South Africa People & Culture

Great beach near the center of Cape Town, great cafes, resturants and people

Things about Simon’s Town
By Michael Jackson The town officially called Simon’s Town, but often referred to as Simonstown, was originally named Simon’s Vlek after Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor of the Cape Colony between 1677 and 1699, who surveyed the bay east of Cape Town in 1687 and earmarked it as a safe winter harbour during the months of May to September for which it was finally proclaimed in 1741.
Progress may have come slowly to Simon’s Town, but it has certainly left its mark. The town grew rapidly when it became a Royal Naval Base and the home of the South Atlantic Squadron under the second British occupation of the Cape in 1806, thanks largely to the construction of a huge man-made sandstone breakwater. One of the tasks of this squadron was the care of a certain Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile at St. Helena Island some 1200 miles away in the South Atlantic Ocean. Admiral Lord Nelson himself is also said to have come ashore from his ship to be nursed through an illness in the late 1770s, on the first of his two visits, long before the British occupation. Over 300 ships were repaired at Simon’s Town during the Second World War, and the completion of the modern Simon's Town harbour and the Selborne dry-dock took place by 1910. When in 1957 the Naval Base was finally handed over to the South African Government, at least 125 Allied ships had been sunk by the Germans, Japanese and Italians, in relatively close proximity to Simon’s Town. Situated on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula on the shores of False Bay, Simon’s Town remains an important naval base to this day, and the town which rises steeply above the harbour up the mountainsides is rich in both architectural and natural beauty, as well as Cape history and strange legends and tales. A famous resident of the town was Able Seaman Just Nuisance, RN, the only dog ever to be enlisted in the Royal Navy, to whom a statue has been erected in Jubilee Square. The sailors' had a favourite Great Dane who was a resident in the town, and request was sent to the British parliament asking for him to be enlisted in the Navy. Permission was granted and the dog was brought to the Recruiting Officer, who inquired: “Name?” “Nuisance, Sir”, the sailor replied. “First name?” “Just Nuisance, Sir,” the sailor stated, giving birth to a great legend. Peopled with many descendants of the world’s sailing and exploring nations, as well as many slave families from the 17th century, and many of South Africa’s indigenous people’s who were drawn to the area from across Southern Africa, Simon’s Town has a rich and multicultural heritage, although it does somewhat resemble an old and quaint Victorian seaside town today. Admiralty House on St. George’s, originally a private dwelling, dates from 1814 as does the Wesleyan Chapel which was built in 1828 and represents the oldest of its type of church in South Africa. Both are said to be haunted by several different ghosts! An interesting 17th century Muslim Kramat (or grave) was discovered among the trees on a terrace above Runciman's Drive in the 1800s. Whoever is interred in the Kramat may be unknown, but its location appears to have a strange spiritual aura. Muslims still hold the site as 'Moestajap', a word used to express inexplicable spiritual happenings. Another interesting building is the Dutch East India Company Hospital with three front-facing gables. Constructed on the mountainside above the Residency in 1764, it was here that author and playwright Edgar Wallace served as a medical orderly in the late 1890s. Robert Brown, generally regarded as one of finest figures in the history of British botany, called at Simon’s Town during 1801, where, for the first time, he saw members of South Africa’s national flower, the Proteaceae, growing in their natural habitats. On returning to London in 1805, Brown began assembling a major monograph on the species, which formed the basis of his work: 'On the Proteaceae of Jussieu'. This great work embodies not only a revised classification of the whole family Proteaceae but also a monograph of the genus Protea itself, in which thirty-nine species were recognized. The town has several museums which are worth visiting. Simon's Town Museum highlights events in the development of Simon's Town through the centuries. The South African Naval Museum in the Mast House (1815) alongside the Simon's Town Museum, displays models of ships and related maritime events. The Heritage Museum in Amlay House on King George Street, also worth a visit, features many aspects of the Muslim community, and the nearby Mosque is absolutely beautiful. Boulders Beach, a few kilometres to the south of Simon's Town is reputed to be amongst the very best beaches in the Cape, and is internationally renowned for being home to one of only three South African colonies of the African (Jackass) Penguins. The False Bay Yacht Club is conveniently situated adjacent to the Simon's Town Waterfront Centre in the town. Boat charters and sea kayaking are some of the many activities offered from the centre, and professionally managed and run deepsea fishing and whalewatching charters are available. The area deservedly draws many tourists, and if you are travelling to Cape Town it should be a ‘must-see’ on your itinerary. Good restaurants, pubs and places to stay abound. Tourism enquiries may be directed to the Simon’s Town Tourism Office on St. George’s Street, telephone (+27 21) 786 5798 or on via email: simonstown@tourismcapetown.co.za

Wellington is a some-what quite town. The University (CPUT) is the heart and sole of this town, without it there would probably be no flow to the town. It has all the necessary shops and the people are reasonably friendly.

