Liesl Bartlett

Welcome to The Fatherhood Files, your ultimate guide to fatherhood in Joburg! In celebration of Father's Day 2025, we're shining a light on the incredible dads who are navigating the adventures of raising kids in the City of Gold. From heartfelt lessons and invaluable advice to the best spots in the city, this is your go-to source for all things dad in Johannesburg. Get ready for inspiring stories, real talk, and plenty of laughs! For our latest feature, we caught up with popular DJ and music artist, Kyle Cassim, to chat about how fatherhood has changed his tune, both personally and professionally, and how he navigates the vibrant Joburg scene with his young family. A healthier beat For Kyle, becoming a dad has been nothing short of transformative. "Personally, it's put me into the best rhythm of my life," he shares. The arrival of his son prompted significant lifestyle changes: "It actually made me stop drinking and smoking... and it's made me live a healthier life." Now, his focus is on being the best version of himself for his son and wife, embracing daily gym sessions, healthy eating, and wellness practices like breathwork. Professionally, this commitment to health has had a ripple effect. "I'm all present as an artist now... I'm performing better, I'm on the ball," he states, highlighting a newfound clarity and drive in his career. Mastering the mix Balancing a demanding DJ career with fatherhood might seem daunting, but Kyle finds a surprising contrast. "Being a DJ is a

Welcome to The Fatherhood Files, your ultimate guide to fatherhood in Joburg! In celebration of Father's Day 2025, we're shining a light on the incredible dads who are navigating the adventures of raising kids in the City of Gold. From heartfelt lessons and invaluable advice to the best spots in the city, this is your go-to source for all things dad in Johannesburg. Get ready for inspiring stories, real talk, and plenty of laughs! For our latest feature, we spoke with renowned film director and artist Justice Mukheli about his transformative journey into fatherhood and the profound shifts it has brought to his life and creative work. New Perspectives: Understanding motherhood and beyond Becoming a father to his one child has given Justice "new eyes." A pivotal realisation for him has been the distinct difference between parenting and motherhood. "As men, especially from the world I come from, women are not given the flowers they deserve," he candidly shares. He now understands that while men contribute significantly to parenting, the innate nurturing of a mother is unique. This shift has profoundly altered his perspective on the societal contribution of women. Beyond this, fatherhood brought a new awareness to his immediate surroundings. Simple things, like his home, took on new meaning. "Coming back home with her, I couldn't engage with my house the same way," he reflects, mindful of how his 9-month-old daughter occupies and explores every space. This newfound sensitivity ha

Welcome to The Fatherhood Files, your ultimate guide to fatherhood in Joburg! In celebration of Father's Day 2025, we're shining a light on the incredible dads who are navigating the adventures of raising kids in the City of Gold. From heartfelt lessons and invaluable advice to the best spots in the city, this is your go-to source for all things dad in Johannesburg. Get ready for inspiring stories, real talk, and plenty of laughs! Kicking off our series, we sat down with beloved media personality Xola Ntshinga to get his refreshingly honest perspective on being a dad today. From navigating co-parenting to discovering Joburg's best spots, Xola offers inspiring insights into raising his daughters. More than just a day: The meaning of Father's Day For Xola, Father's Day holds a special significance as a divorced dad. "I celebrate Father's Day as much as I do Mother's Day," he shares, highlighting the shift in focus. Now, it's driven by his daughters, aged 9 and 13, who take the initiative to make him breakfast. "I don’t insist on things like gifts," he explains, "what’s important is spending time together. It’s a family day more than anything." He cherishes the "girl dad" moments, emphasising that the birth of each child brought profound, distinct changes, teaching him that each individual needs a unique approach. Instilling values and navigating unique personalities In an age dominated by social media, Xola prioritises teaching his girls fundamental values. "It’s very important

Every third Sunday in June is dedicated to celebrating amazing dads around the world.  Father's Day allows you to let the special man in your life know just how dear he is to you.  Fortunately, there are many great events planned to ensure you give dad the best day of his life. Spoil him with a fun day out by checking out some of our recommended events, menus, and activities taking place across the city of Johannesburg.  From fine cuisine to enjoyable father-child activities in and around Johannesburg, here is where to take dad out this Father's Day. 

