This time for Africa : Living in Sandton

Having got in to South Africa and stayed for more than 2 weeks, I can safely give my first impression feedback on living in Johannesburg. Apparently, I got all negative opinions from all sides about my move to South Africa for next few years on a long term project. Personally, I took up this to avoid frequent official trips and to live in one place with my family.

Its true that Johannesburg is one of the cities that holds the highest crime rate. For expats moving in to Johannesburg, its quiet essential to research about the place they live. I am posted in this place called Sandton which is the next CBD after Central Johannesburg and it lies halfway between Central Joburg and Pretoria. Undoubtedly, Sandton is one of the safest part in whole Africa with good infrastructure, clean roads, well loaded malls and pleasant residential complexes with onboard security guards all time.

Having your own car for transport is mandatory for expats though there are local buses and trains as they are considered unsafe mode of transport. I spotted handful of population wandering streets all time. However, you got to be street smart and rationale on where you walk and where you drive alone. Common suggestions for safety includes,

- Never leave valuables in car when its parked
- Always try and park the car in secured area
- Keep the car doors locked all the time
- Try to avoid getting out of the car in the streets especially at night times

The suggestions might look scary but no reason to get paranoid about. Bottom line being smart enough to gauge the surroundings and act accordingly. So far, in my 2 weeks stay here I never felt threatened or worried to drive alone around in the downtown.

Sandton City

Last weekend I drove to Fordsburg in Central Johannesburg (20 mins from Sandton) and found the place quiet contrasting to Sandton. Heavy traffic, non friendly atmosphere, litters every where etc., However, the oriental plaza parking space seems to be safe to park the car and go for some asian shopping around.

Now, the delightful factors about living in Sandton

- The Nelson Mandela Square Mall is one of the largest in Southern Hemisphere (2kms from where I live)
- Pleasant spacious villa type apartment with backyard garden, swimming pool, tennis courts, electric fenced etc.,
- Well laid roads and malls every where makes it easier for frequent shopping
- Most of the restaurants have good set of vegetarian options at more affordable cost
- Friendly locals who are always happy to help (but not all the time)

Watch out this space for more updates from now on and wish me Safe Stay !!!