InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport

The InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo is an award-winning hotel. The entrance is grand, the staff is welcoming, and there are conference facilities for those last-minute meetings. The chefs at Quills Restaurant and Cocktail Bar offer seriously good food. And there's a spa and gym for that final unwind; you're out of luck if you want to do laps though – the pool is very small.

The rooms are separated into Deluxe, Executive and Suites (there are only two and they're superbly spacious so book your spot!). All are spacious and handsomely furnished with wide beds, big-screen TVs, and plenty of pillows and towels. The decor gives a nod to Joburg's history with black-and-white photographs and heavy wooden chests, plus a splash of modern art. The Africa-inspired bathrooms have wide-rimmed tubs, showers and elegant basins. The hotel is also well-equipped for guests with mobility difficulties.

Eat heartily, sleep deeply and explore the City of Gold if you can, safe in the knowledge that you'll not be faced with a traffic-congested drive to the airport. Dynamic Johannesburg is more than equipped to excite with vibrant music venues, shopping spots and street art tours, and if you'd like to learn more about the country's history, visit the sobering Apartheid Museum. Of course, there's also some adrenaline-pumping activities like abseiling down disused silos! When you've gone, we are sure you'll be back...