When it comes to finding the perfect place to stay and relax in Johannesburg, visitors are spoiled for choice. However, it can be a tricky decision. To make your life a little easier, we've highlighted the best hotels in Johannesburg in this convenient list. From high-end luxury stays to spending a night surrounded by nature, here are Johannesburg's best places to rest your head and set up base to explore the wonders of the City of Gold. RECOMMENDED 📍 The best things to do in Johannesburg🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click here.

From live music under city lights to art fairs, food markets, theatre, and cultural festivals – Johannesburg is alive with events that celebrate its creativity, diversity, and unstoppable energy. Whether you’re into jazz at sunset, rooftop parties, cutting-edge exhibitions, or family-friendly weekend plans, our curated guide brings you the best of what’s happening in the City of Gold. Stay plugged in and never miss a moment.RECOMMENDED🛏️ Where to stay in Johannesburg🏨 The best hotels in Johannesburg🍽 The best restaurants in Johannesburg🍺 The best pubs and bars in Johannesburg

The Standard Bank Joy of Jazz festival returns to the Sandton Convention Centre in Johannesburg, for its most ambitious edition yet — three full days of genre-defining performances, global icons, bold collaborations, and an elevated celebration of jazz’s enduring legacy. With over 60 artists from 15 countries across four stages, this year’s festival puts a spotlight on powerful women in jazz, visionary Pan-African sounds, and cutting-edge global talent. Highlights include Esperanza Spalding, Lakecia Benjamin, Oumou Sangaré, Meshell Ndegeocello, Thandi Ntuli, Jazzmeia Horn, The Baylor Project, Amanda Black, Tresor, and a full showcase of Standard Bank Young Artist Award winners. From soul-stirring solo sets to orchestral grandeur, audiences will experience an immersive musical journey rooted in African heritage and shaped by contemporary voices from across the world. Tickets are available at TICKETMASTER, R1 350 – Day Pass R2 250 – 2-Day Pass (Fri & Sat or Sat & Sun) R3 250 – Full Weekend Pass Standard Bank cardholders enjoy up to 15% off (limited to 2 tickets per person, subject to availability; T&Cs apply). Hospitality packages also available on the Joy of Jazz website.   

RMB Latitudes Art Fair is back for its third edition, taking place from Friday, 23 May to Sunday, 25 May 2025, at the enchanting Shepstone Gardens in Johannesburg. Presented by Latitudes Online in partnership with Rand Merchant Bank (RMB), the Fair has established itself as a highlight on Johannesburg’s cultural calendar, celebrated for its fresh, immersive approach to contemporary African art. Set against the backdrop of Shepstone Gardens’ historic architecture and lush landscapes, RMB Latitudes offers an experience that moves beyond the traditional art fair format. Visitors are invited to meander through thoughtfully curated indoor and outdoor spaces, discover compelling artworks, enjoy leisurely lunches in the gardens, and engage with artists, gallerists, and collectors in inspiring conversation. Sculptures dot the grounds, encouraging moments of reflection beneath the city’s crisp autumn skies. This year’s edition promises another unforgettable celebration of art, community, and creative exchange — all in one of Johannesburg’s most atmospheric venues.

Celebrate Father’s Day in bold, spirited style at A Fezzy Father’s Day: Whiskey Fest, hosted at the picturesque Ground The Venue in Muldersdrift. Taking place on Sunday, 15 June 2025, this unique event is all about honouring dads with the finer things in life—great whiskey, gourmet food, and live entertainment in a stunning outdoor setting. Expect a thoughtfully curated lineup of premium whiskey tastings, cocktail bars, and hand-picked food vendors serving up delicious bites to complement every sip. Live music will keep the festive spirit flowing, and lifestyle stations will round out the experience for the whole family.

