Cape Town, South Africa: The Ultimate Travel Destination

FIRST TIME OUT OF THE COUNTRY

My first experience of traveling outside the country was at the age of 25 to Cape Town, South Africa. After finishing my college degree I had plans to go on to graduate school to study Physical Therapy. After taking a two week volunteer trip to Cape Town my perspective on myself and the world changed. I have traveled to over 30 countries since my trip to Cape Town, and it is the #1 travel destination that I recommend to those that enjoy unique terrain types, food and wine, and the arts of a Country.

The city of Cape Town has a joyous and energetic vibe. The days are filled with street merchants and performers, and the nights full of locals and tourists enjoying the bars and restaurant scene. This city has elements of tourism that fulfills the vacation of every individual that explores the area. Where to begin? Let’s start with the landscape of Cape Town, if you look one way you will see the mountainous cliffs of Table Mountain, the other way miles of ocean.

For the outdoorsy folks making your way up Lion’s Head or Table Mountain is a must. Lion’s Head is perfect for those wanting a shorter hike that will take about 45 minutes. While you can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain it is the perfect for a full day of hiking. Table Mountain stands prominent in the city and once you get to the top, you get a view of the entire city of Cape Town. You don’t need a Safari trip to get a wildlife experience, I was still able to see animals in their natural habitat when I visited places such as The Cape of Good Hope where I saw ostrich and monkeys or Boulders Beach which is home to Penguins. The Cape of Good Hope is a special place where the currents of the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean meet. If you head down to the south of the city, Muizenberg is a colorful and peaceful suburb where you can take surfing lessons or watch surfers take on some of the world’s most intense waves.

If you are big foodie, Cape Town is full of local restaurants and markets with the freshest ingredients that I have ever tasted. I would highly recommend Espresso Lab Microroasters for coffee lovers. South Africa is also well known for their wine scene in Stellenbosch, where you can go to wine tastings at privately owned vineyards.

The Bay Harbour Market is a great place to meet local artisans and vendors. There is fresh and locally grown food, art, and jewelry.

At the time of this trip The United States was going through a huge political shift after the election of Donald Trump. With constant eyes on The United States, everyone wanted to ask me “What the hell happened”. The United States seemed more divided politically and racially than I had ever seen. The theme of being an American, more specifically a Black American is discussed often during my travels which has led to the podcast Blackpacking.

Cape Town with its stunning views and welcoming atmosphere is absolutely and lovable city, and I hope to return.