Margo's Guidebook: Rosebank, Johannesburg

Uber Uber Uber! Johannesburg, for all its wonders, has limited public transportation options. This was a reality for many years, which has led to most people living in Johannesburg, owning a car before they even dream of owning a house. Though there is a public bus service, it’s generally not very reliable and the service ends quite early (around 8pm), so getting around this way is not ideal. The public trains are generally not considered safe. You won’t find professionals using the train and routes are limited. Other than Uber, catch the Gautrain.

Rosebank is one of the few suburbs in Johannesburg where people actually walk. You will see babies in strollers being wheeled by parents in gym wear. You will find walkways and see kids go gaga over the little fountain close to Hamleys toy store in Rosebank. Definitely pack a stroller, backpack and some comfy walking shoes to help you get around this way.

1. Howzit? Meaning: how are you? (Every South African loves Howzit). 2. Lekker! Meaning: nice. 3. Unjani? Meaning: how are you? 4. Yebo! Meaning: yes 5. Haibo! Meaning: no

South African are notoriously friendly and hospitable. Joburg is however a little like any other big city anywhere in the world. Things and people move fast and niceties sometimes slip by the wayside as a result. Don’t be offended. It’s the pace that has us panting! Just smile back! It is customary to tip the waiter at restaurants, usually 10% of the tables bill. Yes, bill. We don’t say cheque here. Dress code is very casual. Johannesburg is quite secular and cosmopolitan in its outlook. You will likely not experience any religious or political intolerance.

Rosebank and surrounds have several great spots for art lovers, music lovers and nature lovers. Art lovers can explore the galleries on Keyes Art Mile or on Jan Smuts Avenue. Music lovers can try Katzys lounge bar ( try Thursday. Friday or Saturday nights for some live music and Di), or Street Bar (Dj on some days and Sunday afternoons). Nature lovers must see Zoo Lake, an actual lake, with stunning restaurant with a tree canopy where you can also rent a small boat and row yourself around the lake. Much fun. Also see Emmarentia dam and Johannesburg Botanical gardens for lush greens and water!

Food and drinks are cheap by European or American standards. This applies also to our sit down restaurants. A typical breakfast of juice, coffee, bacon, eggs and toast could cost between R50 and R80 in Rosebank. Lunch consisting of a soft drink and pizza or sandwich could cost be between R60 and R120 in Rosebank. Beers cost around R30-R50, admittedly not cheap. Dinner of steak and chips plus a beer could cost under R150.