blu rules in the city of gold

There is a constant flow of guests at the Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel. And it recently underwent a makeover

WITH Sandton being the richest square mile in Africa, Johannesburg is quickly becoming an economic powerhouse.

Some of the tallest buildings in Africa can be found in the city’s Central Business District. Today, the newly established premier business district in Sandton is home to international brands and financial institutions. The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel is connected to all the city has to offer, from a business and cultural perspective, through to the high-speed train at Sandton’s Gautrain Station, across the street.

I walked into the open-plan lobby of the Radisson Blu Gautrain and was struck by its size – extending all the way from the Central One Restaurant on the one end to the bar at the other, with the reception area in–between. The public areas flow together harmoniously.

I am greeted enthusiastically by Melusi Moloi, hotel manager for the past three years. Full-length windows and doors open out onto the terrace and pool deck, and the summer breeze is intoxicating. The modern décor reflected black and white prints, with appropriate splashes of colour in the comfortable seating areas, creating an minimalist yet comfortable ambience.

If you are planning on visiting Johannesburg for business, you will probably not find a more convenient location. The hotel is also within easy access of the Johannesburg

Stock Exchange, the Sandton Convention Centre, Sandton City, and Nelson Mandela Square. A complimentary shuttle service transports guests to locations within a 4km radius. The hotel building also houses car rental companies, should you need some wheels.

Wi-fi, one of the most essential components of a modern hotel, is complimentary.

The enviable location, extensive meeting rooms and superb business facilities are just some of the reasons why the hotel has won so many awards – their proudest moment being voted the “Best Luxury Business Hotel in South Africa, at the 2014 World Luxury Hotel Awards”, said Moloi.

There are 220 rooms, including 20 suites with lounge and dining areas. The rooms are spacious and elegant, and offer comfortable beds, luxurious towelling gowns, rain showers and Nespresso machines

– all you need to feel revived and energised for the next day. The one touch service ensures that one call can get your room service delivered, your laundry collected and your airport transport sorted, in keeping with the hotel’s motto – “Yes, I can”. The checkout time is at a comfortable 12pm. But this is not just a business hotel. It is great for a city vacation with the family especially with its inter-leading rooms.

The award-winning Central

One Restaurant is the hotel’s in-house restaurant and was recently refurbished. I had a hard time deciding what to eat, with so many tempting options available. In the end, I dined on succulent sea bass, salmon, seared tuna and calamari – while enjoying the views from the floor-to-ceiling windows.

After a long day of exhausting brain work – or shopping, you can unwind at the gym on the 10th floor, while taking in panoramic views of Sandton, or relax on the pool deck while the sun sets.

There was something about the pool deck.

It appeared to be a popular spot for sundowners and everyone always looked as though they were thoroughly enjoying themselves. Perhaps it was the knowledge that they were not among the less fortunate souls below, navigating the long road home through Sandton traffic.

Or perhaps it was the excitement of the vibe and ambience that permeated the place.

THE Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel pool deck in the evening.

CENTRAL One Restaurant has already proven to be a hit with local and international foodies. This stylish restaurant spoils its patrons with new global fusion cuisine.

THE hotel lobby at The Radisson Blu Gautrain Hotel.