British journalist and CNN news anchor Richard Quest recently wrote an article published on the CNN Travel website, describing Cape Town as one of the world’s most beguiling cities, and as Capetonians, we’re nodding in agreement.
In the article, Quest noted the City’s unique setting at the tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian oceans collide, creating spectacular natural scenery. He also praised Cape Town’s diverse neighbourhoods, cultural offerings and culinary scene.
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Cape Town has been on many travellers’ bucket lists for years, and for good reason. Its unique location alone is reason enough to visit, but the City has so much more to offer beyond its stunning landscapes.
One of the things that makes Cape Town so special is the diverse neighbourhoods that make up the city. Each area has its unique character, history and cultural offerings, making it worth exploring beyond the usual tourist hotspots.
As a local or tourist to Cape Town, Bo-Kaap, the colourful area located on the slopes of Signal Hill and home to a large portion of Cape Town’s Muslim community was once known as the Malay Quarter. Its narrow streets are lined with brightly painted houses, each with a unique colour scheme. Take a stroll along the cobbled streets and stop by the Bo-Kaap Museum to learn more about its history.
Another neighbourhood worth exploring is Woodstock, a trendy area that has undergone a significant transformation in recent years. Once a working-class suburb, Woodstock is now home to many young creatives, artists and entrepreneurs.
The area is dotted with street art murals, galleries and boutiques, and it’s a great place to wander around and soak up the local vibe.
Khayelitsha brims with Cape Town’s African culture. Explore the area with a guided tour to learn more about its diverse African cultures, history and daily life.
Don’t miss a chance to try some traditional Xhosa food, like umngqusho, a delicious stew made with beans and maize.
These are just a few examples of the many neighbourhoods that make Cape Town such a fascinating place. Read Richard Quest’s article here.
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Picture: @richardquest / Twitter