South Africa, View of the Cape of Good Hope, Michael Zeno Diemer (German, 1867-1939)

Cape of Good Hope - South Africa (by Raita Futo) 

Away Mission - Part 2

Summary: Sloan’s new job involves reporting about Bucky after a month of no word from him. Bucky adjusts to his new situation. A discovery in his tent puts him on alert.

Length: 2.9 K

Characters: Sloan, Bucky, OMC and OFC.

Warnings: Worry about Bucky, Bucky having regrets, Bucky concerned about Sloan’s safety.

Part 1

💻 ⛺️

Part 2

Sloan

I filed the piece I did on a homeless shelter that had been targeted by traffickers and leaned back in my chair, stretching my arms out over my head. It had been a month since I left Bucky and according to Sam, who checked in with me regularly it had been that long since anyone had heard from him. It seemed like he had dropped off the face of the Earth. Was I worried? Yes, a person doesn’t stop caring for another person they loved, even after they separate themselves from them. At least this person didn’t. Part of me hoped that after he hooked up with whatever “private security group” he had contracted with, he would undergo a reality check and realize he wasn’t a good fit with their philosophy of anything goes as long as the price is right. But no one, and I mean no one in the Avengers, had heard from him.

“Hey, are you coming out for drinks?”

I looked up at the face of another writer at the Daily, Devlin Horne. Born in South Africa, Dev had been a thorn in the side of certain old-school military remnants of the former apartheid regime. He was an investigative reporter into the right-wing groups that longed for a return to those days, until they planted a bomb under his bed, almost killing him, when he got up to use the bathroom during the night. Instead of the pressure-sensitive device going off right away, it malfunctioned, exploding while he was in the kitchen grabbing a midnight snack. Buried under the rubble for a day until he was rescued made him realize his life was in danger if he stayed in Cape Town, so he left, coming to New York to work at the Manhattan Daily, the online news platform I became a part of after I left Bucky. We became friendly acquaintances and he checked on me daily.

“Are we celebrating something?”

“We are,” he replied. “Someone has been nominated for a Scripps Howard Award.” He looked around as if it was a big secret. “It’s not you or me, however.”

“Let me guess, Tess Murray, for her piece on the Gaza,” I said, having already heard through the grapevine. It was a prestigious nomination for an online publication. “I already heard, and I will go for one drink, only because Tess asked me, as she has an idea for a collaborative piece.”

“Really?” His accent was particularly strong at that moment, and I thought I saw something dark behind his eyes … jealousy perhaps? “Well, I guess I’ll see you at Rafters then.” He winked. “Perhaps you and I can collaborate on something, sometime.”

He left me there, walking away without giving me a chance to answer. I knew what he wanted, as he made it clear within a week of my arrival that he was interested in me. Even though I told him I wasn’t up for another relationship he had been persistent, in a friendly, non-creepy way. My in-office messaging system dinged, and I looked at the computer screen seeing a message from Tess.

That piece I mentioned working together on? Just got more interesting. Come see me now, if you’re free.

I logged out and headed over to her office. As senior correspondent and the winner of several national and international journalism awards, Tess’s office was proof of her success. Compared to my desk, sharing a space with four others, her private corner office with a view in two directions was a reward for the level of writing she filed on a regular basis. I entered, and she indicated I should shut the door. Sitting on the armchair in front of her I looked at her expectantly.

“Well, I’m going to give you a name, and if you don’t want to be part of the story because of that name I understand,” she said. “He’s been off the radar for a month, and I know you have history with him.”

To say my heart didn’t come up into my throat, threatening to choke me with its increased beating would be lying. I tried to stay neutral but even her face showed a level of excitement that I knew could make this story another award winner.

“Bucky Barnes has resurfaced,” she said. “He was spotted at an arms show in the Middle East last week, scoping out some pretty high-tech weaponry. The word in certain circles is that he is connected to the Excalibur Security Group and is leading one of their infiltration units.”

Of all the groups to be associated with, why did it have to be Excalibur? Filled with former military and CIA shadow operatives, they were known to be involved in bringing oligarchs to power in resource rich third world countries. Tess brought an image up on her computer screen, turning it so I could see photographs of Bucky handling a very advanced rifle at the show. It seemed to be made just for him, as he tried out several stances with it. There must have been a look on my face because Tess suddenly put her hand on mine.

