We had made arrangements for a guide
around Cape Town because we didn't want to drive ourselves. Not too long
before we started our trip he became unavailable. So I asked my friend at
church, who is from Cape Town, if she knew anyone. It just so happened
that her friend from CapeTown was visiting and that's one of the things she
does--takes people around the area! I had met her before and knew we
already loved her personality so it seemed too good to be true that she would be
there when we were in between weddings of her children. We were so lucky
to have Gaye and Vic to take us under their wings and we saw everything in the
few days we were there. They also served us a wonderful South African
dinner in their home overlooking Hout Bay which you'll see the magnificent views
from soon.
We had such a good time with them! If you ever need a CT guide, let me know.
We were also in a Combi so everyone
had room and a view from the van. We drove around the city and had lots of
views of the wonderful hills that surround Cape Town.
There are lots of overlooks from
which to see downtown. It has a good port and nice harbor. The
day was hazy which washes out the color, but we had three really good days
weather-wise, which they said never happens. Unlike Johannesburg, which is
said to have no weather, Cape Town has a lot of it. Wind and rain are very
common.
Here's another overview. We will visit that yellow
building in the center about a half inch from the bottom later.
We also drove all around downtown
and saw various famous places, including Green Market Square, a large open air
place with people selling all sorts of things. We only drove through, but
were accosted by youths begging and trying to reach in and take anything they
could get their hands on. A lady in our hotel had her purse taken
there. What a shame that it's become such a center for petty thievery that
pretty soon no one will go there.
They have converted two big sheds
near the waterfront into similar markets where people can safely offer their
arts and crafts and which people can also safely visit. They don't let
those with no business there into the sheds. We spent a lot of time in the
sheds and made some good purchases.
There are also some very quaint
restored areas of the early city that are fun to see. The Victoria and
Albert Waterfront is a must too for tourists.
Here's one of the early streets
showing the Cape Dutch architecture.
And part of the waterfront........
The view from the waterfront is great!
You may notice that we're not as
much picture takers in cities as in the bush.
