Following its impressive global recognition, the City of Joburg commends 7th Street in Melville for being named one of the world’s coolest top 30 streets by global magazine “Time Out.”
This after making it to the international digital magazine’s list of the world’s 40 coolest and kindest neighbourhoods, ranking 33rd. Last year, Time Out described Melville as one of the most diverse neighbourhoods in Johannesburg, bringing bohemian charm to South Africa’s economic epicentre. And this year, because of its top-notch quality, 7th Street is listed 12th in the line-up of the globe’s coolest top 30 streets.
“It is wonderful to share this good news about our city. A listing like this is a testament to Joburg’s appeal as a diverse and dynamic metropolis. We are truly an all-year-round global destination for everything from business, education and lifestyle to sport, events, the arts, culture and fashion,” says the MMC for Economic Development, Cllr Lawrence Khoza.
Melville is well-known for hosting diverse young people and bringing vibrancy to Johannesburg. It also offers a wide array of quaint guesthouses, restaurants, bars, antique, specialty and thrift shops, making it a popular destination for both locals and visitors. Located near the University of Johannesburg in Auckland Park and Wits University in Braamfontein, Melville is jam-packed with student life, which automatically accommodates all sorts of lifestyle preferences – offering a youthful and artistic feel.
Cllr Khoza appreciates the work done by the Melville community in taking pride in their suburb and improving it through initiatives like the “I Love Melville” Facebook page and an active social media presence on other platforms.
“Despite the challenges we currently face in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic and many others, it is exciting to see that one of Joburg’s most popular suburbs has found its own space on the global stage among contenders like Melbourne, Barcelona and London. We congratulate the Melville community and commend their efforts,” he adds.
Travellers interested in lifestyle tourism, relaxing and dining in the lively suburb of Melville are welcome to experience what 7th Street offers – from the quality of restaurants to pubs and taverns.
“Although it has become the main motivation to travel for some, it is also compatible with cultural interests or experiences – as on 7th Street, where visitors immerse themselves in the local vibe. The City is cognisant of this and is embarking on collaborative arrangements to ensure safer and cleaner streets for freedom of movement throughout Joburg,” Cllr Khoza concludes.
Written by Gontse ‘GeE’ Hlophe