“You, okay? Is it too soon to ask you to investigate and write about your former boyfriend?”

I swallowed then let out a breath. “Yeah, it is too soon but if he’s involved with them, it’s not a good thing. Any idea what country they’re targeting?”

“Considering the fact that he lived there for two years … it has to be Wakanda. The vacuum left by the death of King T’Challa and subsequent challenge by M’Baku to take control has convinced some consortiums that the time is right for a coup. Barnes had a very public falling out with Princess Shuri with plenty of witnesses hearing her threaten to kill him if he showed his face there again. His knowledge of the country is invaluable to the right people. I heard Excalibur offered him 8 figures, just as a bonus to go in with them. For a man who ended up in this century with nothing, many wouldn’t blame him for accepting the money. The Avengers certainly couldn’t afford that.”

I leaned back in the chair and Tess turned her computer screen away from me. I looked past her, to the view of the Empire State Building and Chrysler Building. Completed within 11 months of each other in 1930, Bucky was a teenager when they were built. The view of them was something he never got enough of, a reminder of who he used to be, before World War II and HYDRA turned him into the man he was today.

“Alright,” I said. “I’m in. What do you want me to do?”

As she outlined her investigation objectives, I tried to still the hesitancy I was already feeling about this. The Excalibur Security Group had been implicated in the kidnapping, torture and deaths of several people in the countries they had already “helped” transition to a different government; people whose only real crime was standing up to outside influence and interference. I couldn’t help but wonder why, after all his years of being a puppet of HYDRA, Bucky would align himself with an organization who seemed to follow their playbook for taking control.

Bucky

It had been five weeks since I took that ride in the windowless panel van. Being taken at gunpoint and having my head covered didn’t exactly fill me with confidence but once I was vetted and went out on a few pickups myself I realized it was SOP, Standard Operating Procedure. All new hires went through the same thing. Their bags were checked for trackers, their weapons checked for serial numbers (they were supposed to be filed off), and once we arrived at a second secret location, the operative was required to strip down and prove they weren’t wearing a wire. Because of my arm and shoulder unit I had to prove nothing in them was traceable. I must have been convincing because they allowed me to keep the arm.

There were the usual types that thought they were the baddest of all badasses but when I easily dumped them on said ass during some one-on-one confrontations, they all soon realized none of them had my skill set. It would have been laughable if not for the fact that most of these guys had received their training with the military of several different countries. Either training methods had been watered down since I took basic in 1942, or these guys had faked their resumés. I must have pleased someone because I didn’t have to prove myself after that. One of the suits hanging around where our small army was holed up, made a big deal of transferring my $10 million signing bonus into the Swiss bank account that I set up once I agreed to join. Told me that after this mission I could begin to live the high life that I was entitled to. Of course, the suit didn’t realize that as soon as the money went into the account a forensic accounting team would begin tracing the source of that transfer. The forensic team were the best of the best, and their work would begin the accumulation of evidence that would be used to prosecute the money people behind the Excalibur Security Group.

Now, five weeks after that van ride, I was in a camp, located somewhere on a remote Australian ranch, in a tent by myself, since I was also made a unit commander. It was hot, dusty, and there was no wifi for miles. But the beer was cold, the food plentiful, and I just bided my time until the day we were in a place with internet so that everything I had recorded in that time could be uploaded to the cloud. Yeah, I was getting better at the tech thing as well. Sam would be proud of me. I paused as I stopped sharpening my knives for a moment. Lying to Sam had been hard. It started with challenging his decisions on missions, then openly mocking his authority. Like the counsellor he used to be he tried to deal with it with understanding. But I was surly with him, asking what made his plans better than mine, considering I had years more experience than him. Then I deliberately didn’t follow his plans during missions. I never did it to the point of endangering lives on those occasions, but my actions did cause problems and when he called me out on it, I reacted like one of those fake badasses I took care of. Before I ended it with Sloan, Sam was the last person that I broke relations with. The look of hurt on his face when I put my face into his and told him to fuck off out of my life was something that I’ll regret forever. I hoped to hell that when this mission was done, he would accept my apology and forgive me for the terrible things I said and did.

“Barnes, CO wants you,” said Ducharme, a former French special forces sergeant, sticking his head inside my tent.

