Exams are done and the holidays are here! If you’re stuck in Joburg over the winter holidays, rest assured that there’s loads to do in the city, whether you’re looking for a new place to party, a new hotspot for great food, or a place to give some of your time to a good cause, there’s something out there just for you.
Best of beer
The only thing better than that first beer is the next one… If you’re fan of craft beers, or just of beer in general, visit Beerhouse in Fourways, where you can sample an impressive range of local and international beers.
If you want to take your beer fandom to an academic level (who wouldn’t?) visit the SAB World of Beer in Newtown to learn more about the origins of the beverage. The student price of R55 includes a sample or two of the great beverage too…
Play by the pool
Just because it’s winter, doesn’t mean you can’t play by the pool! The Poolside Café in the Maboneng precinct offers sundowners and snacks around the pool, with its innovative menu of tasting boards and cocktails sure to take your mind of the winter chills.
Go for gold!
Golf Reef City is a lesson in history and in fun! Built on one of the original founding sites in the city, the theme park includes an entertainment park and casino complex, with something for everyone. Don’t be put off by the entry fee – it will give you access to all the rides in the complex for a day of fun and excitement.
More about money
If you’re studying, you’re likely in it for the money! Learn more about the beginnings of trade in Johannesburg, and enjoy a variety of displays at the Absa Money Museum in downtown Joburg.
Have a laugh
Kitchener’s in Braamfontein – the ‘sexiest bar in Joburg since 1906’ – hosts a comedy night every Tuesday, with just R20 giving you access to some of South Africa’s funniest famous and emerging comedic talents.
Leap of faith
The iconic Orlando Towers Vertical Adventure Centre in Soweto is home to climbing walls, bungee jumps and a range of other adventure activities. Get out of your comfort zone and view the world (and Joburg) from a different angle at this exciting venue. Activities cost upwards of R30, depending on your level of bravery…
Get to grips with golf
If your studies are preparing you for the theory of corporate life, get to grips with the fun side of it and brush up on your golfing skills at the Momentum World of Golf outside Woodmead. This is a great outing if you’re serious about the game, or if you just want to have some fun hitting a small ball really hard to vent some of your frustrations!
Get skating
Even though we don’t get snow and ice for Joburg’s winter, you can still ice skate at The Northgate Ice Rink. Look out for theme parties, celebrity bands and DJs, and plan your skating session around the rink’s opening times. Pack R85 for entrance and skate hire, and remember to dress to peel – you get quite warm dashing across the ice!
Make the most of markets
Artisan markets are mushrooming all over the city, from Neighbourgoods in Braamies on Saturdays, the Fourways Farmer’s Market on Sundays, and The Sheds @ 1 Fox from Friday lunch through to Sunday afternoons, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to craft food and drink.
Do some good for others
It’s Mandela Day on 18 July (this year and every year!), so how about getting out there and offering 67 minutes of your time to help someone else? If you’re not sure where to start, Joburg.co.za has some great ideas, or connect your time with a cause via forgood.
Jozi is an exciting city, and while it’s certainly chilly in winter, it’s still blessed with loads of sunshine and lovely days. If all else fails, pack yourself a picnic and a book (not of the studying kind) and spend some time in the sunshine in a park near you!