Hilton Sandton, Johannesburg

This is, hands down, the best hotel I have ever stayed in. The service was outstanding and the hotel is gorgeous. The bellhops met us at our car, took my name off my luggage and had me checked in before I could walk to the front desk! I have never had a more equisite breakfast buffet- everything from authentic American omelette bar and bagels to European muesli and cheese to Asian pickled plums, seaweed and miso soup. The pool area is gorgeous and there is a full service spa (additional $$). Everything was absolutely spotless; shiny marble everywhere. The Concierge desk met our every possible need; they even held our luggage for us for a week while we were on safari, even though we had not planned on staying there when we got back!! I cannot say enough good things about this hotel. It was one of the best things about our trip to Africa- and that's saying a lot! Remember there is a traditional 'turn-down' service that will stop by your room in the evening. It is nothing major, but allows the housekeepers to get some extra tips. Please provide this simple courtesy to a shamefully underpaid and yet ever gracious people.