We were recently invited for an overnight stay at The Maslow Time Square Hotel in Menlyn Maine, Pretoria, and found it ticked all the right boxes. It's also conveniently located right next to the SunBet Arena in the Sun Time Square complex. So if you are planning to book for a concert or show, here's an added reason.
One of the most unique features of this hotel, since its launch (April 2017), is its innovative, three-tier grading system, accredited by the Business Tourism Council of South Africa. This system offers a range of accommodation options across the 238-room hotel to suit every budget and preference – whether you're planning to splurge on luxury or spending your savings on a show.
The three-star rooms, known as Foundation rooms, provide basic services for a comfortable, no-frills stay. The Median rooms, or four-star rooms, are slightly larger and feature added amenities, such as espresso machines, blending affordability with touches of luxury. In the five-star rooms, or Zenith rooms, where we stayed, guests experience luxury touches with exclusive perks like a private breakfast area and access to a rooftop pool boasting a 360-degree view of Menlyn and greater Pretoria. Despite the varying levels, all guests enjoy amenities like 24-hour room service, a state-of-the-art gym, access to the casino, and a variety of dining options within the Sun Time Square complex.
We stayed in the five-star Zenith King Room, which was spacious and comfortable. The room boasted a sumptuous king-size bed, complete with a large bathroom with a separate bath and shower in a sleek, modern design. Staying connected was a breeze with high-speed Wi-Fi, and a traditional satellite TV for those who want more familiar viewings. The room came equipped with all the essentials, including air conditioning, a desk for work needs, a hairdryer, and a tea and coffee set for those morning pick-me-ups. The universal adaptor socket was a thoughtful touch, accommodating all kinds of gadgets. We also enjoyed the view of a colourfully lit Time Square complex and Menlyn Maine precinct from our room.
Eager to savour the best of what the Time Square complex had to offer, we set our sights on the highly recommended Forti Grill & Bar, a contemporary Italian restaurant known for its intimate, upscale ambience and vibrant art that adds colour to the space. Specialising in seafood, meat dishes, and pasta, we tucked into the lumaconi pasta and lamb chops, served in generous portions that left us satisfied. Starters average R150 and mains average R300.
For those seeking more variety or who don't want to venture too far outside the hotel's comforts, the hotel's dinner buffet at Tatso's Lounge Bar is exclusive to guests and offers an array of dishes. Alternatively, room service is available to enjoy a quiet meal in the comfort of your room.
Breakfast at The Maslow Time Square Hotel was at the Luminary Lounge on the 12th floor, exclusive to those staying in the five-star Zenith suites. This buffet breakfast was packed with everything imaginable to kickstart the day, from a hearty classic English breakfast to a bustling omelette station. The baked goods section was a sweet tooth's haven, offering fresh croissants, muffins, and cakes, while the cereal bar, cold meats, and salad section ensured every palate was catered to.
The exclusivity of the Luminary Lounge, combined with its lovely views overlooking the Menlyn precinct, a great variety of food options, and attentive staff ensuring every detail was perfect is why it's a highlight for many visitors – us included. It's no wonder it attracts high-profile guests like American singers Joe and Anthony Hamilton. Don't be surprised if you possibly bump into a former Miss South Africa or current contestants when the SunBet Arena hosts the Miss South Africa pageant (August 10, 2024), fuelling up for their day ahead.
For other guests, The Maslow Time Square Hotel offers a breakfast and lunch option open to the public with a breakfast buffet of R315 p.p. and lunch buffet of R245 p.p., excluding drinks.
The warmth and exceptional service of the staff created a welcoming, intimate ambience, despite the hotel's grandeur. The Maslow Time Square Hotel provides a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, personalisation, central location, views, and top-notch service, making it easy to stay an extra night or more in Pretoria.
Room rates start from R2,277 for two people sharing. For reservations and booking enquiries, email timesquare.reservations@suninternational.com or visit the website.
*We were invited to stay at The Maslow Time Square Hotel. The views expressed here are our own.
If you're extending your stay in Pretoria, here are some places to visit to make the extra time in the capital worthwhile.
Menlyn Park Shopping Centre
Within walking distance of the hotel is Menlyn Park Shopping Centre. The second biggest mall in the country, it's a sprawling complex boasting 400 stores. Here, you can shop the day away, thanks to a variety of retail options from big chains and specialised skincare, tech, and home stores. You can also fuel up in the food court or one of the many restaurants sprawled out along the piazza where children can enjoy the outdoor setting while parents enjoy their meal in a relaxed atmosphere.
Hazelwood
Speaking of food, experience Pretoria’s food scene at Hazelwood, which is a 10-minute drive from The Maslow Time Square Hotel. It's almost like Pretoria’s very own Parkhurst but with a capital city charm of its own. There are two dining hubs within Hazelwood, The Village and The Club, filled with eclectic dining and leisure options. These include Aroma, a gelato and waffle lounge; Peaches, an all-day restaurant serving up hearty American South and Mexican-inspired food and handcrafted cocktails; and Smoke, living up to its name with a passion for the outdoors and cooking over fire, along with a wide selection of wines and MCCs.
The Javett-UP Art Centre
Art enthusiasts can explore the rich history of African art and immerse themselves in captivating exhibitions that span ancient traditions to contemporary expressions at The Javett-UP Art Centre. A short 15-minute drive from The Maslow Time Square Hotel, the centre is a partnership between the University of Pretoria and the Javett Foundation, making it an ideal destination for those interested in multidisciplinary curatorial approaches, and art from the continent and its diaspora.
Sorcery Coffee Roastery
Coffee aficionados and seekers of exceptional brews will find themselves drawn to the landscape and coffee of the popular Sorcery Coffee Roasters in Wapadrand, which is a 16-minute drive further east from The Maslow Time Square Hotel. Recognised as Roastery of the Year in both 2022 and 2023, Sorcery is dedicated to crafting high-grade coffees with meticulous attention to detail. Sorcery also offers a self-service experience where patrons can indulge in a variety of culinary treats, from sourdough pizzas and croissants to decadent cakes, quiches, and toasties. Whether you're popping in for a quick bite or settling in for a leisurely coffee experience, Sorcery promises a delightful and worthwhile journey for your taste buds in the east of Pretoria.
Explore history and heritage in central Pretoria
If you're looking to explore a little deeper and head into the heart of the city, we've put together a guide to explore Pretoria on a day trip with the Gautrain. Or skip the trip with the Gautrain and hail a ride into the city with Uber or Bolt and set out from there to take in sights such as Paul Kruger House Museum, Church Square, Burgers Park, Melrose House Museum, City Hall, the Museum of Natural History, the Museum of Cultural History, 012 Central, and Freedom Park. If your timing is right, you may even be able to catch a show at the South African State Theatre which offers a rich programme, from opera and ballet to children's theatre performances.
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