, tea trays and all amenities to ensure a pleasant stay. Relax
in a tranquil landscaped garden with its abundant bird life. We also
offer Self-Catering garden suites, which are unique in character, tastefully
furnished, fully equipped and serviced. Close to restaurants and
shopping centers. Secure parking.
Two
Oaks Lynnwood, Bed and Breakfast, Lynnwood, PRETORIA (TSHWANE) Accommodation is in one
of two suites attached to the main home, but private. Suite # 1 comprises
a large twin bedroom and lounge area with a large full bathroom en suite.
Mini Kitchenette with Tea/coffee facilities, fridge and Microwave. Suite
# 2 comprises a large twin bedroom and lounge area with a sleeper couch.
There is a separate bathroom, separate toilet and separate shower. Kitchenette
with a wash-up, bar fridge, tea/coffee making facilities, microwave, steam
iron, board etc. Both suites have TV with access to M-Net, electric blankets,
and fans.
Arcadia
Hotel, Pretoria The Arcadia Hotel is located
at the foot of Pretoria's Union Buildings, just 40 minutes from Johannesburg
International Airport. The administrative capital of South Africa, Pretoria
is a popular destination for both tourists and business travelers.
Its avenues lined with trademark Jacaranda trees, Pretoria offers guests
a taste of South African hospitality and plenty of open-air parks and gardens.
Its National Zoological Gardens are amongst the world's largest, with countless
animal species and a fascinating aquarium. Visit the Voortrekker Monument,
commemorating the Battle Of Blood River, where the Voortrekkers defeated
the Zulus, or take a tour of the premier diamond mine in Cullinan, about
30 km east of town, where the world's largest diamond was found.
Centurion
Lake Hotel, Pretoria Centurion Lake Hotel is
situated on the banks of South Africa's picturesque Centurion Lake, located
500 metres from a shopping centre and 750 metres from the Centurion Park
cricket ground. The 160 air-conditioned guestrooms are located on six floors
and feature warm, earth tones and patterned fabrics. Amenities include
wireless Internet access, direct-dial phones, televisions, minibars, coffee
and tea-making facilities and safes. Bathrooms have shower/tub combinations
and complimentary toiletries. Hypo-allergenic bedding is available on request.
The hotel's cricket-themed Lords Restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere and
an à la carte menu.
Don
Arcadia I, Arcadia, Pretoria From
the moment you arrive at The Don Suite Hotels you'll experience the freedom
to stay your way. We believe in more than just a philosophy of extra
care and attention to detail. We've created a fully serviced home-away-from-home.
Whether you stay for 1 day or 100 days you'll enjoy the lifestyle that
only South Africa's largest suite hotel group can offer you. Looking
for political clout? Don Arcadia l is situated close to the Union Buildings
and Embassies on jacaranda-lined streets with famous restaurants and shops
close by. 1 and 2 bedroom fully self-catering suites for your business
or travel enjoyment.
Don
Arcadia II. Arcadia, Pretoria Within
walking distance of the Union Buildings and Embassies, this Don Suite hotel
is also an important political address and has a number of restaurants
and shops on its doorstep for your breaks from affairs of state!
The Don Arcadia II is a modern hotel built in a traditional style with
white exterior walls and red tiled roofing. The hotel is situated two kilometres
from the Union Buildings and seven from the golf course. Guests can
enjoy a swim in the outdoor pool or hire the barbecue to cook an alfresco
meal. In the mornings guests can make use of the breakfast service and
order a full English breakfast. Guests with children can take advantage
of the babysitting service, and free parking is on offer for those arriving
by car.
The
Transvaal Museum boasts excellent natural history displays and is
the home of Mrs Ples, the australopithecine fossil found at Sterkfontein
in the Cradle of Humankind. Artefacts from the Iron Age state of
Mapungubwe are exhibited at the Mapungubwe Museum at the University of
Pretoria. The famous golden rhino, golden sceptre, golden bowl and various
gold, ivory and copper ornaments, trade beads and Chinese ceramics are
on display.
