October 2024 marks a significant milestone for one of Sandton’s oldest and most iconic landmarks: the 75th-anniversary celebration of the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton.

• The Balalaika Hotel remains a cherished landmark in Sandton, welcoming guests from around the world for 75 years.
• The hotel’s history reflects a blend of modern luxury and historic charm, with recent renovations ensuring it remains a favourite among both business and leisure travellers.
• To commemorate the milestone, the hotel has launched a Balalaika Jubilee competition, inviting followers on social media to share their memories for a chance to win a diamond worth R30’000.
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Established in 1949, the Balalaika Hotel has grown from its humble beginnings as an “outspan stop” on the old wagon road between Johannesburg and Pretoria into a beloved gem in the heart of Sandton’s bustling Central Business District (CBD). In the early days, the location served as a resting place for weary travellers, who would park their ox-drawn wagons and allow their animals to graze.

The origins of the Balalaika are somewhat shrouded in mystery, but it is believed that Gerard Le Grand, a former British Royal Marine Officer, was the visionary behind the site. Le Grand and his wife are said to have established the Good Hope Tea Garden on the premises and lived there while the first iteration of the hotel was being built. As the tea garden grew in popularity, Le Grand added rustic rondavels to accommodate country travellers venturing into town, marking the beginning of what would become a 75-year legacy of hospitality.

The hotel gradually expanded, evolving into a stylish and modern establishment while retaining the charm that made it a favourite among both locals and international visitors.

The name “Balalaika” itself is believed to have been inspired by the 1939 film Balalaika, a nod to the hotel’s long-standing connection to culture and music. This blend of history, music, and modern luxury has become the signature style of the Balalaika, making it a landmark for those who appreciate tradition coupled with contemporary sophistication.

Recent refurbishments have ensured that the Balalaika remains a top choice for business and leisure travellers alike. While the hotel now features the latest in modern amenities, it has never lost the character and charm that have endeared it to guests for generations. The blend of old-world elegance and cutting-edge luxury continues to attract visitors, many of whom return year after year.

The hotel’s rich history is etched into every corner, from the lush gardens that evoke its origins as a tranquil retreat to the carefully preserved architectural details that remind guests of its storied past. It’s a place where history and luxury come together seamlessly, providing an experience that is as unique as the hotel itself.

To make this diamond anniversary even more special, the Balalaika Hotel is inviting its community to share in the celebrations through its Balalaika Jubilee competition, running from 1 – 24 October 2024. Followers of the hotel’s Facebook and Instagram pages are encouraged to share their memories of the Balalaika by posting images with a short caption describing their experience, using the hashtag #BalalaikaJubilee and tagging the hotel in their posts.

Not only will participants have the chance to reminisce about their time at the Balalaika, but they’ll also be entered to win a dazzling diamond valued at R30’000. It’s a fitting tribute to a hotel that has been a jewel in Sandton’s crown for three-quarters of a century.

The Balalaika’s enduring legacy is distinguished by every traveller that has spent a night in the hotel. It has served a cross-section of guests from all over the world, including many famous – and even infamous – characters who have passed through Johannesburg over many decades.It is fitting that we honour the hotel’s history with a celebration highlighting the stories visitors and guests have to share. We look forward to many more years of excellence to come.

// Chief Operating Officer of the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton, Andrew Visagie

Over the years, the Balalaika has played host to countless memorable moments, from high-profile guests and important events to intimate family celebrations. It has become more than just a hotel—it’s a place that holds significance for those who have stayed within its walls, whether for a business trip, a romantic getaway, or a long weekend exploring Johannesburg.

As the hotel celebrates its 75th year, its reputation for world-class service, luxury accommodations, and its unique blend of historic charm and modern convenience remain as strong as ever.

For anyone looking to be part of this historic celebration, bookings at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton can be made by visiting the hotel’s website. To stay updated on competition details and anniversary celebrations, be sure to follow the Balalaika on Facebook and Instagram.

Here’s to many more years of cherished memories, luxury stays, and a legacy that will only grow stronger with time.

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