Justice to Cape Town can’t be done in one lesson. Spending a month in Cape Town will only give you a tiny idea of what this city is all about. It’s a place to visit and re-visit and visit again.

In the previous lesson a few of the many attractions around Cape Town were discussed.

This lesson will focus on places to stay and the many unique and exciting restaurants Cape Town has.

WHERE TO STAY IN CAPE TOWN

The vibrant energy of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront makes it an ideal base for your travels. From the very luxurious Cape Grace and Table Bay Hotels to the Breakwater Lodge there is something for everyone. The Breakwater Lodge, a 19th century prison, released the shackles to become a comfortable and affordable hotel with breathtaking views of the harbour.

Seapoint and De Waterkant are trendy suburbs with good quality affordable accommodation.

Inverness in Seapoint doesn’t look like much from the outside but the apartments are quite elegant and are perfect for a self-catering stay. Shops and supermarkets are within walking distance. Camps Bay and the Waterfront is a short drive or bus ride away.

De Waterkant divides its accommodation into Romantic, Cultural and Corporate stays. Your choice will be from a studio to a 3 bedroom house depending on your needs. Most accommodation has excellent views of the Harbour and Waterfront with the majestic Table Mountain watching quietly from behind.

Holiday Inns are all over and great if that excellent buffet breakfast is what gets you out of bed.

WHERE TO EAT IN CAPE TOWN

The choices are endless and great consideration should be given to this vast task. It can mean the difference between going home completely broke with a new wardrobe or with some dignity.

The best place to start is at the Waterfront and specifically at Cantina Tequila. The only problem is that you might not want to go anywhere else after this experience which will be very wrong.

Cantina Tequila is a Mexican Restaurant with the most exhilarating atmosphere and the best location. On the edge of the harbour with a magical view of the harbour lights you will want to sit on the outside terrace even in winter.

At the Cellars Hohenort Hotel, in Constantia, is the very classy Cape Malay Restaurant where you can experience real spicy and tasty traditional Malay Cuisine. It is a very upmarket and formal restaurant that doesn’t allow any children under 12.

Primi Piati at the Canalwalk Mall is nice for a quick breakfast or lunch. It is very informal with an outside area looking over the canal.

At Marimba you can expect live music entertainment every night with your meal. The menu is extensive with meat, fish and curry dishes to pick and choose from.

San Marco at the Waterfront is ideal for desserts and cakes. They have an interesting selection and very friendly staff.

Cape Town will always beckon you to come again no matter how many times you’ve been there.