Fun Classes for Expats Living in Johannesburg
Summary: Once you've arrived in Johannesburg, here are some classes to consider taking to help you meet people and get settled in to your new life abroad.
As an expat or digital nomad living in Johannesburg, immersing yourself in the local culture and community is a fantastic way to enrich your experience. One of the best ways to do this is by taking part in classes that not only help you learn new skills but also allow you to meet like-minded individuals. Whether you're interested in honing your culinary prowess, mastering the local language, or unleashing your inner artist, Johannesburg offers a variety of English-speaking classes that cater to a wide range of interests. Below is a curated list of classes that are perfect for English-speaking adults looking to learn, enjoy, and connect in this vibrant city.
Prue Leith Chefs Academy
Type of Class(es): Culinary Arts and Cooking Classes
Location: 262 Rhino Ave, Centurion, Pretoria, 0157, South Africa
Prue Leith Chefs Academy is renowned for its culinary education, offering a range of cooking classes that cater to both beginners and seasoned cooks. Their hands-on approach ensures that you not only learn the techniques but also get to enjoy the fruits of your labor. It's a great way to dive into South African cuisine while meeting fellow food enthusiasts.
Language Lab
Type of Class(es): Language Courses (including Zulu and Afrikaans)
Location: 3 Eaton Avenue, Bryanston, Sandton, 2191, South Africa
Language Lab offers comprehensive language courses for those looking to improve their communication skills in South Africa's local languages. With a focus on practical usage and conversational fluency, these classes are ideal for expats and digital nomads who are still mastering the local dialects.
Gerakaris Family Wines
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting and Appreciation Classes
Location: 20 Marlborough Ave, Craighall Park, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
At Gerakaris Family Wines, you can indulge in the art of wine tasting. Their classes offer insights into wine production and help you develop a discerning palate. It's a social and educational experience that's perfect for networking with other wine lovers.
Artjamming
Type of Class(es): Painting and Art Classes
Location: Multiple locations across Johannesburg
Artjamming is the place to be for unleashing your creativity on canvas. With no experience required, their painting classes are a fun and therapeutic way to explore your artistic side while socializing with other aspiring artists.
The Market Theatre Foundation
Type of Class(es): Acting and Theatre Workshops
Location: 56 Margaret Mcingana St, Newtown, Johannesburg, 2113, South Africa
The Market Theatre Foundation is a cultural hub that offers workshops and classes in the performing arts. Whether you're an experienced actor or a novice, their programs are designed to refine your skills and connect you with the local theatre community.
Goodman Gallery
Type of Class(es): Art Appreciation and Curatorial Classes
Location: 163 Jan Smuts Ave, Parkwood, Johannesburg, 2193, South Africa
For those interested in the world behind the canvas, Goodman Gallery offers classes that delve into art appreciation and curation. It's a unique opportunity to understand the finer aspects of art and its presentation, all while engaging with fellow art enthusiasts.
Yoga Warrior
Type of Class(es): Yoga and Mindfulness Workshops (Non-fitness focused)
Location: 1st Floor, The Zone Phase 2, Rosebank, Johannesburg, South Africa
Yoga Warrior provides a serene environment for mindfulness and meditation workshops. These sessions are designed to help you find inner peace and balance, which can be particularly beneficial for those adjusting to a new environment.
SA Writers College
Type of Class(es): Writing Workshops and Courses
Location: Online with a presence in Johannesburg
SA Writers College offers a variety of online writing courses that cover everything from creative writing to journalism. These classes are perfect for expats and nomads who prefer the flexibility of learning from anywhere while still being part of a community of writers.
COOKING UP A STORM Culinary Experiences
Type of Class(es): Themed Cooking Classes
Location: Robindale, Randburg, Johannesburg, South Africa
COOKING UP A STORM offers themed cooking classes that are both educational and entertaining. Whether you're looking to master a specific cuisine or just want to have a fun evening out, their classes provide a delightful culinary adventure.
Exclusive Books Hyde Park
Type of Class(es): Book Club Meetings and Author Events
Location: Hyde Park Corner, Jan Smuts Ave & William Nicol Dr, Hyde Park, Johannesburg, 2196, South Africa
Exclusive Books Hyde Park is not just a bookstore but a cultural meeting point for book lovers. They host regular book club meetings and author events, offering a platform for literary discussion and networking.
Uncorked Wine Appreciation
Type of Class(es): Wine Tasting Courses
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa (Various Venues)
Uncorked Wine Appreciation provides courses for those looking to deepen their understanding of wine. Their sessions are informative and interactive, making for a perfect evening out with fellow wine aficionados.
Living Life Drawing Classes
Type of Class(es): Life Drawing and Sketching Classes
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa (Various Venues)
Living Life Drawing Classes offer a relaxed atmosphere where you can learn the art of life drawing and sketching. It's a great way to improve your artistic skills and meet other local artists in a supportive environment.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.