Top 10 reasons to visit South Africa

Affordable

During these tough times, who doesn’t want an affordable holiday? In SA, you can even afford luxury and have spending money for shopping and other treats!

Natural Beauty

South Africa’s scenic wonders are legendary. From Table Mountain to God’s Window, our mountains, forests, coasts and deserts will feast your eye and lift your spirit…

World-class facilities

Whether you opt for Afro-chic or authentic Africa, you’ll find it easy to get around, find a comfortable place to stay, have a great meal, connect.

Adventure

South Africa is the adventure capital of the world. With over 130 adventures and counting, there is something for everyone from mountain walks to shark cage-diving!

Good Weather

In sunny South Africa, our great weather invites you to enjoy the outdoors, play golf year-round and take advantage of the nearly 3000km coastline…

Rainbow Nation

The Rainbow Nation celebrates all its African and immigrant cultures. Find out how friendly our people are whilst you try your tongue at 11 official languages!

Diverse Experiences

Go almost anywhere in SA and experience the ultimate combo of nature, wildlife, culture, adventure, heritage and vibe – you’re spoilt for choice, so pack it in!

Wildlife

Warning! Watching wildlife is addictive. First you start with the Big Five in so many ways, then whales, penguins, meerkats, wild dogs, birds, dung beetles…

Freedom Struggle

Discover a nation’s struggle for freedom whilst following the footsteps of Mandela, Hector Pieterson and many other celebrated revolutionaries. It will touch and inspire you.

Responsible Tourism

In SA you can travel with care as you explore our protected areas, contribute to social and conservation projects, buy recycle art and stay green.

Contact us or book a car

Source: http://www.southafrica.net

Getting above the clouds – © Table Mountain Aerial Cableway

Visit Mandela’s former cell, swim with sharks, then down some Karate Water

1. Catch a cable car up Table Mountain…

…then abseil back down. If you fancy following a rope 112 metres down Table Mountain (and we’d recommend it as the world’s highest commercial abseil even if it wasn’t for the views), then Abseil Africa (297 Long Street, 021 424 4760, www.abseilafrica.co.za) is your best bet. The less adventurous can catch the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway up… and back down. The quick ride will give you a bird’s eye view of the City Bowl. The summit can also be reached on foot through a multitude of beautiful albeit exhausting, trails. If you want a longer experience – spending up to five nights in tented camps – take the long-distance Hoerikwaggo Trail (www.sanparks.org) up from the Cape of Good Hope.

2. Dive into shark-infested waters

Just when you thought it was safe to go into the water… South Africa has an incredibly diverse shark population. A quarter of the world’s shark species (98 to be precise) dwell in South African waters and around 40 of these call the waters around Cape Town home.

Adrenalin junkies will want to make the 175-kilometre (110-mile) journey to Gansbaii, the white shark capital of the world. Shark cage diving is big business here and the tourism bureau endorses a whopping eight companies. Most charge around R1,100 for a session, but offer different packages (refreshments, shuttle service to and from Cape Town and so on) so phone around to find one that suits your needs. Try Great White Shark Tours (028 384 1418/083 300 2138/www.sharkcagediving.net); Marine Dynamics (028 384 1005/082 380 3405/www.sharkwatchsouthafrica.com); Shark Diving Unlimited (028 384 2787/082 441 4555/www.sharkdivingunlimited.com); Shark Lady 028 312 3287/083 746 8985/www.sharklady.co.za; UnrealDive (021 553 0748/083 273 4920/www.unrealdive.com); White Shark Ecoventures 021 532 0470/083 412 3733/www.white-shark-diving.com); or White Shark Projects (028 384 1774/076 245 5880/www.whitesharkprojects.co.za).

Alternatively, take the safer option and visit the Two Oceans Aquarium. The I&J Predator Tank is the pièce de résistance, with its mob of ocean predators, including ragged tooth sharks, blue stingrays and black mussel crackers, all drifting together in seeming harmony – until feeding time, that is (3pm).

3. Get the gastronomy juices flowing

Cape Town’s best gastronomy is to be found dotted around the central city. Try Jardine for pared down, subtle flavours (dishes might include tender Chalmar beef fillet with oxtail, and tomatoey West Coast crayfish risotto), Bizerca Bistro for bistro classics with a fresh twist brought to you by award-winning chef Laurent Deslandes, or La Colombe, where chef Luke Dale-Roberts wows foodies from across the globe with the likes of springbok medallions with celeriac purée in a rich port and truffle sauce.

