We spent one night at the Hotel Protea Balalaika after spending two weeks at four different bush lodges and going on numerous safaris. The hotel is very nice, in a safe location in Sandton, and we found it a great place to unwind and spend our last night in South Africa before flying home. The courtyard and pool area are... more

I think it is a lovely place to stay. However the management should supervise their staff more tightly. I lost US$100 from my satchel that I left in my room at around 8 pm. My sheets were not changed the time I left and when I came back at 9 pm, the sheets were made, my satchel had been opened... more

We stayed over at the Balalaika Sandton for a weekend. We were pleasantly surprised with this hotel, which is situated in the heart of Sandton. The reception staff were very friendly and helpful. Check-in took about 5 minutes and our luggage was taken to our room by a very helpful porter. We stayed on the ground floor of the hotel's... more

nice hotel with a nice garden. yet it looks like old style but it has a touch of luxury. some of the staff are not very friendly but they aren't that bad or rude. of course as i said i think it's cheaper than other luxury hotel in sandton. it's 4 star but i give it 5star more

Stayed there for 5 nights with son and husband. The staff were very friendly and helpful. Room was clean. Breakfast at the hotel was great. For free internet access, have a cup of nice coffee at Europa located at the Village Walk right next to the hotel. They serve great breakfast too! Love the pancake with homemade raspberry butter and... more

It's a beautiful hotel near Johannesburg. If you have to go to the airport you can organize a car with the concierge (400 R) but, during the week there's a lot of traffic and it's better if you leave the hotel before 4.00 pm. It's near a big mall (10 minute by walk) and there are a lot of restaurant... more

I stayed at The Balalaika last year (lol only recently discovered trip advisor) and was quite unimpressed. The room was booked under my partners name, and when i announced my arrival (which was then relayed to my partner incorrectly as Mr. Bigz) i was taken by security to our room which gave me 2 impressions a) i was NOT in... more

Worth consideration if you're staying in Sandton. There's nothing wrong with this place - even if it's not part of a prestigious chain (Marriott, Hilton...). Stayed twice in May and June 2009 - both two-week stays, very reasonable rates, rooms were fine - four star standard. Or 3*++. Hotel does not have a restaurant, but is practically in a mall... more

I stayed at the Balalaika for four nights on business and have no complaints at all. You obviously know when you book that its going to be a big, chain hotel, but it's a nice one with really pretty pool/outside areas, clean rooms and friendly staff who were always very helpful. Breakfast was lovely and there was a huge choice... more