Water crisis aside, Cape Town is one of those destinations in South Africa that you have to see. It's a mix of beach, bush and historical sights that all come together perfectly.
I like to escape to Cape Town once in a while, especially when I do not feel like an international holiday.
There's something about the city that can mesmerise and transport you to a different place. In fact, with the large number of tourists visiting the city, you will feel like you are in another country.
Because of its vastness, each trip to Cape Town can be a different experience.
The last time I visited, I went on a food adventure, where I tucked into snoek samosas, Hout Bay style hake and chips and found the most stunning tea spot on Long Street. The trip before I enjoyed the cultural offerings of the city.
Below is a list of Cape Town experiences you should try:
Wine down
Chocolate, biltong or just wine pairings are quite popular at Durbanville Hills Winery. Picture: Cape Town Tourism.
Nothing says Cape Town more than a wine farm visit. Here you get to sample some of the best red and white wines amid a gorgeous backdrop. Some wine farms like Groot Constantia and Durbanville Hills Winery offer wine tastings with chocolate and biltong pairings. The uniqueness of these wine farm visits is that you can choose to spend a few days, if accommodation is offered, or go on a day trip. Besides, who can resist free flowing wine?
Safari
A game experience at Thali Thali. Picture: Clinton Moodley.
You do not have to go to Mpumalanga or KwaZulu-Natal to enjoy big 5 sightings. Cape Town has a vast number of game reserves that offer rhino, giraffe and lion. Places like Thali Thali Game Reserve, near the West Coast, also offer archery lessons and a dining experience. Others like Aquila Private Game Reserve offer a more luxury feel, with an animal rescue centre and five star accommodation.
Take a city tour
The Castle of Good Hope is one of Cape Town's landmarks. Picture: The Castle of Good Hope.
What I love about Cape Town is its historical sights and experiences. For travellers who want to get around easily, I suggest going on a sightseeing bus where stops include District Six Museum, South African Jewish Museum and Castle of Good Hope. Another great experience is Robben Island, the place where former president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
Explore the food
No trip to Cape Town is complete without having a fish and chips in Hout Bay. Picture: Hout Bay.
One of the reasons I love Cape Town is because of their food offerings. Travellers can experience fresh seafood, Cape Malay dishes and extraordinary desserts like koeksisters. I recommend making a list of places to visit during your stay and tick it off the list as you go along.
Splurge
The V&A Waterfront is perfect for those shopping sprees. Picture: Cape Town Tourism.
If you have saved enough or have extra money to fork for luxury experiences, I suggest you splurge a bit. From high tea at Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel to a top of the range spa at 12 Apostles Hotel & Spa or a shopping experience at the waterfront, these experiences can leave you feeling revived and rejuvenated. It's also great for the 'Gram'.