Lifestyle

The Best Hotels in Pretoria for a Luxurious Stay

Published

12 months ago

1 July 2025

Pretoria doesn’t make a lot of noise. Compared to Johannesburg’s rush or Cape Town’s steady stream of tourists, it moves more slowly—and that’s part of its charm. If you’re in town for a few nights, whether for meetings, a break, or a bit of quiet, you’ll find places that keep things simple and get the important details right.

Here are five hotels that are steady, comfortable, and well worth considering.

1. The Capital Menlyn Maine — Clear-Cut Comfort in the Middle of It All

Right in the centre of Menlyn Maine, this hotel is surrounded by restaurants, shops, and offices. The rooms are clean and straightforward, with enough space to get work done or just put your feet up. There’s a rooftop pool if you’re looking to take a short break. It’s an easy choice for people who prefer convenience without clutter.

2. Castello di Monte — Quiet Corners and Old-World Touches

Tucked into Waterkloof Ridge, Castello di Monte isn’t trying to fit in with chain hotels. Built like a villa, it has stone walls, wooden beams, and rooms that open onto their own terraces. The staff know when to step in and when to leave you alone, and the garden gives the whole place a stillness that’s hard to find elsewhere. If you want to stay somewhere calm and well cared for, it fits the bill.

3. The Maslow Time Square — Close to the Buzz

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Attached to a complex that includes a casino, restaurants, and live venues, The Maslow suits guests who like having options nearby. The rooms are practical and clean. If you’re in town for a conference, an event, or a night out, you won’t have far to go. It’s not the quietest spot, but it’s convenient and gets the job done.

4. Apogee Boutique Hotel & Spa — Unassuming and Still

Set in the quiet suburb of Groenkloof, Apogee keeps a low profile. Inside, it’s tidy and thoughtfully arranged, with a small spa and a kitchen that handles meals with care. The rooms aren’t flashy, but they’re comfortable, with good beds and warm lighting. It’s a good place to switch off and stay in one place for a while.

5. Ivory Manor — Low-Key Warmth with Room to Breathe

Ivory Manor has the feel of a private house, but the structure of a proper hotel. The furniture and design are plain but well chosen, and the garden offers a quiet place to sit if the weather holds. The staff are friendly and tend to remember your name. Breakfast isn’t rushed, and nothing feels forced. It’s a steady place—good for people who travel often and want to feel settled.

Places That Don’t Try Too Hard

These hotels won’t overwhelm you with design or dazzle. What they offer is steadiness: clean spaces, decent food, and people who know how to make guests feel comfortable. That’s often all you need—especially in a city like Pretoria, where quiet moments are easy to find.

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Lifestyle

The Ultimate Father’s Day Gift Guide for Every Type of Dad

Published

3 days ago

18 June 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

Dads are the quiet heroes of the family. They show up for school activities, fix things around the house, offer advice when needed, and provide emotional support. While fathers rarely ask for appreciation, Father’s Day is the best time to celebrate them. A good gift is a way of saying thank you for their contributions. Whether your dad loves technology, fitness, travel, or spending weekends alone , choosing a gift that shows where their interest lies can make Father’s Day meaningful.

Smart Gadgets

Photo: Getty Images

Technology tops the list high among Father’s Day gift categories because it makes everything convenient. Smart speakers, wireless charging stations and noise cancelling headphones are gifts that many dads will appreciate. Father’s Day gift guides from My Butchers Block highlight gadgets that solve everyday problems . A quality portable charger, for example, makes a dad’s devices stay powered during outdoor activities.

Premium Barbecue Accessories

Photo:Walmart

Many fathers enjoy spending weekends engaging in their grilling skills. Instead of buying another apron, consider decent barbecue tools that improve the cooking experience. Professional grilling kits are excellent Father’s Day gifts in 2026. They help achieve cooking results and make grill maintenance easier. These gifts are valuable because they support a hobby many dads enjoy.

Health Gears

Photo: Walmart

Fathers with interest in health appreciate gifts that support their wellness objectives. We now have fitness trackers that are sophisticated, and offer better exercise performance. Devices such as advanced wearable fitness monitors help dads understand their health habits. You could choose foam rollers, massage guns, and stretching equipment for your dads. These gifts promote self care while helping active dads maintain their fitness goals.

Travel Essentials

Photo: Ubuy

If your dad loves travelling, getting them gifts that will make their movement easy is recommended. Durable carry-on luggage, travel organisers, passport holders, and compact charging stations are great suggestions. Travel experts recommend expandable luggage and lightweight accessories that make travelling easy. A travel gift can make airport navigation simple and help keep important items organised.

Professional Quality Tools

Photo: Temu

Some fathers enjoy repairing home improvement projects themselves. For these dads, high-quality tools will make good Father’s Day presents. Tool sets, cordless drills, and storage organisers are good options. Home improvement experts recommend reliable tools not only to improve project solutions but also last for many years.

