The Green Point Blog

Cape Town Accommodation

2012-01-06T01:39:00.000-08:00

The Cape Peninsula Mountain Chain forms a high-lying spine all the way from Cape Point to Table Mountain above the city. Most of this high lying ground is part of the Table Mountain National Park, which also includes Boulders Beach and its penguins, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens that showcases South Africa's fabulous floral heritage as well as hosting some great concerts among the flowers. Table Mountain is the soul of Cape Town - its emotional heart and touchstone. Many Capetonians escape to the slopes of the mountain on weekends and after work as a regular - well, it's almost a pilgrimage. There are literally hundreds of walks on the mountain. Cape Town is the epicentre of the Cape Floral Region, which is a world heritage site. Another great thing about the Peninsula and its mountains is that Cape Town has virtually two different climates in one city. When the wind is blowing on one side, the beaches should be warm and sheltered on the other - and even when it's raining on one side, you may get bright sunshine on the other.Cape Town accommodation is plentiful and there’s something to suit every budget but it is highly advisable to book ahead, especially over the Christmas season (December to mid-February) and during the Argus Cycle Tour (usually mid-March).

Hiking Trip With A View

2011-12-07T04:23:00.000-08:00

If you're really into walking, there are literally hundreds of trails on the Table Mountain. If you're a relatively experienced hiker, get a good guide book and head off with food, water, a mobile phone and warm clothes. Always let someone know where you are going and when you plan to return. This is not a city park - it is a real mountain, with steep cliffs and gorges, and the weather can change without warning. Unless you're pretty confident, it's probably a better idea to do an escorted walk. Always bear in mind, though, that Table Mountain is in the middle of a city and muggers are just entrepreneurs like any other. So walk in a big group or stay close to where there are lots of other people.

Parker Cottage | Cape Town City Bowl

2011-10-24T07:25:00.001-07:00

Parker Cottage, an elegant bed & breakfast in the Cape Town City Bowl offers luxurious urban accommodation while still maintaining the contemporary charm of the grand Victorian era. Owners Liz and Paul have combined all the elements of world class guest house accommodation to ensure guests experience the ultimate in comfort and luxury. Some of the services offered at this charming Cape Town City Bowl accommodation include all you can eat breakfasts, in house laundry and ironing, airport transfers, free parking, Wi-Fi and cellphone hire, 24 hour check in and in house tours. Visit the Parker Cottage website to discover more about their services and facilities.

Green Point Accommodation | Jambo Guest House

2011-09-05T07:34:00.001-07:00

Jambo Guest House is an oasis nestled within the bustling metropolitan, exuding remarkable serenity, exceptional comfort and unparalleled hospitality. With wonderful city views and 5 individually decorated rooms, including an African, Rose, Green and Bay room, as well as a terrific garden suite, this guest house combines the best of Green Point accommodation. Owners Barry and Mina welcome you to explore their delightful Cape Town bed & breakfast and find out more about the services and facilities on offer on the Jambo Guest House website.

Head South Lodge Boutique Hotel

2011-08-18T06:48:00.000-07:00

Head South Lodge Boutique Hotel is situated in the popular tourist city of Cape Town. This Waterfront accommodation offers contemporary style and unparalleled service in an atmosphere of sophisticated and luxury 4-star hospitality. Ideally located in the bustling suburb of Green Point, this boutique hotel promises outstanding proximity to some of Cape Town’s most popular tourist attractions, giving guests the opportunity to explore the beautiful Mother City. The Head South Lodge Boutique Hotel website offers a more detailed overview of this spectacular Green Point hotel.

David's Guest House

2011-08-10T05:46:00.000-07:00

David’s guest house, situated in the heart of trendy Green Point, is an elegant and stylish Cape Town B&B with all the elements of a world class accommodation establishment. The modernised Victorian terrace home is centrally located, making it ideal for guests wanting to explore the bustling city or surrounding attractions. Discover more about this stylish guest house on the David’s website.

Areas of Cape Town: Green Point

2011-07-27T01:18:00.000-07:00

Green Point is located to the north west of the central business district in Cape Town. It lies between Table Bay, Signal Hill, Seapoint, the V&A Waterfront and the City Centre. Many modern apartments and mixed-use developments have gone up in recent years. The main street of Green Point is Somerset road, lined with shops, restaurants and colourful bars it is a wonderful place to spend the day browsing and taking in the area.

