While you’ve been eating at the same restaurants, visiting the same parks and staying within the safety of your ‘neck of the woods’, things have been changing in neighbourhoods across South Africa. Once unsightly ‘hoods, where a few years ago you’d be fearful of stalling your car, are now boasting trendy eateries and art galleries. And a host of boring ‘burbs are now home to chic cafes and eco-friendly recreational areas. So maybe it’s time to get acquainted with some of these South African gems.
Cape Town, Woodstock
As one of Cape Town’s oldest neighbourhoods, Woodstock has had an eclectic history which can be glimpsed through it’s old cottages, tumbledown warehouses and culturally-rich community. In the last decade, the area has seen an urban revival with young professionals moving in to its still affordable yet charming semi-detached Victorian homes.
Hot on the heels of these trendsetters have come a number of artists, designers, foodies and artisans who’ve been giving much needed love and attention to the area’s grand old buildings. Today, property in Woodstock is booming as the creative crowd jostle for a spot in this bustling and vibrant community, making it an ideal location for investment or a bout of sightseeing.
Areas of interest
The Old Biscuit Mill www.theoldbiscuitmill.co.za
The Woodstock Exchange woodstockexchange.co.za
The Old Castle Brewery www.oldcastlebrewery.co.za
Pretoria, Hatfield
What do you get when you combine leafy green streets with close proximity to a university and a state-of-the-art stadium? A suburb that is home to a vibrant nightlife, quaint shops and some of Pretoria’s most sought-after accommodation.
Hatfield may be the domain of students and Blue Bulls supporters but it’s also an area that has seen significant growth in recent years with business parks and lifestyle centres making it an exciting and energetic community.
This suburb is also home to one of the main stations for the Gautrain making it an easy commute into Joburg. And what’s not to love about missing the morning traffic?
Areas of interest
Duncan Yard www.duncanyard.co.za
Loftus Versfeld Stadium thebulls.co.za
University of Pretoria www.up.ac.za
Durban, Umhlanga
A visit to Umhlanga, north of Durban, may have you dreaming up elaborate plans to relocate just to be near its golden beaches and balmy tropical climate. But that’s not all this seaside suburb has to offer.
This family-friendly suburb is also located conveniently close to King Shaka International Airport and is home to one of South Africa’s premier shopping malls, Gateway Theatre of Shopping. In recent years, many businesses have also chosen to relocate to Umhlanga making it a hub for commercial activity.
So if sun, surf and shopping is what you’re looking for this could be just the neighbourhood for you, as a holiday destination or for a more permanent stay.
Areas of Interest
The Oyster Box www.oysterboxhotel.com
Gateway Theatre of Shopping gatewayworld.co.za
Umhlanga Rocks www.umhlangatourism.co.za
Joburg, Newtown
Today, this once neglected neighbourhood is one of Joburg’s most popular tourist spots with a unique energy and distinctive vibe, proving that no neighbourhood is past the point of no return.
Must visits include the elegant Museum Africa, as well as the historically significant Market Theatre and the Mary Fitzgerald Square, which houses a lively collection of art galleries, markets, museums and restaurants. Then there’s also the famous Oriental Plaza where some of South Africa’s tastiest samosas can be sampled.
We love a rags to riches tale and Newtown most definitely is that, with the property market in the area booming and a mix of locals and international visitors enjoying all that this success story has to offer.
Areas of Interest
Museum Africa www.gauteng.net/attractions/entry/museum_africa
Market Theatre markettheatre.co.za
Oriental Plaza www.orientalplaza.co.za
Is your neighbourhood the next trendy spot? Let us know about it in the comments below.