I put my knife and sharpening stone aside, then headed over to the CO’s tent. Colonel William Moorehouse was a former Marine, who was unceremoniously dumped from his command, after being caught stealing gold from a drug lord in Afghanistan. The government of the moment wanted the gold to go towards reparations. He thought it his just due for taking out the drug lord and his small army. He had to give it back then was canned after. I stopped outside his tent, as the flap was down.

“Captain Barnes reporting,” I announced. Only took me 80 years to be made Captain.

“Enter,” said the Colonel’s voice. He had a computer up and I realized at that moment that he must have wifi. With luck and some time, I might be able to upload everything recorded so far. “Barnes, we’ve been monitoring online news sources to make sure word of our upcoming excursion doesn’t get out before we execute the plan. Looks like someone had loose lips but we’re not sure who spilled the beans.”

“Sir?” I questioned, not quite sure what he wanted me to do.

The tall grey-haired man turned the laptop screen towards me, and I saw a brief article from the Manhattan Daily. Its title stood out. So did its byline of the writers.

WAKANDAN COUP ATTEMPT EXPECTED: PRIVATE SECURITY FIRM MAY BE INVOLVED An unnamed source advised that the former Avenger, James Buchanan Barnes, recently fired from the group for increasingly disturbing behaviour has been hired by the private security firm, Excalibur Security Group. While his skill set would be coveted by any private security firm, the news of him being hired by ESG hints that his extensive knowledge of Wakanda may be utilized as part of a coup. Excalibur Security Group is no stranger to transitioning uncooperative governments, especially if they are in resource rich countries. Since the deaths of Wakandan king T’Challa, and his mother, Ramonda, the country appears to be troubled with the ascension of tribal chief M’Baku to the throne, after his challenge to the heir presumptive, Princess Shuri, was uncontested. Shuri and Barnes were recently witnessed in an unsettling encounter, threatening the other with death. The Daily will monitor the situation and report updates as they occur. Story filed by Tess Murray and Sloan Hunter.

I stood up, saying nothing for a moment. “I haven’t spoken to Sloan for over a month. She wouldn’t have known I signed with Excalibur as I only accepted after I broke it off with her.”

“I didn’t think you were the leak,” he replied, turning the laptop back to him. “That Murray woman has been a thorn in the side of several private security firms. She has eyes and ears everywhere. How are your assassin skills?”

“I would rather not use them,” I replied, as it was made very clear when I signed that I didn’t do that anymore. He gave me a look that said he didn’t like that answer. “My skills are still the best. You’re not considering a hit on the women, are you?”

“No, I just want it as an option if they start naming names,” he said. “Our contract is specific that we protect our client’s name and reputation, at the expense of our own. We have an operative in the same office as the Manhattan Daily. That person will be monitoring progress on the story. If they get too close, they will be dealt with, hopefully by our operative. If that isn’t possible, I’m afraid you may be sent to complete that operation.” I started to argue but he put up his hand. “It’s actually in your contract that you may be required for specific tasks. A hit would qualify.”

I wracked my brains trying to remember if I saw that clause before I signed. He bent over his laptop and brought up a document, turning it towards me.

“You can read it again, if you wish,” he said. “It was buried pretty deep but it’s there. Page 2, clause 4.8a.”

I read it and swore openly. “That was not in the contract I signed,” I insisted.

“Well, it’s there now,” he said smugly. “If you’re going to be a soldier of fortune you have to earn the money doing the dirty jobs, Barnes. Now get the hell out of my tent.”

Seething, I stepped out and swore again as I headed back to my tent.

“I hope you heard that,” I said, in a low voice once I was out of earshot of his tent but hopefully within range of the wifi, knowing it would record me. “It wasn’t in the contract I signed. You better make sure she’s safe and find their operative.”

When I stepped inside my tent I stopped immediately. I could smell aftershave and it wasn’t mine, although I had a vague memory of the scent. Someone had been in my tent while I was with the Colonel. Carefully, I scanned the inside of my quarters, checking to see if anything was misplaced from where I left it. Then I checked the obvious and not so obvious places to plant a bug, finding it on the side of one of the tent’s supports, in the shadows where it wasn’t readily visible. It wasn’t a standard issue bug, at least not one used by the Avengers or law enforcement. As I looked closer at it, I noticed a tiny symbol made up of four vertical lines. When I was with HYDRA some of the Russian guards and staff had it tattooed on the back of their hand, as it meant order in an ancient hieroglyphic of the culture present from about 5000 BC. To HYDRA, always using ancient cultural symbols to justify their measures, it was just another way of saying what they wanted for the world. With a smirk, I broke it in half then smashed it under my heel for good measure. I looked for another but didn’t find anything. It bothered me that someone would use a bug with that symbol on it. Was there a HYDRA sympathizer in the camp? If there was, I needed to identify them and find out what their game was. Were they part of the plan to infiltrate and destabilize Wakanda or was I a target? Either way, my mission just became a little harder.

