Cape Town is perhaps one of the most famous tourist destinations in Africa. Travellers from all over the world flock to the picturesque beaches, peaceful wine farms and abundant attractions each year. While this makes for a vibrant and exciting atmosphere come holiday time, it also means that the hiking trails are a little crowded and the prices that little bit more expensive.

These added crowds and costs often prevent locals from heading down to the Cape to relax during the holiday season. But there really is no need for South Africans to miss out on the beauty of a city that sits right on their doorstep. There are many amazing activities on offer in Cape Town that are as of yet undiscovered by the madding crowds as well as many clever ways to plan your accommodation that won’t break the bank.

Discover the Real Cape Town

Cape is well known for Table Mountain, Robben Island, the wine routes and a myriad of other tourist attractions. But this by far not all that the city has to offer. Many of its smaller attractions may be a little further off the beaten track, but they are well worth the trip.

Township Tours

Township tours are not exactly that unusual with many operators taking groups out into the informal settlements that surround Cape Town. But these can be uncomfortable for both you and the people of the township, as they are quite invasive. A different – and cheaper - way to discover the vibrancy and life of the townships is to volunteer your time with an organisation such as Habitat for Humanity. Give up your time for the day and help them build a house. Not only will you feel great about yourself, but you will also get to meet and get to know the real people of the area. Finish off your rewarding day of hard work with a drink and a meal in one of any townships’ many shebeens or informal pubs and discover what partying with the locals really feels like!

South Africa’s History

A boat trip out to Robben Island is a once in a lifetime experience, but unfortunately many other people think so too and it is usually booked up months in advance. There is an alternative that might not include passing a few seals on the way, but is still a truly moving and eye-opening day out. The District Six Museum chronicles the forced removals that took place in that area during the 1960s. This small space packs a massive punch, as exhibits like old street signs rescued from the bull-dozed suburb, highlight the pointlessness and devastation of the era. Museum guides are actual District Six residents with moving stories to tell and memories to share. This museum us the ideal way to learn about how Apartheid affected the people at a grass roots level and is a must on any visit to Cape Town.

A Quiet Beach

No Cape Town holiday is complete without at least a couple of days spent sunning yourself on the beach – if you find a spot that is! But there are many beaches that surround this city that may not be the “place to be seen” but do mean that you can at least see the ocean. Blouberg Strand beach is an incredibly long and beautiful stretch of sand that is guaranteed to have a space for everybody. Strong winds often blow here making it ideal for windsurfing and kiting enthusiasts. Situated near Milnerton, this beach is also roughly opposite the city across Table Bay, affording breathtaking views of Table Mountain. Stay all day and enjoy a cocktail as the sun sets behind the mountain and the lights of the city slowly begin to flicker.

Leave the City Behind

Many people come to Cape Town specifically to leave it behind as they head out along the famed Garden Route or to see the whales in the nearby towns of Arniston or Hermanus. While all these places are well worth a visit, they can be crowded and expensive. Another option is heading out to smaller and quieter towns such as Gordon’s Bay. The town is backed by the Helderberg Mountains and looks out over the sparkling blue ocean. The beaches are spectacular and the Helderberg wine route nearby is home to some of the Western Cape’s finest wine farms. Sunset cruises, whale watching, hiking trails, picnic spots, restaurants and an exciting nightlife all abound in this town, making it a great place to escape to for a weekend. Only 40 minutes from the city and with many accommodation options, a visit to Gordon’s Bay rivals any other tourist town in South Africa.

Essential Retail Therapy

The V&A Waterfront is one of Cape Town’s most famous shopping complexes and includes harbour cruises, restaurants, designer ware and a plethora of beautiful people. Heading out that little bit further along the N1 sends you out to Canal Walk Shopping Complex which has every shop you could ever need, all under one roof. With over 400 stores, including traditional African curios and keepsakes, you can spend an entire day wandering around this mall. Restaurants range from fancy to fast food take out and the outdoor entertainment area regularly plays host to concerts and displays. To rival the Waterfront this shopping complex even has a canal where you can have a boat ride, a skate park for the kids and a cinema where you can rest your feet!

Cape Town Holiday Accommodation

With all these activities to keep you busy, you are definitely going to need at least a week to explore and somewhere to rest and revitalise at night. Good holiday accommodation in Cape Town is not cheap and it is often a huge stumbling block for local visitors. The solution is simple – get smart and start searching online. Many online subscription programmes offer amazing vacation opportunities. Monthly fees paid to such a programme result in a yearly accommodation package that ensures you can enjoy your time in Cape Town – with a little bit extra cash to spend too! Choose from an apartment in Gordon’s Bay or a resort in Blouberg. Stay in the heart of Cape Town’s CBD or choose to be near the shops at Canal Walk. Whatever activity appeals to you, it is possible to enjoy Cape Town without the crowds or the costs!

More About Amazing Vacations

Amazing Vouchers' new subsidiary - Amazing Vacations offers a brand new service that has only added more value to this online subscription programme. A monthly fee entitles you to a week’s accommodation in an amazing Cape Town holiday resort top hotels, guaranteeing that you can enjoy Cape Town or any South African city – for a fraction of the cost!

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