We went to SA in September and had 2 separate nights in JNB for flights.

One night we stayed at the SA Safari Club - about 10 mins drive from airport, they provided free shuttle transfer. It is located in a light industry area, has secured fencing and a neat garden. Accommodation is in lodges around the garden. Room is spacious, and bathroom is clean but basic. Breakfast was OK.

One night we stayed at the Mondior Concorde at the Emperor's Palace. Room is standard hotel room, clean and bathroom - although small - has a separate bath from a good water pressured shower. The bed was very comfortable with white crisp sheets. Breakfast was a little better than at the SA Safari Club. Free bus shuttle was provided.

The cost of the SA Safari Club was half that of the Mondior Concorde.

The Intercontinental at the airport looked very nice and convenient - as you don't waste time in travelling between airport and accommodation places. But, I believe the room rate at ICH is the most expensive.

Regarding tips in SA we were warned by SA friends that we needed to tip - so they gave us their coin bag containing R5 and R2 coins - total about R100. They said to bring the coin bag back so they can use it when they go back to SA next. This actually helped us on our arrival in JNB as everyone wanted to do things for you the minute you arrived. Upon our arrival we were able to change some notes for coins for use during our trip. We tipped transfer drivers, maids, and staff serving breakfasts.

It was rather funny when we arrived back to JNB from Vic Falls, Zimbabwe and needed to take a domestic flight to CPT. A person spotted hubby looking very lost, so he grabbed our bags and walked us straight to the checkin BUSINESS class counter to check us in. And, we only travelled economy. Hubby gave him a tip and he was happy to leave us alone!

And, tipping on safaris is another thing. Our tour agents gave us the guidelines on whom we would need to tip and how much. Overall, for our 3 weeks trip, hubby said we tipped a total of R3,000.

Overnight at JNB airport
 

Would someone know whether it is possible / feasible / advisable to spend a night at JNB airport? I know I am being a cheapskate, but I was wondering whether it is worth spending $100-150 essentially for about 6 hours in a hotel?

I'm wondering this too. I have a bit longer of a layover but have done it in many Russian airports so I figure I'm well prepared.

Anyone?

I ended up speaking with a couple of SA friends of mine and even they said not to hang around the airport overnight. I've booked myself into the Africa Sky Guest House for the layover.

Vote for IC
 

We just returned from JNB and would highly recommend IC at the Airport.
We arrived from ISB after a 9 hour flight with an infant child. The hotel is convenient and located right across from the Airport (walking distance).

There were people in the arrival hall celebrating arrival of a FIFA team. It was awesome.

We stayed at IC and were treated nicely. Rooms are nice and clean. We had good breakfast next morning and then took our flight to MPM.

Enjoy your stay at this nice hotel.