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Start your day off with a breakfast in Hatfield, the hot and happening spot where all the students hang out. Try the News Café in Burnett Street with its extensive menu for a full-on farm-style meal.
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See some of the main sites in the city centre by driving along Pretorius Street, taking you past the impressive Union Buildings (on the right) to Church Square. Walk around the Square and pose beneath the statue of ‘Oom Paul’ – Uncle Paul – President of the Transvaal Republic who fought the British for independence. The Square has some photogenic buildings like ‘Die Raadsaal’ (Parliament Building of the Transvaal Republic) and the City Hall.
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On your way out of the city swing by Jacob Maré Street and drive past Melrose House, a heritage home, to enjoy the beautiful 1880s façade and gardens. Time permitting, take a quick walkabout.
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About 30 minutes out of Pretoria to the northeast, is the Dinokeng conservancy with its historical villages, wildlife reserves and spas. The town of Cullinan was developed around a mine where the largest diamond ever - the Cullinan Diamond - was found. The old mining houses in the town have been lovingly restored and turned into restaurants, a small theatre and jewellery shops. It’s a great place to have a drink, a snack and a walkabout. If your feet need attention, have some reflexology and a pedicure at the eccentric Zau Spa.
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Explore the town hall with its large and colourful murals, painted by Italian prisoners-of-war who were interned nearby during WWII.
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A short drive away is the Kwalata game reserve. Book a walk or a ride with its two tame elephants and enjoy the antelope, predators and bird life from a different perspective.
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Pretoria played its part in the freedom struggle. A large statue honouring former President Mandela stands tall in Mandela Square, in the township of Hammanskraal, and is a favourite stop-off for visiting photographers.
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Enjoy late afternoon sundowners at the informal Khuwana tavern or shebeen, famous for its Maputo-inspired peri-peri chicken, prawns and icy beers. Shebeens are an integral part of township life and were run traditionally by women who opened their homes to paying customers - who came to drink, dance and sing.
An extra day to chill? Do the short hop over to the Rustenburg area, and head for spectacular Sun City.
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