Oh Gauteng, our friends up there in the highveld who take our abuse on the chin and only occasionally fight back with nasty words.

The truth is we envy you guys sometimes, like when it comes to trying to organise a get together. We are all very jealous of the prompt and yes/no responses you are met with – none of this Cape Town ‘ja I might be keen, let me know closer to the time’, it’s a count me in or a straight up no that arrives on a date before the jol has finished.

Now in amongst all that hustle and bustle, when you’re not chasing the strong Jozi rand and planning your next Cape Town holiday, you’re prone to treat yourselves to a little getaway somewhere closer to home. You know, the kind of place where you can be confident that something is fog and not smog.

And when you’re off on these jaunts wouldn’t it be lekker if you could spend less than R750 for two people per night? You could use the extra money to pay those e-tolls, just a thought…

Here’s our pick of the top five spots in Gauteng you can nip off to and not break the bank.

Queensrest, Queenswood – R520 per night for two
At Queensrest there are five beautifully decorated units, all placed in a large lush garden. Each room is fitted with modern conveniences such as, a TV with full DStv, a kitchenette with tea and coffee facilities, a hairdryer and private bathrooms.

There is a communal braai area and a deck overlooking the garden with lovely birdlife. Transport is available by prior arrangement.

52 On Ninth B&B, Roodepoort – R690 per night for two

52 On Ninth is a splendid B&B located relatively close to the central business districts of Gauteng. The hospitality and quality of accommodation will ensure a memorable stay. Guests will be closely positioned to local restaurants, medical facilities and shops.

The B&B currently offers five en-suite bedrooms, each fitted with a double bed and one room with twin beds. The amenities include DStv, underfloor heating, tea and coffee-making facilities, bar fridges, electric blankets, and ample cupboard space. Breakfasts are served in the main dining room and there is lots of safe parking for your vehicles.

Gorunum Guest House, Pretoria – R550 per night for two

Situated in one of Pretoria’s leafy eastern suburbs, Waterkloof Ridge is a pretty area with wide, Jacaranda-lined streets and a blend of architectural styles ranging from Victorian to the current Tuscan adaptations.

Gorunum Guest House is ideally situated close to the R21 and the N1, close to shopping centres, hospitals and universities. They offer cosy, beautifully decorated rooms. The property is located on a southern slope in Waterkloof Ridge and offers stunning views of the southern suburbs of Pretoria.

Retro Motel, Kameelfontein – R600 per night for two

Retro Motel is a unique guest house situated close to the Dinokeng area in Pretoria. Accommodation is provided in beautiful rooms decorated in unique 50’s style decor.

Each room has a unique refracting the essence and style of the 50’s. All the rooms have en-suite bathrooms and kitchenettes with bar-fridges and coffee-and tea facilities. The rooms are serviced daily. There is no TV or Wi-Fi access. Relax in a peaceful environment with a large garden ideal for romantic picnics.

Hartley Manor Guest House, Muldersdrift – R750 per night for two

Set in the beautiful Muldersdrift area, Hartley Manor offers both self catering cottages and B&B Units. Only 15 minutes from Lanseria, Krugersdorp and Honeydew, with easy access to many the many wedding and conference venues in Muldersdrift , it is an ideal place for wedding guests and conference delegates.

Being on the border of the Cradle of Humankind, there are many activities and sites to visit. To name a few: Sterkfontein Caves, Maropeng, The Rhino & Lion Nature Reserve, which includes the Wonder Caves, The Lion Park, Gilroys Country Brewery and Ngwenya Glass Village. Other activities include horse riding, Hot Air Ballooning, Game Drives and Wellness Centers and Spas. Eating out offers a wide choice from top class restaurants to casual Bistros.

Who would have thought hey, all that adventure at your doorstep and none of it involves the ocean?!

Come on Gautengers, we dish it out and we take it too, that’s what makes it all fun in the end.