The Cape Town Stadium was constructed on Green Point Common for the 2010 FIFA World Cup this was the focal point of cape town during that period and green point therefore saw many developments and investings into infrastructure which uplifted the entire area into the cosmopolitan district it is today.

Whatever the area western cape property is always in high demand and for good reason. Whether it be through online real estate or other means, people will always find a way to move into these beautiful locations.

Areas of Cape Town: Fish Hoek

2011-07-27T01:17:00.001-07:00

This village by the sea is surrounded by mountains and has some of the most beautiful swimming beaches in Cape Town. These are a favourite amongst the locals with windsurfers, bathers and the sailing community making use of the pristine coast line. The local residents concern for a healthy lifestyle has given rise to a wonderful selection of health and wellness facilities. The Best views of Fish Hoek can be seen from Elsie’s Peak which overlooks False Bay.

There is an excellent selection of Tea & Coffee shops, restaurants, snack bars, and take-away's available within the Valley, offering a wide variety to satisfy anyone’s tastes. Fish Hoek is renowned for its friendly hospitality, proximity to all sorts of tourist attractions and activities besides boasting one of the best swimming beaches in the Cape.

Areas of Cape Town: Devil’s Peak

2011-07-27T01:15:00.000-07:00

On the Eastern slopes of Devil's Peak you will find the Rhodes Memorial, to Cecil Rhodes, and the University of Cape Town. From these points there are fantastic views over the Southern Suburbs of Cape Town, all the way to stellenbosch and the Boland mountains. Other landmarks on the Eastern slopes are Mostert's Mill, Groote Schuur Hospital and the Groote Schuur estate, including a number of presidential and ministerial residences.

Areas of Cape Town: Vredehoek

2011-07-27T01:13:00.000-07:00

Vredehoek is a suburb of Cape Town located in the City Bowl on the slopes of Table Mountain, between Devil’s Peak and Oranjezicht. The name directly translated means “peaceful corner”.

The suburb was proclaimed after the first world war and expatriates from many European countries settled here after peace was declared. The area has since been going through a revival, with old blocks being redeveloped into high quality apartments. The centre of town is close by with Long Street just a short walk away. Staying in Vredehoek makes some of the best views of the city available to residents, overlooking the waterfront, harbour and Table Mountain.

Areas of Cape Town: Tamboerskloof

2011-07-27T01:11:00.000-07:00

Tamboerskloof lies between Gardens and the Cape Peninsula National Park, a short walk from Long Street and the foot of Lions Head Mountain. It is one of the oldest areas in Cape Town, with many old Victorian style buildings and streets lined with old Oaks. Tamboerskloof boasts an eclectic array of restaurants, book shops and boutiques which are strewn along the famous Kloof street, an extension of Long street. Residents in this area enjoy fantastic views of the bay and Lions Head, which ensures that this will always be a popular area in which to live.

Magical Cape Town Beaches

2011-07-25T06:49:00.000-07:00

Cape Town offers some of the most beautiful beaches on the planet, with sunny white beaches stretching east to west. It’s no surprise that many of South Africa’s beaches have been awarded the blue flag status, given only to the most perfect beaches of the world. Part of the allure of this area is that this is where the Atlantic and Indian oceans meet. The Atlantic lies on the west side and is about 4 degrees cooler. Many of the most popular beaches lie on this side of the coast, with many referring to it as South Africa’s “Riviera”. These beaches are lucky to have longer days and protection for the Cape winds, making them a very pleasant experience indeed.

One of the most notable is Clifton which is comprised of 4 beaches all together, it is no doubt one of the most fashionable beaches. The wealthy all aspire to own homes fronting its snow white sands and people fly from all over to see and be seen against the backdrop of the bright blue water, decorated with gleaming white yachts.

The East coast however has the warmer water with many hidden and secluded gems, which tourists travel from far and wide to experience. These are also preferred by local families wanting to steer clear of the crowds along the west coast. Each beach has its own particular charm however, so it’s always best to go to a few and decide which is most suited to your tastes.

If you are thinking about visiting this side of the world you are sure to be left with more than just a glowing tan, but fond memories of this captivating region and the hospitable people which reside in it. There is a wide array of accommodation options you can take advantage of such as Self Catering Accommodation & Holiday Rentals or hotels. There is plenty to choose from and they line the coast, offering a wonderful way to experience the sun and surf offered by Cape Town, South Africa.

