I haven’t read that sticky, so can’t quite comment.

I always go through Johannesburg because it is usually cheaper, and I have friends there.

Johannesburg is overall not a pretty place, but depending on what you actually do there, it can be fun! Please also be aware that what we call Johannesburg is actually a huge conglomeration of cities of which Johannesburg itself is only 1, and a rather unattractive 1 at that. I do spend time there, but then again I am seeing friends there!

I’m very adventurous and have been into various parts of Johannesburg area from Soweto to Sandton.

I really would not suggest spending long in Johannesburg area, but it can be a great staging point to Kruger Park/other game parks.