Cape Town, South Africa deserves more love than it gets. The area offers visitors something you can’t find anywhere else in the world. The culture, art, and history is only found in this area and can’t be seen in any European city. Gretchen McGarry was lucky enough to travel here recently and came back with a better knowledge of the area. Read all about what you should be checking out on your visit to Cape Town.

Where’s All the Art?

Cape Town is filled with natural wonders and is packed with outdoor activities that should not be missed. All including the Penguins at Boulders Beach, Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Cape of Good Hope. The V&A Waterfront has Table Mountain as its backdrop and is home to the city’s shopping center, the Zeitz MOCCA Museum, iconic Ferris Wheel, Two Oceans Aquarium, and well-preserved heritage buildings.

Bo-Kaap’s painted houses and the Victorian Bathing Huts at Muizenberg Beach are both Instagram worthy and have important historical significance.

Staying Active

Cape Town offers stellar hiking and walking paths. Lion’s Head overlooks Sea Point and Camps Bay. Gretchen details that it takes about 45-minutes to hike from the Kloof Nek entrance to the summit and there are routes that start on the Sea Point side. A lot of people do this hike as an early morning daily ritual and it’s a local tradition to do the hike up to watch the sunset on a full-moon night.

Socializing

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens hosts a summer concert series that draws in a lot of people. Local beaches are also a place to socialize with different crowds. Camps Bay gives off a fun vibe and both places are great to meet cool people. The gardens and Camp Bay aren’t only good for meeting other travelers. They’re also great spots to meet and interact with lifelong locals. 

Best Eats

Two come to Gretchen’s mind. One is a market and the other is fine dining. The market is constantly buzzing with activity and offers a range of food items fresh daily. Gretchen tells us that the staff is passionate about what they do and are more than happy to talk about the local flavors of the food. Of course, the whole thing is on a waterfront so finding a spot for Instagram pics won’t be difficult. 

The fine dining experience of Sevruga is one you should definitely check out. This spot is conveniently located along the V&A Waterfront and gives you the same stunning views. Their menu is jam-packed with the freshest seafood which the chef’s turn into unique sushi dishes.

Lodging

Gretchen had private accommodations in Sea Point. But nevertheless is a great neighborhood to stay in no matter what building you stay in. With its location being right on the beachfront, there are plenty of walking paths and outdoor restaurants to enjoy. This area is more residential than other areas which lend you a local and intimate experience. 

If you happen to be a first timer, Gretchen recommends staying at the V&A Waterfront. It’s a spot that everyone should experience their first time visiting Cape Town. There are plenty of choices including the new Silo Hotel, the gold standard Hope Grace, and The One & Only Resort.

Equipment & Editing

Gretchen typically uses her iPhone, which can be quite convenient at times. For editing, she uses Lightroom with presets by @DoYouTravel and @MarieFeAndJakeSnowPresets.

For more stellar travels, be sure to follow Gretchen on her Instagram: @womantakesworld

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