Sightseeing for sore eyes

WHILE a holiday staycation has become the obvious choice for more and more South Africans in these trying economic times, what to do while on holiday at home is not always so apparent.

City Sightseeing Joburg & Soweto highlight fun, affordable options for family activities over the holiday period.

Take in an incredible 360 degree bird’s eye view of Joburg from The Roof of Africa, situated on the Carlton Centre’s 50th floor, or take a day-trip to Gold Reef City, where thrilling theme park rides in an historical setting will provide hours of entertainment.

History buffs can gorge themselves on the topic by following the Mining District Walk, or visiting the James Hall Transport or Apartheid museums.

Taste buds can be tantalised at the Neighbourgoods and Grove markets in trendy Braamfontein on Saturdays and Sundays, while Newtown offers a host of attractions such as the interactive Sci-Bono Discovery Centre; the Market Theatre; and Museum Africa, which houses the South African Rock Art Museum; the Bensusan Museum of Photography; and the Geological Museum.

The world of beer brewing also awaits discovery at Newtown’s SAB World of Beer.

These city attractions have been made even more accessible by City Sightseeing Joburg & Soweto’s Red City Tour.

Speaking on behalf of the operators, brand manager Carmen Lerm said, “This fascinating tour takes you to all of these attractions as well as to Gandhi Square, Santarama Miniland, Origins Centre and Constitution Hill.

“Children particularly love the adventure of climbing on board the iconic open-topped red double decker buses, which operate on a hop-on, hop-off basis.”

This means sightseers can disembark at any of the stops and then get back on a later bus at their leisure. Buses run every 40 minutes in the week and every 30 minutes over weekends and the December holidays.

“You can start the tour from any of the stops, and with ease from Park Station and Gold Reef City, both of which provide safe parking,” said Lerm.

“With the wind in your hair and the sun on your shoulders, leave behind your old perceptions of Joburg and see the new city on the City Sightseeing bus.”

Details: 0861 733 287; www.citysightseeing.co.za/joburg