Flower Power – the Cape Floral Kingdom

Cape Floral Kingdom

Here in South Africa, we’re really quite proud of all the cool stuff our country has to offer. You’ve heard us wax lyrical about our mountains, our game reserves, our wildlife, our beaches, and just gush in general about South Africa’s natural beauty (not to mention its world-class hotels, restaurants, bars, nightlife…).

So small wonder that here’s yet another part of the country we want to tell you about: The Cape Floral Kingdom.

Of the six floral kingdoms in the world, ours might be the smallest, but, as the old adage goes, it’s not the size that matters. You see … it’s also the only floral kingdom occurring entirely within one country. Continued

Down the garden path … Cape Town Company Gardens

In the midst of Cape Town’s bustling CBD, abutting the Houses of Parliament and Tuynhuys (the President’s Cape Town residence), hides an oasis of greenery, the roots of which extend across the centuries to tap into our country’s history – though most locals simply think of the Company Gardens as a cool spot for an inner-city picnic.

Named for the Dutch East India Company, the gardens were established by Jan van Rieebeck in the 1650’s as a fresh produce garden for the purpose of re-victualling ships and providing Cape Town’s colonists with veggies. They have been luring visitors through their gates since their current incarnation as a botanical garden and public park in 1848. A wander around the Gardens’ limits will bring you into contact with sprawling lawns, fountains, fish ponds, a Japanese rose garden, an aviary, a sun dial and the country’s oldest cultivated pear tree, among other botanically and historically important plant-life. Continued

Jozi Attractions

Apartheid Museum

A massive city and boasting many ‘firsts’, Johannesburg boasts an impressive number of awesome attractions to suit both young and old. First off, the Apartheid Museum is oddly located next to the fun-park thrills of Gold Reef City. This is an essential South African experience which tells the apartheid story with a confronting sensory verve through large, visually stunning displays and excellent audio visual exhibits. For a trip down memory lane or to experience some of South Africa’s sad history, visit the Apartheid Museum (also see http://www.apartheidmuseum.org/).
 
The Hector Pieterson Memorial is another must visit. Through the use of old photographs and video, this museum tells the chilling story of the 1976 student uprisings against the forced use of Afrikaans in South African schools. The exhibit is stark, haunting and sure to leave you with chills down your spine. Continued

The Waterfront and Two Oceans Aquarium

V&A Waterfront

The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain in the heart of Cape Town’s magnificent harbour. Set against a backdrop of stunning sea and mountain views, it has become South Africa’s most visited destination.

With more than 400 shops and 80 eateries there is something here for everyone! Whatever you are looking for, the V&A Waterfront has it! What is more, it boasts extended shopping hours making it an extremely popular mall especially for the ladies. The restaurants here are some of the finest restaurants in South Africa where all types of cuisine can be enjoyed and at Cinema Nouveau numerous art films can be viewed.

For an unforgettable experience head over to the Two Oceans Aquarium. This aquarium is the largest aquarium in South Africa, housing over 300 marine species in impressive displays. It is a spectacular experience! As you enter, you enter a new world. Long paths lead to all variations of marine species in colourful and informative displays. Continued