population: 3.5 million

extension: 527.78 square kilometers

Museums

If you are in East Rand and interested in visiting museums, the best place to start would be the Springs History Museum. It is a small but well-curated museum that highlights the history of Springs, a town in the East Rand area. If you are looking for more museums in the area, you may also want to check out the Kempton Park/Tembisa Museum or the Benoni Museum, both of which are nearby and offer exhibits on local history and culture.

Food

In East Rand, you'll find a variety of delicious and popular dishes that are enjoyed by locals. Here are some of the most recommended and typical dishes to try:

1. Pap en vleis - a traditional South African dish consisting of maize porridge (pap) and grilled meat (vleis).

2. Bunny chow - a type of street food that originated in Durban, but is also popular in other parts of South Africa. It consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry.

3. Boerewors - a type of sausage that is often served at braais (barbecues). It is made from beef/lamb/pork and seasoned with spices.

4. Bobotie - a Cape Malay dish that is made with minced meat, spices, and an egg-based topping. It's usually served with yellow rice and chutney.

5. Chakalaka - a spicy vegetable relish that is often served as a side dish with braais.

6. Potjiekos - a stew that is cooked in a three-legged cast-iron pot (potjie) over an open fire. It typically contains meat, vegetables, and spices.

7. Melktert - a traditional South African dessert that is similar to a custard tart. It's made with milk, eggs, sugar, and cinnamon, and has a sweet pastry crust.

These are just a few examples of the many delicious dishes you can find in East Rand and throughout South Africa.

Activities

Of course! Here are a few popular activities among locals in the East Rand area:

1. Visit the local markets: The East Rand has several markets, including the Bruma Lake Flea Market, the Benoni Market on the Lake, and the Boksburg Flea Market. These markets offer a variety of goods, from fresh produce and handmade crafts to secondhand items at bargain prices.

2. Explore the nature reserves: The area is home to several nature reserves, including the Marievale Bird Sanctuary, the Suikerbosrand Nature Reserve, and the Rietvlei Nature Reserve. These reserves offer hiking trails, bird watching opportunities, and scenic picnic spots.

3. Go shopping at the malls: The East Rand is known for its large shopping centers, such as the East Rand Mall, the Lakeside Mall, and the Bedford Centre. These malls offer a wide range of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.

4. Attend cultural festivals and events: The area hosts several annual events, such as the African Music Festival, the Ekurhuleni Jazz Festival, and the Soweto Wine and Lifestyle Festival. These events showcase South African culture through music, food, and wine.

5. Visit historical sites: The East Rand has a rich history, and there are several historical sites worth visiting, such as the Angelo Hotel, the Germiston Theatre, and the Rand Airport. These sites offer a glimpse into the area's past and provide a fun learning experience.