Sip, swirl, and savour the best of the Cape Winelands at the Ground CRU Wine Festival – Winter Edition, taking place on the 5th & 6th of July 2025 at the stunning Ground The Venue in Muldersdrift. From 11:00 to 17:00, guests will enjoy a curated wine tasting experience featuring top-tier South African wineries, food stalls bursting with winter flavours, live music, and fun kids' activities—making it the perfect day out for wine lovers and families alike. Each ticket includes: A branded Ground CRU wine glass Tastings at all wine stands Access to exclusive cellar pricing Whether you're a seasoned sipper or a curious newcomer, Ground CRU is your chance to taste, engage, interact, and stock up on your favourite wines—just in time for winter.

Nestled in the heart of Johannesburg's Mountain View suburb, Shepstone Gardens is a captivating venue that seamlessly blends historical charm with modern elegance. It boasts a variety of event spaces set amidst lush, landscaped gardens and hosts everything from weddings and corporate events to themed public events like quiz nights, photoshoots and picnics. 

Celebrate the season of mushrooms and all things local at From The Ground Market, taking place on 1 June 2025 at the beautiful Ground The Venue in Muldersdrift. Running from 10:00 to 16:00, this curated market experience brings together hand-picked vendors, bespoke cocktail bars, live music, and lifestyle stations, all set against the scenic backdrop of the Cradle of Humankind. Whether you're looking to shop, sip, or simply soak in the atmosphere, it's a perfect day out for families, friends, and food lovers. Proudly supported by Aperol Spritz, the event highlights seasonal produce, this time celebrating mushrooms in all their earthy glory.

Warm up this winter with an unforgettable culinary experience at The Winter Feast, hosted by Ground The Venue in Muldersdrift from 6 to 8 June 2025. This intimate, family-style dining event is a celebration of comforting seasonal flavours, thoughtful pairings, and good company set against the rustic charm of the countryside. Guests will enjoy a 5-course shared feast, featuring dishes like harissa lamb shoulder, butternut squash lasagna, and pan-fried brie with crispy gnocchi, all expertly paired with five Babylonstoren wines, presented by the winemaker in person.

Ultra South Africa returns to Johannesburg on Saturday, 10 May 2025, celebrating its 10th anniversary with a massive one-day festival at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, Nasrec. As Africa’s largest electronic music event, this milestone edition promises an unforgettable experience with world-class production and a diverse lineup spanning EDM, techno, amapiano, and more.  Expect a full day of electrifying performances, cutting-edge visuals, and an unparalleled atmosphere. Tickets are available in General Admission, VIP, and VVIP tiers, with prices starting from R1 150. See the full lineup, including Martin Garrix, Armin van Buuren, Shimza, Kabza De Small, and more on the Official Ultra South Africa Website.  Note the lineup is subject to change. Attendees must be 18 years or older.

As South Africa’s largest purpose-built exhibition, conference, and events venue, the Johannesburg Expo Centre is a landmark destination for large-scale gatherings. With versatile indoor and outdoor facilities, ample parking, and easy access to major transport routes, the venue caters to everything from trade expos and music festivals to corporate conferences and consumer shows. 

Ground The Venue in Muldersdrift is a family-run farm destination that blends rustic charm with refined experiences. This versatile venue offers a range of activities—from curated picnics and themed dining experiences to scenic hiking trails and elegant weddings.  The property is home to distinctive spaces like The Tobacco Shed for private events, The Terrace restaurant serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes, and the dog-friendly Ground Café, perfect for laid-back lunches. 

