A sunny hello to all of our Book Cape Town subscribers,
SUMMER HAS ARRIVED and it is time to start planning your summer holidays. Whether you have just one week or if you are really lucky and have three months of glorious “me time” stretching out before you, Cape Town is the ideal place to spend your summer. Cape Town enjoys a Mediterranean climate, which means that our summers are hot and sunny – the perfect weather to enjoy outdoors!
While you are certain to spend plenty of time on the beach, we can suggest numerous other activities that you may enjoy during the summer months. Sea-kayaking, canoeing, surfing, kite surfing and even boat cruises are some of the things to do on water that we can offer to you, otherwise rock climbing, hiking, abseiling and golf will keep you (fairly) grounded. Alternatively take advantage of the clear skies and try paragliding, a helicopter flight or a hot air balloon trip. Contact us to book these or other activities before it’s too late!
And speaking of too late, we are almost in the year 2010, and that means that it is almost time for the Soccer World Cup. Thousands of people from around the world will be descending on South Africa in the months of June and July to watch this championship tournament. While there is much Cape Town accommodation available it is getting booked up rapidly. Hurry and book your accommodation with us and take advantage of our 2010 World Cup Packages.
Continuing in this train of thought, what we have been calling the Green Point Stadium has recently been given its new official title: the Cape Town Stadium. The city of Cape Town was treated to a magnificent spectacle recently, when many of the lights in the stadium were switched on for one night. This breathtaking image has since been published on sites, blogs and plastered across newspapers around the world. Check it out on our blog page.
Maybe you would like to avoid the 2010 World Cup chaos and are visiting Cape Town now. We have compiled our top five villas in Cape Town that make excellent holiday bases due to their close proximity to blue flag beaches and other tourist attractions. These include:
Before you book any old self-catering accommodation why not consider Villa Davarra? This stunning Tuscan-inspired villa is situated in Clifton, one of the most sought-after areas in the Cape. Overlooking the stunning Clifton beaches, this villa was designed to make the most of the panoramic views. With six lavish bedrooms, two living areas, a large balcony and a Jacuzzi that looks out over the Atlantic, there is plenty of space for all and plenty of things to do. Take advantage of the November Special on offer: when you stay for a minimum of seven nights, you pay only R3000 per night! This is an absolute bargain for a slice of heaven.
But while you are enjoying the sunshine, keep in mind that not everyone around you is completely focussed on its radiance and warmth. We have compiled our Top Ten Tips for Travelling in Cape Town:
- Sunscreen. You are going to be spending a lot of time outdoors and whether you are walking, hiking, cycling, horse riding or travelling in a vehicle, you will be exposed to Africa’s harsh sun. To avoid sunburn and potential damage to your skin, it is essential that you apply sunscreen with a minimum factor of SPF 30 and reapply it every two hours, even if you are travelling in a car
- Temperature gauge. If you have borrowed or rented a car you are probably going to do a fair amount of driving. Before you set off on your trip check under the car to see if there is any leaking fluid and check the water level in the radiator. While driving keep an eye on the temperature gauge especially if you are sitting in traffic. The last thing you want is for the engine to overheat, leaving you stuck on the side of the road.
- Keep hydrated. Carry a bottle of water around with you throughout the day and sip from it regularly. This will prevent dehydration and can help to prevent sunstroke.
- Sunglasses. It is not just your skin that burns, your eyes are subject to sun damage as well. Wear Polaroid sunglasses that automatically adjust depending on the amount of light, to provide your eyes with complete protection.
- Light clothing. Light, loose-fitting clothing that is made from pure cotton will keep you cooler than fitted clothing made form synthetic materials.
- Take a break. Travelling for long stretches of time can make you very tired, especially if you are the driver. Stop at least every two hours and get out of the car. This will give your mind and eyes a break and gives you a chance to stretch your legs. If you are travelling with young children this will give them a break as well.
- Music. Although some people may find listening to music while travelling a distraction, it can help to keep you more alert, as well as make the time pass more quickly.
- Air-con. The heat can become quite fierce during the summer months, in which case you may choose to travel with the air-conditioning switched on. Close the windows and select the option for the air inside the cabin to circulate rather than bring in outside air, as this will lessen the additional fuel consumption used by the air-con.
- Street children. At many of the traffic lights in Cape Town there are people asking for handouts. Rather than giving them money offer them food or a drink – fruit is a good option.
- Safety. You may be travelling throughout this beautiful city and enjoying the stunning weather without a care in the world. It is people who do not pay attention to their surroundings who become victims of crimes such as pickpockets, muggings and hijackings. Always be aware of which areas you are travelling through and of the people around you. Keep safe, keep protected, and keep having fun! If you need help or more information regarding any of these, give us a call and carry on enjoying your time in Cape Town. Have a happy summer! The Book Cape Town Team
Keep safe, keep protected, and keep having fun! If you need help or more information regarding any of these, give us a call and carry on enjoying your time in Cape Town.
Have a happy summer!
The Book Cape Town Team
