The Saxon

Jay Johnson - Irwin recently took time off to return to his native South Africa for a nephew’s wedding. For his last night abroad, he stayed in the upscale suburb of Sandhurst in Johannesburg, South Africa, at the Saxon Hotel, Villas, and Spa. This is the brutalist designed post-modern hotel where Nelson Mandela spent six months acclimating to freedom after he was released from prison. And you can see why he chose such a beautiful and tranquil location to regain his bearings. Surrounded by lush gardens and designed with strong attention to detail, the hotel presents an African-forward image. Guests can indulge in fine dining, unwind at the spa, or relax by the pool in this exclusive setting. A nice five-star splurge at the end of a trip.