4. Take a lesson in South African history

Robben Island and the District Six Museum are must-visits for anyone interested in South Africa’s period of apartheid, which came to an end in 1990.

The fascinating and inspirational Robben Island is a symbol both of centuries of cruel oppression and the triumph of hope. It has become synonymous with the former leader of the free and democratic South Africa, Nelson Mandela, who spent 18 years in its maximum security prison.

The award-winning community museum, District Six lays bare the time when the ruling government declared the area ‘whites only’ and over 60,000 of its residents were forcibly taken from their homes and shipped out to the Cape Flats, before their houses were reduced to rubble.

5. Explore the continent’s unique tastes and flavours

Cape Town offers adventurous eaters tastes from across the African continent, be it Xhosa fare like samp (crushed maize used in porridge) and marog (African spinach), spongy injeras (flatbreads) from Ethiopia, or Cape Malay cuisine.

For an authentic taste of Cape Malay food (samosas, lamb denningvleis, or mild chicken kalya) head to Biesmiellah’s. For dishes from across the local spectrum, try Nyoni’s Kraal, which serves braaivleis (barbecue), Malay curries, amangina (chicken feet) and smileys (sheep’s heads). For something more universally appealing, try the Africa Café, where you’ll have your pick of everything from Xhosa spinach patties and Mozambican peri-peri prawns to Ethiopian lamb. Mama Africa is another Pan-African treat, boasting a live (and loud) Congolese band and as much meat from feathered, scaled and furry beasts as you can eat, all served with a side of samp and pap (mealie meal porridge).

There’s more African food at Marco’s African Place. The menu includes specialities like Zwelethu’s Favourite Chicken (simmered with onions and peppers) and a platter of pan-fried springbok, ostrich and kudu fillets. End your meal with the tongue-in-cheek Group Areas dessert, comprised of white and dark chocolate mousses. You can taste the food of Ethiopia at the beautiful and authentically decorated Addis in Cape, where you are encouraged to eat with your hands, mopping up every drop sauce with pieces of injera (flatbread).

6. Walk a Museum Mile

Running straight as an arrow down the leafy haven of Company’s Gardens (a symbolic silent bell stands testimony to the slaves who once toiled in this former vegetable garden) is the oak-lined pedestrian strip of Government Avenue, providing access to Adderley Street, the National Gallery (with permanent and temporary exhibitions showcasing South African art spanning the centuries, as well as the occasional retrospectives of the likes of Picasso and Marelene Dumas), Houses of Parliament (buildings which have seen their fair share of action though the years), the Iziko Museum (home to the animal kingdom in taxidermy form), the  Iziko Planetarium (which covers all things celestial), and the Iziko Slave Lodge (built by the Dutch East India Company to house up to 9,000 slaves, convicts and the mentally ill).

7. Drink in the Long Street vibe

Long Street is the place for partying: bars like Julep (one of Cape Town’s best-kept secrets, with bare brick walls, comfy couches and a spectacular selection of cocktails) and the Waiting Room (a cosy, unpretentious bar with retro chairs and lighting of the kind that your granny might have had. There’s also a stunning roof deck for hanging out on those hot summer nights), while Neighbourhood has a laid-back feel and a vast balcony from which to watch the goings-on on the street below.

8. Dip your toes into hidden waters

To avoid squealing kids, whirring jet-skis and wayward Frisbees, head to one of these secluded sandy shores for some undisturbed rest and relaxation.

Long Street

Situated a convenient ten minutes’ drive from the city centre, this postage-stamp-sized beach is flanked by big boulders, which makes it great for swimming as well as uninterrupted sun-bathing.

Oudekraal Oudekraal lies right next door to Beta Beach. It offers a protected cove at the bottom of a steep set of stairs, which is surrounded by a thicket of milkwood trees. Since this area forms part of the Table Mountain National Park, there’s a R10 entrance fee, but it’s a negligible amount to pay for the splendour that waits inside.

Smitswinkelbaai Further out of town, and heading in the direction of Cape Point, keep a lookout for the tiny gravelled parking area by the side of the road between Simon’s Town and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Once there, dash across the road and commence a 15-minute downward amble along the overgrown footpath until you reach the unspoilt, isolated Smitswinkelbaai. The view of the lush valley is well worth the extra effort involved in getting here and the calm water makes for great snorkelling.

Tietiesbaai Just under two hours’ drive from town, Tietiesbaai is situated in the Cape Columbine Reserve on the West Coast. It boasts carpets of colourful wild flowers in spring and a guaranteed soundtrack of silence thanks to the prohibition of anything that blares, barks, roars and whirrs.

