Bloemfontein

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Introduction

Bloemfontein sits at a crossroads in South Africa, with Johannesburg to the north, Cape Town to the south, Durban to the east and Kimberley and Namibia to the west. As a result it oftens serves as a stop-off point for travellers going somewhere else, but it's actually a nice, quiet place to spend a day or two if you have the time. It was also, rather surprisingly, the birthplace of famous fantasy authour J.R.R. Tolkien, who was born in 1892 and lived there for three years.

Neighbourhoods

Sights and Activities

For an interesting introduction to the city's mix of architectural styles, visitors should take a walk down President Brand Street. The Oliewenhuis Art Gallery stocks a good collection of painting and sculpture, and is set in some beautiful green gardens.

Events and Festivals

World Cup 2010

The big upcoming event on the South African horizon is of course the FIFA World Cup beginning on the 11th of June 2010. One of the most prestigious and popular world sporting events, the World Cup 2010 promises to bring throngs of passionate supporters from around the globe. Held once every four years, it's a football tournament (known as soccer in South Africa) where 32 world nations vie for the famous golden trophy.

Bloemfontein will be hosting some of the World Cup matches at the Free State Stadium, which has a capacity of 48,070.

• The Manguang African Culture Festival hits the town in September, and the Granaat Rock Festival is an all day music event scheduled to run on the 16th of August in 2009.

Weather

Bloemfontein has a fairly moderate climate compared to many other parts in the country. Temperatures average beteween 25 and 30 degrees Celsius from October to March and between 16 and 19 20 degrees Celsius from May to August. Nights are roughly around 12 to 16 degrees during winter, but only slightly above zero in June and July. Extremes of 38 degrees and -9 degrees have been recorded. May to September is fairly dry, November to March is the rainy season. Annual rainfall is around 500 mm.

Getting There

By Plane

By Train

By Car

By Bus

By Boat

Getting Around

By Car

By Public Transport

By Foot

By Bike

Eat

Drink

Sleep

Budget

Mid-Range

Upscale

Work

Learn

Keep Connected

Internet

Phone

See also International Telephone Calls

Post