Last weekend, the City of Gold lit up once again with good vibes all around. From boogying to Brazilian beats at Hotel Sky’s Boogie Bingo, to climbing 948 steps for The Ponte Challenge’s epic skyline views, Joburgers showed up and showed out. Art lovers got creative at The Creatory’s Stitch-themed Paint & Sip, while vinyl fans in Soweto dug deep at the Record Fair at Native Rebels. Cassper Nyovest brought the house down at Silverstar Casino, and night markets in Alberton glowed with food, fun and winter flair. Not to forget the Alchemy Theatre’s mystery dinner in the East and soulful connections at Wise Woman in Kyalami. Missed it? Don’t worry, this weekend’s looking just as good. Scroll down for the best things to do in Joburg. Sandton  Field Market Saturday, June 14, from 9 am - 3 pm  Field & Study Park, Parkmore Free entry Spend a laid-back day under the trees at the Field Market, June 2025 edition, where curated local stalls, gourmet food, craft drinks, and live acoustic music create the perfect weekend escape. With plenty for kids too, from horse rides to sand art, it’s a wholesome Joburg outing for all ages. The Field Market Instagram Johannesburg Central  Walking adventure: The Joburg Hidden History Exposed Saturday, June 14, from 7 am Newtown Junction Tickets R250 Step back in time with TimeTraveller Adventures on a guided walk through Ferreirasdorp and Marshalltown, where the legends, landmarks, and characters that shaped Joburg come to life. From hidden m

Soweto is gearing up to relive the fire and spirit of 1976, not just by looking back, but by bringing it to life through movement, music, and youth-led energy. From 14 to 16 June, the Soweto Theatre precinct will be transformed into a living, breathing tribute to the past, present and future of youth resistance, as the iconic protest musical Sarafina! takes centre stage in a powerful three-day celebration. This year marks 49 years since the June 16 Uprising, when students took to the streets in defiance of apartheid’s oppressive education system. As we approach the 50th anniversary, this year’s Youth Month is more than a commemoration; it’s a call to action, and Soweto is answering. The line-up is a blend of activism, creativity and community. Expect youth-led workshops, open-air art installations, live Amapiano sets, film screenings, storytelling, dance, and of course, a full concert version of Sarafina! on Youth Day itself.  “We’re reclaiming Soweto’s place as the heart of youth activism,” says Johannesburg’s Executive Mayor Dada Morero. “Sarafina! It isn’t just a musical, it’s a reminder of what courage looks like when led by young people. That message couldn’t be more urgent right now.” The Soweto Theatre, along with its Gibson Kente Theatre, Yellow and Blue spaces, and newly added Container venues, will be buzzing from 11 am each day. There’s something for everyone, and it’s all happening in a space that has long stood for freedom of expression and the power of performan

In a city that rarely slows down, Sunday Shuffle is giving Joburgers a reason to pause, breathe, and connect, all while on the move. What began as a few friends lacing up for a casual weekend run has evolved into a thriving community-driven movement that’s shifting how we think about wellness, socialising, and city living. The idea was simple: create a space where people could run without pressure and connect with others without pretence. “We wanted something open and inclusive where you don’t have to be a seasoned runner to show up,” says co-founder Akshay Manchanda. Today, Sunday Shuffle is a space for movement and meaning, driven by the mantra: no podiums, no egos, just sexy pace. Each week, runners of all levels gather at Gold’s Gym in Sandton to join the Shuffle. There’s no stopwatch, no race. Just a collective pulse, good vibes, and high-energy Shuffle Leaders who motivate and guide along the way. It’s not about performance, it’s about presence. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sunday Shuffle 🏃 (@sundayshuffle_) But the real magic happens after the run. Enter The After Shuffle, a conscious coffee party where the beats are deep, the conversation flows, and the drinks are alcohol-free. Set to Afro house DJ sets in thoughtfully curated venues, The After Shuffle keeps the momentum going with intentional energy and curated connection. Think local baristas, spontaneous brew demos, and dance floors that invite joy without the