9. Take home an African memento

Savvy visitors know to come with a half-empty suitcase ready to fill up with well-priced buys for themselves, friends and families, a portion of which is reserved for African mementos. Visit the Pan African Market (a gem for Victorian tiling, old fok art, and custom-tailored garments) and Greenmarket Square (offers a full range of African folk art plus well-priced CDs and souvenir clothing) for a real-deal bargaining experience.

For quality gifts and souvenirs head to Heartworks (abuzz with a broad range of local crafts hailing from locations as diverse as rural Africa and cutting-edge urban studios), Imagenius (a stylish horn of plenty, fusing neo-Rococo with modern third-world knick-knacks), and Baraka (something for all tastes, ranging from wire woven baskets, cacti and pop-art pics to authentic African masks and beautifully bound Indian leather notebooks). For homeware make tracks to Africa Nova (an encyclopedic treasure chest of Pan-Africa objets) or African Image, where Africana is juxtaposed with modern transitional pieces, and for antiques get along to Lütge Gallery.

10. Waddle down to a penguin colony

Enjoy some beach time with the endearing jackass penguins (so-called because of their unrefined singing voices that resemble those of braying jackasses) who call the African Penguin Colony at Boulder’s Beach home. For R5 extra, you can spy on slippery sea life or beach babes through the binoculars dotting the walkway.

11. Eat something fishy

Some of the world’s finest tuna can be found off South Africa’s shores and luckily Cape Town’s chefs snap some of it up before it’s shipped to Japan. Order fresh tuna just-seared – anything more and the flavour will be destroyed. The prawns you’ll find on local menus are generally well priced and portions plentiful – ask for yours peri-peri: the spice makes all the difference. Capetonians are big on line-caught fish and if yellowtail or cob is on offer, be sure to order it. But try to steer clear of kingklip, as it’s on the soon-to-be-threatened list. Restaurants are increasingly aware of eco-friendly seafood choices and if you’re not sure that the special of the day is above board, simply text the fish name to 079 499 8795 and you’ll get an SMS response giving the red (no), orange (maybe) or green (yes) status of the fish you’re thinking of ordering.

Not sure where to start? If you’re watching your wallet, the cheap and cheerful offerings of the Ocean Basket chain are ideal (www.oceanbasket.co.za; branches around the city). Nobu is on the opposite end of the price scale, but a culinary and seafood experience par excellence, as is Baia. Miller’s Thumb in the City Bowl is a family favourite, with the freshest fare treated with care. Willoughby & Co, at the V&A Waterfront, remains one of the city’s most popular sushi and seafood destinations, while you can’t go wrong with fish and chips from Texies on Grand Parade.

12. Relax and unwind in a palace of pampering

Cape Town has all the ingredients for an alluring city break: sun, sea, shopping and thankfully, if hedonism’s your bag, quality spas too. Here’s our round-up of the best rest and relaxation spots.

13. Toast the Cape Winelands

It’s only an hour’s drive from Cape Town – though it’s a very scenic hour – but the famous Cape Winelands feel like a different world. There are rolling vineyards, towering mountains, historic wine estates and more than enough wine to keep even the thirstiest old soak satisfied.

Cape wine enjoys an impressive reputation, and the Winelands are home to most of South Africa’s premier wine estates. The good news is that nearly every farm and estate in the area offers wine-tasting: you’ll need a designated driver, though.

Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch are the largest, nearest and most famous towns in the region, but the further you go the more you’ll discover. The Winelands, and their rustic, rural gems such as Robertson and Montagu, offer more than just wine presses and vineyards.

Visit the Cape Town & Western Cape tourist board website (www.tourismcapetown.co.za) for general information about the Winelands, and the following regional tourist board websites for specifics: Paarl (www.paarlonline.com), Franschhoek (www.franschhoek.org.za) and Stellenbosch (www.tourismstellenbosch.co.za).

Fairview Wine Estate
The cheeky goats in front of the Goatshed Restaurant love kidding around for the cameras. They have completely stolen the limelight from all that this lovely wine estate has to offer: three wineries producing well-loved wines; a cheesery and a range of top-notch olive oils.

Suid-Agter-Paarl Road, Southern Paarl (021 863 2450/www.fairview.co.za).

Stellenbosch American Express Wine Route
At this dedicated Wine Route office, staff are on hand to help you tailor-make your own tour to suit your priorities: big, classic wines or new, unusual tastes; restaurants; or child-friendly activities.

