Johannesburg vs. Cape Town: two cities, two personalities

People often ask me which city they should see if they only have time for one. My answer: don't choose. Johannesburg and Cape Town tell two halves of the same story, and the trip only makes sense with both.

Johannesburg: the engine

They call it eGoli, the city of gold. Johannesburg exists because gold was found here in 1886, and it grew into the economic heart of the continent. It's fast, ambitious and loud in the best way.

This is where you feel the history. Constitution Hill, where Gandhi and Mandela were both held. Soweto, where the 1976 student uprising began on the streets you'll walk. The Apartheid Museum, which deserves a full day.

It's also where you see the future. Sandton is Africa's richest square mile. Rosebank and Parkhurst have galleries, coffee shops and long lunches. Maboneng is full of street art and young creatives.

Joburg is for you if you love cities, history, business and culture.

Cape Town: the beauty

Cape Town feels different the moment you land. Table Mountain rises over the city, and the ocean is never far away. It's slower, greener and more relaxed.

You'll ride the cableway up Table Mountain, walk the V&A Waterfront, stand at the Cape of Good Hope, and spend a day in the Winelands. The Atlantic seaboard, from Camps Bay to Hout Bay, is some of the most beautiful coastline anywhere.

Cape Town is for you if you love views, food, wine and the outdoors.

Why we do both

Johannesburg explains South Africa. Cape Town lets you breathe after taking it in. We start in Joburg so the history comes first, then fly to Cape Town so you leave with the beauty fresh in your mind.

My favourite spots

In Johannesburg, it's Gemelli. The crowd is excellent and the food is spectacular.

In Cape Town, it's Sea Point, with its beautiful sea views and a buzzy neighbourhood full of great restaurants.