Traveltalk is visiting the vibrant heart of South Africa, Cape Town as part of the SA Tourism’s mega famil. Our journey, meticulously orchestrated by MW Tours and led by the indomitable Karen Robertson, brings together an all-female ensemble aptly nicknamed the Cheetahs (not the Cougars, thank goodness!). This diverse group, boasting six first-timers to South Africa and an impressive combined travel industry experience of 219 years, is poised to explore the wonders of Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Cheetahs at The Taj, Cape Town
Our day begins following a sumptuous breakfast at the luxurious Taj Hotel, nestled in the bustling Cape Town city centre. This 5-star haven serves as an ideal launchpad for our exploration, offering easy access to the city’s renowned attractions and the scenic beauty that surrounds it.
Our first stop is Camps Bay, Cape Town’s premier seaside resort. This picturesque beachfront, framed by the Twelve Apostles mountain range and the Atlantic Ocean, is a haven for sunseekers and those in pursuit of leisure and luxury. Huge granite boulders segregate the beaches of Camps Bay, Glen beach and Clifton Beach. The palm-lined promenade, bustling with cafes, bistros, and upscale eateries, offers a perfect backdrop for a morning of relaxation and indulgence.
Camps Bay
A visit to Cape Town is incomplete without experiencing the iconic Table Mountain, a natural marvel that rises 1,086 meters above sea level. Our group embarked on a swift cable car journey to the summit, where a vast plateau awaited us, offering breathtaking views of Cape Town and its environs. While the cable car is a daily convenience, it’s noteworthy that operations are subject to the whims of the weather, particularly the notorious high winds, or the occasional cloud cover at the peak, adding a mystical veil to the experience.
View from Table MountainNext, we ventured into the historical heart of Cape Town, the Malay Quarter, also known as Bo-Kaap. This area, cradled against the slopes of Signal Hill, stands as one of Cape Town’s oldest and most picturesque neighbourhoods, celebrated for its vibrantly coloured homes and cobblestone streets. Originating in the late 18th century, Bo-Kaap’s rich history and multicultural legacy, predominantly Muslim, are palpable in its streets. The area is not only a residential enclave but also a cultural hotspot, hosting a museum, art galleries, and street vendors offering an array of local delicacies, including the irresistible biryani and koesister, a spicy syrup-coated doughnut that tantalizes the taste buds.
Malay Quarter
A stop at the V&A Waterfront, provides an opportunity to utilise some of our spending money. A sprawling retail and entertainment district that marries historical charm with contemporary flair this bustling hub is home to high-end shops, gourmet restaurants, and vibrant street performers, providing an immersive experience of Cape Town’s lively urban culture.
As the sun began to set on our first day, we immersed ourselves in the rhythmic heart of Africa with a Djembe drumming experience. This hands-on session allowed us to engage with the continent’s rich musical heritage before a 14 course meal featuring traditional dishes from across Africa.
As the “Cheetahs,” we’ve embarked on this journey as industry professionals but are growing into a tight-knit group, sharing in the joy of exploration and the bond of unforgettable experiences. We look forward to what the rest of our journey along the Garden Route will unveil. If today is any indication, we are in for a journey replete with beauty, adventure, and the kind of memories that last a lifetime.
The Cheetahs are:
Karen Robertson, MW Tours
Erin Capsis, Helloworld, Alexander Heights
Jenny Thomas, Maria and Turner Travel Associates, Penrith
Leanne Jones, Destination HQ
Mannuela Arcidiacono, Travelexperience, Atherton
Michele Fraser, Bicton Travel
Nicole Prestipino, Helloworld, Drysdale
Roslyn Thompson, iTravel, Raymond Terrace
Tammy Fitzgibbon, Helloworld, Narellan
Jenny Evans, Traveltalk Media
Thanks to MW Tours & our ground operator Springbok Atlas
