Johannesburg is the largest and most populous city in South Africa. The city is the provincial capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa, which has the the largest economy of any metropolitan region in Sub-Saharan Africa.

Visitors to Johannesburg will notice that the city, like the rest of South Africa, is a curious mixuture of First and Third Worlds. There is plenty of wealth here, but it is not evenly distributed, with a vast gulf between the haves and have nots.

But despite the poverty, the people here are some of the friendliest and charming you could ever hope to meet. But with the warm climes, stunning beaches, beatutiful wildlife and breath-taking views, you could blame them? If you are ready for a exciting experience, book a last minute holiday and enjoy the best South Africa has to offer.

Traditions and culture in Johannesburg

Because of the multifarious ethnic groups that make up the population of the country, it can be argued that there is not one single monolithic culture in Johannesburg.

This ethnic diversity has manifested itself in the various cultural forms that can be found in the city - especially in its cuisine.

As well as the foods of the indigenous African population, visitors to Johannesburg will be able to experience the culinary traditions of the British, Dutch, Indians and Cape Malay.

Much of South African cuisine is heavily meat-based and has inspired the distinctively South African social gathering known as a braai, or barbecue.

There is also great diversity when it comes to music. Many black musicians who sang in Afrikaans or English during apartheid have now started to sing in traditional African languages, developing a unique style called Kwaito.

This type of music is based on house beats but at a slower tempo and infused with percussive African samples and deep basslines.

Recommeded in Johannesburg

One of the highlights of a holiday to Johannesburg is undoutedly the the huge Arts Alive Festival that is held throughout September and October. The arts in South Africa have seen a massive resurgence in recent times and the Arts Alive Festival demonstrates this beautifully.

It features many workshops that showcase the continent's rich and varied cultures and vibrant sounds.

Other festivals include the Rand Easter Show at the National Exhibition Centre in April; Chinese New Year at Wemmer Pan south of the centre; the Jo'burg Jazz Festival in late September and the annual Gay Pride March held on the last Saturday of September.

Weather in Johannesburg

Johannesburg can be extremely hot in the summer, with long days of endless sunshine. Winters can be surprisingly chilly, with freezing temperatures not unheard of.

Overall, early summer (September to October) and autumn (March to April) offer the best weather for a visit.

Destination checklist for Johannesburg

Johannesburg has a population of around three million and has many official languages. Apart from English, which is widely spoken, other official languages include Zulu, Xhosa, Afrikaans and Swati. A holiday guide with basic stock phrases would come in handy.

The official currency in use is the South African Rand and the international dialling code is +27. Johannesburg is two hours ahead of GMT.