Never thought of Cape Town as a shopping haven? Many would call it retail therapy but I would prefer the term retail harmony when shopping in Cape Town. A truly satisfying shopping experience is what you will find here, from indigenous art to the latest technology gadget. Whether you are a mega-mall shopper or flea market fan, Cape Town will not disappoint.
Ask any Capetonion about Tyger Valley Shopping Centre and they'll be proud to point you in the right direction, if it's not too far away, that is. Stepping into this mall gives you a sense of coherence with its arty decor and 'disabled-friendly' facilities. Imagine a shopping mall with 5,000 car park lots! You can't. With over 250 shops spotting the latest fashion and technology, a banking mall, medical facilities and cinema complex, it doesn't get any better really. Turning to a different scenario, let's go to Green Market Square. Located in the city centre, this cobbled Square bustles with stalls selling African artwork and clothes.
A stone's throw from here on Long Street, you can find a similar market, so don't shop on impulse. At the Green Point Market, situated close to green Point Stadum, you will find amazing work of art by the locals as well as surrounding regions. Interested in holistic wares, visit Holistic Lifestyle Market in the Observatory where you'll be charged by the ways of Feng Shui, Aromatherapy, Foot Reflexology, Astrology or the Chinese art of Tai Chi.
If you have more time on your hands, head for the Waterfront to experience the largest indoor craft market in South Africa at the Red Shed Art and Craft Market which is opened daily from 09h30 – 18h00. And yes, how can we forget the antique lovers. These shops are strewn all over the city but for a wide variety with ranging prices, visit the antiques market at Church Street. If you are willing to travel a little out of town, there are more antique and bric-a-brac shops along the False Bay Coastline.
We didn't forget the all important jewellery shopper either, or shall we say "precious stones" shopper. For a change, head for an interesting place called Scratch Patch at the V&A Centre. It has to do with "scratching", unpolished gemstones covering the floor! I'll leave it to your imagination. Don't miss it. If you are a 'serious' diamond/precious stone shopper, head for Diamond Works, at the Metropolitan Life Centre sitting opposite the Cape Town International Convention Centre. The friendly staff, first hand knowledge of diamond processing and not forgetting the champagne will definitely sweep you off your feet.
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