Situated in the heart of the financial district of the CBD, the Reef Hotel is central to everything. It is ideal for the business traveller or the urban tourist who wants to explore and absorb the energy and diversity of this city.

The rooms are on the small side but the décor takes urban hip to a new level. I loved the mural wall paper above the bed, and a full-length mirror is always appreciated. The linen was nice, the bed was comfortable and the whole area was spotless — that ticks all the boxes for me. The bathrooms are spacious but do not have a door, so privacy could be a problem for shy people.

Energy saving is the way forward; however I found it frustrating that phones and laptops could only be charged when you were in the room, as power only works when the key card is in the power slot. A long counter provides a spacious working area, but like most hotels there were not enough power points. If like me, you forget to pack a multi-plug, something is going to run out of juice.

A brave step onto the fire escape affords the sights and sounds of the city as well as great photo opportunities.

I loved the Goldmine Café on the ground floor. Apart from offering excellent food and huge breakfasts at very reasonable rates, the details in the gold mining themed décor are fascinating. The views of Johannesburg are spectacular from the rooftop bar on the 16th floor.

The lifts were slow but there is plenty of Joburg history adorning the walls, so waiting for the lift was not too tedious.

The staff were all friendy, efficient and welcoming. Would I stay there again? Yes, but I would remember to pack my multi-plug.