JOHANNESBURG, more popularly known as Jo'burg is the economic hub of South Africa, and increasingly for the rest of Africa. Although estimates vary, about 10 per cent of sub-Saharan Africa's GDP is generated in Johannesburg. Yet the city's wealth is poorly distributed making it one of the worst economic disparities in the world and causing the city to have, within its own borders, living conditions varying from first world standards to third world conditions.
The contrast between rich and poor has led to one of the highest crime rates in the world. The more affluent tend to live in houses with a high level of security by western standards, whilst the less affluent live in less desirable housing conditions.
Don't avoid Johannesburg because of its crime however, since it is perfectly possible to have a safe and enjoyable stay if precautions are taken. Many South Africans choose to live here over other, safer parts of the country.
Off all the places that I have been to, Jo'burg had the best weather. The landscape is so beautiful that it's almost unreal. When you go there from Dhaka and you don't find any apartments or even the concept of apartments, it triggers excitement.

Getting there
You can go either through Mumbai, Doha or Dubai and I would recommend that you fly Emirates as the connections are the best with Emirates. The cost would be around 1400 dollars and the stopover at Dubai is about an hour on your way in and about four hours on your way out. You can rent cabs or cars from the airport. Take a taxi and go straight to the hotel as Jo'burg does have a vibrant nightlife across the city.

Places to stay
Hotels can be quite expensive in this unique city. Hotels range from 100 dollars per night to 650 dollars for high-end hotels. A good hotel in a good location is probably Protea Hotel Fire and Ice and this is about 95 dollars per night. You can choose to stay at Saxon Boutique, which is incredible and in a great location but costs around 550 dollars per night.

Food talk
Adega
I would highly recommend Adega. They have a splendid collection of sauces, great seafood and most importantly amazing, authentic flavours and service. Costs are under 30 dollars without drinks. You can find many Adegas in different parts of Jo'burg.

Salvation Cafe
Salvation Café is a hidden gem in the middle of 44 Stanley; an oasis in the urban jungle of Jo'burg; a sanctuary amidst olive and leopard trees; a must-do for visitors and locals alike. Enjoy an award-winning breakfast, a signature lunch (one of several) and a homemade dessert that is really nice and many say the best they've had.

The Grill House
I would rate this in the top 50 restaurants I have eaten in the world but in addition to value, the steak was superb and the service was great. South African meat is awesome, for which you need to try The Grill House if you are there.

Things to do
The Apartheid Museum
The Apartheid Museum illustrates the vivid rise and fall of South Africa's era of segregation and oppression and is an absolute must-see. With plenty of attention to detail and an unsparing emphasis on the inhuman philosophy of apartheid visitors are handed a card stating their race when they arrive and are required to enter the exhibit through their allotted gate -- this remains one of South Africa's most evocative museums.

Montecasino
Jo'burg's answer to Las Vegas, Montecasino, a shopping and entertainment centre based around (surprise) a large casino, is cheese personified. It includes a recreated Tuscan village complete with an artificial early-evening sky, fake trees, cobbled pavements, hilltop towers and even a vintage Fiat. It also includes the Pieter Toerien Theatre and the earthy Montecasino Bird Gardens, where you can get a blast of country air in the heart of the city.

Origins Centre
Braamfontein's big hit is the new Origins Centre, which explores the African origins of humankind through interactive exhibits. There are some particularly beautiful displays on the cultural history of the San tribe and you can also ask for a DNA test to trace your ancestral heritage. A second phase of the museum is dedicated to prehistoric life and South Africa's fossil wealth.

The Lion Park
The Johannesburg Lion Park, situated about 45 minutes away from Johannesburg by car, is a must-see for all age groups. A quick round trip would take about 3 hours, but one can enjoy as many hours inside the park if you have the time. I saw huge lions feasting on a horse leg while cute giraffes and zebras came to the stream for water. A guide helps in understanding the life and cycle of animals in the park.

Late Nights
Roxy's
This clubbing stalwart is one of the oldest and best-known venues in Jo'burg. It's the local clubbing multiplex, in fact, with multiple dance floors that fill up with a young crowd of mostly university students. During the week, nights vary from comedy to theme parties to karaoke.

Sandton
Sandton is a small area but as the saying goes 'the richest square mile in Africa', so you must pay a visit to see the glitz and glamour that Jo'burg has to offer.
On your way back you can buy some interesting gifts from Tambo International, just in case you don't get enough time to buy stuff from Jo'burg.