Wine Route Office, 36 Market Street (021 886 4310/www.wineroute.co.za).

14. Swan about in the St-Tropez of Cape Town

Dubbed the St-Tropez of Cape Town, this classy cove offers an array of swish bars and restaurants, Riviera-style palm trees and yachts bobbing on the water. As you cruise down the Victoria Road stretch, the rows of ritzy drinking holes with their blinged-up, tanned-to-a-tee and beautiful patrons mean that you’re unlikely to be winning any best-dressed trophies should you turn up in flip-flops and a weather-beaten sarong. At the northern, and less busy, end of the beach surfers wait for a few killer waves; at the southern end, you can practise your bobbing skills in the tidal pool.

15. Go to the heart of the art scene

At the foot of Devil’s Peak, the tattered suburb of Woodstock is fast becoming Cape Town’s new art centre. Worn Victorian buildings are getting new licks of paint, while derelict warehouses are being transformed into swish art galleries. Not too long ago the area’s gang-ridden reputation branded it a no-go territory for the affluent. Today, the gallery names lining the streets read like a who’s-who of the local contemporary art scene.

Indie outfit What if the World (created as a community-conscious platform for emerging young artists to strut their stuff) was the first to take the plunge; other stalwarts soon followed, with the Goodman Gallery Cape (the creator of which made the careers of the biggest names in South African art today) pioneering the migration and Michael Stevenson (which showcases an international collection of contemporary art in a swish, industrial-looking space) and Bell-Roberts (where the focus is on prize-winning Cape-based art stars) following hot on its heels.

16. Sip the best afternoon tea in the world

Get ready to arch your pinky: the Mount Nelson Hotel, known by locals as the Pink Palace, boasts the best afternoon tea in the world – and a host of international foodies and travel writers agree.

17. Pick up some local bling

The African continent is rich in both precious gemstones and metals, as well as jewellery design talent.

If a visit to the V&A Waterfront is on the cards, there are plenty of slick jewellery spots to visit, while contemporary jewellery-lovers feel right at home at bastion of local design Tinsel (021 448 6183, www.tinsel.co.za) at the Old Biscuit Mill in Woodstock, featuring cutting-edge pieces by a mixed bag of designers. Olive Green Cat (79 Kloof Street, Gardens, 021 424 1101, www.olivegreencat.com) is the shared shop and studio of young guns Ida-Elsje and Philippa Green, and a must-stop for those who like to stay on the cutting edge of jewellery design.

And for an all-in-one experience, visit the newly opened Jewellery Avenue (021 446 4600) in the heart of the city (corner of Hout and Burg streets), with more than 20 stores carrying everything from Afro-chic crafty items to custom-made pieces and bargain diamond buys.

Visit Afrogem (64 New Church Street, Gardens, 021 424 0848) for a fascinating factory tour and insight into the jewels that come from the continent and the Gold of Africa Museum to see the largest assortment of African gold objects in the world.

18. Discover the Cape Jazz rhythm

Cape Town’s jazz scene is a crucial part of its heritage. The city’s rich jazz tradition stems from artists finding inspiration in their struggles during the apartheid years. Since then, the music has evolved into its own genre, Cape Jazz, a style with a distinct African spice. It’s a way of life in the Cape – and you’ll find it everywhere from the heart of the townships to the most lavish cigar lounge.

The number of jazz festivals and venues speaks for itself, and events like the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (021 422 5651/www.capetownjazzfest.com) and the Jazzathon (021 696 6961/082 450 0079/www.jazzathon.co.za) draw enthusiasts from all over the world.

19. Knock back a glass of Karate Water

Brandy and coke is a favourite local tipple, known colloquially as ‘Klippies and coke’, after popular local brandy Klipdrift. Another local name for it is Karate Water (because consumption is said to induce drunken bravado).

20. Pull on some skinny jeans

Indie rock in Cape Town has become a genre that is embraced by almost every subculture from  emo girls with asymmetrical hair and impossibly tight jeans to  jock types more typically taken with Jagerbombs and rugby.

From the guitar-heavy indie pop sounds of Eat This, Horse! – who can be heard at venues like Evol and Zula Sound Bar – to the grooving synthesizers of Unit R, Capetonian bands span the genre.

Look out for Capetonian bands Dirty Skirt (www.myspace.com/thedirtyskirts), Ashtray Electric (www.myspace.com/ashtrayelectric), The Beams (www.myspace.com/thebeamsband) and New Loud Rockets (www.myspace.com/newloudrockets1) frequenting the stage at venues including Obz Café and Klein Libertas Theatre.