Pretoria is my home city...lovely city to visit especially in the summer.Chilled atmosphere and friendly people

I lived in Johannesburg for 10 months and I never had a problem! Everybody keeps on saying how dangerous the city is, but is only dangerous if you are not careful! My host family lived in Soweto, and although people also find it very dangerous, I didn't have problems there. Joburg is just great! A unique city.

A great place to swim in the sea all year round, especially in the summer period over Christmas if you can make it! The main beaches are protected by shark nets and there are many local attractions to see. If one wants to get involved a bit more in the local culture then go to the ABSA Stadium (Rugby) where you can watch the regional team the Natal Sharks play, they were finalists in 2007 of the prestigious Super 14 Competition. The stadium is often used for international games between the Springboks and their close rivals the Australians and Kiwis, with crowds nearing 50,000.

Joburg is so culture-rich, from its gold rush and mining tales, to the modern shopping centres and sophisticated stock exchange, to the expansive wildlife and game parks that are near by. It is a city that is alive and full of character and vibe.

There is so much bad press about its security and crime etc. and of course this is a serious issue, but there is so much GOOD and wholesome too. Do not drive with your windows open at night. Don't show valuable in your care etc. BUT I do this everywhere I travel in the world, and this is by no means peculiar to Joburg.

I lived here for 21 years and loved it.

Albertina is situated on the main Highway linking Capetown and Port Elisabeth. It is a very small village in the Klein Karoo close to one of the highest bridges for Bungee jumping in South Africa and is above all known for its hotel Albertinia Hotel which has an excellent restaurant with delicious food and wines for very low price. the rooms are simple but clean. make sure there isn't a party in cultural center just opposite, it might get a little noisy. Albertina is also quite close to Oudshoorn with the biggest Ostrichfarm and there are some caves worth visiting in the area.

I was in South Africa when I was working in Pan American Airlines. I got the last flight when Pan American and US decide to cancel all flights to South Africa. I was a short vacation because this situation. I was only 3 days still was a wonderful experience. People were polite but not to friendly. At that time were a lot of riots ect. Now the country is diferent. I send a lot of clients and they come back very happy. Welcome to South Africa’s official tourism website – the most comprehensive online source of information on travel to and around South Africa.

Discover why South Africa is the adventure capital of the world, why our natural beauty and wildlife will leave you awe-struck, why it’s possible to afford luxury and why our friendly people, rich culture and freedom struggle will warm your heart! Follow the African drum and gumboot beat; the bright sun, stars and city streets; the bouquet of our prize-winning wines; the invigorating mountain or ocean air. And, most of all, follow your desire for a personal journey, one that will change you beyond expectation, starting right here… More information http://www1.southafrica.net/Cultures/sv-SE/consumer.southafrica.net/

u wanna enjoy a great holiday ,and best sight, it should be south africa, best safari,incredible culture,great golf sighting,people,food,hotels,just classic. yeah, what else...!

For a fabulous night out, go to Zula Sound Bar at Long Street. Start with a great dinner, and end with a long night of good music, drinks and nice people! Nearby Green Market Square, you can find a real cheap cybercafé! At Kauai, they have amazingly good smoothies! Pay attention when you travel with the minibus; they try to ripp you off, because you're a tourist! Ask the locals what the price is...

The northern suburbs of Jo'burg are fairly safe for shopping. The weekend roodtop market at Rosebank Mall is wonderful for getting arts crafts, good places to eat also. Lots of ATMs available. As usual in South Africa always check the machine and use ATMs in well lit populated areas. The rooftop market has lots of artists selling their work and regular special music. Further north is Sandton Mall with Nelson Madela Square in the middle, not very clearly sign posted so ask the way. Good restaurants and shops. A fantastic deli in Sandton to meet your taste from home needs. Always only bring the money you need, keep your handbag under your arm as crime is rife in SA. Rosebank Sandton are safe providing you keep your head screwed on.

Helderberg have a great Nature Reserve that you can visit. It has all sort of Animals wondering around and trails that you can follow. When we were there it was the school Holidays and they had concerts in the reserve. Everyone brought a picnic and listened to local artist's playing music. It was really enjoyable and i had agreat time. I think it was R50 for the Afternoon's entertainment. A great time for families and young travellers.

Good place to get to Bloukrans Bunjee Jump, Tsitsikamma NP, the Big Tree trail from.

