Wednesday, October 20, 2010

Cape Town – Getting Around the City

Cape Town is situated mainly on a mountainous peninsula that stretches from the Cape Flats in the north to the Cape of Good Hope in the south. To see all of the city’s most interesting sights, you’ll have to travel the length and breadth of it. That won’t be a problem, because there are organised bus tours and walking tours that can be arranged by contacting Cape Town Tourism. Some of the more independent minded visitors like to strike out on their own and wander through the diverse neighbourhoods. This certainly leaves you free to make up your own schedule, and provides an up-close look at how Cape Tonians live. But it can lead to safety issues in a city that has a crime problem in some districts, and could also result in the novice visitor missing some of the best sights.

The Cape Town Pass: The City in Your Pocket

If sightseeing is your main reason for visiting, then you can’t miss by investing in the Cape Town Pass. This pass is valid for one, two, three, or six consecutive days. It provides you with admission to more than seventy Cape Peninsula and Winelands attractions. The only notable exceptions are the cable car to Table Mountain, and Robben Island. If you get the one day or two day pass, you will really have to hustle around town to get the full value. But the three day and six day passes are bargains if you take proper advantage of them. The Cape Town Pass not only allows you to pack a lot of sightseeing into your daily agenda, but also gets you some discounts at certain locations. In addition, it entitles you to a free cell phone rental and a local SIM card. The Cape Town Pass is available through Cape Town Tourism. You can purchase it online, or have it delivered to your place of accommodation.

Wheels or Walking Shoes

The best way to get from one point of interest to another depends upon which part of town you’re exploring. The City Bowl is the historic and commercial heart of Cape Town. This is the site of the original Dutch settlement. It is the location of the nation’s parliament as well as modern skyscrapers. This is a compact area, so you can easily cover it on foot. You can also hop into a small bus called a Rikki, which is an open van. The Rikki and shared taxis that follow informal routes throughout the city are inexpensive, and give you an opportunity to ride with the local folks. It might not be as comfortable as an air conditioned bus, but you will have a genuine Cape Tonian experience. For getting around town at night, the safest way is by regular taxi.

Road and Rail

Golden Arrow buses and City Sightseeing Cape Town Tour buses will take you to most of the city’s districts. For sights along False Bay, the train is best. It follows the coast, and offers some spectacular views. For this option’s top value, ride the train first class during the peak tourist season.

Drive With Caution

Some parts of the city, particularly in the southern part of the peninsula and the townships, are most easily accessible by car. Visits here can be illuminating, but use caution. Don’t put temptation in front of poor people. You should be safe enough, especially if you have a specific destination, such as a local B&B. Enjoy the great sights of Cape Town, as well as its eclectic underside.

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