Source: www.timout.com

The Western Cape encompasses some of South Africa’s most spectacular scenery and coastline. Well signposted and nicely conditioned roads lead you from beautiful beaches and mountain vistas to the low-lying fynbos fringed roads stretching up the West Coast. The variety of landscapes is unmatched and whether you’ve decided to hire a car, or have opted to relax in the back of a tour bus, make sure you check out these scenic drives in and around the Mother City.

1. Chapman’s Peak

One of Cape Town’s most loved roads, Chapman’s Peak Drive offers drivers the chance to explore, as well as a convenient route between the city and the Southern Peninsula. The road was literally born out of blasting through the side of Chapman’s Peak and boasts 114 curves as it winds its way above the coast. If you’re looking for remarkable panoramic shots to take home with you then Chapman’s Peak is a must.

Depending on what direction you’re travelling from, your Chapman’s Peak drive can culminate in a nice lazy lunch. Try the Red Herring in Noordhoek if you’ve come from Hout Bay or Mariners Wharf in Hout Bay if you’ve come from the south.

Bring: cash for the toll gate (R33 for light vehicles – February 2013), binoculars, and camera.

Pull over: at numerous rest spots along the road to savour exhilarating views of Hout Bay (there’s even one viewpoint that has a cave underneath it).

Beware of: cyclists, sharp corners and possible rock fall (though the road will more than likely be closed if there is risk).

Call: 021 791 8222 before you set off. If the weather looks dubious then the call centre can confirm whether or not the road is open.

2. The Wine Routes

There are 18 official wine routes in South Africa and the Western Cape region can lay claim to all of them. Not one to forgo quantity in favour of quality, the Cape also offers some of the best wine routes in the world. And unless you’ve been passed out in a barrel for the last 50 years then you’ve probably heard of Constantia, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and the like. All of them in the greater Cape Town area, you’ll be met by magnificent scenery and picture book wine farm scenes when you decide to take a drive.

Much like the cheeses and wines you’ll taste, the scenery is full bodied and flavourful. Immerse yourself in the fine winemaking tradition of the Cape and discover the finest wine routes in the world.

Have: a designated driver of sober habits if you plan on wine tasting.

3. The West Coast Flower Route

Time your Cape Town holiday well and you might be lucky enough to experience the West Coast Flower Route in all her blossoming glory. During the months of August and September, the wildflower displays on the Cape West Coast are considered to be among the best in the world.

The West Coast Flower Route is about 100km from Cape Town so make a day of it and go when the sun is shining to see the flowers in their full glory. If you’re not feeling “picnicky” then carry on to Langebaan and the famed Die Strandloper restaurant for a seafood feast or check out the cultural town of Darling – home to South African satire legend and comedian Pieter Dirk-Uys (AKA Tannie Evita).

Pack: camera, a picnic, sunscreen.

Call: the flower hotline on 071 320 7146.

4. Helshoogte Pass

As Stellenbosch disappears in your rearview mirror and you head to new vineyards in Franschhoek make sure you’re on the Helshoogte Pass. Besides the world class wine farms scattered along the way (including Boschendal, Tokara, Delaire Graaf), this pretty pass offers a convenient and picturesque route between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek/Paarl.

Enjoy towering mountains above and lush valleys below while browsing the wine farms on Helshoogte Pass.

5. Signal Hill

Signal Hill (headline image) is largely considered to be the “rump” of Lions Head but don’t let that description deter you. It’s a favourite among resident and touring families and serves up the perfect spot for romantic couples looking to end the day with an awesome view, glass of Sauvignon Blanc in hand.

The hill is located 350m above ground zero and offers awesome, 360 degree views of the Cape Town city bowl, Table Mountain, Green Point and Robben Island. It’s a great alternative to making the tiresome trek up Lions head and is a must if you have some time to kill.

Pack: some cash for the ice cream van, camera/binoculars, sundowners and a picnic basket.

Beware: tour buses (there can be many).

6. Victoria Rd between Camps Bay & Hout Bay

For many Capetonians Victoria Road is simply the daily commute between work and home but that doesn’t make it any less inspiring. Connecting the lofty seaside villas of Camps Bay and Llandudno and the suburban bliss of Hout Bay via Suikerbossie, Victoria Rd winds its way between the Twelve Apostles and the Atlantic Seaboard.

Combine this short road trip with a visit to the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay or sundowners in one of Camps Bay’s trendy sidewalk cafes.