Hotel, Self Catering or Bed and Breakfast? Choosing the Cape Town accommodation that is right for you.

2011-05-27T01:23:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for accommodation in Cape Town one thing you will find is that you are spoilt for choice. Cape Town offers the full spectrum of accommodation from the most basic place to lay your head to the most opulent five star accommodations. While there are a large range of accommodation options in Cape Town, when looking to book accommodation travellers can generally narrow it down to three main categories: hotels, self catering accommodation or bed and breakfasts. Each of these options has their own pros and cons and choosing the right one for you will depend on your own particular needs and preferences. Here are some of the things you might want to consider when choosing your accommodation:

Type of rooms

The type of room you will get in Cape Town will vary greatly depending on the type of accommodation you are looking at as well as the price range you are looking in. Hotel rooms are usually done up in a uniform way they will offer all the necessary comforts but can often feel impersonal and sterile. Cape Town bed and breakfast rooms on the other hand are generally individually decorated, often with different themes in different rooms. These rooms can feel more intimate, cosy and personal. Self catering accommodation has the benefit of allowing you to rent out an entire flat or house which means you are not confined to a single room, the style and comfort of this type of accommodation in Cape Town however varies greatly and there is little consistency in what you can expect.

Food

One of the main advantages of hotels is that food is available to you at any time of the day or night. The downside of this is that food is generally not included in the price of the room and additional food costs can add up. Bed and breakfasts on the other hand generally only provide breakfast but this is normally built into the price of the room. Bed and breakfasts also have the advantage of only cooking for a few people so the food is often of a very high quality. Self catering accommodation means that you are in charge of organising your own meals. This can be good as you control when, where and what you eat but it also means you don’t escape your every day routine of cooking and cleaning.

Facilities

In terms of facilities bed and breakfasts and hotels in Cape Town generally offer similar things within the rooms such as a kettle, fridge, TV, etc. Where hotels have an advantage is that they often offer other facilities such as a gym, swimming pool, etc. Self catering accommodation is different in that it has a full kitchen and often laundry facilities.

Holiday accommodation in Cape Town

2011-05-26T23:56:00.000-07:00

Choosing holiday accommodation in Cape Town should not be done solely based on budget. The attractions of Cape Town are not all focused in the city centre in fact many are to be found outside the city limits. As public transport cannot be relied upon it is imperative that you know in advance what you would like to see and then choose your holiday accommodation in Cape Town accordingly. Like all cities that are popular with tourists there are several major attractions that can distract potential visitors from the real beauty to be found not far from the busy centre.

Cape Town is often seen in terms of, Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, Cape Point and Camps Bay, and rightly so, they should be high on the list of things to see when visiting Cape Town they are not however the be all and end all of the tourist trail. There are many gems to be found not two hours outside of the city limits and when booking holiday accommodation in Cape Town it is important that you remember that getting to these places can be tricky and expensive, especially if it is just for a day trip. It’s worth considering your options for staying in these places for a couple of nights to give you the opportunity to explore them properly.

The wine routes around Cape Town offer a magical way to spend the day, if not two or three days. Whether it’s sampling the local plonk, exploring the countryside and indulging in some of the many award winning restaurants that litter the region your days will be full. The small towns in the region offer spectacular options for holiday accommodation. Cape Town will soon seem like a secondary thought on your itinerary after a few days spent in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek. The region a couple of hours North of Cape Town also provides you with an opportunity to explore an area and culture that many tourists don’t know exist. During spring the fields around the town of Darling are transformed into an impressionist’s canvas as flowers, many of which are unique to the region bloom, covering the ground in a carpet of colour. This once a year explosion of nature is not to be missed if you’re in Cape Town at the time and by carefully planning your holiday accommodation in Cape Town you can ensure that you are nearby when it happens.

Public transport through most of South Africa is unreliable at best, so reaching the hidden gems outside of Cape Town may require a rental car. One doesn’t however want to waste days of their holiday driving from place to place. Planning your holiday accommodation in Cape Town properly can ensure that you are close to the places you want to see. Even if the attractions seem close to your holiday accommodation, a place like the Cape Point could take the best part of a day to see if you’re staying in the CBD. While the drive is lovely and well worth it, if one has evening plans or small kids it would be worth finding holiday accommodation and Cape Town guest house on the southern end of the peninsula for a few days.