If you’re looking for the perfect excuse to break away from the city this winter, consider this your sign: on Saturday, 19 July, the iconic Sun City Superbowl will come alive with the sounds of EUrock, a one-night-only musical celebration of Afrikaans culture, creativity, and connection. Part of the jam-packed Sun Fest programme, which runs until the end of August, EUrock promises a powerhouse line-up of homegrown talent. Expect everything from rock and indie to alternative and country, performed by some of South Africa’s most celebrated voices. We’re talking Karen Zoid, Francois van Coke, Juan Boucher, and the ever-rising Refentse Morake, all taking the stage for what’s shaping up to be one of the season’s biggest live music moments. If you’ve never seen Karen Zoid live, prepare to be converted. Dubbed South Africa’s “Queen of Rock,” she brings raw vocals and a commanding presence that never misses. Francois van Coke delivers that signature grit and energy, while Refentse’s heartfelt sound and incredible rise to fame — from street performer to chart-topper — continues to inspire. Add in Juan Boucher’s emotional ballads and rich storytelling, and you’ve got a line-up that speaks to the soul. Whether you grew up with Afrikaans music or are simply curious to explore it in a high-energy, festival-style setting, EUrock makes a strong case for heading out of town for the weekend. Tickets range from R390 to R1 500 per person and are available via Webtickets. 📍Sun City is just over

There are tastings, and then there are experiences, the kind that surprise you with every course, charm you with their setting, and leave you plotting your return before dessert hits the table. That’s exactly what unfolded at The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg when we stopped by to taste the new Prix Fixe menus on offer. Known for its daring flavour combinations and signature small plates, The Pot Luck Club (born out of its cult-followed Cape Town sister) is now offering two curated sharing menus and both deliver serious bang for your buck. The Prix Fixe Lite Menu, a curated five-course experience designed for sharing between two, is the perfect midday or early dinner treat. It’s generous, flavour-packed, and well-balanced without being over the top. The Prix Fixe Loaded Menu is a knockout eight-plate spread that reads like a passport through global cuisine, with each dish anchored by bold technique and artful presentation. Our taste adventure began on the lite menu with a rustic spread of homemade ciabatta, whipped Klein River butter, and a selection of vibrant dips, including babaganoush, PLC olives, and a punchy cashew dakka — simple yet deeply satisfying. Next up, the Taco 2.0 blew me away with its punchy mix of black bean, chipotle, avocado and charred corn, followed by a gorgeously fresh linefish ceviche served on a black bean purée. This dish is light yet flavour-forward, and I’m a big fan of the “samosa dough taco”, which adds to the overall lightness of it. ANNALIZE NEL

The party that’s redefining nightlife, by moving it to the day, is finally coming to Johannesburg. Bed By 10, the UK-born event series that champions daytime clubbing for grown-ups, is set to light up the Jozi social scene with its first-ever South African edition. With the slogan “Because adults have stuff to do tomorrow,” Bed By 10 is designed for those who crave high-energy events with a grown-up twist. "We've created a space where people don’t feel like the oldest in the room” says Louis Williamson, event coordinator at Like It Love It, owners of the Bed By 10 brand. “It’s about showing people over thirty that you can still have fun, dance hard, and be in bed by 10 pm.” The concept flips traditional club culture on its head: think early evening start times, throwback music from the ’80s, ’90s and 2000s, nostalgic visuals, high-energy dance anthems, and a strictly “no all-nighters” policy. The vibe? “Pure nostalgia and good energy with some surprises,” promises Louis. "We’re also using local DJs for the Johannesburg edition,” says Louis, “and tapping into the unique energy of the city.” While the talent is traditionally speaking an event's biggest drawcard, Louis says Bed By 10 aims to make the experience the greatest attraction of all. "There's a shift happening globally where people are moving away from attending events based purely on who will be there, and they are attending now more for the vibe and the atmosphere, and that's what we are cultivating."  Vi