Browse: the roadside curio shops selling wood carvings, Nguni rugs and more along the route.

Anonymous Tip: Boyes Drive (between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay)

Here’s some insider knowledge for those of you that have been stuck in the often awful summer traffic on Main Road between Muizenberg and Kalk Bay – there’s another road! It’s called Boyes Drive and it runs above and parallel to Main Road. Besides being the quick and easy way to get to “Kalkies” and beyond, it also offers amazing views over False Bay. When the whales are in town (usually late winter to early spring) there’s hardly a better spot to view them from. And as if the news couldn’t get any better, there’s beer and pizza at the end of the rainbow… at The Brass Bell in Kalk Bay. Check out the 3D map below showing Boyes Drive elevated above Main Rd.

Beware: the speeding camera (it’s a 60km/h zone).

When it comes to scenic drives in Cape Town, we really could go on and on. From Silvermine and the Huguenot Tunnel to the Hex River Valley and the spectacular R44 between Gordon’s Bay and Pringle Bay, you’re spoilt for choice. The best thing you can do is hit the road with family and friends. Carve your own way along this unique peninsula and no matter where the road takes you remember… in South Africa always keep left.

Click for cheap Cape Town car hire.

Rise and shine with Cape Town’s hearty breakfast pit-stops

The mantra ‘breakfast is the most important meal of the day’ holds true for good reason; breakfast improves your concentration, increases your metabolism and helps regulate your weight. From young professionals to laid-back surfers, early risers need fuel to kick-start their engines (the word ‘breakfast’ literally means breaking the fast).

Luckily, Cape Town has its fair share of top spots that offer first-class breakfast pickings. While chain restaurants, such as Knead and Melissa’s, are morning-time mainstays, the Mother City also has no shortage of unique, one-of-a-kind breakfast places prime for getting the day rolling in the right way. From a full English brekkie to a humble cuppa joe, offerings are vast and varied, and we’ve compiled a list of some of the best breakfast pit-stops that Cape Town has to offer.

TOP PLACES TO EAT BREAKFAST IN CAPE TOWN CITY CENTRE

RCaffè

Serving scrumptious breakfasts from early, this trendy city centre café is conveniently located for those who work and live near Long Street. Thanks to a hip 2012 renovation, the little eatery features an exquisite design and a distinctive modern continental. Early risers can choose from a list of gorgeous gourmet breakfasts, such as the Scramble Delight, or can opt for freshly baked breads and pastries (we recommend the croissants). Breakfast is served from 6:30am – 5pm, Mondays to Fridays, and 8:30am – 4:30pm on Saturdays. Prices vary between R30 and R60.
138 Long Street | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 426 0795

Beleza

This Tamboerskloof Portuguese-Italian eatery is as well known for its retro feel and local vibe as it is for its reasonably priced breakfasts (some are less than R20). Though, just because its cheap doesn’t mean it’s nasty, in fact, it boasts an extensive breakfast menu that features everything from scrumptious South African-style pancakes to hearty Mediterranean-style meals. The Portuguese Bloody Mary is a house favourite, and is apt at taking off the edge as is a gander through the racks of the restaurant’s vintage clothing. The restaurant serves breakfast from 8:30am to 6pm from Tuesday to Sunday.
Cnr Kloof Nek and Burnside Road | Tamboerskloof |Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 426 0795

Cafè Extrablatt

Situated on the bustlingMain Road of Green Point, Café Extrablatt is lauded for its weekend breakfast buffet specials. The Saturday breakfast buffet (served between 8am and 12pm) not only offers the usual suspects, but also a wonderful selection of artisan breads and cheeses. Similarly, on Sundays, the café offers a delicious buffet brunch, served between 9am and 12pm. Additionally, the full English breakfast is a firm favourite among patrons, and together with other breakfast options, is served from 8am – 12am, from Mondays to Sundays. The breakfast menu will set you back around R40, and the weekend buffet specials are between R80 and R100.
79 Main Road | Green Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 87 625 0463

Lola’s

This popular, city centre hangout has – thanks to a full facelift – gone from a hippie-chic diner to a sophisticated bistro-style café. The day’s specials feature on a chalk board menu and usually include fresh, seasonal delights that entice both veggies and carnivores alike. On offer are some delicious, freshly-squeezed juices, a variety of omelettes and other delectable morning favourites. Breakfast prices vary between R30 and R50, and are served Mondays to Sundays between 7:30am and 12pm.  Read about our Lola’s Lunch.
228 Long Street | City Centre | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 423 0885      