When planning your trip to Cape Town, holiday accommodation is obviously your primary concern with a little foresight and planning you can choose a place that will allow you to see the best of Cape Town.

What's Happening: Blisters for Bread charity fun walk

2010-06-30T05:58:00.000-07:00

If you are going to be in the Green Point area on the 29th of August why not sign up for the "Blisters for Bread" charity fun walk? It's great fun and good karma! Here is some more info courtesy of Keen on Cape Town:

The 2010 edition of the annual Blisters for Bread charity fun walk is taking place on Sunday 29 August 2010. Entries are open and funds raised from Blisters for Bread entries go to the Peninsula School Feeding Association (PSFA), providing nutritious meals to hungry school children in the Western Cape.

This year’s event starts and finishes at a new venue, the Green Point Cricket Club. You can enter the 5km, 10km or 20km walk. Entry to the event costs R30 per walker and you can enter online or download the entry form at www.psfa.org.za. Entries for individuals close on 15 August 2010 and the closing date for group entries is on 6 August 2010. Official t-shirts are also available for R50 each.

There will be parking at designated areas on the day. Note that access to the Green Point Cricket Club on the day is only permitted through Vlei Road.

The starting times for the different distances are:

20km walk: 08h00
10km walk: 08h30
5km walk: 09h00

Don’t miss out. If you’re up for it, go for it and enjoy yourself. And make sure you’re not late for the start at the Green Point Cricket Club. Have fun and good luck.

You can also go here for Green point Accommodation.

CAPE TOWN WILL MAKE ITS POINT

2010-06-14T07:48:00.000-07:00

YOU CAN understand the BBC’s decision to base its World Cup operations in Cape Town, even if it is difficult to justify.

Despite being nearly 1,000 miles from the hub of the action in Johannesburg, the backdrop here is breathtaking; Table Mountain, Table Bay, Robben Island off in the distance and, below, the new Green Point Stadium with its fibreglass mesh wraparound which changes colour as the sun rises and sets.

How often the views will be picked out through the rain and mist of a Cape Town winter remains to be seen. Maybe Gary Lineker and Co will get lucky, like I did visiting Green Point last week. The new stadium sparkled in sunshine as the final preparations were made for handing it over to FIFA for the tournament.

Casting an experienced eye over the process is Cape Town’s 2010 spokesman Pieter Cronje. He does not pretend to be a football expert but is a man with answers when it comes to a city he loves.

“People have asked, ‘Why here, why Green Point?’,” he said.

“At first, we talked about upgrading an existing stadium, Newlands or Athlone, but when it came down to it, everybody agreed the tournament needed a Cape Town semi-final. It meant a new stadium to get us up to the 68,000 capacity FIFA demand for that match. It’s a multi-purpose stadium, close to the city centre and the waterfront; a real international venue for Cape Town.

“This has been a big catalyst for Cape Town, billions of rands’ worth of infrastructure projects – not just soccer-specific ones – are off the drawing board because we had the deadline of 2010.”

Green Point will be one of the World Cup’s “10 hungry stadiums” says Cronje.

With a post-tournament capacity of 55,000, the Springboks are as likely as Bafana Bafana to stage games here in the future.

Football already has its historic home in Cape Flats, the sprawling townships east of the city centre. The Athlone Stadium has had £26million spent on improvements and it will be used as a training venue for teams at the World Cup.

Athlone bills itself proudly as ‘The True Home of Soccer in the Cape’. Built just after the Second World War, it has long been a focus for the townships it looks out over. I am met by Blamo Brooks, whose job for the city is delivering sport out to the Cape Flats. “Back in the apartheid days, Virginia League soccer was played here by clubs like Glenville, Cape Town Spurs and Glendene,” he said. “Now our PSL clubs, Santos and Ajax play here.

“Athlone, though, was always about more than soccer; music, athletics, and minstrel carnivals. Football matches were often staged as a cover for anti-apartheid political rallies. There used to be a huge graffiti on the side of the grandstand here: Vorster Is A Joster. That was the people of Cape Flats calling the then prime minister a clown.”

Around the corner on the Johnson Road is the small Vygieskraal Stadium, which will be one of three fan parks in townships across the Cape. Jols – meaning ‘big parties’ – will also be set up in Mitchells Plain and Khayelitsha to show Green Point fixtures. And then there are the acres of worn-out grass at the heart of the township, scattered with goalposts and games going on as far as the eye can see.

