Johannesburg is the hub for most international flights to and from Southern Africa. The city grew rapidly following the discovery in 1886 of immense gold reserves beneath a low range of hills known as the Witwatersrand. Today, it is a vibrant, anarchic place of more than 4 million people. The city has a serious crime problem, but security in the suburbs is omnipresent and sufficiently effective. If you opt to stay at the airport, we recommend the 138-room InterContinental, across from the main terminal, with well-appointed accommodations, an attractive restaurant and a health spa-fitness center with an indoor pool.

After years of being off-limits to foreign visitors, downtown Johannesburg is showing renewed signs of life.