Hotel Review: The Maslow Time Square, Pretoria

LOCATION

In the new hub that includes Menlyn Maine and the Time Square Sun Arena in Pretoria.

STYLE

By day it is a glass-walled business hotel. By night the Hong Kong-style light design comes alive in trippy, bright shapes, the façade a web of pink and green disco triangles.

Inside it has circular lights in the foyer with purple angular seating, colour literally splashed on the carpets and walls. Wood and neutrals balance things but there is still a hint that it is business until the sun sets.

And if there is an event at the Sun Arena, searchlights scream "party over here" into the sky.

ROOMS

There are 238 rooms which come with multi-level accommodation options from Foundation (standard) to Zenith (premium), which includes a butler service. Most of the 17-storeys offer views of the capital.

FACILITIES

A gym, pool decks, a business lounge and conference rooms. For those at leisure, there is a kids' fun-and-games area, where you can tackle the Japanese dance floor or shoot hoops for nostalgia.

THE EATING

The food options alone might be a reason to visit. The in-room menu is fabulous, and includes a "kiddies' night-in" menu with popcorn, ice-cream and zero regard for parents - exactly what holidays should be.

For adults, Time Square has 18 bars and restaurants, the best of which must be Forti Grill & Bar by Fortunato Mazzone.

Next time we will try Something's Cooking by J'Something, lead singer of Mi Casa. Or maybe Guy Fieri's Kitchen & Bar, or - in summer - Altitude, a champagne garden and supper club with a spectacular view.

If you're feeling like something simple, the hotel's Tatso is the buffet to be at.

THE TO-DO LIST

I would visit Time Square for a high-energy concert weekend. It is about stay and play, with ample dining options outside too. Old Town Italy next door is brilliant for food.

Or go retro and walk to the adventure-golf course across the road. Although slightly derelict, it is a welcome break from the indulgence of the hotel precinct.

RATES

Specific rates depend on the time of your stay. Roughly, Foundation level rooms are from R1,826 per room, including breakfast. Median from R1,986 and Zenith level from R2,226.