Protea Hotel OR Tambo International

Beyond the streamlined exteriors, you'll find an eclectic, urban lobby where guests mill around, awaiting a flight or door key. Meals can be enjoyed at The Warehouse, an aviation-themed international fusion restaurant, decorated with wooden shipment crates, airplane parts and suitcases dotted with potted greenery. The hotel also has a well-appointed fitness centre and outdoor pool, accessible 24 hours a day. There are 10 venues where events, conferences or meetings can be held as well.

The standard guest rooms are compact but comfortable, while the one-bedroom suites have additional lounge and dining areas for a little extra space. All rooms have plush beds draped in crisp white linens, aviation-themed murals on the walls, sound-proofed windows, ergonomic work stations and a well-stocked minibar. The bathrooms are open-plan with a rainfall shower and the largest rooms also have a freestanding bathtub. Wifi is complimentary and there's also 24-hour room service if you're arriving at a tricky time.

Depending on which stage of your journey you're at, you might prefer to just lounge by the pool with a glass of South African wine. However, if you fancy venturing out, the hotel is well-positioned for doing a little exploring. Discover South Africa's torrid past at the Apartheid Museum or get to know its artistic side at one of the many galleries. For something totally different, head out of town to visit the Cradle of Humankind and Maropeng Museum.