Brewing Upgrades

Photo: Walmart

If your father starts every morning with coffee, consider gifts that will improve his drinking goals. There are quality coffee makers, premium grinders, insulated travel mugs, and cold brew systems that will make him happy. Coffee based gifts allow dads to enjoy café quality beverages at home without hassle. Many recent gift guides recommended coffee equipment as a nice option because it makes drinking convenient.

Adventure Gear

Photo: 10kya

Fathers that love exploring nature appreciate gear that makes it enjoyable. Getting them durable backpacks and outdoor cooking equipment will be preferred. These gifts are meaningful because they encourage memories. Experts recommend gifting these outdoor equipment because of its long term usefulness.

Meaningful Experiences

Photo: Getty Images

There are dads who insist they do not need anything. If your dad falls in this category, consider a family outing, or a weekend activity they will love. You could buy a football match ticket, or plan a vacation abroad. The aim is to make them happy without giving them any physical item. This shows you care about them and create memories they won’t forget.

Father’s Day is about recognising the importance of fathers to families and communities. Whether you choose a gadget, a health gear, or a memorable experience, the best presents are those your dad truly enjoys. Thoughtful gifts show appreciation, strengthen family bonds, and remind fathers that their efforts are appreciated.

Lifestyle

Four South African Beaches Earn Spots on Global Best Beaches List

Published

1 week ago

12 June 2026

Tega Ekeri

Photo Credit - Instagram

South Africa’s coastline is featured prominently on a global list of the world’s best beaches for 2026, with Camps Bay, Kraalbaai, Boulders Beach and Wilderness Beach all securing places in the ranking.

The annual Beach 100 guide, released to mark World Oceans Day, features beaches from 22 countries and considers factors beyond scenery alone. Beaches are selected based on criteria that include environmental value, local culture and visitor experience. This year’s edition added 27 new beaches, including Wilderness Beach.

Photo – Instagram

Among the South African entries, Boulders Beach remains one of the country’s best-known coastal attractions. Located near Simon’s Town, it is home to a colony of African penguins that attracts visitors throughout the year. The beach has also appeared on several international rankings, with its wildlife, calm swimming areas and granite boulders contributing to its appeal.

Photo – Instagram

Camps Bay also earned a place on the list. Situated between the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Town beach is known for its promenade, restaurants and ocean views. It remains one of the city’s most popular coastal destinations for both residents and visitors.

Photo – Instagram

On the West Coast, Kraalbaai was recognised for its turquoise waters and location within the Langebaan Lagoon area. The beach is known for its calm conditions and less crowded setting compared with some of the country’s busier coastal destinations.

Photo – Instagram

Wilderness Beach, located along the Garden Route, was among the new additions to the ranking. The beach is known for its long shoreline, sand dunes and natural surroundings, making it a notable stop for visitors exploring the region.

The inclusion of four South African beaches on the Beach 100 list highlights the variety of coastal experiences available across the country. From beaches known for wildlife to those recognised for their natural landscapes and relaxed atmosphere, South Africa continues to feature strongly in international beach rankings.

Lifestyle

Youth Month: 5 Young South Africans to Know in Fashion, Beauty, Lifestyle and Entertainment

Published

2 weeks ago

4 June 2026

Fadire Olusola

Photo: Instagram

As we enter this Youth Month, it’s important to celebrate young South Africans who have redefined what modern African success should be. They are successful and can stand par with their peers at the international stage. From popular musicians to digital entrepreneurs and actors, these young creatives are shaping the entertainment industry.

Tyla

Photo: Instagram

Tyla is South Africa’s biggest music export. The 24 year-old singer achieved international success with her hit single Water, which introduced millions of listeners to amapiano pop music. She is a two-time Grammy winner in the Best African Music Performance category and has won numerous others. Tyla has attended fashion events, wearing brands such as Balmain, Jacquemus, and D&G,

Mihlali Ndamase

Photo: Instagram

Mihlali Ndamase is an influential South African digital entrepreneur. She built her platform through skincare reviews and beauty education. Mihlali has millions of followers following her online. She is involved in brand collaborations with global beauty and fashion brands like Fenty Beauty, Fashion Nova, L’Oréal Paris, and Lancôme.

Kamo Mphela

Photo: Instagram

Kamo Mphela’s career began as a dancer, before transitioning into music. She is known as the “Queen of Amapiano,” known for her work in the amapiano. Mphela has great fashion choices as brands such as Adidas and Nike have worked with her.

Nara Smith

Photo: Instagram

Nara Smith was born in Bloemfontein and began her career in modelling before transitioning into digital content creation. Her content is a combination of lifestyle, fashion, and cooking aesthetics. This has attracted partnerships with Marc Jacobs and Dior Beauty. She has collaborated with brands like Algae Cooking Club and Isabel Marant.

Thuso Mbedu

Photo: Instagram

Thuso Mbedu is an accomplished South African actress. She became the first South African actress to lead a major American television drama series with The Underground Railroad. Her breakthrough lead role in this series, placed her firmly on the global stage and introduced her to audiences alongside industry icons such as Viola Davis and Mark Ruffalo.