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Faith, Fun And Family This Easter Weekend In Sandton

Sandton Times Correspondent / April 17, 2025

There’s something undeniably special about Easter weekend in Sandton!

Best Of Survivor: The Ultimate Survivor Calendar For 2025

Sandton Times Correspondent / April 14, 2025

M-Net is delivering an adrenaline-packed 2025 with not one, not two, but three international seasons of the hit reality survival…

We Tried It: Lunch At Steenberg Farm’s Tryn – Refined Dining In A Historic Setting

Alexander Leibner / April 14, 2025

Tryn, named after Steenberg’s spirited 17th-century founder, Catharina Ras (or Tryn, to those who knew her best), is anything but…

Norwegian Aqua Inaugural Voyage: Setting Sail In The Haven Penthouse

Alexander Leibner / April 14, 2025

The Sandton Times stepped aboard the brand-new Norwegian Aqua for its dazzling inaugural sailing from Southampton, for a cruise experience…

‘Warfare’ Puts You Unapologetically In A Soldier’s Shoes

Tat Wolfen / April 14, 2025

I’ve seen a whole lot of war movies in my time, but ‘Warfare’, a recreation of a particular event during…

We Tried It: Afternoon Tea At The Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park In London

Alexander Leibner / April 14, 2025

This season, The Mandarin Oriental has taken its famed Afternoon Tea and steeped it—quite literally—in springtime inspiration.

Sandton Times Hour Edition 190 Radio & Podcast Show Notes

Sandton Times Correspondent / April 8, 2025

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Sandton Times Correspondent April 2, 2025

Mall Of Africa Reveals Vibrant Brand Campaign To Redefine Retail

Attacq’s flagship retail hub, Mall of Africa, has unveiled a new brand campaign that embodies progressive evolution.

Shows

The Mystery Of Flight SA 295: A New Chapter In The Helderberg Tragedy

April 9, 2025

Serviced Offices

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Choosing Hybrid Working And Serviced Offices?

April 2, 2025

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We Drove It: A Closer Look At The Rugged Ford Ranger Raptor

March 18, 2025

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Unboxing News Under Construction Sandton Drive

Norwegian Aqua is poised to redefine the modern cruising experience, blending never-before-seen attractions with sophisticated accommodations and cutting-edge entertainment to create a voyage like no other.

The Sandton Times joined the much-anticipated inaugural sailing from Southampton, England, this March, bringing readers an exclusive, first-hand look at the very latest in Norwegian Cruise Line innovation.

Brace yourself for the wildest ride at sea: the Aqua Slidecoaster – a world-first hybrid that combines the adrenaline of a roller coaster with the splashy fun of a water slide. Exclusive to Norwegian Aqua, this two-person thrill ride rockets guests along twisting, turning tracks at exhilarating speeds, complete with dueling slides for double the adventure. It’s bold. It’s fast. And it’s unlike anything else on the open ocean.

So, would you dare ride the Aqua Slidecoaster? Step aboard Norwegian Aqua and find out for yourself — the next level of cruising has officially arrived.

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Imagine this: you're standing at the crossroads of the future. On one side, a parade of sensible hatchbacks and sluggish SUVs, all wrapped in predictable shades of Nardo Grey. On the other, the Beijing X55 Plus, an SUV that looks like it just dropped out of an anime blockbuster onto our streets. Bold, brash, and unashamedly attention-seeking, it arrives just in time for Chinese New Year—the Year of the Snake—making it the perfect moment to take a closer look at the influx of Chinese car brands in South Africa.

Despite a decline in overall new vehicle sales, Chinese brands are gaining traction. According to Standard Bank Vehicle Finance, the proportion of Chinese cars financed has steadily increased from just over 6% in 2022 to 7.4% in the first half of 2024. Leading the charge is GWM Haval, followed by Chery and then BAIC. Gauteng accounts for the majority of deals at 54%, with KwaZulu-Natal at 18% and the Western Cape at 10%. Even the pre-owned market is thriving, with financing for used Chinese vehicles growing from 20% in 2022 to 36% by mid-2024.

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Alexander Albon

Sandton Times Correspondent February 23, 2025

2025 Formula 1 Calendar: F1 Schedule, Standings, Races And More!

The 2025 Formula 1 (F1) season is gearing up to be one of the most…

Food

We Tried It: Lunch At Steenberg Farm’s Tryn – Refined Dining In A Historic Setting

April 14, 2025

Travel

Norwegian Aqua Inaugural Voyage: Setting Sail In The Haven Penthouse

April 14, 2025

Entertainment

‘Warfare’ Puts You Unapologetically In A Soldier’s Shoes

April 14, 2025

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Hyde has arrived in Johannesburg, bringing a bohemian spirit to Rosebank’s vibrant core. The grand opening party, featuring Mi Casa, set the stage for a night of unforgettable entertainment. Located in the iconic Bank building, creativity and conversation flow seamlessly at this architectural landmark. Image: Hyde Johannesburg

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Political powerhouse Helen Zille is the latest hig

No visit to Johannesburg should be complete withou

No visit to Johannesburg should be complete without a night at the Hallmark House and Marabi Club.