Crave

Healthy, home-made delights are priority at this ‘urban-farm store’ nestled in the heart of Cape Town. Day in, day out, Crave satisfies the cravings of busy, city office workers with food made fresh on the day; all food that’s not sold by the end of the day is donated to charity. Try a Bulgarian yoghurt pot with muesli and berry compote, or a lemon and poppy seed muffin. Breakfasts cost less than R30, and are served from 7am – 4:30pm, Mondays to Fridays.
32-34 Thibault Square Pavilion | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 418 1080

Dear Me

On the hunt for a Cape Town breakfast spot that caters to those with food allergies or intolerances? Look no further, Dear Me takes into consideration all dietary needs, and ensures that their bistro-style breakfasts taste delicious at the same time. Their Eggs Benedict is a crowd pleaser, as are their homemade muesli and buttermilk rusks, nibblies that can be packaged for your convenience to enjoy at home. Breakfast is served Mondays to Fridays, from 7am-11am, and can cost anything from R18 to R72.
165 Longmarket Street | Cape Town | +27 (0) 422 4920

Hemelhuijs

With its ever-changing interior space and whimsical displays of fresh flowers and curios, Hemelhuijs, an upmarket design-inspired eatery of sort, will offer you a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of the surrounding city life. On their breakfast menu is a healthy assortment of dishes, including cinnamon and oats with double thick yoghurt, as well as the very popular poached egg with hollandaise and smoked trout/ proscuitto. Breakfast is served all day, from 9am – 4pm (Mondays to Fridays), and from 9am– 2:30pm on Saturdays. Dishes are reasonably priced and cost between R30 and R95.
71 Waterkant Street | Cape Town | + 27 (0) 21 418 2042

Andiamo Restaurant and Deli

Eat your breakfast alfresco at Andiamo. The Italian restaurant and deli has been designed to let the beautiful surroundings of the European-style courtyard and fountain spill in, and the breakfasts are reasonably priced for the stunner of a venue. You can expect everything from traditional fry ups and eggs benedict to the more unusual fare, such as an Italian omelette with bolognaise sauce and buffalo mozzarella. Top off your breakfast with a specialty coffee, and you’ll soon be singing amore! The restaurant serves breakfast from 9am to 11:30 from Monday to Sunday, and prices range between R30 and R50.
Cape Quarter Piazza | 72 Waterkant Street | Green Point | Cape Town | +27 (0)21 421 3687

Newport Deli

Newport Deli is the ideal pit stop for a healthy breakfast and a robust 180-degree sea view. Locals and tourists alike flock to this seaside hotspot because of its delicious homemade muesli, croissants, homemade bread, smoothies and delectable coffees; hot breakfasts, unfortunately, are not on offer. Breakfast is served from 6:30am – 10pm (Mondays to Fridays) and from 7am – 10pm on Saturdays and Sundays, and will set you back no more than R40.
47 Beach Road | Mouille Point | Cape Town | +27 (0) 21 439 1538

Haas

This quirky addition to the brightly-coloured facades of the Bo-Kaap neighbourhood has lured many trendy Capetonians to its doorstep. Initially intended as a studio and coffee shop, Haas quickly diversified its offerings to keep up with public demand. Nowadays, this gallery-cum-coffee shop doesn’t only do cappuccinos and flat whites; you’ll find a range of delicious breakfasts and lunches, from croque monsieurs with smoked gypsy ham to the popular baked eggs breakfast. Breakfast is served from 7am – 5pm on Mondays to Fridays, and from 8am – 3pm on weekends. Prices vary, but you can expect to pay between R30 and R50.
67 Rose Street | Bo-Kaap | Cape Town | + 27 (0) 21 422 4413

Markets in the city centre

Spend your weekend mornings at some of Cape Town’s reputable markets, where you can fill up on some local fare and see the latest in fashion and trends. Open early, these bazaars have gained a steady following among locals based on their offering of delicious, homemade treats and local produce, as well as a range of fashion and jewellery.

14 Hope Street | Gardens | Cape Town| +27 (0) 73 270 8043

The grand dame of burlesque is back, this time at a premier Mother City destination

Madame Zingara and her Theatre of Dreams descends on the Mother City, once more; this time settling down at Cape Town’s foremost entertainment destination, the V&A Waterfront, from Thursday, 16 January until the end of July.

Relive those childhood dreams and dash off to the circus for a night of magic, mystique and mayhem; as part of this year’s Miracle Tour, the travelling troupe dabbles in more than just gravity-defying acts: audiences can look forward to serenades from seductive sirens, absurdist humour from two equally bizarre emcees and much, much more.

