Shopping

Like most things in Bloemfontein, the shopping may not be world-class or even on par with many of its counterparts like Durban and Cape Town, but the 'City of Roses' still has enough to give shopaholics their retail fix while on holiday.

The Sanlam Plaza and Middestad Centre in the Bloemfontein CBD are good places to start where major retail chains and fashion outlets can be found, while just outside the Sanlam Plaza plenty of street stalls selling curios such as African bead work, clothing, cheap handbags and music can be found. The Loch Logan Waterfront is also a good place to enjoy a few hours browsing the stores before stopping to refuel at one of the many restaurants and eateries surrounding the artificial lake, while the upmarket Mimosa Mall also offers plenty in the way of specialty shops and chain stores.

Head to 'Die Volksblad' arts and crafts market in Kings Park which takes place on the first Saturday of every month. The Westdene Park Market and the Show Grounds Fleamarket. which take place every second and third Saturday of the month respectively, are the perfect place to spend a morning snacking on delicious local food such as boerewors rolls while browsing through the stalls selling everything from clothing, leather goods and accessories to plants, ceramics and home wares.

Best buys in Bloemfontein? Apart from a one way ticket out of there you'll be looking for African woodcarvings, traditional boere Witblitz spirit, and sporting goods bearing the image of Freestate Cheetahs, the local rugby franchise.