In the heart of Johannesburg CBD, on the bustling doorstep of Maboneng, this iconic building has been repurposed, originally designed in the 1970s to house South Africa’s booming diamond-polishing industry

Among the many gems within Hallmark House, one shines brightest – The Marabi Club. Nestled in the basement, this evocative jazz club takes guests on a journey back in time while serving up contemporary luxury, superb food, and the captivating rhythms of African jazz.

Get all the details at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#johannesburg #hallmarkhouse #marabiclub

In the heart of South Africa’s Soutpansberg Moun

In the heart of South Africa’s Soutpansberg Mountains lies Few & Far Luvhondo, a ground-breaking eco-lodge that is redefining the concept of luxury travel with a focus on sustainability, adventure, and connection to nature.

Spanning over 100’000 hectares within the UNESCO-listed Vhembe Biosphere Reserve, this intimate six-suite lodge is the first offering from Few & Far, a revolutionary eco-travel company founded by visionary eco-adventurers Sarah and Jacob Dusek in 2024. As pioneers of sustainable luxury travel, the Duseks are no strangers to the hospitality industry. Their previous venture, Under Canvas, has positioned them at the forefront of the U.S. glamping scene.

Few & Far Luvhondo represents their bold new vision for the future of safari travel—one that is both luxurious and rooted in a commitment to environmental conservation.

Full story coming up on www.sandtontimes.co.za

#fewandfarluvhondo #glamping #safari

From wandering the legendary gardens to indulging

From wandering the legendary gardens to indulging in the freshest seasonal dishes at Babel, The Sandton Times took the December break to explore Babylonstoren in Franschhoek.

Set against the dramatic backdrop of the Simonsberg mountains in the Franschhoek wine valley, Babylonstoren is more than just a destination—it’s an experience steeped in history, biodiversity, and modern elegance. One of the oldest Cape Dutch farms, it is a place where the vibrancy of nature intertwines seamlessly with fine dining, unique accommodations, and a palpable sense of tranquillity. Whether you’re a botanical enthusiast, a food lover, or simply seeking a restorative escape, Babylonstoren promises something unforgettable.

Dining at Babel Restaurant is a highlight of any visit. Housed in a converted cow shed, the space blends Cape Dutch architecture with contemporary design, creating an elegant yet unpretentious atmosphere. The menu, driven by the “pick, clean, and serve” philosophy, features seasonal produce harvested daily from the garden.

Read the full story on www.sandtontimes.co.za

#babel #babylonstoren #stellenbosch

Tourism Seychelles recently hosted a media briefin

Tourism Seychelles recently hosted a media briefing in greater Sandton, where Principal Secretary Sherin Francis outlined the exciting vision for Seychelles’ tourism sector in 2025.

During the session, Sherin unveiled a series of landmark initiatives, including the launch of new luxury hotel developments, a diverse collection of boutique properties, and an emphasis on small homegrown tourism products. A major highlight was the introduction of the Seychelles Tourism Grading Programme, designed to reinforce the country’s commitment to maintaining high standards across its hospitality sector.

These initiatives align with Seychelles’ dedication to sustainable tourism while ensuring visitors experience the best accommodations and services in the Indian Ocean paradise.

Get the full Seychelles’ 2025 calendar on www.sandtontimes.co.za

#seychelles #sherinfrancis #islandlife

#seychelles #islandlife #sherinfrancis

Sandton’s culinary landscape has just received a

Sandton’s culinary landscape has just received a major upgrade with the relocation of The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg to The Peech Hotel in Melrose.

The arrival of The Pot Luck Club at The Peech Hotel isn’t just a stroke of luck – it’s a coming together of world-class dining and boutique hospitality. For James and Vicky Peech, the owners of The Peech Hotel, this partnership represents a bold step forward in their ongoing mission to create a boutique hotel that seamlessly blends comfort, style, and top-tier dining. The collaboration with Luke Dale Roberts and his team has introduced a new level of sophistication to the hotel’s dining scene.