Wine lovers, mark your calendars, The Stellenbosch Wine Experience is returning to Johannesburg from 9 to 11 June, and it’s set to be bigger and better than ever. Over 40 top-tier wine producers from South Africa’s most celebrated wine region are heading to the city for a three-day showcase filled with tastings, meet-the-maker sessions, and unforgettable flavours. Events will take place across two of Joburg’s most iconic destinations: Sandton and Soweto, offering locals the perfect opportunity to experience the elegance and craftsmanship of Stellenbosch wines without leaving the city. Expect to sip on award-winning wines and premium brandies while mingling with the talent behind them. Big names in attendance include Ntsiki Biyela of Aslina Wines, Shawn Matthyse from Ken Forrester, Dirk van Zyl of Glenelly, Rianie Strydom from Cavalli, and Narina Cloete of Blaauwklippen, among many others. A standout addition this year is the inclusion of Stellenbosch’s finest brandies, bringing another layer of sophistication to the tastings. Whether you're a seasoned sommelier or simply curious about wine, these events provide a relaxed and festive setting to explore the region’s best bottles, and stories, firsthand. “We’re thrilled to bring Stellenbosch to Johannesburg again,” says Elmarie Rabe, manager of Stellenbosch Wine Routes. “It’s a celebration of shared stories, diverse cultures, and exceptional South African flavour, north to south.” And if the pop-up in Joburg leaves you wanting m

Every year on June 3rd, the world hops on two wheels to celebrate World Bicycle Day a global nod to the simple, sustainable joy of cycling. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist, a weekend cruiser, or just rediscovering the thrill of the ride, today is all about embracing the freedom, fitness, and fun that come with pedalling through your city. Johannesburg might be known for its bustling streets and sprawling suburbs, but it’s also home to a growing cycling culture, with scenic routes, bike-friendly cafes, and vibrant cycling communities popping up across the city. Cruise through the city with ease Looking for an easy ride through the city? The Westedene Cycle Route is considered one of the 10 best road biking trails in Gauteng by AllTrails. Discover this scenic 2.7 km point-to-point trail just outside Johannesburg. It's an easy route, perfect for a relaxed road biking session. Peaceful and lightly trafficked, you’re unlikely to run into many others along the way. Push your pedals in the Cradle  Looking for a scenic country ride that’s a little more challenging? Just 50 kilometres northwest of Johannesburg lies the Cradle Route. Set in the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this route is a popular choice for cyclists and cycling clubs, especially on the weekends. This 30 km loop has a designated 2 m-wide bike lane, and cyclist signage is plentiful. A bonus is that there are plenty of bike-friendly cafés and stops along the route. Build confidence on two wheels Th

Johannesburg’s creative pulse beats louder than ever this year as the Joburg Contemporary Art Foundation (JCAF) unveils Structures (2025), the second instalment in its ambitious three-year Worldmaking exhibition series. Following Ecospheres (2024), which reflected on the natural world, Structures turns its gaze to the built environment—examining how our cities, communities, and cultural identities are constructed, both physically and metaphorically. What is ‘Structures’ about? At its core, Structures explores how artists and architects from the Global South respond to space, place, and race in their work. But this isn’t just an exhibition of buildings and blueprints it’s an exploration of how architecture, history, politics, and poetry intertwine. From monuments and informal settlements to the walls of a panel beater’s workshop and the contested terrain of Constitution Hill, this thought-provoking show challenges us to reconsider what "structure" really means. Is it a physical form? A cultural framework? Or a legacy passed down through generations? Five standout installations you can’t miss The South African Pavilion from the 2024 Venice Biennale: Originally commissioned by the Department of Sport, Arts and Culture, this immersive installation makes its powerful local debut. A city made of couscous: Yes, couscous! This edible material is used as a metaphor for Algerian cultural heritage, prompting questions around memory, fragility, and community. A women-led architectural co