Anyone who has ever played on Hackney Marshes will recognise the scene. It gladdens the heart of anyone who cares about football.

“Here’s just a little thing from the World Cup,” said Blamo. “During the tournament, this area will be used for car parking for the Fan Jol across the street.

“The city are putting lights in and that means, once the World Cup is finished, we’ll have floodlights here on Johnson Road for the first time.”

Benni McCarthy, who grew up a couple of miles away in Hanover Park, recently told me: “The World Cup is going to be the most inspirational thing ever to hit the streets in South Africa.

“OK, not many of the boys in the townships will be able to go to watch the games. But think about the excitement; the biggest players, from all over the world, will be playing football in a stadium just around the corner from home.”

The “boys” Benni was talking about are the ones who are chasing around the pitches in front of me now.

Green Point is the World Cup face of football in Cape Town, while Athlone Stadium is the historic home of the game here.

But if you want a feel for the soul of South African soccer, you need to find your way down Johnson Road.‘We will have floodlights for the first time here’

Source

If you are keen to stay in Cape Town and see the Green Point Stadium for yourself check out this Cape Town Guest House.

Cape Town Tourist Attractions

2010-05-20T05:18:00.000-07:00

Cape Point:

The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve at Cape Point is one of Cape Town’s main attractions, noted for its floral diversity and especially the wild flowers which bloom in spring. The first person to sail around the Cape was Bartholemeu Dias, a Portuguese seafarer, in 1488. He stopped at the South-Western tip of Africa and called it Cabo Tormentoso, or Cape of Storms. It was later given the name Cabo de Boa Esperanca, or Cape of Good Hope, by King John of Portugal. Another Portuguese sailor to pass this point was Vasco da Gama, 1497 on his way to India. The journeys of these sailors and explorers led to the establishment of the Cape sea route. When at Cape Point be sure to see the lighthouses, shipwrecks, funicular, global atmosphere watch station, two oceans restaurant and buffelsfontein visitors centre.

Constantia Wine Route:

The Constantia Wine Route comprises of Groot Constantia, Buitenverwachting and Klein Constantia. This was one of the first wine-producing areas of the Western Cape.

District six/District six museum:

This community was torn to shred when the apartheid government declared it a “whites-only” zone and forces its occupants out in 1965. Over 60 000 people were removed from their homes and only community they knew and relocated to the bleak plains of the Cape Flats, kilometres away. The District Six Museum Foundation was established in 1989 and in 1994 the District Six Museum came into being. This was in an effort to preserve the memories of District Six.

Robben Island:

Robben Island lies about 12 kilometres from Cape Town, and for about 400 years was known as a place of banishment, exile and imprisonment. Some of its prisoners include former South African president, Nelson Mandela and the founding member of the Pan Africanist Congress, Robert Sobukwe. This was during the brutal years of apartheid, and now Robben Island serves as a museum to tell the tale of how South Africans overcame this period.

Table Mountain:

This must be the biggest attraction in South Africa. This majestic mountain draws tourists from all around the world and can be access by a cable car. The trip up is enjoyed with an awesome view of Cape Town. Those who are more daring do the hike up the mountain and claim it to be something magical.

Victoria and Alfred Waterfront:

Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain, this has become South Africa’s most visited destination, with its array of shopping and entertainment venues, all set against a backdrop of magnificent sea and mountain views.

Source: ezine articles

If you would like to know more about staying in Cape Town check out the info on this site: Cape Town Guest House

Tourist Information

2009-10-26T23:16:00.000-07:00

Visa Requirements:

Every person seeking to enter South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport for travel to South Africa and, where necessary, a visa. Enquiries can be directed to South African diplomatic representatives abroad or the Department of Home Affairs in Pretoria. Visitors who intend traveling to South Africa's neighboring countries and back into South Africa are advised to apply for multiple entry visas. In terms of existing arrangements, passport holders of certain countries are exempt from visa requirements. Tourists must satisfy immigration officers that they have the means to support themselves during their stay, and that they are in possession of return or onward air tickets. They must also have valid international health certificates.

Weather:

Immunisations:

No international immunization is needed when entering South Africa.

The only inoculation requirement is a yellow fever vaccination certificate from travelers over one year of age entering South Africa within six days of leaving an infected country. Visitors who travel through or disembark in these areas are advised to be inoculated against the disease before visiting South Africa.

