2. Make Copies of important documents
Yes, just like any other country you do need your passport and travel documents in order and the list goes on. The basic tip here is to make copies of all the important documentation you carry with you when on holiday. Make a copy of your passport, your visa (if needed), and even make copies of the front and back of your credit card! To be extra safe mail the copies to someone you can trust, so that if you don't have your backups they can just mail you the copies! Hey, come-on, better safe than sorry right?

3. What to pack
If there's one thing about Cape Town you should know, it is that you can expect four seasons in one day! That means that you should pack some light summery clothing as well as extras for keeping warm. For summer it's ideal to get yourself a pretty Pashmina as it is lightweight, can fold up, and will take the chill out of the air. If you are visiting in winter time, you can expect rainfall. A lightweight raincoat/jacket with a hood will keep you dry, and an umbrella (if the wind isn't to strong) will shelter you against heaven's teardrops.

4. Sunscreen
Together with the summer fun, the pristine sandy beaches, and the bronzing bodies comes the sizzling hot summer sun! You don't want to spoil your Cape Town holiday by getting sunburnt and looking like a red lobster. Get a sun protective lotion to shield yourself.

5. What to tip that friendly smile
In South Africa it is appropriate to show your gratitude for good service. You can tip your waiter, taxi driver, hotel staff, or anyone who provides good service and who you feel deserves a gratuity. Anything from 10% of your total bill and upwards is appropriate.

6. Don't flash your goods!
Some safety advice- and we are sure it is applicable all over the world- is to not be too excessive. That means don't wear all your expensive jewellery at once, don't carry too much cash around on you, keep your bags close to you, and don't put your cell phone on any little pockets on the outside of your travel day bag! Think smart and don't make it easy for the criminals out there.

7. Be careful where you drive
Here in South Africa we drive on the left-hand side of the road, and yes, our steering wheels are on the right-hand side of the car. Don't worry- you will get used to it!

8. Travel Guide
The best way to get to know a place, and to decide which parts and sites of that city you want to visit, is to get yourself a comprehensive travel guide. There are some pretty good ones of Cape Town on the market and we recommend The Rough Guide to Cape Town & the Garden Route and Lonely Planet's Cape Town guidebook.

9. Some important numbers
It's always a good idea to keep important numbers nearby- here are a few to put on speed dial:

Police 10111
Ambulance 10177
Grab a Cab 021 55 66 3 44
AA roadside 083 THE AA
Assistance 083 843 22


10. Bring it on!
So your travels lead you to Cape Town and you're wondering what to bring along. Here are some basics:

You will need a camera to capture those picture-perfect moments! Binoculars to spy on Cape Town's gorgeous surrounds. Comfortable walking shoes, as you will do a lot of exploration on foot. Funky sunglasses and a hat to shield your eyes. A swimsuit for your beach frolicking, and of course your sense of adventure!

Let the exploration begin!