CapeTown, Long Street
It is a magnet for the curious, the fashionable and the tourists, who browse through antique shops, junk stores and designer boutiques on the lookout for a bargain before seeking sustenance in one of the cool restaurants or Indian take-outs. There are art galleries for the aesthetics and fashionable discos for night owls – it appears to have everything! A cross-section of authentic Cape Town life.
Houses of Parliament – CapeTown
By calling in advance, you can follow the debates in house (August to December only) – a good opportunity to witness the politics of the new South Africa. Guided tours through the Classicist building must be booked at least one week in advance.
Bo Kaap Quarter, CapeTown
This is where the Islamic community, known as the Cape Malays as they are descendants of the slaves once brought in from the East Indies, live. Visitors are urged to respect their lifestyle. The pretty, peaceful district is very much in fashion, and is becoming increasingly popular. More and more people are discovering their fondness for the pretty little houses, most of which date back to the 18th century, and are settling here. The Bo Kaap Museum provides information about the life of the Cape Malay people.
Pan African Market – Capetown
Some people buy souvenirs, others immerse themselves into the experience and just drift from one stall to another over the three stories of the market. There is also an artists café where you can rest your legs, a hairdresser where you can get plaits woven into your hair and a dressmaker where you can get some of the wonderful fabrics made into something right away.