Malaria:

This disease is to the larger extent under control in South Africa. Regions that are affected are the Northern Province and Mpumalanga, northern Natal and Zululand.The risk of contracting the disease is negligible provided that you take the standard precautions. Malaria tablets, a good insect repellent particularly in the evening, long-sleeved shirts and mosquito coils are advisable precautions.

Phoning:

If you wish to make a call overseas, you must first dial 09, which is South Africa's international access code. You then dial the country code, area code of the city or region and the number of the person you wish to call. For example, if you make a call to Sydney, Australia, telephone number 456 1234 you must dial 09 61 2 456 1234.

Electricity:

220/230 volts AC at 50 cycles per second. Three pronged plugs are universal, so take an adapter. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and small appliances.

Currency:

One Rand (R) = 100 cents (c). Notes issued R200, R100, R50, R20, R10; coins R5, R2, R1, 50c 20c, 10c, 5c, 2c, & 1c. Currency exchange rates are available at banks and published daily in the press.

Postal Service:

Open Mon - Fri 08h00 - 16h30 & Sat 08h00 - 12h00. Mail may be addressed to you Post Restante. The main post offices have special counters for this purpose. Postage stamps are widely available (e.g. at some cafes and branches of the Central News Agency - CNA).

Tipping:

Tipping is expected in South Africa. A guideline for visitors is the following: Porters R2 per item, taxis 10%, waiters & waitresses in restaurants 10 - 15%.

Traveller's Cheques:

Most international traveler's checks are accepted provided they are in an acceptable currency and may be cashed at most banks. Many hotels and shops also provide this service.

VAT Refunds: Foreign tourists visiting South Africa can have their value-added tax (VAT) refunded provided the value of the items purchased exceeds R250. VAT is refunded on departure at the point of departure.

VAT of 14% is levied on nearly all goods and services. Foreign tourists may claim back VAT paid on items that will be taken out of the country. Original tax invoices, foreign passport, plus all the items on which a refund is claimed, must be presented at the VAT refund administration office or an appointed RSA customs and excise official on departure, and the total VAT on these items will be refunded. Visitors will be requested to fill out a VAT Refund Control Sheet (VAT 255). Where a visitor does not export all the goods specified on a particular tax invoice, only the value of the goods and the tax paid on such goods exported must be declared on this form.

Driving:

Drive on the left and give way to traffic approaching from the right. The general speed limit is 120km/h on open roads and 60km/h in urban areas.

Source: South Africa Tourist Information

Cape Town Lure Visitors With Spectacular Beauty and a Rich Cultural Diversity

2009-07-14T04:12:00.000-07:00

Cape Town has had a long and turbulent history. With Apartheid still linger in the minds and hearts of its people. Transformation has led to the new 'Rainbow Nation', which can be experienced in the cosmopolitan city centre of Cape Town.

Flower sellers, business executives, parking attendants, office workers and shoppers all rub shoulders in a setting of both historical and modern buildings, backed by the city's most famous landmark, Table Mountain. The colourful Malay Quarter, the remains of District Six, St George's Cathedral, Government Avenue and the old Castle are historically significant, while world-class African and international restaurants tempt travellers with their culinary delights.

Although an African city, Cape Town has a European flavour but the city has comforts of First World standard.

Cape Town's unique setting means that it can be enjoyed from various vantage points: Table Mountain provide breathtaking vistas over the city bowl and the Cape peninsula.

You can find many scenic routes along magnificent stretches of coastline and inland terrain leading to special places like Cape Point.

The city has four distinct seasons.

Summer - White sandy beaches, Autumn - Crisp colours, Winter - Ferocity of stormy seas in winter, Spring - Show of Cape 'fynbos' flowers.

From culture, history and scenery - to an unforgettable experience.

Cape Town is a special place with much to contribute towards its growing reputation as a favoured travel destination.

Cape Town Excursions

** Robben Island and Table Mountain

South Africa's most widely known tourist attraction is probably Robben Island, seven miles (11 km) from Cape Town in the centre of Table Bay.

For nearly 400 years this tiny rocky island outcrop was utilised as a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment for numerous categories of people ostracised by society, ranging from political protestors to lepers.

During the years of Apartheid, Robben Island became synonymous with institutional brutality as numerous freedom fighters, including the island's most famous resident Nelson Mandela, were imprisoned here for more than a quarter of a century.