Tube 'n Axe is a very nice backpacker (the best in town), friendly bar, good music (alternative, light rock), but beware of the dogs, they are big, don't seem friendly, and if you don't like dogs they can be a problem for you (they like to bark).

If you don't have enough time to get to know all the different tribes, there's one place called LESEDI, it is an excelent place with typical food, music, houses, souvenirs and a dance show.

Things about Simon’s Town
By Michael Jackson The town officially called Simon’s Town, but often referred to as Simonstown, was originally named Simon’s Vlek after Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor of the Cape Colony between 1677 and 1699, who surveyed the bay east of Cape Town in 1687 and earmarked it as a safe winter harbour during the months of May to September for which it was finally proclaimed in 1741.
Progress may have come slowly to Simon’s Town, but it has certainly left its mark. The town grew rapidly when it became a Royal Naval Base and the home of the South Atlantic Squadron under the second British occupation of the Cape in 1806, thanks largely to the construction of a huge man-made sandstone breakwater. One of the tasks of this squadron was the care of a certain Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile at St. Helena Island some 1200 miles away in the South Atlantic Ocean. Admiral Lord Nelson himself is also said to have come ashore from his ship to be nursed through an illness in the late 1770s, on the first of his two visits, long before the British occupation. Over 300 ships were repaired at Simon’s Town during the Second World War, and the completion of the modern Simon's Town harbour and the Selborne dry-dock took place by 1910. When in 1957 the Naval Base was finally handed over to the South African Government, at least 125 Allied ships had been sunk by the Germans, Japanese and Italians, in relatively close proximity to Simon’s Town. Situated on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula on the shores of False Bay, Simon’s Town remains an important naval base to this day, and the town which rises steeply above the harbour up the mountainsides is rich in both architectural and natural beauty, as well as Cape history and strange legends and tales. A famous resident of the town was Able Seaman Just Nuisance, RN, the only dog ever to be enlisted in the Royal Navy, to whom a statue has been erected in Jubilee Square. The sailors' had a favourite Great Dane who was a resident in the town, and request was sent to the British parliament asking for him to be enlisted in the Navy. Permission was granted and the dog was brought to the Recruiting Officer, who inquired: “Name?” “Nuisance, Sir”, the sailor replied. “First name?” “Just Nuisance, Sir,” the sailor stated, giving birth to a great legend. Peopled with many descendants of the world’s sailing and exploring nations, as well as many slave families from the 17th century, and many of South Africa’s indigenous people’s who were drawn to the area from across Southern Africa, Simon’s Town has a rich and multicultural heritage, although it does somewhat resemble an old and quaint Victorian seaside town today. Admiralty House on St. George’s, originally a private dwelling, dates from 1814 as does the Wesleyan Chapel which was built in 1828 and represents the oldest of its type of church in South Africa. Both are said to be haunted by several different ghosts! An interesting 17th century Muslim Kramat (or grave) was discovered among the trees on a terrace above Runciman's Drive in the 1800s. Whoever is interred in the Kramat may be unknown, but its location appears to have a strange spiritual aura. Muslims still hold the site as 'Moestajap', a word used to express inexplicable spiritual happenings. Another interesting building is the Dutch East India Company Hospital with three front-facing gables. Constructed on the mountainside above the Residency in 1764, it was here that author and playwright Edgar Wallace served as a medical orderly in the late 1890s. Robert Brown, generally regarded as one of finest figures in the history of British botany, called at Simon’s Town during 1801, where, for the first time, he saw members of South Africa’s national flower, the Proteaceae, growing in their natural habitats. On returning to London in 1805, Brown began assembling a major monograph on the species, which formed the basis of his work: 'On the Proteaceae of Jussieu'. This great work embodies not only a revised classification of the whole family Proteaceae but also a monograph of the genus Protea itself, in which thirty-nine species were recognized. The town has several museums which are worth visiting. Simon's Town Museum highlights events in the development of Simon's Town through the centuries. The South African Naval Museum in the Mast House (1815) alongside the Simon's Town Museum, displays models of ships and related maritime events. The Heritage Museum in Amlay House on King George Street, also worth a visit, features many aspects of the Muslim community, and the nearby Mosque is absolutely beautiful. Boulders Beach, a few kilometres to the south of Simon's Town is reputed to be amongst the very best beaches in the Cape, and is internationally renowned for being home to one of only three South African colonies of the African (Jackass) Penguins. The False Bay Yacht Club is conveniently situated adjacent to the Simon's Town Waterfront Centre in the town. Boat charters and sea kayaking are some of the many activities offered from the centre, and professionally managed and run deepsea fishing and whalewatching charters are available. The area deservedly draws many tourists, and if you are travelling to Cape Town it should be a ‘must-see’ on your itinerary. Good restaurants, pubs and places to stay abound. Tourism enquiries may be directed to the Simon’s Town Tourism Office on St. George’s Street, telephone (+27 21) 786 5798 or on via email: simonstown@tourismcapetown.co.za

