What to expect
Afrikaner culture yields to contemporary style in this laid-back capital
When to go
October to November when 70,000 blooming jacarandas carpet the streets with purple leaves
What to do
Union Buildings, Pretoria Zoo, Police Museum, Voortrekker Monument
Local colour
Discover the diverse cultures of the Rainbow Nation at The African Window
Don't miss
Tea garden, conservatory, and exhibitions in the neo-baroque mansion of Melrose House
Don't forget
Bring a good pair of walking shoes--city-center sights are easily explored on foot