Why Cape Town, South Africa Should Be on Your Travel List

By: Ashley Handley

After returning from Cape Town, South Africa, I’ve had time to reflect on what makes this city so special. It’s the perfect blend of adventure, culture, and beauty. Whether you're into exploring the outdoors, enjoying great food, or soaking up the vibrant city life, Cape Town has something for everyone. I ventured out of my comfort zone this time, spending a bit of time on a farm before heading into the lively city by the water. Some of the best areas to check out are Sea Point, Camps Bay, and City Bowl. I stayed at the Marriott Crystal Towers, which made the whole experience even better, offering amazing amenities and stunning views with the most friendly staff. There’s simply so much to do here!

☆ Cape Town Marriott Crystal Towers ☆

A City Full of Adventure

Cape Town is a place full of energy, with a mix of outdoor adventures, delicious food, and a nightlife scene that’ll keep you entertained. Whether you’re into hiking, surfing, or relaxing by the beach, there’s always something exciting happening. I personally spent more time on outdoor activities this trip, but Cape Town’s nightlife is AMAZING if that’s more your speed.

☆ V&A Waterfront ☆

V&A Waterfront: A Must-Visit Spot

One of my absolute favorite places in Cape Town is the V&A Waterfront. It’s a lively area with shops, boat rides, and great food by the water. There's also a really cool market called Time Out where local creators sell unique items like handcrafted skincare, clothing, and other homemade goods. I picked up a honey exfoliating face scrub and Jamaican black castor oil—perfect self care items to bring home from the motherland!

☆ Skin & Hair Care from Time Out Market ☆

Hiking Table Mountain & Lions Head

As a hiking enthusiast, I couldn’t leave Cape Town without hiking Table Mountain and Lions Head. Table Mountain is the more challenging of the two, taking about 3 hours to hike to the top, but the views are definitely worth the effort. You can take the cable car down for just $10. Lions Head, on the other hand, is a shorter, 1.5-hour hike, but you’ll have to walk down since there’s no cable car. While Table Mountain is a bit more difficult, both hikes offer a sense of accomplishment and some of the best views in the city. I hiked without a tour guide but if you are new to hiking they offer guided tours through Viator.

☆ Lion's Head Mountain ☆

Mojo Market: A Food Lover’s Dream

After a satisfying hike, head over to Mojo Market! Whether you're in the mood for fresh juice blends, healthy options, or a comforting burger or pizza, there’s something for everyone here. The vibe is lively, and they often have live music to keep the energy up.

Afternoon Tea at Mount Nelson

For a more relaxed experience, we enjoyed afternoon tea at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel. It’s the perfect spot for a special date (or a treat to yourself) with delicious hors d'oeuvres, champagne, and desserts served with top-notch service. Plus, the setting is beautiful, so it’s a great spot to snap some photos and take in the moment.

☆ Afternoon Tea at Mount Nelson ☆

South African Vineyards: A Wine Lover’s Paradise

No trip to Cape Town would be complete without visiting the vineyards. We had an amazing wine tour at Babylonstoren, where we learned about the winemaking process and even got to handpick grapes off the vines (they were so tasty!). The tour is a fantastic way to meet travelers from all over the world, try new wines, and even buy a few bottles to take home. Plus, it's a beautiful location for photos!

Conclusion: Cape Town is a Must-Visit

If you’re considering a trip to Cape Town, I highly recommend it. It’s a place full of adventure, stunning views, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. If you have any questions or need help planning your trip, feel free to email me at Ashleymhandley@gmail.com!

☆ Babylonstoren Wine Tasting and Cellar ☆

☆ Sea Point Promenade ☆