The island is now a museum, symbolising liberation and the triumph of the human spirit. Regular island tours are conducted, lasting three and a half hours. The tours, which are guided by former prisoners, include a visit to the maximum-security prison on the island where an estimated 3,000 freedom fighters were incarcerated between 1962 and 1991.

** Capman's Peak Drive lookout Chapman's Peak

Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in South Africa, linking the seaside community of Hout Bay to the Noordhoek Valley along the Atlantic Coast, with breathtaking views from along the narrow, winding road blasted into the cliffs.

Constructed in 1915, the six-mile (9km) route took about seven years to complete and was built as a shorter, alternative route between Cape Town central and the South Peninsula. Many visitors use this scenic route to reach Cape Point Nature Reserve situated at the tip of the Peninsula.

** Penguins on Boulders Beach

A recommended day excursion from the city includes a trip through the southern suburbs and along the scenically beautiful False Bay coastline via Muizenberg to Simonstown, South Africa's principal naval base.

Simonstown lies about 25 miles (40km) from the city and is a quaint town built around a naval dockyard, with well-preserved Victorian buildings, museums, sidewalk cafes and local legends to learn about. One such legend is about a dog called 'Just Nuisance' who 'joined' the British navy, becoming their mascot, when Simonstown was a British base.

A short distance from the town is Boulder's beach, famous for its protected colony of African Penguins (formerly Jackass Penguin) that can be viewed from the boardwalks.

Transport: Metrorail suburban train from Cape Town's central station; Admission: Boulders Beach Penguin Colony: R15 (adults), R5 (scholars)

** Cape Point

Most visitors to Cape Town are keen to make a day trip 40 miles (65km) from the city to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, not only to take in its floral diversity in what at first sight appears to be a bleak landscape, but to stand at the top of the towering promontory at the most southerly point of the Cape Peninsula (not of Africa, visitors must go further afield to Cape Agulhus for this).

Read Further: Article Base
Green Point Accommodation

Bungee jumping in South Africa

2009-06-04T05:39:00.000-07:00

Weehah! South Africa has the highest commercial bungee jump in the world - it's official. At 216 metres, it's not for the faint of heart.

The jump is run by Face Adrenalin, at the Bloukrans Bridge on the border of the Eastern and Western Cape.

The same company also offers a range of jumps on the much lower Gouritz River Bridge near Mossel Bay, also in the Western Cape. Here you'll also find South Africa's only commercial bridge swinging operation, run by Wildthing Adventures.

Abseil, rapp jump

Hang out a kilometre high over Cape Town, over crashing waves at Knysna, or rapp jump down skyscrapers in Johannesburg or Durban.

Not sure of difference between bungee jumping and bridge swinging? With bungee, you jump off a bridge (or other high fixed platform) with giant elastic bands usually, but not always, tied to your feet.

Bridge swinging, on the other hand, involves jumping from one bridge while tied in to climbing ropes suspended from an adjacent bridge.

OPERATORS

Face Adrenaline - enough said.

Wildthing Adventures offers bridge jumping, which involves a big fall in a body harness before swinging between two bridges. It happens at the Gouritz River Bridge and has attracted visitors from over 70 countries. The record for the oldest jumper belongs to a 91-year-old man, the youngest to a five-year-old boy. Wildthing also presents other adventure activities, such as mountain biking, white water rafting and canoeing.

Orlando Towers in Soweto, Johannesburg calls itself a vertical adventure centre, and it's hard to argue with that description. They offer bungee jumping, climbing, abseiling, rap jumping, and swinging. The Towers, with their eye-catching paintings, were once part of one of the most advanced power stations in the southern hemisphere. They no longer function as a power station, but with all their exciting offerings there is still eletricity in the air!

Living on the Edge Adventures hosts Bungee Mogale, which operates off the Kings Kloof Bridge in Krugersdorp / Mogale City. People between the weights of 40 and 120 kilograms are able to do the bungee jump, but no tandem jumps are allowed. The height of the jump is about 50 metres - plenty high for adrenaline seekers!

Cape Xtreme presents tours of Cape Town and overland tours. Included in the adventure activities are white water rafting, quad biking, shark cage diving, bungee jumping at the Bloukrans River Bridge, and trips to the Kruger National Park, Mozambique, and Kenya.

Cape Town-based Downhill Adventures has a number of bungee jumping options. There's a two-day trip that includes jumps off the Gouritz and Bloukrans Bridges, a one-day option that includes a visit to the Gouritz Bridge, and a combo Great Shark-Jump option that includes cage diving with Great White Sharks and bungee jumping at the Gouritz Bridge. Bridge swinging, single or tandem, is also part of the deal.

