Publisher, Nicola King who began working on the guide in February of this year said, “Having worked for Sandton Tourism I realised there was a gap in the market for a guide like this. Everyone goes on about Johannesburg and the inner-city, but this guide is just to show people that Sandton isn’t just for work or coming for a day for a conference.”
She used her contacts at Sandton Tourism to attract advertisers and support for the project. The book has been distributed for free at hotels, airports, restaurants and B&B’s throughout the Johannesburg area.
She added, “I think Sandton has so much more to offer. So when tourists come here, the guide acts as a tool for them to enjoy the sightseeing and tours. The attractions aren’t only in Sandton, but this book lets people know of Sandton as a home base where they do all these wonderful things.”
With a who’s who of advertising executives, restaurateurs and hotel managers, the launch brought together everyone who contributed to the guide’s creation. Sales and marketing manager of the Hard Rock Cafe, Talitha Spykerman said, “We absolutely loved the event, and it was a great networking opportunity for everyone. Having the whole Sandton Tourism Association there was a proud moment for us and we’re very proud to be in the pocket guide.”
King said the best thing about Sandton was having everything in one place. “If you’re coming for a conference, you can stay in a five star hotel, you can shop, or you can enjoy the hot air balloon,” she said. “So there’s a lot to do in the area because its a one-stop place and it is the perfect base for everyone.”