Not to mention, in step with its one-of-a-kind performance mantra, the show is set in one of the world’s last remaining spiegeltents (mirror tents), a majestic 25-metre big top that’s named Victoria, which was first built in Belgium in the early 1900s and that’s been globe-trotting for the past 80 years. This iconic pavilion continues to provide Madame Zingara, her troupe and her many fans a playground where the only limit is the imagination.

In 2013, the Cape Town show will bring back favourites, like the high-heeled mistress of the skies, Ms Cathy Specific and the lithe and sexy Sam, a vixen who leaves audiences breathless with her splashing (wink) Spanish-style silk aerial acts. Additionally, this year, the line-up sees newcomer acts like Icarian games (human foot juggling) performers Miles and George, the mesmerising trio of Russian strong men and the high energy duo from the Gouchos Bollas act – a first for South Africa.

What’s more, the Miracle Tour includes the debut of the dynamic quartet, The Specifics, an ensemble of super-talented ladies well versed in regaling audiences with renditions of classic songs and foot-tapping hits.

Lastly and as always, the on-site kitchen provides diners with an exquisite four-course menu. To kick off the culinary journey, a titillating selection of Mediterranean antipasto acts as the prelude to a second course of Italian pastas. The third and main course features the star of the show, the Chocolate Chili Fillet along with a range of alternative options including seafood and even something for the vegetarians. Dessert caps off the experience with a lip-licking trilogy of decadent chocolate creations, tea or coffee and friandise.

Tickets for Madame Zingara’s Miracle Tour in Cape Town

Ticket prices start from R385p/p and run up to R475p/p, depending on where you are seated; the price includes the four-course dinner and the entertainment (drinks are for patrons’ own account). The show runs nightly from Tuesday to Saturday; to book contact the ticket office on +27 (0) 86 162 3263 or email boxoffice@madamezingara.com. Doors open at 7pm, guests are required to be seated by 7:45pm and the show begins promptly at 8:15pm.

Top Gear Festival 2013

Top Gear Festival powered by Shell V-Power will once again be taking place in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal this year.  Top Gear events have been showcased in South Africa in both Johannesburg and Cape Town in recent years along with 16 other cities around the world – Top Gear Festival debuted in Durban in 2012.  As a result of a partnership with the Province of KwaZulu-Natal and the City of Durban, the event will be once again be hosted by ‘the warmest place to be’.

The Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban Street Circuit and People’s Park will play host to the Top Gear Festival in Durban.

The Top Gear Festival powered by Shell V-Power will take place on Saturday 15^th June and Sunday 16^th June, 2013. The festival times are 09h00 to 20h00 for Saturday 15^th June and Sunday 16^th June, 2013.

Top Gear Presenters

Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, James May and The Stig along with a stellar line-up of motoring greats, and ‘friends of Top Gear’.

Top Gear Festival powered by Shell V-Power  is an extension of the Top Gear Live global tour, offering an exceptional Live Stadium Show and exhilarating Durban Street Circuit. A first of its kind in 2012, the event returns to the Moses Mahbida Stadium and its surrounding precinct on the 15th and 16th June 2013.

Live Shows

The Live Stadium Show: An action-packed seated stadium show created by the Top Gear Live production team. Presented by Clarkson, May and the STIG, featuring local personalities, international stunt drivers and a whole host of Top Gear’s trademark special effects, smashes, crashes and customised cars.

There will be 2 Stadium Shows per day. The first show time will be 13h30 and the second at 19h00, on Saturday 15^th June and Sunday 16^th June, 2013.

Street Circuits

The Street Circuit:  2012 festival saw Top Gear’s first ever Street Circuit and due to its success it is back again. Visitors will be able to see F1 content, stunts, races, motoring challenges and daring manoeuvres all on the streets of Durban.

There will also be 2 Circuit Shows per day, the first circuit starts at 09h30 and the second circuit at 14h00, for both Saturday 15^th June and Sunday 16^th June 2013.

And More!

Plus More Features: Visitors can also enjoy an exhibition crammed with some of the most stylish, rare & expensive cars ever made as well as the latest gadgets, luxury goods, car accessories & motoring technology.

Throughout the day there will be a full timetable of special appearances by talent as they participate and commentate on a number of special Top Gear Festival challenges.

Purchase Tickets

To purchase your tickets visit www.iTickets.co.za or call: 086 1000 291

For more information or queries e-mail: info@itickets.co.za  or info@topgearlivesa.co.za