Winter activities in Cape Town

Now that winter has truly set in one staying in Camps Bay Accommodation can no longer waste an idle day lying on the beach. (Unless you want to return home an icicle!) but do not fear! there are plenty of things to keep you entertained during a Cape Town winter. With that in mind I found this great article on things to do in Cape Town when it's raining:

Cape Town, Under Cover

Cape Town in winter can be a very wet place, a lot of the outdoor activities tend to take a back seat when the rains hit and people often don’t what to do with themselves when the grey clouds gather and the soft rain falls. Cape town can be as an exciting place indoors as outdoors with many good an fun activities and for those who like a bit of spice then there are also many under the cover activities in Cape Town.

For those animal lovers who need to be indoors for a bit.

Places like the Two Oceans Aquarium at the V&A waterfront, with over 3000 animal species type is the perfect place to visit. Here you can see certain sea bird species, water mammals, many different fish types, a Kelp forest and much, much more. For more information contact the aquarium at +27 (0) 21 418 3823.

There is also the spectacular Butterfly World near Paarl is another land of wonder. It is an enclosed garden wonder world that is abound with beautiful flying color. It also features a restaurant where you can obtain refreshment and you can stay as long as you like learning about the different species and how to distinguish them. For more information contact +27 (0) 21 875 5628.

For the Kids

Do you enjoy playing the casino and worry about the kids, Grand West has a fantastic kid’s area that is called magic village. Here you will find a shooting gallery, go carting, racing, rocking boats, and video arcades. For more information contact +27 (0) 21 534 0244.

The icy temperatures call for some warming activities like ice skating. Grand west has an Olympic sized ice rink and just outside a small ice rink for the younger children. Put those blades on and go and enjoy. Contact +27 (0) 21 535 2260 for times and prices.

For the older kids or adults who are still kids at heart then go and try the Kenilworth Kart racing track in Kenilworth behind Access Park. For times and prices contact +27 (0) 21 682 2670/ 6174.

Want to do a bit of shopping and get the younger ones out of your hair for a bit then go to Jimmy’s jungle in the Tygervalley Shopping centre, Claremont or Summerset West. Which caters for children between 6 and 9, for more information contact the head office at +27 (0) 21 556 5034.

Worried that your kids don’t get the exercise that they need and don’t get out of the house much then go to SSISA Kids Club, it has specific programs that are designed with kids in mind and take place 4 days a week. For more information contact +27 (0) 21 659 5600.

For a bit of fun with those kids parties or outings why not go and try Laser Quest which is a harmless action packed shooting area Laser game. Situated in Claremont, for more information contact +27 (0) 21 683 7296.

For family outings

Enjoy your golf, then go and try out the spectacular indoor put put course at the V&A waterfront. Very economical and challenging, contact +27 (0) 21 419 9429 for more information.

Want to learn more about South Africa’s precious and semi precious stones the come and visit the scratch patch and have a go at starting your collection. Situated in Simons town and the V&A Waterfront, for more information contact +27 (0) 21 786 2020 for Simons Town and +27 (0) 21 419 9429 for the V&A Waterfront.

Enjoy your star Gazing then come and visit the planetariums in Cape Town and surrounds for a very peaceful, relaxing and awe inspiring time. There are 2 worth mentioning, the SAAO in Observatory, contact +27 (0) 21 447 0025 and Iziko planetarium at the top of the Cape Town gardens, contact +27 (0) 21 481 3900.

Ten Pin Bowling is a game traditionally going as far back as the early Egyptians and has spread very fast around the world. A good action packed and challenging game for the whole family. There is one in the Tygervalley shopping complex +27 (0) 21 914 8217, N1 city +27 (0) 21 595 2100, Claremont +27 (0) 21 671 1893, and in Somerset West +27 (0) 21 850 0254.

For the young individuals and older Jollers, Cape Town is alive with vibrancy and has entertainments that would keep you partying late into the early hrs of the morning. Try Long Street for a good pub and club crawl or visit Stellenbosch (a university town) for an incredible party.

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Camps Bay SA's priciest suburb

Johannesburg - It appears that wealthy investors still have plenty of appetite for big-ticket properties with prices in some of SA's swankiest suburbs still rising at double-digit rates.

This is according to the latest data from real estate portal South African Property Transfer Guide (SAPTG).

The Atlantic seaboard suburb of Camps Bay saw average house prices surge by 56% over the past year to R7m in March 2008, up from an average sales value of R4.48m in March 2007.

That places Camps Bay as SA's most expensive suburb in SAPTG's monthly top 10 survey of highest average sales value achieved.

