There are different reasons why people stay at a hotel. Sometimes its for business, sometimes for a wedding, sometimes it is merely an escape from the hustle and bustle of our busy lives. I stayed at Thaba this weekend to visit with some friends, this was my second stay as I stayed here also in 2011.

I have stayed in hotels all over the world, from Finland across the globe to India, and I have learned along the way what makes a good hotel, but also what it is that makes a great hotel. Thaba for me is a great hotel. The basics are there, clean rooms, good food and friendly service. But more than that they strive for excellence. For example, the service is not just friendly, it is also calm and unobtrusive; and when there is a problem it is dealt with efficiently and without making you feel uncomfortable and demanding. The rooms are not just clean, they are crisp with soothing colours and comfortable and stylish furniture. And the food is not just good, it tantalizes and makes you want more!

Thaba is also about the complete experience. They have a range of other activities available to their clients including the fabulous Thaba Lions! What a delight to be able to come up close and personal with the King of the Jungle. I had the opportunity to hold and play with the little cubs. Just be careful that you don't turn into a toy for the cubs yourself as they are quite inquisitive and won't hesitate to get a playful bite in while playing!

I would definitely recommend Thaba Ya Batswana any day!

It has been a long time since my wife and I have gone away alone. So I decided to go onto the NET and find a place not to far from the concrete jungle as we only had one night, I discovered THABA YA BATSWANA . A mere 30 min drive from Boksburg and we were in Heven. It is not just a destination it is home away from home.I dont know where to start,from the welcoming at security to the staff at reception,the drive to our rooms, the massive clean rooms with rose pettles and gift basket, amazing views,the welcome refreshments and treats at our dinner venue,the decor on our tables,the great staff compliment per customer /table,the excellent taste and presentation of the food (their went the diet).And of course the smile on the beautiful wifes face as this was all a surprise for her.The next morning we went for breakfast,all the goodies a fantastic breakfast should consist of. After filling our bellys we went to the Lion Cubs Park,two mins walk away.That is where my wife fell in love again (not with me but the cubs).We spend some time playing with them and then had to leave to get back to the hustle and bustle.What a great experience from start to end. I would again like to thank all at THABA YA BATSWANA .Pictures are on face book.

Thaba Ya Batswana is truly Heaven on Earth. Breathtaking views, 5 star facilities, amazing staff and excellent cuisine is only a few of the characteristics of this great venue.

I recently hosted a corporate event at TYB and it was a great success.

First and foremost I would like to thank each staff member for their great hospitality, professional service and attention to detail. Hats off to the chefs and kitchen staff for the excellent cuisine.

The breathtaking rooms are comfortable and spacious with its elegant design.

Over all this was a fantastic experience and I would recommend all travelers staying in JHB to visit this GEM.

Thaba Ya Batswana is one of my favorite hotels in the world; it is nestled on a hill and has picturesque scenery, you will never guess that you are in Johannesburg. The hustle and bustle of city life is a fleeting memory when you are in this magical kingdom.

The rooms are exceptional; it is beautifully laid out and comfortable. The best part is the space in the rooms. It is comfortable enough for a 2 week stay without any sign of cabin fever.

The staff paid attention to detail and the function that I attended was beautifully made up and our host of the evening had a winning smile and a desire to attend to our every need. I thought he might be our genie in a bottle… except instead of only three, we had a million wishes.

To top it all off, there are Lion cubs. Yes, real lion cubs, for those of you from other continents. They are magnificent! You are allowed to play with them and take pictures. It is one of the best experiences I ever have. Whilst playing with them, it becomes clear why they are the kings of the jungle. We also received an educational tour.

Over all this was a fantastic experience and I would recommend all travelers staying in JHB to definitely try this place – IT WAS MAGICAL!!! It is every thing you want in a holiday all rolled up in one!

PS: I forgot to mention the chocolate cake. It is too die for. It is the best choc cake in South Africa! No jokes.