Western Cape Travel Guide

Awhile back I was doing some shopping in a local store (think CNA or 7-11) when, to the surprise of the shopkeeper and myself, a tourist started bargaining.  Seems this tourist just assumed that bargaining was the status quo in Africa.  So to prevent you from embarrassing yourself or coming off as a rude tourist, here are a few tips on when and where bargaining is acceptable in Cape Town: Yes- Many outdoor craft markets (Greenmarket Square,... Read More

Among the aspects of Cape Town that you’re unlikely to miss (Table Mountain, the wind) are the public minibus taxis.  The yellow Golden Arrow buses may be bigger, the new “MiCiti” buses may be shinier, and the train may be tougher, but the collection of minibuses is certainly more omnipresent.  Whether you are driving along and get cut off by taxis, walking along and hear their hooting and hollering, or biking along and feel their close... Read More

One of the bigger South African film festivals, the Encounters 12th International Documentary Festival, is on until the 29 August.  There’s a great lineup of local and international films with special focus on “green” films, Reunion Island, and South African heritage.  Showings are booking up quickly so make sure to plan ahead and book your tickets through the Nu Metro theatres or Computicket. This Sunday, 22 August, the Athlone cooling... Read More