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Cape Town |
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Cape Town
Cape Town is Africa’s most cosmopolitan city, sleek and modern, flavored by the strong influence of many colonial residents. It also has some of the most striking geography of any city, surrounded by ocean and vineyard-draped hills, and sheltered by magnificent Table Mountain.
Activities and Attractions:
Three-thousand-foot Table Mountain is so imposing it literally creates its own weather—many days it’s topped by a “tablecloth” of cloud. Hike or take a cable car to the top for breathtaking views of the city, Devil’s Peak, and the 12 Apostles mountain range.
An emotionally intense but enlightening experience is taking a catamaran to Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela broke rocks for 18 years. Tours are led by other former inmates, who speak movingly of the steps South Africa is taking to heal from its unjust past.
Get a feel for Cape Town’s progress into the modern world by exploring prosperous neighborhoods like the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, with many fine restaurants, and De Waterkant, a cobblestoned area that is home to Cape Town’s best shopping. Solid African furniture is a specialty of the neighborhood.
No trip to Cape Town would be complete without taking advantage of the lovely beaches. The Atlantic Seaboard, where Table Mountain swoops dramatically to the sea, has some of the best. Or try Boulders beach, along False Bay, where you may find yourself swimming with penguins.
Try to make time for attractions outside of the city, as well. The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve is a must-see; it’s your chance to observe zebras, baboons, and antelope in the wild. And the wine country starts just 30 minutes outside Cape Town. It’s an easy day trip, though you could also base your stay in the Winelands.
Insider Tip:
Don’t bother trying to hail a cab in Cape Town—taxis are only summoned by phone.
-Exclusively for Perfect Escapes by Nicole Clausing |
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