Part 3

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A Journey to Remember: Exploring Cape Town's Wonders

Introduction:

Cape Town, a city where the mountains meet the sea, is a destination that captivates travellers from around the world with its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. From the iconic Table Mountain to the scenic Cape Winelands, there's no shortage of attractions and experiences waiting to be discovered in this South African gem. If you're planning a Tour to Cape Town, get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as we dive into the wonders that await you in the Mother City and its surrounding regions.

Table Mountain:

No visit to Cape Town is complete without a trip to Table Mountain, one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature. Whether you choose to hike to the summit or take the rotating cable car, the panoramic views of the city, coastline, and surrounding landscapes are simply breathtaking. Be sure to visit at sunrise or sunset for an unforgettable experience and don't forget your camera to capture the stunning vistas.

Cape Peninsula:

Embark on a journey along the scenic Cape Peninsula, where rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and charming coastal towns await. Drive along the breathtaking Chapman's Peak Drive, explore the Cape Point Nature Reserve, and visit the adorable African penguins at Boulders Beach. Don't miss the opportunity to take a dip in the refreshing waters of the Atlantic Ocean at one of the peninsula's many beautiful beaches.

Robben Island:

Delve into South Africa's rich history with a visit to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and former political prison. Take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to the island and tour the prison complex, where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were once incarcerated. Hear firsthand accounts from former political prisoners and gain insight into the country's struggle for freedom and democracy.

Cape Winelands:

Indulge your senses with a day trip to the Cape Winelands, where lush vineyards, historic estates, and award-winning wines await. Explore charming towns such as Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, and sample a variety of wines and gourmet cuisine at some of the region's finest wineries. Don't forget to savour the stunning scenery of rolling hills and mountain ranges that make the Cape Winelands a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens:

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the tranquillity of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Located at the foot of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch boasts an impressive collection of indigenous plants, including rare and endangered species. Take a stroll along winding paths, discover unique garden sculptures, and enjoy a picnic amidst the breathtaking natural surroundings.

Township Tour:

Gain insight into Cape Town's diverse cultural landscape with a township tour, where you'll have the opportunity to visit vibrant communities such as Langa, Khayelitsha, or Imizamo Yethu. Meet with residents, learn about their traditions and customs, and support local businesses as you explore the streets, markets, and cultural centres of these dynamic neighbourhoods.

Cape Town City Tour:

Discover the rich history, vibrant culture, and iconic landmarks of Cape Town on a city tour. Visit historic sites such as the Company's Garden, Castle of Good Hope, and District Six Museum, and explore the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap with its distinctive Cape Malay architecture. Whether you're wandering through bustling markets or admiring street art in the city's vibrant neighbourhoods, there's always something new and exciting to discover in Cape Town.

Conclusion:

Cape Town Tours Packages promises an unforgettable journey filled with breathtaking scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you're hiking to the summit of Table Mountain, exploring the charming coastal towns of the Cape Peninsula, or indulging in wine tasting in the Cape Winelands, the experiences that await you in the Mother City are sure to leave a lasting impression. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready for the adventure of a lifetime in Cape Town, South Africa.

The countdown to our departure from the swamp to the freezer of the world has started. Last week was my last week of work, and Naomi likes to now tease me saying I'm partially retired... So what do retired people do? Travel. When we were deciding where to go for our last trip on this side of the globe, we initially had planned for it to be in Europe. But after checking flight tickets and times, South Africa seemed like the place to go. Maybe the many friends that have recommended it also played a small role.

We arrived in SA on Thursday eve where we picked up our rental car and drove to our guesthouse.

