Johannesburg and Pretoria

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In my mind South Africa really lives up to its name of 'the Rainbow Nation' – not only due to its many different types of people but its diversity of scenery, leading it to be described as a 'world in one country'. The country features traditional African savannah and wildlife; Indian Ocean beaches; magnificent mountain ranges; first world cities or awesome deserts. There is no end to the breathtaking scenery and smiling faces.

• Laura Pattinson
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Johannesburg is the gateway to South Africa and this is where many visitors will start their journey. You may find yourself spending time here at some stage of your holiday. There are several good museums and plenty of shopping centres to explore. Many visitors choose to base themselves in the nearby 'township' of Soweto for a fascinating cultural insight.

The administrative capital of South Africa is the city of Pretoria (or Tshwane), about 50 km north of Johannesburg. The city, known for its Jacaranda trees, hosts more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves. It is also renowned for its historical buildings, exquisite gardens, monuments and museums.

Pretoria is also home to the majestic Union Buildings which were the seat of the apartheid government and these sandstone buildings represented to many the oppression of apartheid rule. But this changed when the Union Buildings became the setting for the inauguration of Nelson Mandela as President in 1994. Again the buildings and their surrounding gardens provide excellent views of the city.

Pretoria has many interesting day trips close to the hub of the city. Take a balloon Safari over the Magaliesburg, a visit to the Nan Hua Buddhist Temple in Bronkhorstspruit, or explore South African Culture at the Lesedi Cultural Village between Pretoria and Johannesburg.

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