Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel Apartments

Originally a French bank in the central business district of Johannesburg, Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel Apartments opened its doors in 2008, offering modern, apartment-style accommodation. The decor throughout is modern with mostly earthy tones and African-inspired designs. The lobby is an open area with contemporary, African-inspired decor, including a cowhide rug, Ostrich-feather lampshades, antelope horn decor, brown leather ottoman, and a wallpapered wall with a rocky scene. The restaurant, which sees many non-hotel guests, is vibey and fun with a diner-style atmosphere. Decor includes black-and-white checkered floors, dark wooden furniture, dark blue walls, large black-and-white mural of the historical street, and framed old Johannesburg black-and-white photographs on the walls. The central courtyard, which the rooms are built around, features an outdoor swimming pool along with a few spots to sit and relax. Overall, the atmosphere is easy-going and relaxed with a buzzing atmosphere when conferences are on the go. Guests are mostly business travelers with a handful of leisure and family travelers.

Located within the center of the business district in Marshalltown, downtown Johannesburg, Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel Apartments is mostly surrounded by commercial buildings and other hotels. There are no restaurants or shops within close walking distance. Downtown Johannesburg is not pedestrian friendly, however the hotel offers a free shuttle within a three-mile radius (to be pre-booked). It's a three-minute drive to The Sheds on Fox Street, a market packed with arts, culture, and food stalls, as well as a popular bar and nightclub. Other nearby attractions include SAB World of Beer (four-minute drive), Sci-Bono Discovery Center (five-minute drive), The Market Theatre (six-minute drive), the Braamfontein District (11-minute drive), the Maboneng Precinct (11-minute drive), Constitution Hill (12-minute drive), and the Ellis Park Stadium (13-minute drive). Melrose Arch, with several popular restaurants and nightlife is 20 minutes by car. Park Station, the nearest Gautrain Station, is a 10-minute drive away. O.R. Tambo International Airport is about 30 minutes by car from the hotel.

The 96 guest rooms at Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel Apartments are spacious and come with contemporary furniture and decor. The rooms feature an apartment-style layout with a lounge area and kitchenette. Decor is pleasant throughout the room varieties, with brown carpeted floors, beige walls, white linens, and African-inspired touches. The main differences between the room varieties is the layout. Studios are open plan and the other rooms have separate bedrooms and lounges. Amenities in all rooms include air-conditioning, flat-screen TVs, work desks, telephones, safes, and free Wi-Fi. Kitchenettes include refrigerators, microwaves, stoves, toasters, burners, tea- and coffee-making facilities (including Nespresso coffeemakers), and sinks. Cooking and utensils are available upon request. Bathrooms include walk-in showers, tubs, hairdryers, and house-brand toiletries. Bathrobes and slippers are provided. Spacious furnished balconies overlooking the central pool area are available in the Deluxe Rooms and Penthouse. 

Faircity Mapungubwe Hotel Apartments has a decent list of amenities considering its city central location. The Marshall Restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and room service -- the breakfast offering includes both buffet and a la carte items (though not included in all room rates). A variety of drinks and craft beer are available at the bar. The Vault Hotel Bar and Lounge serves a range of beverages, as well as offers conference facilities. There is a small outdoor swimming pool, surrounded by cafe-style chairs, tables, and parasols. The fitness center includes a few dated LifeFitness cardio machines and Zest weight-training machines; plus free weights. For business travelers, there is a conference room, small boardroom, and business center. Printing and copying facilities are available at reception. The hotel offers a free shuttle service within a three-mile radius, but note that trips need to be pre-booked. An airport shuttle service is also available for an additional fee. Wi-Fi throughout the hotel and on-site parking are free. The hotel provides 24-hour security both within the hotel as well as on the surrounding streets. Additional features include laundry and dry cleaning services, and a tour desk.