SAPTG's data, which is sourced from the Deeds Office, applies only to property transfers of up to R20m.The survey is divided between suburbs were 10 or more sales are achieved per month and suburbs with less than 10 sales.

The Cape Town suburb of Constantia ranked second after Camps Bay as the highest-priced residential neighbourhood in SA (10 or more sales) with an average sales value of R 5.95m. Posh golf resort Zimbali on KwaZulu-Natal's north coast claimed third spot in March, with an average sales value of R3.65m. That's growth of 21% in 12 months.

In the "less than ten sales" category, Cape Town again boasted the highest priced suburb in SA, with Fresnaye on the Atlantic seaboard taking top slot with an average sales value of R6.9m.

Not hit hard by credit act

That's followed by Gauteng's exclusive Hyde Park where properties changed hands at an average R4.78m in March this year 17% up from the average price tag of R4m achieved in Hyde Park a year ago.

SAPTG's house price trends for top-end suburbs are in stark contrast to what is happening in middle-income areas. Standard Bank's latest data shows that median house prices in SA dropped by 5.2% in the year to March 2008 from R580 000 to R550 000.

That's the first time in eight years that median house prices have actually dropped in nominal terms. And property economists expect the overall market to stay in the doldrums for at least the next 12 to 18 months. More so, if interest rates are hiked yet again later this week.

Estate agents confirm that luxury suburbs have been far less affected by higher interest rates and the National Credit Act (NCA) than the middle and lower priced end of the market.
Laurie Wener, MD of Pam Golding Properties (PGP) in the Western Cape, says top-end suburbs remain active despite the general slowdown. PGP recorded a number of record sales in the past three months on the Atlantic Seaboard. Many of these sales are going to cash buyers who are not affected by higher rates and the NCA.

Recent record sales deals include a penthouse apartment in Clifton for R48m, an apartment at the V&A Waterfront for R22.5m and a three-bedroom home in Camps Bay for R16.5m. Wener says foreigners are still showing a keen interest in the area, but at least 60% of sales are going to South Africans - both Capetonians and upcountry buyers.

Jared Gottschalk of the Alliance Group says they recently sold a "moderate" Camps Bay beachfront property to an upcountry buyer for R44m, proving once again just how strong demand for prime properties in this area of Cape Town still is.

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Camps Bay Self Catering Accommodation

Camps Bay Spots: The Roundhouse Restaurant

Cape Town's new Roundhouse restaurant situated in Camps Bay's The Glen opened on the 9th June 2008

Founded in 1756 the Roundhouse building has an abundance of nostalgia surrounding it.

This history seems fitting for an evening of luxury and fine dining in The Roundhouse’s new use as an upmarket restaurant.The Roundhouse restaurant promises to be one of the most superb restaurants under the Cape Town sky.

They offer expert service, French cuisine based on seasonal textures and flavours as well as fine rare wines from a variety of boutique cellars from all over the world.The Roundhouse restaurant has four different dining experiences where you are able to dine in style according to your preference.

The private dining room is well over 300 years old and holds one of the finest and most rare wine collections in the country.Just knowing the history of the room amplifies its grace and elegance so much more.

With its lavish views of all the Cape's beauty including the Twelve Apostles, Clifton and Camps Bay the Somerset Room is the perfect place to savour the taste of the exquisite wine and cuisine.The Oval room is fantastic, with its fully customizable ability it’s able to cater for both large or small, intimate events.

The room still features its original fireplace adding warmth and romance to an already beautiful setting.The Rumbullion is the name given to the terraces at the Roundhouse. It’s a 17th century term meaning ‘a riotous good time’.

The terrace is surrounded by century old pomegranate trees and beautifully landscaped gardens. It will most certainly be a wonderful place to share special moments with friends and family.For latest information: read more on the opening of the new Roundhouse Restaurant in our events section.

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I love Camps Bay

Camps Bay Self Catering | Camps Bay Luxury Holiday Apartments

http://www.gotravel24.com/theme/adventure/i-3-camps-bay

By Lebogang Mogashoa
December 1st, 2008 

Camps Bay has first dibs on that summer look. It's like this, if you're in Cape Town and you spend the whole season without spending a full day in Camps Bay, can you really say you've experienced summer?

Here are more reasons why we love the bay.

1. The beach

How rad is that beach? It can be intimidating sometimes because the hot bodies on display might induce panic in some of us whose bodies didn't get the memo. Otherwise, the white sands and the masses of people just make it all very party beach central

 

2. The pipe trail

This flat walking trail gets its name from the old water pipe it follows at the top of Camps Bay. You can take in spectacular views of the bay at a leisurely pace.