South Africa’s chocolate scene just got a whole lot more delicious and dazzling. The beloved artisan brand Just Gorgeous has officially been crowned the Best Chocolate Brand in the Luxe People's Choice Awards 2025, a coveted recognition that cements its place among the country’s most exceptional indulgences. “It’s such an honour,” says co-founder Clint Burgess. “It’s a real ‘pinch me’ moment to see how far we’ve come. We owe everything to our incredible supporters who have helped make Just Gorgeous what it is today.” A sweet beginning Just Gorgeous was born in 2021 in a home kitchen in Johannesburg, during the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Founders Dominique De Villiers and her fiancé Clint began by creating macarons—"not macaroons!" they laugh—as the first step in their vision for a truly luxurious dessert brand in South Africa. Their big break came with the launch of the now-viral Tree of Life chocolate bar, inspired by the famed "Dubai chocolate". Filled with pistachio and kataifi, and airbrushed in a signature abstract design, the bar was posted on Instagram and instantly took off. View this post on Instagram A post shared by JUST GORGEOUS | Luxury Desserts (@justgorgeousbrand) Where art meets flavour Every Just Gorgeous chocolate bar is a work of edible art. Designed using imported Belgian chocolate moulds from Chocolate World and premium ingredients, each bar combines bold flavour with stunning visual appeal. Flavours like Sorrento (l

While Capetonians are obsessing over the now-famous elephant seal flopping its way into headlines and hearts, we in Joburg can’t help but ask: What if the seal got a little lost and ended up here instead? Sure, we don’t have an ocean (or much patience for load shedding), but we do have the grit, the glamour, and the gatsbys to impress even the most discerning marine mammal. Here’s where we think our flippered friend would hang out if it detoured to the City of Gold. Zoo Lake: Spa day for seals Joburg’s iconic lake is just the kind of laid-back hangout this seal would love. Picture it: basking in the sun, dodging pedal boats, and scaring the geese just for fun. Add a snooze under the jacarandas, and it's practically a wellness retreat. Sandton City: Seal-ing the deal Every visitor needs to do a little shopping, right? This seal would glide through the mall’s marble floors like it owns the place. First stop: Woolies for a snack. Final stop: selfies at the Nelson Mandela statue at Nelson Mandela Square. Maboneng: Urban chic meets blubber chic This artsy inner-city district would be the perfect place for our seal to get in touch with Joburg’s creative side. Street art? Check. Rooftop vibes? Check. Posing next to a Banksy-style mural of itself? Obviously. Kota Joint in Soweto: Seal of approval You haven’t truly visited Joburg unless you’ve eaten a kota. Maybe a stop at KEK Restaurants would do the trick. We imagine the seal going full local, covered in atchar and chips, possibly s

What started as a winter dare has become one of Joburg’s most refreshing wellness events. Coffee & Plunge is the brainchild of a few friends, a one-man ice bath, and a shared love for coffee and it’s now a full-blown movement of cold dips, good vibes, and zero ego. It all began when one of the co-founders, Anton, started plunging in his pool in the dead of Joburg winter dragging friends along for mini ice bath sessions after gym. “We thought, everyone should be enjoying this surrounded by their mates,” says co-founder Bern Constance. “That’s how Coffee & Plunge was born. We wanted to bring ice plunging to everyone, but with a twist.” That twist? Coffee. Flat whites, to be specific. The team pairs icy water with hot brews and a warm sense of community minus the competitiveness or pressure.  “At our events, lifeguards coach you through your first plunge, and we make it super clear: there’s no pressure,” he explains. “Sure, you can challenge yourself, but there are no prizes for who stays in the longest. We’re here to cheer you on, not time you.” The event attracts a mix of regular gym-goers and total newbies. “We’ve seen egos freeze away in those baths,” he adds. “Everyone's a sceptic until they try it then they ask when the next one is.” More than just a wellness trend, Coffee & Plunge is changing how Joburgers connect. “It’s hard to socialise without alcohol here. You’ve got running clubs and CrossFit boxes, but what about the rest of us? Our events bring people together fo