South Africa’s oldest urban settlement sits on the shore of Table Bay, crowned by Table Mountain National Park overhead. On the ground, Cape Town is a crossroads where multiple cultures and religions all melt together to form a vibrant cultural scene rich in art, design, and cuisine.
Check into 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa to enjoy views of the Twelve Apostles and Table Moutain, while being perched above the Atlantic Ocean — Dine seaside at Bilboa where only the spectacular sunsets rival the cuisine — Tour historic Robben Island where many, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated — Visit the District Six Museum, which celebrates early Cape Town culture before it was changed by apartheid.
When you’re visiting Cape Town, start at the top. Table Mountain. The Cape of Good Hope is part of Table Mountain National Park and features breathtaking scenery, walking paths, beaches, and more. Just off the cost sits the historical site of Robben Island. Other natural attractions include Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden and Boulders Penguin Colony. Other attractions not to miss are the Zeitz MOCAA Museum and District Six Museum.
Cape Town is perched in the southern hemisphere, so its seasons are switched from those in North America and Europe, that combined with unpredictable weather calls for a variety of closing options. Most of all, don’t forget layers and sun protection. Power adapters are also essential; South Africa uses an M plug type. With all the photo opportunities, make sure to clear out space on your mobile phone or bring a digital camera with an extra memory card.
Cape Town has a vibrant artisanal tradition, and offers plenty opportunities for souvenir shopping. Locally made items like wood carvings and beadwork are in plentiful supply. Tanzanite is also a prized stone in the area and its rich blue hue makes for fine jewelry. Foodies can also indulge in everything from Rooibos tea and Mebos preserves, to Amarula liquer.
Forget the hassle of negotiating luggage at the airport. Ship your luggage seamlessly to and from Cape Town with Luggage Free. When you’re on your way, just pack your luggage as you normally would and Luggage Free will pick it up from your home or office whenever you schedule a pick-up, delivering it to your hotel or place of lodging guaranteed. On your way home, the process is reversed and Luggage Free will pick up your luggage from your hotel and deliver it back to you safely.