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Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Cape Town: South Africa's Crown Jewel


Cape Town is the original city of South Africa and was established in 1652 as a refueling station for Dutch East India Company ships bounds for the East (the Spice Route, the Dutch West India ships went the other way...to the Americas). 

    The city is often referred to as the Mother of South Africa because it gave birth to civilization. Interestingly, in March 2023 HELLO! magazine confirmed that Lady Amelia Spencer -- who's a niece of the late Princess Diana -- recently married her longtime love on a mountaintop near Cape Town in South Africa. "It means so much to get married here," Amelia -- who's the daughter of Charles, 9th Earl Spencer and his first wife, former model Victoria Aitken -- told the magazine. "Growing up here together for the last 14 years, all of mine and (my husband's) happiest times as a couple are here in Cape Town. It's even more special now." Cape Town is a city that has it all, not just celebrities and royalty. 

    From stunning natural beauty to a rich history and culture, Cape Town is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Here are some of the top things to do there: 

    Visit Table Mountain: Table Mountain is one of the most iconic landmarks in South Africa, and it's a must-do for any visitor to Cape Town. You can hike to the top, take the cable car, or even paraglide. 

    Explore the city's colorful neighborhoods: Cape Town is home to a number of vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own unique character. 

    Explore the historic district of Bo-Kaap, the trendy shopping district of Greenmarket Square, or the bohemian neighborhood of De Waterkant. 

    Go wine tasting in the Stellenbosch region: The Stellenbosch region is home to some of the best wineries in South Africa, and it's a great place to go wine tasting. There are a number of wineries to choose from, and you can even take a wine tour. 

    Visit Robben Island: Robben Island is a former prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held during apartheid. It's now a museum, and it's a powerful reminder of the country's history. 

    Go whale watching: Cape Town is a great place to go whale watching. You can often see whales from the shore, but you can also take a boat trip to get a closer look.         

    Relax on one of the city's many beaches: Cape Town has some of the most beautiful beaches in the world, and it's a great place to relax and soak up the sun. Some of the most popular beaches include Camps Bay, Bantry Bay, and Llandudno. 

    These are just a few of the many things you can do in Cape Town. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, Cape Town is a city that will leave you wanting more.