Marshalltown, Johannesburg

Lying right in the heart of Jozi’s inner city as it does, Marshalltown is recapturing its position as the financial and business centre of the major city. Neighbour to Braamfontein, Jeppestown, Joubert Park and the cultural centre of Newtown, Marshalltown is part of the city’s history and busy reclaiming its strategic relevance in the social and economic development of the city, which is fast assuming its rightful position as the continent’s powerhouse.

Certainly during the day Marshalltown and the inner city are abuzz and a lot safer due to the efforts of various partnerships between business and the city to increase security and the attraction of the area. Nights are still a little dodgy, and whether this is a perceived danger or a reality is difficult to gauge, but people aren’t heading into the city centre at night unless in groups or to attend theatre in Newtown and the Market precinct. It’s still in a state of flux, developing its own identity, but people who live here claim it’s no more dangerous than anywhere else in Johannesburg.

There are few restaurants, bars and not much of a social scene in Marshalltown. Staying here is principally due to business in town, and a sound one as you’re so central. The big plus factor is the experience of staying in the ‘real city’, as opposed to the glamorous northern suburbs, which are pretty sterile by comparison. And the glorious Nelson Mandela Bridge gives one quick access in and out of the city.