3. Theatre on the Bay

It's nice to know that you can spend the whole day being lazy at the beach. Then later that night show off your glowing tan at the theatre. It's a nice one too; perfect for big shows.

4. Dizzy's Jazz Café

 

There's something really casual but grownup about eating good food on a summer day while listening to jazz music. And the fact that you can actually do this in beachy Camps Bay makes it the perfect atmosphere.

 

5. Celeb spotting

If you like to see the rich and famous looking casual and relaxed, Camps Bay is one of the most reliable magnets. Check them out at Café Caprice where you go to see or to be seen.

6. Fishy heaven

You can't go to Camps bay and not eat some kind of seafood. It's rude. Especially as there are so many places to choose from. Some of the best include the Codfather, Yo Sushi, and Sunset Beach.

7. Sinnful ice cream

There's ice cream and then there's ice cream (users of this phrase will know which is fiercer). The appropriately named Sinnful has too many flavours to mention. It's the kind of ice cream that puts other contenders to bed.

8. Wine outside the Winelands

Wine tasting is such a Cape Town thing. It's normally done in a day trip to the Winelands. But if you'd like your wine tasting and still keep your beach time, check out Deli at the Bay.

9. Sundowners

Catch the perfect summer sunset here from the beach or from one of the many nice bars in the area. Popular bars on the strip include Baraza, Eclipse and Caprice.

10. Beach shopping

If you like your summer with a bit of shopping, Camps bay doesn't disappoint on that front either. Albeit it's shopping of the beach variety. Victoria Road is home to surf shops and street vendors selling anything from swimwear, towels to sarongs and napkin rings.

Cape Town Experiences - Cape Town Accommodation

Camps Bay Self Catering | Camps Bay Luxury Holiday Apartments

Having just returned from a most spectacular week-end in Cape Town, I am pressed to share the fantastic experiences and memories.

Cape Town offered us such a wonderful time. The weather was superb, greeting us warmly and continuing throughout our stay.

We were treated to local fish and chips near the Kalk Bay harbor and enjoyed the fresh ocean aroma as well as the glorious views and sounds of seagulls surrounding us.

Whilst we had plans to visit the beautiful wine lands, this never really became an option as we ran out of time.

The beaches were absolutely amazing, I found time stood still and I became a soul again. Playing in the sand, overlooking the mountain and refreshing my feet in the freezing Atlantic waters was a treat I want again.

We stayed in affordable Cape Town accommodation, which was completely too our liking. Clean, fresh, new finishings all made the stay so very pleasant.

Finishing off the week-end was a trip up the famous Table Mountain. I was surprised to find it actually quite chilly at the top of the mountain. This view afforded us a 360 degree of the city and we were able to point out the exact location of our Cape Town Accommodation.

After defrosting and enjoy expensive cappuccinos on the top of the mountain, we rushed to find the beaches again. Wandering between Boulders, Clifton and Camps Bay was just such a great experience. The beaches are all in close proximity to one another, so gave us a great chance to enjoy all the wonders.

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Cape Town Travelling Tips

Camps Bay Self Catering | Camps Bay Luxury Holiday Apartments

Article Source: http://www.campsbayinfo.com

Air Travel:

