REST ASSURED

from khuluma - October 2021

ScARED STIFF

JOZI REBOOTED REST ASSURED

1. Red-hot design

It’s all about the moodsetting aesthetic at the new Radisson RED in Rosebank. This hotel matches the supersized flexing of South Africa’s economic hub with bold personality signatures – starting with the eye-catching large-scale photographic images that immediately situate you in the heart of contemporary, cutting-edge urban Africa.

Things about Radisson RED that’ll make you smile? Aside from the excellent location within ambling distance to restaurants and bars, boutiques and galleries, there’s a creativity and playfulness to the in-house design – plus a snazzy rooftop terrace and pool where you can combine fresh air and city panoramas, DJ sets, cocktails and food from the OUI Bar + KTCHN.

It’s not only red by name – the warm hues even follow you up to the rooftop pool and terrace OMG factors? While the digital revolution is in full swing here, checking in is a bit like getting a big hug. Lots of fire and soul and urban African energy – staffers are on hand to help out with whatever AI cannot get right, so when you tire of screens, there plenty of spaces for human interaction, too. How deep are your pockets? Rates vary wildly, but deals are to be had from around R1 600 per room. radissonhotels.com

2. Designer farm

2. Home of a legend

Another accommodation coup for Jozi is the recent launch of Sanctuary Mandela, the refurbished presidential home of Madiba. The residence is in Houghton and has been imbued with a modern aesthetic and remembrances of the man whose presence made this house so special. Things you’ll love about Sanctuary Mandela? Its celebration of the global icon is luxurious yet sober.

Madiba’s former home is imbued with visual reminders of his life and times

It’s done to an intimate scale so genuinely feels like a sanctuary. Special moment? The restaurant memorialises Madiba’s favourite dishes – and there’s the chance to dine with Xoliswa Ndoyiya, who was the great man’s chef for 20 years. How deep are your pockets? From R4 000 per night in a deluxe studio; from R15 000 for the Presidential Suite. sactuarymandela.com

Kashew is The Catalyst’s groundfloor restaurant where emphasis is on unfussy flavours rather than overtly OTT fine dining

3. Rich pickings

In tree-lined suburban Sandton, The Catalyst is a 206-bedroom apartment hotel for business travellers as well as longstayers looking for a ‘homefrom-home’ experience. Accommodations are done out in Newmark’s signature muted, neutral tones and imbued with every essential convenience (plus a spa with generous pricing). A key feature is the green energy system which includes rooftop solar panels generating much of its power. How deep are your pockets? From R1 010 per room. newmarkhotels.com Newmark’s design DNA is all about creating relaxing, tranquil spaces using a contemporary palette of neutral tones – the look is chic without being ostentatious; the smart-design beds and cushy linens emphasise a great night’s sleep and you’ll love the Ben Sherman bathroom products

Words: Keith Bain, Pictures: Supplied