It's hard to figure why hotels would be so expensive in Sandton. But compared to the others in the area the Balalaika was a deal when I was there (for just one night) so I took it. The lobby's not much but my room was adequate, small, but adequate. I see other reports that the place is a bit run-down... More

I stayed at this hotel while attending a friend's wedding in Johannesburg. The location was great however the actual hotel, not being high rise and plastic, was a little oasis in the middle of Jo'Burg. I found that staff very friendly and very helpful. The rooms although a little dated were clean and spacious with a good shower and bath.... More

The lobby shows it directly: no windows to outside and a windy front entry right opposite to the garden access. WIth a regular shuttle to the Gautrain (phone them upon arrival and they come to pick you up) an easy place to reach and directly next to the Mandela square. Reasonably priced, safety feels fine, pretty good food and a... More

The hotel is situated in the heart of Sandton and offers anyone staying a wonderful experience. The property from rooms - gardens is superb, staff all very welcoming and friendly and nothing is ever too much trouble. The breakfast buffet is one of the best I have eaten. I would recommend this hotel to anyone who is looking for an... More

Our first room had a varnish/paint smell (why we would be put in a room that was jst painted?) but we were moved to another. The first thing you notice is the huge desk and chair, which occupies a large part of the room. But overall everything was fine. The breakfasts were good, room was of decent size, comfortable beds,... More

Such a great place to stay, a quirky hotel set amongst some lovely gardens, not your typical layout and that's a refreshing change. The room was a good size with a decent shower and an incredibly comfortable bed. Breakfast is fantastic, a huge variety and the best omelette going! The gym was much better than most hotels provide, in that... More

The hotel is very conveniently located in Sandton, a short walk from the Gautrain and from Nelson Mandela Square. The hotel has a nice non-business-y feel to it, making a change from all the high rises around. There are some nice gardens and two pools located outside. There's also quite a good restaurant attached - the Bull Run - which... More

This hotel is a low rise facility that seems to have been 2 hotels at one time now serviced with one lobby. It's sprawl can be confusing at first if your room is in the newer addition. There are 2 very nice courtyard gardens with pools. Generally the hotel is well managed. An electrical problem in my room was attended... More

This is a really relaxing hotel with beautiful gardens and pools. Central to Sandton City and to the Gautrain. The rooms are perfectly adequate. Definitely a place to stay in comfort and be central. The only irritation was the unbelievably long time to check in and again to check out. There were at max. only 2 people behind the check... More