Source: http://www.southafrica.info
Cape Town Accommodation

Botanical Gardens in South Africa

2009-05-18T00:55:00.000-07:00

South Africa botanical gardens are some of the best in the world, especially ones that concentrate on cultivating and conserving indigenous plants. Eight of the country's botanical gardens are managed by the South African National Biodiversity Institute.

The botanical gardens in South Africa include the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden near Cape Town, which is not only the largest but also the most popular with an estimated 680 000 visitors per annum. The garden is home to a wide variety of the Cape Flora.

The Disa flora and the King protea, South Africa's national flower, are cultivated in the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, located an hour from Cape Town near the coastal town of Hermanus. This garden lies in the Cape fynbos region.

The Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden near Johannesburg boasts a large collection of lithops, one of the largest in the world and is home to over 230 species of birds, reptiles and mammals.

Pretoria National Botanical Garden boasts the biggest herbarium in the Southern Hemisphere.

For plants originating from the Free State, Northern Cape and Lesotho, turn to the Free State Botanical Garden near Bloemfontein, where they are grown.

The KwaZulu-Natal Botanical Garden in Pietermaritzburg focuses on growing indigenous plants from the eastern region of South Africa, many of which are endangered; while the Lowveld National Botanical Garden near Nelspruit is home to ancient cycads and various shrubs, which are evergreen thanks to the Nels River and Crocodile River that course through the garden.

Two other remarkable South African Botanical gardens are the Durban Botanical Garden, popular for its large collection of cycad and its huge Orchid House, as well as the Johannesburg National Botanical Garden, which offers large green spaces close to the city centre.

Source: http://www.southafrica.net
Cape Town Bed and Breakfast

A Visitors Guide To Cape Town South Africa

2008-12-17T04:03:00.000-08:00

Greenpoint Guest House | Jambo

If you are looking for a truly extraordinary place to visit, consider Cape Town, South Africa. There are few places on earth that can compare. There are wide open spaces and so much beauty that it is hard to describe or imagine.

Cape Town is physically cut off from the rest of the country by a barrier of mountains. The valleys produce grapes, wine, deciduous fruit and wheat. The cobbled streets, ancient oaks, and the British-built Georgian buildings are only a few of the sights that make Cape Town an extremely beautiful place to visit.

The city has an interesting history and a wonderful blend of people both culturally and racially. If you are interested in this aspect of Cape Town you should visit the South African Museum where you will get a glimpse into the various cultures of the area. This museum is the oldest one in South Africa. You can find the South African Museum in Cape Towns Company Gardens at the top of Adderley Street. This is the place to see many exhibits depicting much of the natural and cultural history of South Africa. There is also a planetarium on the grounds.

The Dutch East India Company has a fascinating history and this was the group of people who designed the Cape Town Companys Gardens. These folks established the Company Gardens so that the sailors who were traveling to the East would have a place to stop and take care of any health problems they incurred during the first part of the journey. There are also amazing buildings in the Gardens including a museum and the Anglican St. Georges Cathedral.

In the same area is the office of South Africas State President and the Houses of Parliament. At the southernmost tip of Government Avenue is the citys best known hotel, the Mount Nelson, which sits in the shadow of Table Mountain. This hotel has a grand colonial atmosphere and still serves a delicious and elegant afternoon tea.

On Adderly Street you can walk toward the harbor and see the oldest church in South Africa, Groote Kerk. Be sure to take a look at the ornately carved pulpit. Here you can view the statues of Jan van Riebeeck and his wife, Maria. Close to these attractions is the Castle of Good Hope which is the oldest surviving intact structure in South Africa.

You may want to search out Greenmarket Square which is the heart of the old city. There are flea market stalls, shoppers and buskers galore. The Old Town House is a beautiful baroque building that dates back to 1761 and holds the Michaelis Collection of Dutch and Flemish art. There are also Victorian buildings that house pawnshops and boutiques.

There are many museums and galleries in Cape Town. Most of them operate under the umbrella of Iziko Museums of Cape Town. The museums offer diverse exhibitions in lovely settings. You can even tour a collection of old city houses that have been restored.

Visit Cape Town, South Africa for a trip you will always remember.

By: Thomas Smith

Article Source: www.articledashboard.com