Hello, I have only recently started modeling but can already feel the bug biting. I have one concern though which is the limited availability of hobby shops in my area. I love in Johannesburg South Africa and have only been able to find 2 within driving distance. Does anybody know of any good hobby shops in the Johannesburg area? Regards

First of all, welcome to the site. It's an enjoyable past time, that becomes consuming, that becomes an addiction. Have you considered buying your kits, supplies, tools etc. online? I have only one local hobby store and their markup is astronomical. It is far cheaper and less of a hassle for me to do my shopping online. Only recently has the postal service prices put a crimp in my purchasing.

The South African postal service is amazingly unreliable but if I can not get any other option that will be the last resort. Thanks for the nice words.

I would counsel this; FedEx. Local hobby shops are for paint and glue etc. to my mind. I was part of brow beating mine into carrying vallejo, and Mr surfacer. You can usually convince them to at least try new products. But for kits.... I may buy one a year locally.