Beautiful. Gorgeous. Stunning. Amazing. Astounding. Lovely. Insane. Picturesque. Scenic. Delightful. Wonderful. The list goes on and on, but only because I busted out the thesaurus after Insane. Twenty-four hours into my trip to Capetown, South Africa, wandering agape through the most stunning botanical gardens I’ve ever visited, I ran clear out of superlatives. My friend D had to listen to me use the same 2 words to describe indescribably different kinds of beauty for the next four days. Sandwiched between mountains and sea (Indian or Atlantic, take your pick) and full of the beautiful African people I’ve never been able to stop missing since Tanzania (different of course, and the history is completely separate, but the huge smiles and warm nature are still very present), Cape Town is GORGEOUS. Add to the natural beauty the good exchange rate, good food, and ability to spend life in sandals and a skirt, and I’m sure you’ll all be able to understand my elation. Oh, and don’t forget the penguins, which were ALMOST as cute as the emperor penguins from my favourite documentary, and a lot closer to my wandering fingertips (no, I didn’t touch one/ get bird flu).
There are tons of different things to do in Capetown. The bar and club scene is hopping, but there are also amazing beaches and great shopping, and a myriad museums about the devastating and fascinating history of South Africa. I recommend an official guided tour as the best way to see the natural beauty of the landscape, and then a day or two of museum-hopping and on-foot city touring without a guide. It’s not as unsafe feeling as I was warned it would be, but of course just be smart about things and don’t let your guard down. Common sense is key.
Oh, one more thing. If you can afford it, high tea at the Mount Nelson Hotel is imperative. I’ve included a photo because the goodies-laden table is indescribable. Add to that the perfectly brewed Rooibos tea and I was in heaven.