Friday, September 3, 2010

City Snap Guide: Cape Town

Cape Town is not just for backpackers (although you can do that too). A city with such a diverse range of attractions, from lavish and luxurious to travelling on a tight budget, Cape Town has a little something for everyone. We even arranged a faith-based tour this year for fundraising that visited Cape Town. As you know, Cape Town hosted this year's FIFA World Cup - arguably the most spectacular location for the sport. What you saw on television is nothing, Cape town has much more to offer.


There is so much to see and do in Cape Town, a week long visit minimum would be ideal, although you could get away with a 3-day or 5-day visit if you had a tight itinerary. When I'm going somewhere I haven't been before, I like at least ten days myself, because it gives you time to really soak in the culture surrounding you and your activities don't feel rushed. There are a ton of organized day tours available in Cape Town including wine route tours and guided walks. It's easy enough to fly into the Cape Town airport, and it's advisable to rent a car as many areas aren't easily accessible by foot.

The Great Outdoors

When many people think of Cape Town, they think of safaris and exploring. While that's not all Cape Town has to offer, you can certainly enjoy the great outdoors via safari or many other ways! The Kruger National Park is one of many game parks in Africa, but it's arguably the most spectacular with its diverse wildlife. The Kruger National Park should be on everybody's bucket list according to South Africa Tourism. With an all-year sunny climate, the park offers all kinds of activities, such as guided game drives and bush walks with an armed ranger, to three-night walking tours into deep wilderness areas. There's also the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park where you could catch a glimpse of a black maned lion. Lesli, our adventure travel specialist, is definitely the person to talk to about the safari possibilities in South Africa.

Culturally Rich

Cape Town may be struggling with it's history, but the modern city is certainly a wonder to visit and extraordinarily rewarding. There are so many unique cultures in Cape Town and South Africa, it's been called the Rainbow Nation. There are eleven official languages in South Africa, including sign language. The vibrant urban culture shows just how diverse Cape Town and South Africa truly are. There are also a ton of museums and galleries in the area, such as the South African Museum which explores the history and culture of South Africa. In the Castle of Good Hope, you will find cultural and military history - it's also the oldest building in South Africa.


Fresh & Fabulous Food & Wine

Cape Town is known for it's restaurants that serve delicious fresh seafood and fabulous award-winning wines, and it's own signature and distinctive Malay-inspired cuisine. Just outside the city, you'll find the winelands, one of the most picturesque areas of the Western Cape. There are three major wine routes where you can experience the culture of quaint, historical towns while being surrounded by vineyards hugging the hills and valleys, yet still being close to the buzz of the city. Explore by car and stop at your heart's desire, for wine tasting or to purchase from the estates.

With so many diverse cultures, you can imagine how incredible the food is - it's an exquisite epicurean experience. For dining and entertainment, try the V&A Waterfront, a still working harbour. There are many waterside pubs and restaurants for all tastes. There's also a ton of shopping along the waterfront, offering over 250 shops.

Odds & Ends

You may have discovered the great outdoors in parks and safaris, but don't forget about the absolutely fabulous beaches. With white sand and sparkling blue water, you'll find typical beach activities such as sailing, fishing, whale watching, wind surfing and kite-boarding and more. Don't forget to visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens - an area of 528 hectares (36 of which are cultivated garden). The garden showcase only plants that are indigenous to South Africa. Whether you're going for a leisurely stroll or a lazy picnic, the gardens are a must see when visiting Cape town.

Is Cape Town on your bucket list? Call your favourite Lloyds agent today at 1.800.800.7252 and let the Lloyds Travel experience take you there!

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