Lagos might be Africa's fashion capital, but Sandton is where all the true fashionistas shop. Gauteng's northern suburbs are hip, lively and expensive in all the best ways. That's why Nelson Mandela used to buy his shirts at Sandton City's Gray's. South Africa's well-to-do hub attracts A-listers from across the globe, but it's better known for its sparkling couture. All the hottest brands are there, and they bring out their wares every June during Fashion Week.
Sandton Square connects with the mall, offering a Tuscan-style dining space replete with a huge bronze sculpture of Mandela. This historic statue is surrounded by exceptional restaurants, so find a table and enjoy South Africa's famous sunshine. Nelson Mandela Square is as festive as it is delicious, particularly after the sun goes down.
Fourways is Sandton's understated alternative, but it has more than its fair share of attractions. The buzzing Montecasino never sleeps, offering a brightly-lit gaming hall and top-notch theatre shows. The building is styled like a cobbled Italian street with its own artificial skyline. It's always twilight there, and its walk-through bird garden is home to exotic reptiles, mammals and hundreds of feathered friends.
Family travellers can knock a few balls around at Fourways Mall's adventure golf course or head north to visit Croc City Crocodile and Reptile Park. This top-rated attraction includes a zipline over the crocodile habitats if you're craving a burst of adrenaline.
Sandton is the perfect spot to experience authentic South African cuisine. If you would like to taste some local fare, try bobotie, which is a baked dish with minced meat, curry powder, herbs and spices. Another must-try is boerewors, a South African sausage. If you have a sweet tooth, some malva pudding, a dessert made with apricot jam, should hit the spot.
You haven't experienced Africa without the Big Five, and you can see SA's legendary lions at the Lion and Safari Park north of Lanseria. The resident creatures roam freely, and they're not particularly nervous about safari vehicles. That allows you to have a spectacularly-close encounter with the king of the jungle. The park also houses giraffes, zebra and wildebeest.
Sandton's Art Eye Gallery is perfect for artsy travellers who want to see authentic contemporary South African art. The hosts are friendly and unpretentious, so you can absorb their wares in a pleasant environment.