Radisson Hotels & Resorts, Cape Town, South Africa

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Cape Town, South Africa

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About Cape Town, South Africa

Although Cape Town's tortured politics have a tendency to color the world's perception of the "Mother City," its gorgeous locale on South Africa's southwestern promontory seduces all who visit. Table Mountain, the city's imposing, flat-topped landmark, looks out over Table Bay and shelters Cape Town from the rest of the continent. The region's earliest inhabitants, the San and the Khoikhoi, held domain for countless centuries, and not until Bartholomew Diaz sailed around Africa in 1488 did Europeans spy what would someday be one of Africa's most fascinating cities. In succeeding years, the nation's history was filled with the presence and conflicts of the Dutch East India Company, English settlers, captive slaves, and displaced natives. Later, the interdependent struggles of the blacks, the "coloreds" (mixed race, Afrikaans-speaking descendants of early colonists), and the whites (who generally control the wealth and the best real estate) became the dominant feature of the nation. Even today, although apartheid has been officially overruled, gaps in equality, wealth, and position still exist, awaiting resolution through time and legislation. None of that, however, refutes the allure of South Africa's most vibrant city, which invites visitors to bask in history, beauty, and tradition. From the myriad leisure opportunities on Table Mountain to tours of Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned prior to his tenure as president, the city offers a gamut of attractions. Other options include the District Six Museum (which commemorates a former black neighborhood co-opted by whites in the ‘60s), the Bo-Kaap neighborhood (a largely Muslim suburb with a curious mix of Victorian architecture and mosques), and the Waterfront (a refurbished district that pulls in tourists with nightlife, shopping, and dining opportunities). The Castle of Good Hope, dating from the mid 17th century, offers displays of weaponry and other artifacts, while the Kirstenbosch National Botanic Gardens showcases South Africa's native flora amid stunning landscapes. Along the coast, pristine beaches invite folks to soak up the sun, although cold ocean waters don't easily accommodate recreation. A short distance from the city, the Winelands afford an introduction to South African vineyards, where wines have been produced for well over 300 years. The region pairs awe-inspiring scenery with Cape Dutch architecture and provides visitors the chance to sample exquisite vintages and first-rate cuisine in a feast of consummate pleasures that's symbol in itself of Cape Town's lavish hospitality.

Cape Town Weather

	Saturday Rain showers. Mostly cloudy. Mild.	19°C/ 15°C

	Sunday Numerous showers. Mostly cloudy. Cool.	17°C/ 15°C

	Monday Rain showers. Breaks of sun late. Mild.	18°C/ 13°C

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