I HAVE been to Gold Reef City many times but did not know that the casino had its own hotel. I've always assumed the only hotel is located at the Gold Reef Theme Park.

So imagine my surprise when I was invited to stay at the casino. The sceptic in me still wondered where I would be accommodated. Wild images of being shipped to the turret at the back of the hotel like some ice queen crossed my mind.

Boy, was I in for a surprise! The entrance to the hotel is discreet and entry to the room is only by an access card, which gives you a sense of security.

The two floors make the hotel very private and intimate. There is a shiny wooden balustrade with a vantage point from which to watch the activities downstairs without being noticed.

The Executive Suite, my home for the weekend, was a revelation in luxury. The two solid doors usher you into a quiet and magnificent world of the good life the rich and famous take for granted. The suite has two huge bedrooms. Snow white linen and the comfortable mattress invite you to climb into bed so you can be transported to dreamland.

The same luxury awaits you in the second room. Both have huge television sets, a table and a chair, a sofa and antique cabinet with fridges stocked up with goodies. An old-fashioned huge stand-alone bathtub dominates in the luxurious bathroom. A variety of bath salts ensure that you relax to your heart's content.

The lounge boasts a plasma screen and leather coach with two sofas. The dining area in the open plan setting is disappointingly small. But the oval table sits four people. Again the fact that there is no crockery and cutlery, with only a handful of glasses, is a glaring omission.

Breakfast is enjoyed in the Pavillion, which is unique and smart. The only snag is that they don't allow children.

The option for them is Barneys at the Theme Park, which provides a variety of entertainment - from fun rides to games. Then there is a train ride that takes you around the Theme Park and you get a bird's view of the facility

What I liked about the Theme Park is that as an adult, it rekindles the child in you and you find yourself participating with gusto. Letting go is so good for the soul and it connects you with your children as you create memories.

Next stop was the Apartheid Museum, a trip through history. Our children need to learn where we come from, how it was for us, so they can appreciate who and where we are.

As luck would have it, the African Soul Sisters performed at the Lyric Theatre that weekend. Going upstairs and chilling with drinks while waiting for the show to start, I knew I was rolling with the hip people of Gauteng, and the show did not disappoint.

On Saturday night I chose to have dinner at the Back Of The Moon. It's still a classy restaurant and people dress up to go there.

The combination of seafood and ribs with vegetables made sweet music with my taste buds.

After a hearty, delicious meal a trio took to the stage. They waltzed through old school and most of the diners were singing along to old favourites.

Gold Reef Casino and the Gold Reef Park are definitely a destination worth visiting.