Summer Garden Accommodation (The Flower Box)

Summer Garden Accommodation (The Flower Box) offers a serene and secure stay in Benoni, just a 10-minute drive from OR Tambo International Airport. We take pride in providing gracious hospitality that many believe is a thing of the past. Our friendly and helpful staff ensure that your stay is comfortable and enjoyable. Our well-maintained facilities cater to both holidaymakers and business travellers, with rooms equipped for longer stays, featuring air conditioning and kitchens. Each room also includes en-suite bathrooms, DSTV, fridge/freezer, kettle, microwave, and basic cutlery & crockery. We have equipped our establishment with generators and water tanks to guarantee an uninterrupted and pleasant stay. Wi-Fi is available throughout the property, and heat pumps provide ample hot water for all guests. Secure parking is provided, and our borehole water system ensures that showers are always functional. With only 9 furnished units, guests can enjoy a more private and safe experience, minimizing contact with others. Most rooms have their own entrances from the outside, allowing direct access to your accommodation. Our commitment to high safety and hygiene standards ensures a clean and secure environment for all our guests.

Area Info

Benoni, located on the East Rand in the Gauteng province of South Africa, is a part of the Greater Johannesburg region and has been incorporated into the Ekurhuleni Metropolitan Municipality since 2000.

Historical Background:
Benoni's history dates back to 1881 when surveyor-general Johan Rissik encountered difficulties in assigning title deeds to unclaimed state property. He named the area Benoni, which means "son of my sorrows" from the biblical Book of Genesis. The discovery of gold in September 1887 led to the establishment of the Chimes Mine by Cornishmen. In 1904, Sir George Farrar, the chairman of a mining company, began beautifying the rapidly growing mining town by channeling mine water into marshland and creating reservoirs stocked with fish.

Modern Benoni:
Today, the picturesque reservoirs and numerous lakes, ideal for fishing, boating, and relaxation, are a testament to Farrar's efforts. The town is characterized by thousands of trees planted in its early years, achieving municipal status in 1907. In the 1990s, Benoni hosted the WOMAD Festival (World of Music, Arts, and Dance), an international cultural event.

Contemporary Life:
Benoni has evolved into a diverse community with residents of various colors and denominations. While gold mining has waned, the town has shifted its focus to industry and services, serving as a hub for nearby East Rand towns like Brakpan, Nigel, and Springs. Benoni also houses the Benoni Heliport for helicopter use.

Attractions:
Visitors to Benoni can explore a range of activities and attractions:
Local Museum: Offers insights into the town's rich history.
Lakes and Parks: Ideal for picnics and relaxation, with Lakeside Shopping Mall built in the shape of a Mississippi Steamboat on one of the lakes.
Northmead Square: Known for reintroducing cinemas to Benoni and located near the Bunny Park, which features rabbits and other small animals for children's entertainment.
Willowmoore Park: A venue for provincial and One Day International cricket matches.

Notable Residents:
Benoni is the birthplace of Oscar-winning actress Charlize Theron. It was also the setting for the 2005 MTV-inspired cult movie "Crazy Monkey: Straight Outta Benoni."

Lifestyle:
Benoni boasts numerous attractive, tree-lined suburbs with a strong suburban character, setting it apart from the more industrialized East Rand towns.

Whether you’re exploring its historical sites, enjoying recreational activities, or simply soaking in the serene suburban ambiance, Benoni offers a unique blend of history, culture, and modern living.