Urban Safari
Exploring Joburg’s four Rands
EXPLORING THE PLACES THAT HAVE SHAPED THE DEVELOPMENT OF OUR NUMBER ONE METROPOLIS, RYAN ENSLIN ALIGHTS ATOP THE SECOND TALLEST BUILDING IN AFRICA, FINDS MRS PLES, ENCOUNTERS A 1610er, RELAXES IN THE GREEN HEART OF THE CITY AND MEETS ART DECO’S LOVE CHILD
From the age of six, I have called Johannesburg home, except for a relatively short period in Cape Town. I lived with my family in ʻthe South of Joburgʼ. Others lived in the North; I even knew a few people from the East. After my parents divorced, my dad moved to the West.
At university, I began working and socialising more in the North, home to many corporate head offices requiring my new skill-set in finance. But the spectre of the Rands remained. The inevitable question of where you lived was thrown into the conversational mix; my response, ʻthe Southʼ, was almost always met with a twitch from the Northerner.
Truth be told, back in the South, the process worked in reverse. Talk of the North, and people from that side of town invariably changed the overall tone of the conversation to one of disdain, particularly for those who thought they were better than us (which we thought was everyone from the North).
But differences there were, and I still see them today.
What exactly are these Rands of Joburg? Well, they are areas laid out with the central business district of Joburg at its core, and as such are known as the North-, East-, South- and West Rands of Joburg. The term ʻrandʼ (Afrikaans for reef ) has its origins in what is today mostly Gauteng – the Witwatersrand. A north-facing escarpment 56km long, consisting of tough quartzite rock, it is renowned for having many north-flowing rivers. Several form waterfalls, hence the name Witwatersrand, or ridge of white waters. Each of the Rands refers to a loose grouping of neighbourhoods. The Rands are not formally designated areas, but everyone knows them.
THE SOUTH RAND
Roughly, suburbs such as Glenvista, Turfontein, Lenasia and Winchester Hills fall into the South. If you are a guy you are known as a ʻboytjie from the Southʼ.Itʼs further divided into the Old South (including Turfontein and La Rochelle) and the New South (including Mulbarton and Glenvista).
Historically, many people of Portuguese descent settled in this area, particularly in the Old South. Primarily immigrating from the island of Madeira and the previous Portuguese colonies of Angola and Mozambique, they brought skills such as horticulture and commerce to South Africa.
These skills have added to the cultural texture. Well-known restaurants and corner stores abound, although urban decay is an ever-present challenge, particularly in the Old South.
The South includes significant areas of natural beauty, such as the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve. Showcasing game such as zebra, red hartebeest and black wildebeest, the reserve is also home to 230 bird species and is a very popular hiking hotspot.
Looking for a day filled with good food, great conversation and some time out in nature – the boytjies and chics from the South have you covered.
Do This
Rethink your proximity to Joburg as you go on an Eco-Drive at Thaba Eco Hotel and view the plains game that roam just 10km from the city centre. A day hike in the Klipriviersberg Nature Reserve is perfect for those looking for a more energetic activity. 011 959 0777 thabahotel.co.za
Stay Here
Take in a Serengeti-esque experience in Joburg’s green heart at the THABA ECO HOTEL, which offers beautiful architecture and world-class hospitality. After watching the magnificent sunset at the E|Bar, cocktail in hand, feast on local cuisine at the Kraal Restaurant. Book a Deluxe Room, including breakfast, from R1 775 per room per night. 011 959 0777
thabahotel.co.za
Eat Here
If you don’t stop at PARREIRINHA RESTAURANT in La Rochelle you’re missing out. Opened in 1975 by Maria and Artur da Cunha, you have to visit this iconic spot. Hanging from the roof are countless ties, thanks to Artur’s interest in these fashion accessories. He used to cut them from the necks of patrons. For good Portuguese cooking, start with the homemade prawn cakes to get you into the spirit. Best of all the restaurant is housed in an old police station. That’s right; you dine in the old holding cells. 011 435 3809 restauranteparreirinha.co.za