Travel Through Books: Johannesburg, South Africa

Travel Through Books is BOOKED Trips travel guide series that goes deeper into some of our favorite cities guided by literature. We select books by authors around the world that speak to the history, culture, and energy of the cities helping tourists go beyond the guidebooks to better understand the places we visit.

Welcome to Johannesburg, South Africa! Johannesburg, or Jozi as its sometimes referred to be locals, pulsates with a vibrant energy unlike any other. Johannesburg’s literary scene is rich with the voices of those who challenged the injustices of apartheid. Writers like Steve Biko, Miriam Tlali, and Nadine Gordimer exposed the dehumanizing effects of racial segregation. Poets like Mongane Wally Serote used their words as weapons, giving voice to the voiceless. Their works are a crucial part of understanding the city’s tumultuous past.

Our literary journey through the city, guided Casualties of Truth by Lauren Francis-Sharma, will be a journey of contrasts. We’ll explore the history of the country at the Apartheid Museum, Constitution Hill, Mandela House, and venture into Soweto, a place steeped in history and resilience. We’ll explore the stories of Yeoville through food, and explore the upscale neighborhood of Rosebank.

WHAT TO READ: 

Fresh off our BOOKED Trips South Africa experience, we had the privilege of speaking with Lauren Francis-Sharma, author of the recently released thriller, Casualties of Truth. Her novel compellingly connects the historical Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC) hearings she witnessed in Johannesburg in 1996 with a gripping personal drama unfolding in present-day Washington D.C. 

Book Overview: In Washington, DC  Prudence Wright seems to have it all: a loving husband, Davis; a spacious home in Washington, DC; and the past glories of a successful career at McKinsey, which now enables her to dedicate her days to her autistic son Roland. When she and Davis head out for dinner with one of Davis’s new colleagues her perfect world is shattered when she discovers Davis’s colleague is Matshediso, a man from Prudence’s past, she is transported back to the formative months she spent as a law student in South Africa in 1996.

As an intern at a Johannesburg law firm, Prudence attended sessions of the Truth and Reconciliation hearings, which uncovered the many horrors and human rights abuses of the Apartheid state, and which fundamentally shaped her sense of righteousness and justice. But Prudence experienced personal horrors in South Africa as well, ones she long resolved to keep carefully hidden and ones which Matshediso threatens to now expose. When Matshediso finally reveals the real reason behind his sudden reappearance, he will force Prudence to examine her most deeply held beliefs about truth, forgiveness, and atonement.

WHERE TO STAY:

• Lauren Francis-Sharma recommends a stay at Sanctuary Mandela – Set in Nelson Mandela’s primary place of residence in the leafy-green suburb of Houghton, Johannesburg, Sanctuary Mandela includes elements of the home Madiba lived in after he returned from Robben Island, where he hosted the likes of Michael Jackson and Oprah Winfrey, and which later became the headquarters of the Nelson Mandela Foundation. Sanctuary Mandela is now a re-envisioned residency, a one-of-a-kind boutique hotel with 9 curated rooms and retreat spaces for reflection, healing, and thought-provoking experiences inspired by the life and times of Nelson Mandela.
• Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank – Nestled in the heart of Rosebank, a leafy suburb of Johannesburg, Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank is a stylish 4-star hotel that offers a sophisticated and contemporary stay.This is our Founder’s favorite place to stay in the city because of the beautiful interior design, accommodating staff, and prime location known for its upscale shopping malls, trendy restaurants, and art galleries. The hotel’s 224 rooms and suites are tastefully decorated with modern furnishings and plush bedding, ensuring a comfortable and relaxing stay. Each room features a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and a private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Some rooms also boast stunning views of the city skyline. voco Johannesburg Rosebank offers a variety of dining options to tantalize your taste buds. The hotel’s signature restaurant, Proud Mary is always busy with its wide variety of international selections and cocktails. This is definitely the place to see and be seen.
• The Peech Hotel – Tucked into the upscale suburb of Melrose, The Peech is a boutique hotel that exudes contemporary elegance and Afri-chic charm. It’s tranquil ambiance, nestled amidst two acres of lush gardens, offers a welcome respite from the bustling city life. Step into a haven of understated luxury, where each of the 32 rooms is thoughtfully designed to provide a haven of comfort and personalized service. Experience the epitome of refined dining at Basalt Restaurant, where culinary artistry meets impeccable service. Unwind and rejuvenate by the sparkling pool or indulge in revitalizing spa treatments at The Peech Spa. Whether you’re seeking a romantic escape, a business retreat, or simply a chance to unwind, The Peech promises an unforgettable experience.
• Curiocity’s Fox Street Studios is a vibrant and stylish accommodation option located in the heart of Johannesburg’s Maboneng precinct. This former printing warehouse has been transformed into a modern and inviting space, offering a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and affordability. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a group of friends, Curiocity Backpackers Fox Street Studios is the perfect place to experience the best of Johannesburg. Maboneng is a trendy and up-and-coming neighborhood in Johannesburg, known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, its eclectic mix of shops and restaurants, and its cool and contemporary vibe. The neighborhood is home to a number of art galleries, studios, and workshops, as well as a variety of bars, cafes, and restaurants. Maboneng is also a great place to find unique and locally made souvenirs. Curiocity is a Black-owned and operated company that is committed to providing travelers with unique and authentic experiences in South Africa. The company has a number of properties in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and it is known for its commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.

WHAT TO DO:

• Lauren Francis-Sharma recommends a visit to Gallery Momo, a Black-owned gallery showcasing talented African artists. 
• Learn the history of South Africa through one its many museums including the Hector Pieterson Museum, Mandela House, or the Apartheid Museum.
• Go on a book crawl. Check out Bridge Books, Book Circle Capital, Commune, Love Books, or David Krut bookstore, For second hand books head to L’Elephant Terrible or Collector’s Treasury, the largest shop selling rare and used books in Africa.
• First Sunday sat Victoria Yards, a collection of abandoned warehouses transformed into a thriving community hub of artist studios, urban agriculture, pop-up dining and small businesses.
• Grab lunch, check out art galleries, or shop at 44 Stanley, a boutique lifestyle destination.
• Go on a safari in Pilansberg, less than 3 hours from Johannesburg.
• Go on a tour of Maboneng, with Curiocity to explore the art and creativity of this neighborhood.

WHERE TO EAT AND DRINK:

• Yeoville Dinner club – Nestled in the heart of Yeoville, a nontraditional tourist spot, is the Yeoville Dinner Club headed by host, cook and bartender, Sanza Sandile, all rolled into one.
• Do a cooking experience in Soweto at Lebo’s, a backpackers hostel, restaurant, and bike tour company that tells the story of Soweto from the perspective of the Black people who grew up there
• For upscale dining in the arts district, a visit to Marble is a must.
• If you’re a fan of Greek food then Kolonaki is a must try – it was one of our traveler’s favorite restaurants in the city.
• Neighbarhood listening bar is a great place to go for small bites and great music in a beautiful atmosphere.
• Bertrand Cafe is a Black-owned restaurant that’s good for lunch and co-working or karaoke every week.

Want help designing your dream trip? We plan private experiences! We have existing group itineraries in Cape Town, South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa, Zanzibar, Tanzania, Accra, Ghana, Cartagena, Colombia, Bogota, Colombia, Mexico City, Mexico, and Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica that can be customized. Fill out our private trip interest form or email jalisa@bookedtrips.com for more information.