21st World Orchid Conference

WOC21, 2014, Joburg, South Africa

The 21st World Orchid Conference (WOC21) takes place in 2014 in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, South Africa at the world class Sandton Convention Centre, which is located in the heart of an upmarket hotel, business and entertainment district.

Cosmopolitan Sandton offers visitors some of the country’s finest local and international hotels with over 5000 hotel rooms in close proximity to the convention centre, as well as two of the most sophisticated shopping complexes in the country (Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Shopping Centre).

The official accommodation provider for WOC21 is Southern Sun Hotels and the official tour operator is Grosvenor Tours.  Both organisations are committed to providing delegates and visitors to WOC21 with an exciting and memorable travel experience to South Africa.

Orchids: gold in the green age

The three Gauteng-based orchid societies (from Johannesburg, Edenvale and Pretoria) are the hosts for this illustrious event. “Our theme for the conference and show in 2014 is “Orchids: Gold in the Green Age”, says Gerrit van Ede, chairman of the bid steering committee. “With Johannesburg forming the nucleus of the gold mining industry in the region, the theme pays tribute to this, while drawing inspiration from conservation as the only way forward.”

Joburg: the city of gold

Joburg is the largest city in South Africa, and the largest city in the world not built on or near a major water source. It is home to Africa’s tallest building, a large CBD and many smaller urban centres. The road infrastructure, telecommunications, health care, shopping, visitor attractions, dining and nightlife are world class. It is a city of contrasts and beauty that is proud of its colourful people, its wonderful climate and its rich heritage.