If you’re an English language student and planning to study in Cape Town, you’re definitely in for a treat. Not only will you improve your language skills, but you’ll also get to explore one of the most beautiful cities in the world. With its natural beauty, rich history, and diverse culture, Cape Town offers a memorable experience for anyone who visits. In this ultimate guide, we’ll look at some of the best ways to explore Cape Town while studying English to our students.
Tourist attractions
Cape Town is known for its amazingly breath-taking scenery, and there are plenty of tourist attractions to explore. Here are some of the most popular ones:
Table Mountain: Table Mountain is one of Cape Town’s most famous landmarks, and for a good reason. It offers panoramic views of the city and is a must-visit attraction. You can either hike up the mountain or take a cable car to the top.
Robben Island: If you’re interested in history, a visit to Robben Island is a must. Having once been established as a whaling station and a leaper colony Robben Island is most well known as the place where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, and you can take a guided tour to learn more about South Africa’s history and apartheid.
Cape of Good Hope: The Cape of Good Hope is located at the southernmost tip of the Cape Peninsula and is a stunning natural landmark. You can take a scenic drive along the coast to get there and enjoy stunning views of the ocean.
Restaurants and Cafes
Cape Town is a foodie’s paradise, and there are plenty of restaurants and cafes to choose from. Here are some of our top picks:
Mojo Market: This is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for a unique food and shopping experience in Cape Town. Conveniently located in the heart of Sea Point, this indoor market offers a wide range of local and international cuisine, craft beer, cocktails, and artisanal products. The vibrant atmosphere and live music make it a great spot to hang out with friends or grab a quick bite to eat. With over 80 stalls to choose from, there’s something for everyone at Mojo Market. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi, pizza, burgers, or vegan food, you won’t be disappointed. Overall, Mojo Market is a great place to experience the local food and culture in Cape Town.
The Old Biscuit Mill: Definitely a place to visit for anyone interested in food, design, and culture. Located in the trendy neighbourhood of Woodstock, this former biscuit factory has been transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation. The Saturday market is a bustling affair, with live music, street food, and an array of unique products to browse. Overall, The Old Biscuit Mill is a fantastic destination for anyone looking to experience the creative and culinary side of Cape Town.
Truth Coffee: An iconic coffee shop in Cape Town that is renowned for its unique steampunk design and exceptional coffee. The shop’s interior is reminiscent of a Victorian-era coffee house, with exposed pipes, gears, and vintage machinery adding to the overall ambiance. The coffee is roasted on-site and is known for its bold, rich flavours and smooth finish. Truth Coffee also offers a range of sweet and savoury treats, making it a great spot for breakfast or lunch.
Willoughby & Co.: A popular seafood restaurant located in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town. The restaurant offers a wide range of sushi and other seafood dishes, including fresh fish, shellfish, and calamari. The quality of the seafood is exceptional, and the chefs are skilled in preparing and presenting it. The restaurant’s location on the waterfront offers beautiful views of the harbour and Table Mountain, and the interior is modern and inviting.
Cultural Experiences
Cape Town is a melting pot of different cultures, and there are plenty of cultural experiences to explore. Here are some of our top picks:
Bo-Kaap: The Bo-Kaap is a colourful and vibrant neighbourhood in Cape Town that is steeped in history and culture. It is famous for its brightly painted houses, which date back to the 18th century when the area was settled by slaves brought over from Malaysia, Indonesia, and various parts of Africa. Today, Bo-Kaap is a thriving community with a variety of shops, restaurants, and cafes. Visitors can take a guided tour of the area to learn more about its history and architecture, or simply stroll through the narrow streets and soak up the vibrant atmosphere.
District Six Museum: The District Six Museum in Cape Town is a moving and powerful tribute to the community that was forcibly removed from the area during the apartheid era. The museum is located in the former Methodist Church, which was one of the few buildings left standing after the area was bulldozed in the 1960s. District Six was a vibrant multicultural area that was destroyed during apartheid. The museum tells the story of the area’s destruction and the impact it had on its residents. If you are lucky you might even get a tour from the man who started the museum himself.
The Cape Town Red Bus Tour: This hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus offers an excellent way to explore the city’s top attractions. The tour consists of two different routes, the City Tour and the Mini Peninsula Tour, with stops at all the major landmarks, including Table Mountain, Camps Bay, and the V&A Waterfront. The buses run regularly throughout the day, and the audio guide provides insightful commentary on the city’s history, culture, and architecture. The tour allows you to explore at your own pace, with the option to hop off at any of the stops and re-join the tour later.
Conclusion
Cape Town is a beautiful city with so much to offer, and studying English here is an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or food, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. With this guide, you’ll be able to explore some of the best tourist attractions, restaurants, and cultural experiences that Cape Town has to offer. So, what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip today!