Franschhoek mixes its magical ingredients to create an unforgettable modern fairytale. When it comes to places to stay in Franschhoek the options are endless. Settle into accommodation that most suits your taste and budget. Decide between lavish country lodges, cozy BB’s, quaint guesthouses or comfortable self-catering cottages. As it’s the gourmet capital of South Africa you’ll find yourself treated to cuisine that is delectably indulgent. With tastes ranging from the gastronomically gourmet to the deconstructed rustic there is something for every palate. The village is encircled by a number of South Africa’s award winning wine farms. These farms create wines that excites the taste buds and moves a person’s spirit a little closer to paradise. Spend a day wandering along the tree-lined streets. The main road is always buzzing, lined by alluring art shops, galleries and other specialist stores it’s the heart of this vibrant town. Then, of course, there is the great outdoors. The Franschhoek Valley offers settings perfect for energetic hiking, walking, cycling, horse-riding, fly fishing and golf. There is even something for those looking for more of a ‘kick’. Adrenaline junkies are welcome to paraglide to the perfect aerial view of the village. Come and be part of the alluring tapestry that is Franschhoek.

Smallish Free State town, benefiting from nearby gold, diamond, and platinum mines

A National Park, it lies on the coast and at the mouth of the Storms River Mouth. In this river mouth there are seven different species of shark.. and there's a suspension bridge over the river! It might be slightly daunting to cross over this bustling river with its extensive shark life, on a swaying (yes it sways!) suspension bridge.. but it is easily done and is quite safe. A beautiful area for walks, hikes and many watersports.

Joburg is so culture-rich, from its gold rush and mining tales, to the modern shopping centres and sophisticated stock exchange, to the expansive wildlife and game parks that are near by. It is a city that is alive and full of character and vibe.

There is so much bad press about its security and crime etc. and of course this is a serious issue, but there is so much GOOD and wholesome too. Do not drive with your windows open at night. Don't show valuable in your care etc. BUT I do this everywhere I travel in the world, and this is by no means peculiar to Joburg.

I lived here for 21 years and loved it.

When travelling through South Africa you must visit the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi National park. Less commercial than the Kruger and more a treat when you finally see some wildlife.

I've been around but this is the most beautiful place on the planet. I know, it will be hard to find a similar spot. Lovely nature reserves where you can do a safari. You should go for a horse riding safari as you get closer to the animals,nice! Many high quality restaurants with decent prices. Not to forget a fantastic choice of wine all local! And you can go out for days and meet the nice and friendly South Africans! *****

Keep your windows wound up as you enter the park - there are monkeys around and you want to avoid them getting into your car.  They may jump onto your car roof, though, so drive slowly.

A brillant place to explore in the esturaty. Look out for Hippos at night, they are DEADLY

Go to the top of Table mountain at the first chance of fine weather as it can often be cloudy and the cable car to the top of the mountain is closed when it is cloudy.

