Discover the real Cape Town

South Africa is one of the most mesmerizing destinations on Earth and the feather in her cap is surely Cape Town. This thriving metropolis of 3.7 million people kisses the sea and mountains while offering a kaleidoscope of eclectic experiences that will thrill even the most seasoned traveler.

While most tourists head out for hectic game park day trips and expensive wine tastings come the weekend, people from the Mother City know where the real deal lies! There is no better spot than the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront - Cape Town’s working harbor. Gracing the foot of Table Mountain since 1654, the V&A Waterfront is a living piece of Cape history. 

BUT, if you don’t look closely, you’ll miss its beautiful secret and find only the usual tourist traps. You see, beyond the pricey shops and costly hotels, lies an enigmatic treasure that draws out one’s very spirit. It is free, but lets you leave with untold riches. 

Head towards the water and turn right on the footpath near its edge...go past the big indoor market (if you have kids don’t forget to hit up Pimp My Biscuit for a cheap decorate-it-yourself treat on the way back), past the restaurants (try A Fusion Asian Take-Away for affordable and delicious lunches) and skip the big yacht rides with their even bigger price tags. 

Here you’ll find a grassy knoll with live performers dancing and singing in their native tongues - mostly Swahili and Xhosa - swirling in colorful traditional garb amongst the small crowds gathered at their feet. There are no fancy cafes in the direct vicinity, but you will find local sellers tempting you with traditional Afrikaans treats like koeksisters and boerwors (you’ll have to get there to know what they are)! While you indulge in a snack, you’ll feel the boom of the buckskin drums as they beat their war cry of peace under the blazing African sun. 

Here you will find a true tribal spirit gathered on the weekends with friends and family. You will see it in the eyes of the children who leap up from the audience to move alongside the dancers and you’ll feel the Rainbow Nation at her finest as she throws her song into the air. Heck, you’ll probably laugh and dance right alongside ‘em. 

This is the real Africa and touching the sleeve of her spirit doesn’t cost a dime.

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