These days getting to South Africa is pretty simple when one considers the vast quantity of international daily flights and direct connections to Johannesburg and Cape Town. There are an outstanding number of world-class airlines flying daily into South Africa’s international airports from all the corners of the globe. While some countries offer direct flights to Cape Town International, most fly to O.R. Tambo (Johannesburg) International. From there, a quick two hour flight takes you to Cape Town ... Requirements for Entry: For the majority of foreign nationals who travel to South Africa for vacation, entry is straightforward and hassle-free. All visitors to South Africa must be in possession of a valid passport, but for many countries, visas are not required up to a maximum number of days. For the latest visa requirements, contact your nearest South African embassy or mission. A yellow fever inoculation and certificate from travellers over 1 year of age coming from an infected area, is an official requirement. Electricity: The electricity supply is 220/230 volts AC 50 HZ, with the exception of Pretoria (230 V) and Port Elizabeth (200/250 V). Most plugs have 3-pin or 2-pin. Adaptors can be purchased, but may be in short supply. US-made appliances may need a transformer. Most hotel rooms have 110 volt outlets for electric shavers and appliances. Driving: Non-residents are permitted to drive with a driving licence issued and valid in their own country, provided it bears the photograph and signature of the holder and is in English. If your drivers licence does not meet these requirements, an international driver’s licence is required. Driving is on the left hand side of the road and the wearing of seatbelts is compulsory. People and Language: Diverse people and cultures combine to make the Rainbow Nation colourful. Population groups include the majority Nguni (incl. Zulu, Xhosa, Swazi); Sotho-Tswana; Tsonga; Venda; Afrikaners; English; Coloureds; Indians; Khoi and San; and immigrants from Africa, Europe and Asia. The majority religion is Christian, but freedom of worship is guaranteed by the Constitution. There are 11 official languages, including English. Most South Africans are multi-lingual and English is fairly widely spoken, notably in urban centres. Safety: Most parts of the country can be safely visited by tourists, provided they take basic common-sense precautions e.g. not walking alone in deserted areas at night, not flashing photographic equipment or jewellery and, in traffic, maintaining a safe following distance. Most major cities run organized crime prevention programmes and Basic Safety Tip guidelines are available at hotels and tourism information offices. If you are in doubt as to the safety of a particular area or attraction, contact the National Tourism Information and Safety Line on 083 123 2345. This number may also be used for assistance in replacing lost documents or reporting incidents. Payments and Currency: The local currency is the South African Rand (R1=100 cents), which exchanges favourably with the major international currencies. This makes South Africa an affordable destination, where five-star luxury, and many items such as food, wine and lager, can be purchased at a much lesser cost than in many global cities. View current foreign exchange rates. Most international traveller's cheques are accepted, however, it is advised that you bring them in a hard currency, such as US dollars or British Pounds. Currency can be exchanged at banks, forex bureaus and sometimes at hotels. Foreign tourists can have their VAT (value-added tax at 14%) refunded at the point of departure, provided they present their original tax invoices. Most major international credit cards such as American Express, Diners Club, MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted. Food and Water: South Africa’s tap water is potable and of the safest and cleanest in the world. In hotels, restaurants and nightspots, the standards of hygiene and food preparation is generally top-notch. It is safe to eat fresh fruit and salads and to put as much ice as you like in your drinks - a good thing, too, after a day on the beach or in the bush. Restaurants cover a wide variety of cuisines and visitors are normally very impressed with the food. The country’s many cultures makes for varied traditional fare, which is worth exploring.

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A Visitors Guide To Cape Town South Africa

If you are looking for a truly extraordinary place to visit, consider Cape Town, South Africa. There are few places on earth that can compare. There are wide open spaces and so much beauty that it is hard to describe or imagine.

Cape Town is physically cut off from the rest of the country by a barrier of mountains. The valleys produce grapes, wine, deciduous fruit and wheat. The cobbled streets, ancient oaks, and the British-built Georgian buildings are only a few of the sights that make Cape Town an extremely beautiful place to visit.


The city has an interesting history and a wonderful blend of people both culturally and racially. If you are interested in this aspect of Cape Town you should visit the South African Museum where you will get a glimpse into the various cultures of the area. This museum is the oldest one in South Africa. You can find the South African Museum in Cape Towns Company Gardens at the top of Adderley Street. This is the place to see many exhibits depicting much of the natural and cultural history of South Africa. There is also a planetarium on the grounds.

The Dutch East India Company has a fascinating history and this was the group of people who designed the Cape Town Companys Gardens. These folks established the Company Gardens so that the sailors who were traveling to the East would have a place to stop and take care of any health problems they incurred during the first part of the journey. There are also amazing buildings in the Gardens including a museum and the Anglican St. Georges Cathedral.

In the same area is the office of South Africas State President and the Houses of Parliament. At the southernmost tip of Government Avenue is the citys best known hotel, the Mount Nelson, which sits in the shadow of Table Mountain. This hotel has a grand colonial atmosphere and still serves a delicious and elegant afternoon tea.

On Adderly Street you can walk toward the harbor and see the oldest church in South Africa, Groote Kerk. Be sure to take a look at the ornately carved pulpit. Here you can view the statues of Jan van Riebeeck and his wife, Maria. Close to these attractions is the Castle of Good Hope which is the oldest surviving intact structure in South Africa.

You may want to search out Greenmarket Square which is the heart of the old city. There are flea market stalls, shoppers and buskers galore. The Old Town House is a beautiful baroque building that dates back to 1761 and holds the Michaelis Collection of Dutch and Flemish art. There are also Victorian buildings that house pawnshops and boutiques.

There are many museums and galleries in Cape Town. Most of them operate under the umbrella of Iziko Museums of Cape Town. The museums offer diverse exhibitions in lovely settings. You can even tour a collection of old city houses that have been restored.

Visit Cape Town, South Africa for a trip you will always remember.

By: Thomas Smith

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Planning a trip to Cape Town? Visit the Search South Africa Hotels website to find Cape Town hotel review by going to www.searchsouthafricahotels.com/Cape-Town-1.shtml You'll also find Cape Town car rentals, last minute deals, vacation packages and flights.

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