Day 1 we hiked up Table Mountain via the Platteklip Gorge. Upon reaching the table we first hiked to the smallest and flattest peak I have ever seen. From there on we hiked along the ridge, which presented some stunning views of the city below to the cable cart that took us back down. After our hike we drove into town to visit a neighbourhood called Bo Kaap, where many of the houses are bright and colourful. This represents the event when slaves were allowed to buy their own houses and did not have to rent the standardized white houses they lived in before. When getting out of our car a guy approached us and told us he was our "parking attendant" for which a small donation was welcome. Being the poster boy tourist, tall, blond and white he must've seen his chance for which he was greatly rewarded. Because we didn't have any small change on us, he suggested going to the shop across the road to buy him some food. This turned out to be a months worth of peanut butter and oil totalling 8 euros, for what would end up to be a 30 minute parking session. Amsterdam parking tariff isn't that bad after all. Note to self, always carry small change for tipping. At least when we got back to our car the windows had not been smashed, tires not deflated and we could spread the Dutch love for peanut butter.

Day 2 was rainy and misty, so we decided to do our drive around Cape Peninsula that day. First stop was visiting a penguin colony, where we applied our learnings from the day before and tipped the parking attendant the appropriate amount. We continued our journey to Cape of Good Hope, where the rain stopped... and it started to pour. Unfortunately, visibility wasn't great, and the name "good hope" turned out to be false advertising as it only got worse. When leaving the park we ran into a wild zebra, which caught us all by surprise. Didn't zebras only live on the savanna far away from civilization? I was definitely not expecting to see one out here, but a comforting surprise to a day where the pouring had turned into hosing from the sky. On with the drive, we stopped at a local coffee shop in Scarborough where we ate the most delicious sweet potato wedges ever. That fries shop in Sydney Australia has been beaten and we proceeded on our coastal drive up north again. Halfway along we stopped for a hike up Chapmans Peak. Unsurprisingly, the peak was also covered in clouds, so we did half the hike and waited for the bay to clear up while hiding under a bush. Once it cleared up, the view was lovely.

On day 3 we got up at 5am to hike up Lion's Head to see the sunrise over Cape Town. Halfway up the view was clear and the city beautifully lit by all its lights. At the top the clouds rolled in again preventing us from a clear view of the city, but the sunrise was pretty nevertheless. We headed to the botanical gardens where we saw the most special plants so far only seen on National Geographics. We had lunch at the local foodmarket where I had a 500 gram serving of beef ribs from the braai. Lekker! In the eve we made good use of Brandon and Michaela's, our SA friends, Spurs giftcard to endulge ourself over a hearty meal. For me this time a 500 gram T-bone steak. Equally delightful was that we got to watch Arsenal beat Man Utd. 3-1 to send the reds to the right side of the table.

Coming up will be our 5 day roadtrip over the Garden Route, followed by 5 days in Kruger nation park where we DO expect to see zebras. Not too busy packing for our move yet. That will come after this trip.

Discover the Rainbow Nation: Top South Africa Tour Packages

South Africa, affectionately known as the Rainbow Nation, is a country that boasts an incredible diversity of cultures, landscapes, and experiences. It's a destination that appeals to all types of travelers, from those seeking adventure in the wild African bush to those who prefer the sophisticated charm of its cities. With such a vast array of attractions, choosing the right South Africa tour packages can be the key to unlocking the very best this country has to offer. In this article, we explore the top South Africa tour packages that promise to deliver an unforgettable journey through this vibrant nation.

1. The Safari Experience

No visit to South Africa is complete without experiencing its world-famous safaris. South Africa tour packages that include visits to the Kruger National Park offer an unparalleled wildlife viewing experience. Here, you can come face-to-face with the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) in their natural habitat. These packages often include stays in luxury lodges, guided game drives at dawn and dusk, and even walking safaris for the more adventurous.

2. The Garden Route

For those who love scenic drives and outdoor activities, the Garden Route is a must-include in your South Africa tour packages. Stretching from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River in the Eastern Cape, this route offers stunning coastal views, dense forests, and serene beaches. Tour packages focusing on the Garden Route can include stops at key attractions like the Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna, and Plettenberg Bay, with opportunities for hiking, bungee jumping, and whale watching.

3. Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula

Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain, vibrant waterfront, and rich history, is often the starting point of many South Africa tour packages. Exploring the Cape Peninsula, with visits to the Cape of Good Hope and the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, provides a mix of natural beauty and wildlife. These packages might also include wine tasting tours in the Cape Winelands, exploring the historical Robben Island, and enjoying the city's renowned culinary scene.

