“Tourism remains an important driver of South Africa’s economy, and the steady rise in visitor numbers indicates how the City of Gold’s fascinating mix of iconic attractions is proving ever more compelling to today’s international traveler,” says Mark Elliott, Division President, South Africa, Mastercard.
“Visitor spend is an increasingly important source of revenue for the city’s hospitality, retail, transport, sports and cultural sectors.”
Enters the very cosmopolitan Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel, whose exterior designs goes as far back as its original bank vaults and formerly a French Bank, perched in the inner city of Jozi.
It might not feature on your travel cover magazines or crack headlines -as yet- but get this: it contributed in making Joburg what it is today. And MasterCard Global Destinations can attest to that.
And of course, when you talk Mapungubwe the entire world listens as a result of the Mapungubwe World Heritage Site in Limpopo.
The chic urban hotel features 71 Studio Rooms; 6 Deluxe Rooms; 10 One Bedroom Standard Rooms; 8 One Bedroom Executive, and my all time favourite 1 Rhino Room Penthouse.
Yes, I was hosted in that humongous Penthouse known as ‘Rhino’ for an evening but guess what, it felt like I was in for a week because of its design, layout of curtains, spacious sofas and top accessories from cutlery to leather designed chairs.
What I relished most is that, as a guest of ‘Rhino’ Penthouse, you don’t share the lifts with anyone. Its’ exclusively yours. Now that’s what set Mapungubwe Hotel apart from its competitors.
Another selling points is the intimate Twist @Mapungubwe restaurant. The management must be applauded for going at length for renovating the restaurant- it is inviting hence the long queues from non guests lining-up for dinner or drinks as the Sun Set.
Now imagine this: seeing those protruding buildings and the Gold setting Sun? How’s that for award winning images atop the Penthouse? Ask MasterCard Global Destinations, they’re best suited to comment.
A gym and conference center (spacious to cater for your every need) also add to the uniqueness of the hotel that was started in 2007.
The only tiny worrisome is the pool. It cannot cannot accommodate a large herds of elephants due to space limitations, suffice to say the design is on point.
All apartments are self-catering and offer a fully-equipped open-plan kitchen, lounge, bathroom with separate bath and shower, air-conditioner, DSTV (13 x channels).
However, should an extra bed be brought in for a child, the child stays FREE. MAHALA. GRATIS…
It also charges one rate for a single, double or triple occupancy.
For your convenience, the Faircity Mapungubwe hotel can fully stock your kitchen with crockery and cutlery on request. A R500 refundable deposit is required per stay.
There’s nothing pleasing after a demanding and stressful day -one gets to unwind with a chilled bottle of an expensive wine and fruits in abundance awaiting your arrival. Oh, what about the Dandelion fresh air making its way through my bald head, perspiring my face?
All thanks to capable and receptive staff such a s Mduduzi Mpofu (waiter- who has been with the hotel for four years and he’s loving every moment), Chef Dion Anderson (I will be back for more, I promise) and a gentle giant Gareth de Villiers, for ascertaining my stay remains as peaceful and unforgettable as possible.
My gut and conviction: hotel should be included in the list of MasterCard Global Destinations Hotels Index. They fit the bill, finish & klaar!
Indeed, this is a melting pot of History and Culture right, in the midst and hustling of Jozi…
For reservations and rates call: 011 429 2600 or email: gc.mapungubwe@faircity.co.za
