Experience in Pretoria, South Africa by Andrea

What is it like to live in Pretoria? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

It all depends where you come from and what you are used to. I work in Johannesburg and live in Pretoria, in a very peaceful and well-maintained area. The drive is 50km to work and 50km back, but it would be difficult for me to move to Johannesburg - purely based on the culture I enjoy in Pretoria. I can't define it; one has to experience it. I would recommend the east of Pretoria for someone who values time, serenity and beauty. You can choose to be in the rat race of Pretoria when you live close to the CBD, but when you do your homework well and choose the right residential area in Pretoria, you will find yourself escaping the rat race, but still have access to everything you need 5-10 minutes away.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Pretoria?

Very active and diverse. I did not study in Pretoria, but what I've heard from friends and colleagues, they were exposed to good infrastructure, healthy social interaction and cultural diversity.

How much does it cost to live in Pretoria?

It all depends - but a nice one-bedroom apartment in a good area will be about R 6500 per month, water and electricity are about R350, then it’s all about food and television, WIFI, petrol, insurance etc.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Pretoria? Is there any advice you can give?

The best option will always be to go on word of mouth or with somebody that knows the area best - maybe a garden cottage when you are alone.

What is the food like? What are your favorite dishes?

There are so many different restaurants one can try out, mine will always be something new.

The quality of food is something Pretoria always try and keep above average, but it’s also the personal touch that makes it an experience (Try Life Grand Café at the Club in Waterkloof)

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What places would you recommend visiting in Pretoria?

Union building, the historic value is magnificent - also the Voortrekker Monument.

The botanical gardens are next on my list, but the Irene Dairy Farm is a must see, as well as all the monthly (even weekly) markets all around Pretoria (Hazelwood food market, Irene Market, Menlyn Maine etc. )

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Is it good to eat out in Pretoria? Can you tell us your favorite spots?

It is lovely (see answers above)! I love Blos Café, Karoo Café, Life Crande Café, Tribeca, Rhapsody's, Koi, Lucky Rodrigo's, and the Fishoek (service is great! )

Is the nightlife good in Pretoria? Where is good to go?

Depends on your scene....... Ty's, Tiger Tiger, I know there are more, but this is what I’ve heard about.

What advice would you give future students heading to Pretoria?

Try and experience everything, go to the events - there are so many over the weekends. Determine what you like, find a happy place, but go out of your comfort zone - you never know if you could like something if you haven't positioned yourself to find out. Also, go outside Pretoria and expand your reference framework. It might just increase your appreciation of what you have or open your world to new possibilities.

Have fun and make memories, but study hard - excellence must never be a goal, it must be a standard.

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