I had not been to Cape Town for a few years and have been absolutely hooked after a recent short visit. The main difference for me from the last time was the way that the city centre has been brought back to life and revitalised. The streets have been smartened up and much of the fine architecture revealed in all its glory, the quality of shops and restaurants has improved immeasurably, the excellent museums and monuments are all easily accessible and the streets are welcoming and safe. The colourful Bo-Kaap district under the foot of Signal Hill (home to the mid-day gun) is easy to wander through with its multi-coloured facades and antique shops and the District Six Museum is a must-see portraying as it does the gradual destruction of this multicultural neighbourhood over the 70’s and 80’s. 
I really would recommend that anyone visiting seriously considers a central hotel – if you feel the need to get out trendy Camp’s Bay is only a 15 minute cab ride away (the V&A Waterfront even less) and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens can be reached in 20 minutes. The Mount Nelson Hotel was looking fabulous with gardens in full bloom, bars and restaurants bustling and a the overall atmosphere a vibrant mixture and feel of historic charm and modern buzz.
I also had the chance to experience a Township visit for the first time and this sobering time reminds you that for the vast bulk of Capetownians life beneath Table Mountain is hard and basic. It is clear that for many there have been some genuine improvements over the last few years, particularly in terms of basic infrastructure such as housing, and they can see more positive signs but there is still a long hard road to follow.
I did not get further afield into the Winelands or Cape Point, the weather in early December was 29 C compared with -3 C in London and I can’t wait to go back and explore more!
Cape Town can easily be added in to any South African tailor-made itinerary, perhaps linked with Johannesburg by the Blue Train, and also features in our Luxury Retreats of South Africa itinerary and Classic South Africa tours.

By Chrlie Panton Head of Product at Bales Worldwide