By Alfred Stallion
Cape Town is one of the most amazing destinations in the world. There are few places which can match the huge variety of activities and entertainment. It is truly one of the most amazing places and should be visited by everyone at least once in their lifetime. The city sits on the tip of the African continent and nestles between whites sandy beaches lapped with a turquoise sea and the famous Table Mountain. It is possible to witness all manner of wildlife in their natural habitats and simultaneously to explore its rich history and vibrant, bustling culture.
Cape Town & Table Mountain
The Wonderful Table Mountain
Table Mountain should be top of anyone’s list of things to do in Cape Town. The peak can be accessed on foot by following one of the many hiking trails. It is also possible to go straight to the top via the cable car; and enjoy the view on the way. The cable cars are designed to rotate a full three hundred and sixty degrees to ensure everyone can enjoy the view. The top of the mountain is flat, hence the name, it offers an amazing view across the city and down to the coast in one direction. The other side of the mountain shows green pains, flowering meadows, vineyards and possible wildlife in the distance.
Constantia Valley
In the late 17th century Constantia Valley was the home to the first vineyards in South Africa; it was the start of the South African wine production and, ultimately, international trade in some of the finest wines in the world. The area is full of oak lined streets and ancient vineyards; many of which have seen royalty from all over the world. It is best to explore this area by car and choose which wineries you wish to stop at. Each one offers its own insight into the history of South African Wines and, of course, will allow you to taste the wines they make.
Cape Town
Camps Bay and Its Soothing Beaches
Camps Bay is potentially one of the best beaches in the area; it rarely suffers from windy conditions and will allow you to soak up the sun in a family friendly atmosphere. The beach is surrounded by small cafes and bars which are perfect for a light bite or an evening meal with cocktails. The view of the sunset from many of these restaurants is simply stunning.
Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
This is a bustling harbor and has been since it was built in the 19th century. There are a huge array of shops which cater for all tastes and budgets and plenty of restaurants to choose from. Almost every business has a stunning view of Table Mountain or the Atlantic Ocean. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is one of the best places to start a whale watching tour as the majority of the tours start from this port.
The area really comes alive in the evening, as the sun goes down. There are an abundance of bars and cocktails combined with a very friendly atmosphere. You can even enjoy the on street entertainment while you shop!
Cape Town
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Its Abundant Fauna
The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens are one of the most famous botanical gardens in the world and is home to a huge variety of flowers; many of the seven thousand species found here are rare. It is a beautiful and educational environment with the added bonus of a concert or two in the summer months.
The District Six Museum
The District Six Museum was established twenty years ago to commemorate the sixty thousand people who were forced to relocate to shanty towns when district six was declared a white zone. This was at the time when South Africa was in the grip of apartheid and the museum tells the stories of those who were relocated. It is both educational and humbling but well worth a visit.
There are a huge amount of other attractions which are worth visiting in Cape Town; many beaches, shopping complexes and the Castle of Good Hope; the oldest building in South Africa. A visit to Cape Town is guaranteed to enthrall, educate and inspire!
Author Bio: Alfred Stallion is a travelling freak who has travelled many destinations around the world. He also loves writing about his traveling experiences and the places he has explored. He writes for a site http://www.capeportfolios.com/ offering holiday villas in Cape Town.
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Author: Maralyn
Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.
