If you have never been to South Africa before, you will be pleasantly surprised when you arrive in Johannesburg. Not only does it offer somewhere different for a break, it also has plenty to show you while you are in town.

The painful past of the country sometimes tends to overshadow what it is like today. While that past should not be forgotten, we should also take the time to celebrate how far it has come in recent years.

Johannesburg is a wonderful place to spend a week or two, and there is a lot here to explore too. Perhaps fittingly one of the most popular locations for tourists is the Apartheid Museum. In the short time that it has been open, the museum has moved countless people and received the highest praise from many quarters. While it may not seem to be the most enjoyable place to visit on holiday, make sure you don’t miss it.

Elsewhere in the city you can visit the Johannesburg Fort. Located on Constitution Hill, the Fort is where Nelson Mandela, among others, was imprisoned. You can get a tour of the buildings if you wish, which is advisable as you will get a deeper understanding of where you are.

On a lighter note there are lots of other places to visit in Johannesburg as well. One of the best attractions to try if you are travelling with your family is solid gold bracelet Reef City. This has a fully fledged theme park ready and waiting to excite and entertain you.

There are plenty of rides and roller coasters here to test your nerves, and if that is too much you can even try your hand in the casino. It is a versatile and entertaining place that has something for everyone.

Another good day out for everyone has to be the Johannesburg Zoo. If you are staying in Johannesburg itself this is easy to find as it is within the city, just over on the western side of the De Villiers Graaf Motorway. There are lots of animals here to see, including seals, chimps, rhinos and even vultures.

If your kids love animals then they will want to visit the Bunny Park too. This is in Benoni, and it boasts more than just bunnies. Think of a farm park and you’ll get the idea. Young children in particular will be enchanted by a day out here.

The good news is that if you have decided to visit Johannesburg on holiday, Johannesburg flights are easy to book. With plenty of nice places to stay in while you are in the city, you will have a comfortable and memorable trip that is likely to stay in your mind until long after you return home.