Do’s and don’ts when traveling to Cape Town
Cape Town in South Africa’s Western province is renowned as one of the most beautiful cities in the world and a bucket list destination for many international tourists. The reasons are fairly obvious. One is immediately greeted by the world’s natural wonder ‘Table Mountain’ which majestically surveys the vibrant city below it and can be seen all along its west coast and well into the Cape Winelands.
This is another of the extended articles in our series entitled ‘Do’s and don’ts when traveling to South Africa’ covering all the great South African travel tips you need.
Cape Town, with all its variety of things to do and places to see, is one of South Africa’s primary tourist destinations, but like most cities in the world, when one travels one needs to proceed with caution and some good Do’s and don’ts advice can be very helpful.
Crime abounds if one is not alert!
Like most major cities, there are very safe areas in Cape town and there are no-go areas. Cape Town’s crime rate is very high in certain areas where there are Gangster activities and one would best avoid these however there are also guided tours into some of the townships which assist the poor people in them so DON’T discount them altogether.
The good news is that Cape Town is considered to be one of the safest places to visit in South Africa, so you will have no problem if you are vigilant, DO go to the right places and seek help in this regard. Your hotel concierge at any good hotel will assist you and give you advice.
Some peculiarities: A few useful things to know
Do try not to look too much like a tourist! Take normal precautions of not carrying too much cash on you and when driving in the inner city keep your windows in your vehicle closed and the doors locked. Keep valuables in the boot of the car and wherever you go don’t just leave bags, jackets, etc. unattended. Ask someone to help
DON’T flash money, jewelry your phone, or cameras around, just be alert at all times and f course DON’T let your credit card out of your sight! Also, Cape Town is not as open to corruption as some other places so it is advisable that you don’t ever offer a bribe to a policeman!
A few tips regarding normal life in the city. DON’T ignore the ‘car guards’ they are there to watch your vehicle when you are parked in shopping malls so it is polite to give them a couple of rands at least for their effort.
Regarding tipping – don’t assume there is a surcharge to cover tips when you get your bill – there usually isn’t and the accepted norm is at least 10% – We advise 15% as one needs to remember the staff relies on and often have to share these tips.
Where you DON’T go
In Cape Town, the main places you should avoid going to day or night are Mitchell’s Plain, or any of the townships/squatter camps, unless accompanied by an accredited tour guide. Even the City Center, Wynberg, Salt River, Woodstock & Observatory after dark are not advised, especially on your own.
Where you DO go
There is so much to DO in this incredible world in one that it is impossible to summarise. From the vibrant lifestyle and nightlife in the ‘Mother City’ to the serene Winelands where you can savor some of the World’s best wines or go a little further to Franschhoek the ‘gourmet capital’’ of South Africa with its delightful French ambiance and cuisine that is to die for!
Beach goers have a choice of 2 oceans and dozens of beaches o choose from, hikers have the mountain and dozens of trails to choose from and Adrenaline junkies have shark cage diving and some of the best surfing and water sports resorts to decide on.
The list goes on indefinitely, so DO watch this space and DON’T miss future articles that will detail so much more of what can be experienced and enjoyed in this unforgettable place.
DON’T be disappointed with the accommodation you choose
Because B&Bs and Airbnbs can in many cases be less than you expected and because they offer no proper security, it is safer and usually far more enjoyable to stay in a great ANEW group hotel with all amenities and excellent service.
Our hotel in Green Point, Cape Town offers visitors magnificent views and is within close proximity to some of Cape Town’s most popular hotspots, ANEW Hotel Green Point is the perfect accommodation option for those wishing to explore the Mother City.
When it comes to do’s and don’ts when traveling to Cape Town, DO book now to avoid disappointment and DON’T miss the chance to visit this iconic city – fabulous Cape Town!