Luke, a celebrated chef, recently took home the coveted Restaurant of the Year award at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards for his latest venture, Salon, while both The Pot Luck Club Johannesburg and Cape Town received a prestigious Two-Star Restaurant certification.

Read the full piece on www.sandtontimes.co.za

#peechhotel #potluckclub #restaurants

Sharpen those kitchen knives and set the table –

Sharpen those kitchen knives and set the table – Come Dine With Me South Africa is back for a landmark 10th season, and it’s bringing more culinary chaos, fiery personalities, and laugh-out-loud moments than ever before!
Premiering on 5 March 2025 at 8pm on BBC Lifestyle (DStv Channel 174), the SAFTA-winning dinner party showdown promises an even wilder ride, every Wednesday evening. Four strangers will once again battle it out each week for the title of Best Host and a cool R10’000 cash prize.

As always, the inimitable Dave Lamb returns to lend his razor-sharp narration, serving up his signature wit and sarcasm as contestants attempt to impress – or, more often than not, horrify – their guests with their hosting skills.

Whether it’s culinary triumphs, kitchen catastrophes, or the occasional dinner-table disaster, Come Dine With Me South Africa never fails to entertain.

Get all the details on www.sandtontimes.co.za

#comedinesa #comedinewithme #davelamb

Since opening its doors in 2021 on the iconic Nels

Since opening its doors in 2021 on the iconic Nelson Mandela Square, TANG has emerged as a culinary haven that has quickly become synonymous with luxury, exceptional flavours, and unique dining experiences.

TANG’s journey began in Sandton, where it established itself as a must-visit destination for food lovers seeking a sensory dining experience that celebrates the best of Japanese and Cantonese cuisine. Its bold fusion of flavours, attention to detail, and attentive hospitality have made it a standout in the competitive South African dining landscape. As a result, TANG has garnered a dedicated following, attracting both loyal local and international guests.

Get all the details at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#tangcapetown #tang #restaurants

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is enhancing its fleet

Norwegian Cruise Line (NCL) is enhancing its fleet with two new Prima Plus Class ships, one of which is Norwegian Aqua due to sail in March 2025.

As the countdown starts, Kevin Bubolz, NCL’s Vice President & Managing Director for Continental Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, spoke to The Sandton Times during a visit to the shipyard in Venice late last year. Kevin highlights this innovative ship and its impact on the cruising experience. The Prima Plus Class ship mark an exciting expansion in NCL’s Prima line-up, building upon the success of their predecessors, Norwegian Prima and Norwegian Viva.

Kevin explains that Aqua brings an enhanced experience to the fleet, with this ship being 22 meters longer than the earlier Prima-class models, providing more space to enhance guest offerings.

Get all the details at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#norwegian #ncl #cruising

Hampton by Hilton has officially landed on African

Hampton by Hilton has officially landed on African soil, marking a new chapter in its global expansion with the opening of Hampton by Hilton Sandton Grayston.

The Sandton Times was on hand for the hotel’s vibrant launch event, a celebration that combined carnival flair with quintessential South African hospitality. Held at the transformed former Old Mutual office park, the event featured food trucks, popcorn and candy booths, and a lively marquee. Guests were treated to a spectacular laser show that brought the building’s façade to life, accompanied by music projections. South Africa’s legendary music duo Mafikizolo provided a soundtrack to the night, keeping the atmosphere buzzing.

Get all the details at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#hampton #hilton #sandton

Two highly anticipated luxury venues, OKIO Nightcl

Two highly anticipated luxury venues, OKIO Nightclub and the Bellucci Lounge, officially opened their doors at 24 Central towards the end of last year, putting an end to speculation about what would take over the iconic space once home to the renowned nightclub, Taboo.

Conveniently located at 24 Central, at the corner of Gwen Lane and Fredman Drive, OKIO and Bellucci Lounge occupy a prime spot in Sandton’s most exclusive district.

Designed for Sandton’s most discerning clientele, from celebrities to trendsetters, OKIO offers private seating areas, a stunning marble bar, intimate champagne lounges, and VIP suites.

Get all the details at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#sandton #okio #nightlife

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) host

The Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) hosted a seafood and sake product showcase in Johannesburg last year, marking an exciting new chapter in South Africa’s engagement with Japanese culture and cuisine.

JETRO is spearheading efforts to introduce premium Japanese seafood and sake to the South African market. With plans to make seafood and sake more widely available and competitively priced, the event attracted top South African chefs, media representatives, and Japanese dignitaries.

The showcase not only highlighted the growing fascination with Japanese culture in South Africa but also offered a tantalizing glimpse into the future of seafood and sake imports.

Get the full story at www.sandtontimes.co.za

#sake #japan #jetro

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