Bloemfontein, the Capital City of the Free State Province in South Africa, is centrally situated roughly in the middle of the Province, as well as in South Africa. The "City of Roses", as it had become known locally, is placed with more pivotal importance than any other city in the country. The Judicial Capital, sixth largest city in South Africa, lies on the main road, rail and air links between north and south, east and west.

Shopping in picturesque, neat surroundings where it is cool, parking space is ample and convenient, and friendly staff provide efficient service, is a pleasant experience.

The atmosphere that one feels in Bloemfontein, this heart of the Free State situated in the central highlands, is one based on an appreciation of family values, where quality of life is of prime importance. Business and family interests are combined, in a hand-in-glove way, with no reason for discord; cultures are intermingled, again with peaceable accord. There is little stress and less haste; the peaceful atmosphere, which is somehow almost tangible, can be felt in every street, on every pavement - all of which are noticeably clean and free of litter.

And with the cost of living among the most competitive in the country, it is a pleasure.

What keeps the past so alive is the unobtrusive and almost natural inclusion of an impressive architectural and historical heritage into the very life of a modern, developing city - here the past becomes part of the present.

Graceful charm is to be seen all along the historical, tree-lined President Brand Street, a declared national monument; stately museum buildings stand proudly visible at the ends of the bustling main streets in the business district, while small monuments and memorials, almost unnoticeable, are deliberately preserved even in built-up suburbs.

The quality of medical care available in this area is exemplary. The excellent facilities at the modern Universitas Hospital, renowned for high standards, serve as a training base for the medical faculty of the University of the Free State, with research being conducted in various fields.

The first ones to admit that this is not a holiday town as such, are those who live here; yet that is exactly the point - this is a town in which to live and to be, and there are a few visitors unable to appreciate that here a certain quality of life prevails and its unique atmosphere is there to be absorbed. Historical buildings include the City Hall, Old Presidency, buildings of judicial implication, the Anglican Cathedral, railway station, the Dutch Reformed twin tower church and many more.

Other attractions include the Orchid House, a tropical oasis of lush beauty, with astonishing colour and uniqueness. Then there's Loch Logan, a popular venue for a braai or get-together, or the Botanical Gardens, or Aventura Maselspoort, where you can enjoy various activities and watersports.

The Bloemfontein Zoo, Naval Hill with the Franklin Reserve, Sand du Plessis Theatre, other theatres and galleries, arts and craft-markets. For the culture-vultures there are also the Bloemfontein National Museum and the Women's Memorial and War Musem.

The only way you are ever getting to know this beautiful, vast city with its pleasant surroundings and friendly peoples, is to come and visit us. Contact us beforehand, we will inform you on our cultural calender, sporting activities, conference venues or whatever you need to know - just come and experience and enjoy.