Things about Simon’s Town
By Michael Jackson The town officially called Simon’s Town, but often referred to as Simonstown, was originally named Simon’s Vlek after Simon van der Stel, the Dutch governor of the Cape Colony between 1677 and 1699, who surveyed the bay east of Cape Town in 1687 and earmarked it as a safe winter harbour during the months of May to September for which it was finally proclaimed in 1741.
Progress may have come slowly to Simon’s Town, but it has certainly left its mark. The town grew rapidly when it became a Royal Naval Base and the home of the South Atlantic Squadron under the second British occupation of the Cape in 1806, thanks largely to the construction of a huge man-made sandstone breakwater. One of the tasks of this squadron was the care of a certain Napoleon Bonaparte during his exile at St. Helena Island some 1200 miles away in the South Atlantic Ocean. Admiral Lord Nelson himself is also said to have come ashore from his ship to be nursed through an illness in the late 1770s, on the first of his two visits, long before the British occupation. Over 300 ships were repaired at Simon’s Town during the Second World War, and the completion of the modern Simon's Town harbour and the Selborne dry-dock took place by 1910. When in 1957 the Naval Base was finally handed over to the South African Government, at least 125 Allied ships had been sunk by the Germans, Japanese and Italians, in relatively close proximity to Simon’s Town. Situated on the eastern side of the Cape Peninsula on the shores of False Bay, Simon’s Town remains an important naval base to this day, and the town which rises steeply above the harbour up the mountainsides is rich in both architectural and natural beauty, as well as Cape history and strange legends and tales. A famous resident of the town was Able Seaman Just Nuisance, RN, the only dog ever to be enlisted in the Royal Navy, to whom a statue has been erected in Jubilee Square. The sailors' had a favourite Great Dane who was a resident in the town, and request was sent to the British parliament asking for him to be enlisted in the Navy. Permission was granted and the dog was brought to the Recruiting Officer, who inquired: “Name?” “Nuisance, Sir”, the sailor replied. “First name?” “Just Nuisance, Sir,” the sailor stated, giving birth to a great legend. Peopled with many descendants of the world’s sailing and exploring nations, as well as many slave families from the 17th century, and many of South Africa’s indigenous people’s who were drawn to the area from across Southern Africa, Simon’s Town has a rich and multicultural heritage, although it does somewhat resemble an old and quaint Victorian seaside town today. Admiralty House on St. George’s, originally a private dwelling, dates from 1814 as does the Wesleyan Chapel which was built in 1828 and represents the oldest of its type of church in South Africa. Both are said to be haunted by several different ghosts! An interesting 17th century Muslim Kramat (or grave) was discovered among the trees on a terrace above Runciman's Drive in the 1800s. Whoever is interred in the Kramat may be unknown, but its location appears to have a strange spiritual aura. Muslims still hold the site as 'Moestajap', a word used to express inexplicable spiritual happenings. Another interesting building is the Dutch East India Company Hospital with three front-facing gables. Constructed on the mountainside above the Residency in 1764, it was here that author and playwright Edgar Wallace served as a medical orderly in the late 1890s. Robert Brown, generally regarded as one of finest figures in the history of British botany, called at Simon’s Town during 1801, where, for the first time, he saw members of South Africa’s national flower, the Proteaceae, growing in their natural habitats. On returning to London in 1805, Brown began assembling a major monograph on the species, which formed the basis of his work: 'On the Proteaceae of Jussieu'. This great work embodies not only a revised classification of the whole family Proteaceae but also a monograph of the genus Protea itself, in which thirty-nine species were recognized. The town has several museums which are worth visiting. Simon's Town Museum highlights events in the development of Simon's Town through the centuries. The South African Naval Museum in the Mast House (1815) alongside the Simon's Town Museum, displays models of ships and related maritime events. The Heritage Museum in Amlay House on King George Street, also worth a visit, features many aspects of the Muslim community, and the nearby Mosque is absolutely beautiful. Boulders Beach, a few kilometres to the south of Simon's Town is reputed to be amongst the very best beaches in the Cape, and is internationally renowned for being home to one of only three South African colonies of the African (Jackass) Penguins. The False Bay Yacht Club is conveniently situated adjacent to the Simon's Town Waterfront Centre in the town. Boat charters and sea kayaking are some of the many activities offered from the centre, and professionally managed and run deepsea fishing and whalewatching charters are available. The area deservedly draws many tourists, and if you are travelling to Cape Town it should be a ‘must-see’ on your itinerary. Good restaurants, pubs and places to stay abound. Tourism enquiries may be directed to the Simon’s Town Tourism Office on St. George’s Street, telephone (+27 21) 786 5798 or on via email: simonstown@tourismcapetown.co.za

Gauteng's two major cities are just 50km apart, but could hardly be more different. PRETORIA , or ePitoli as it is known in the townships, has throughout much of its history been the epitome of staid traditionalism, with its graceful government buildings, wide avenues of purple flowering jacarandas, and staunchly Boer farming origins. Yet, although South Africa's administrative capital was long regarded as a bastion of Afrikanerdom , with its notorious supreme court and massive prison, things are changing fast. Ever since the nation's re-acceptance into the international arena, Pretoria has become increasingly cosmopolitan, with a substantial diplomatic community living in Arcadia and Hatfield, east of the city centre. Furthermore, most Pretorians are not Afrikaner, but Sotho and Ndebele, and the change of government has brought many more well-educated and well-paid blacks into the ranks of civil servants living in the capital. The city's Afrikaner community is hardly monolithic, either: as well as the stereotypical khaki-shorted rednecks, there are thousands of students, an active art scene and a thriving Afrikaans gay and lesbian community. Pretoria is close enough to Johannesburg's airport to provide a practical alternative base in Gauteng, though don't fall into the blithe assumption that Pretoria is crime-free. The main attractions are that it feels safer and less spread out than Johannesburg, there are more conventional sites, some of which are worth seeing, and the nightlife of Hatfield and Brooklyn is energetic and fun.