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In
1580, Sir Francis Drake described the Cape as 'the fairest
Cape in all the World'. South Africa's friendly Mother City
has lost none of its charm and continues to welcome visitors from
all corners of the globe.
One
of the most beautiful destinations in the world, Cape Town offers
the visitor a blend of incredibly stunning visual splendour and
excitment. Throughout it's long and colorful history, the Cape
has been known by many different names. For centuries, it's tradition
of gracious hospitality and as a landmark for the weary seafarer,
led to it being known worldwide as the 'Tavern of the Seas'.
An
unlimited wealth of sightseeing, entertainment and shopping venues
are just waiting to be explored.
Cape
Town is the capital
of the Western Cape province as well as South Africas
legislative capital as the Houses of Parliament are here. Cape Towns rich history and beauty,
with its impressive surrounding mountains and beaches, makes it
South Africas premier tourist destination.
This is truly
a cosmopolitan city. Through it's cafes, galleries,
book stores and museums, the city's 18-century history meets the
present in a montage of the modern and the traditional.
The Victoria and
Alfred Waterfront is one the most exciting areas
of its kind in the world. An entertainment
mecca and fully working harbour,
it offers the visitor everything from fine restaurants and stylish
shops to cinemas and live music.
From sophisticated
malls to old-style
markets, Cape Town displays a rich cultural diversity
of English, Dutch and Malay influence which is evident in its
architecture, fashion and customs.
Visit the first
mosque in South Africa located on the cobbled streets
of Bo-Kaap or explore the Castle of Good Hope, the oldest surviving
building in South Africa.
The Two Oceans
Aquarium, an international marine zoo, is a must-see
attraction for any visitor.
From the summit of the majestic Table
Mountain, enjoy spectacular
panoramic views of the azure-hued Atlantic Ocean,
sandy white beaches, the city and Cape Town's bustling harbour.
The Cape Peninsula
provides an endless coastline of superb
beaches and sheltered bays.
Sun-bathers relax on the white-sand beaches of Camp's Bay while
surfers are offered the wild beauty of Noordhoek Beach.
Home to more than 8500
species of flora, Table mountain was designated
a National Park in May 1998. Two cable cars carry passengers to
the summit, with their revolving floors providing 360 degree views
of Lion's Head, historic Robben Island, the West Coast and Camp's
Bay.
The Cape's natural
beauty is famous worldwide.
This is one of the richest floral kingdoms in the world, home
to thousands of plant species, some of which are found nowhere
else on earth.
Inland are the many towns of the Winelands
including Paarl, Somerset West and Stellenbosch. The grape
vines and orchards nestled in the Boland mountains
are within 45 minutes drive of Cape Town.
Admire the sunsets and enjoy the wine, food,
art and culture of the various cosmopolitan towns in the region.
The wine route is an unforgettable
experience and is not to be missed.
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