This elaborately-decorated hotel is one of Johannesburg’s most famous, though its rooms are surprisingly standard and after all the hype, a trifle disappointing. The décor is indeed unique – think gilded mirrors, faux wrought iron lamps, heavy wooden furniture and decorative fabrics. The amenities themselves are what you’d find in any large hotel – comfy bed, a pleasant sitting area, reasonable-sized TV and the usual robe, hairdryer/outsized bath-type offerings. But considering this is a five-star hotel, there are a few special touches missing: a large bath but no bath foam or salts; a sizable TV but the same set of channels you find in any three-star establishment, and a locked mini-bar that requires you to request the key from reception.

Of course, there are things that set the Michelangelo apart. The turndown service, for example, comes not with a mere mint on your pillow, but an entire box of assorted chocolates. Breakfast is also a treat, consisting of both a buffet and an a la carte option with some original offerings. There’s a small gym, an indoor pool and an awesome Jacuzzi deck outside that makes you feel you’re really living the executive city life.

Despite not quite wowing the way I had expected, The Michelangelo is undeniably a lovely place to stay. It’s ideally-located if you’re in Joburg on business – many companies have their head offices a short walk from the hotel – or a shopping trip. The attached mall has both ultra-high-end shops and chain stores, plus a couple of supermarkets. Many rooms overlook the restaurant-lined Nelson Mandela Square, watched over by an ostentatiously enormous statue of the former president. There’s a great vibe in the square, though rooms looking over it can be a little noisy on weekends when there is live music (though it tends to end around 11pm).