There is so much to see and do in the Cape Town area that I am not sure where to begin. If you do come to South Africa to go on safari, you should definitely go to Cape Town I am so thankful we had the opportunity to explore this unique area.
The Cape began as an outpost by the Dutch East Indies Company for their ships and sailors to stop on their way to the Indies so they could get fresh water, supplies, fruit (to combat scurvy) and the sick could be treated. Reports were made to the Company that the land was fertile for farming. What began as the outcrop then turned into a land for agriculture. Slaves were imported and Huguenot exiles from France came to the area. The French, who were known for wine making even back in this time, went over the mountains and began planting grapes for wine but more on that later.
Some people will say that you do not need a car to explore Cape Town and the Cape Point area. You might not need one but it sure does come in handy and I wouldn’t think of exploring without one.
During the weekends, particularly in the morning head over to the Old Biscuit Mill. As you approach the area, you’ll see men holding areas along the street for drivers to park their cars. If you park there, and I do recommend it, you will need to tip them. They watch over your car, you have a convenient spot to park and they get to earn a little money. It really saves time from driving around trying to find parking and then walking long distances.
The Old Biscuit Mill is a foodie as well as an arts and crafts lovers site. I could have spent hours there. All different types of crafts including custom made tables, clothing, leather goods, etc. You browse in this open air market while listening to live music. There are also shops surrounding the open air part and one of the best shops, in my opinion, is the chocolate shop where you can sample many fine delicious treats.
If you are hungry afterwards, and I hope you are, head over to the building where food vendors are located. Part of the front of the building has as farmers market like feel but the second part, behind the first is where foodies will love to congregate. There were four of us and our collective challenge was to buy something you have never tasted before and bring it back to the picnic bench style tables to share. Here are a few pictures that I hope make you hungry:
There are also a a few restaurant in the area and the most notable is The Test Kitchen. I had read about them in the Washington Post and was excited when I saw them at the Old Biscuit Mill. Unfortunately we did not have reservation s but I was excited to be there. They were voted the Best Restaurant in Africa!
More about Cape Town to come!
Air, Land & Sea 