4. The Cultural Heritage Tour

South Africa's history is both complex and fascinating, marked by stories of struggle and triumph. South Africa tour packages that focus on the country’s cultural heritage offer insights into its past, with visits to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, the Soweto Township, and Mandela’s House. These tours provide a deeper understanding of the country's journey to democracy and are essential for anyone looking to grasp the essence of the Rainbow Nation.

5. The Adventure Seeker’s Delight

For the thrill-seekers, South Africa tour packages can be tailored to include some of the most exhilarating activities available. From shark cage diving in Gansbaai to zip-lining in Tsitsikamma, South Africa is a playground for adventure. Other activities can include sandboarding in the Atlantis Dunes, hot air ballooning over the Magaliesberg, or even taking a leap off the world’s highest bridge bungee at Bloukrans.

6. The Luxury Escape

South Africa also caters to those seeking a more luxurious experience. High-end South Africa tour packages might include stays at exclusive lodges in private game reserves, gourmet dining experiences, and private tours of historical sites or vineyards. These packages offer a perfect blend of relaxation, indulgence, and adventure, set against the backdrop of some of the world’s most breathtaking landscapes.

In Conclusion

South Africa's diverse offerings make it a unique travel destination, and the right tour package can ensure that travelers enjoy a comprehensive and enriching experience. Whether it's wildlife, scenic beauty, cultural heritage, adventure, or luxury you seek, South Africa tour packages deliver it all, wrapped in the warm hospitality for which this country is renowned. As you plan your journey to the Rainbow Nation, consider these varied tour options to truly discover the best of South Africa.

Ushuaia, Argentina: The End of the World before the even more end of the world

I walked out of the airport in Ushuaia and spent the next 4 hours running around, singing in happiness at the views and the magnificence of the sunset. I hadn’t eaten much and I needed to find dinner (it was almost 9pm), but I wouldn’t stop unless I found a place with a view. I found a restaurant with a glass patio and extremely strong cocktails. This led to more walking down the street, singing and taking pictures of every changing color and light. Did I look a bit fanatical? Maybe, but I don’t care.

I can remember a few moments in my life where the views have had me completely overwhelmed and Ushuaia is up there with Cape of Good Hope in South Africa, Fjords in Norway and Fiords in New Zealand. What do all these places have in common? They are painted with mountains draping into the sea at the edge of the world.

In two days I leave for Antarctica.

Hubble's sparkling new view of the Carina Nebula This sparkling new image depicts a small section of the Carina Nebula, one of the NASA Hubble Space Telescope's most-imaged objects. The Carina Nebula, NGC 3372, is an enormous cloud of gas and dust home to several massive and bright stars, including at least a dozen that are 50 to 100 times the mass of our sun. It is an emission nebula, meaning that the intense radiation from its stars ionizes the gas and causes it to glow. That gas is widely and thinly spread out over a large area, earning it the added designation of a diffuse nebula. Carina is a dynamic area of the sky with bursts of star formation occurring alongside star death. As stars form and produce ultraviolet radiation, their stellar winds disperse the gas and dust around them, sometimes forming dark, dusty cloaks and sometimes creating empty patches for the stars to become clearly visible. To take this image of the Carina Nebula, scientists relied on Hubble's infrared light imaging capabilities, which detect longer wavelengths of light not scattered by the heavy dust and gas surrounding the stars. This image shows only a small section of the nebula, located near the center in an area with thinner gas. Due to the nebula's enormous size—about 300 light-years—astronomers can only study it in sections, piecing together the data from separate images to get an understanding of the nebula's large-scale structure and composition. The Carina Nebula is visible with the unaided eye from Earth's southern hemisphere. The Carina Nebula is about 7,500 light-years from Earth in the southern constellation Carina, the Keel. Astronomers have given it many nicknames over the past few hundred years, including the Grand Nebula and the Eta Carinae Nebula for the bright star at its heart. It was originally discovered from the Cape of Good Hope, South Africa by Nicolas Louis de Lacaille in 1752.

Cape Town, South Africa: Where Nature's Beauty Beckons

Nestled between majestic mountains and the glistening ocean, Cape Town stands as a testament to the sheer splendor of South Africa's natural wonders. With iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and the Cape of Good Hope, alongside pristine beaches such as Camps Bay, this vibrant city has established itself as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking both adventure and tranquility. Offering a delightful fusion of captivating landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a vibrant culinary scene, Cape Town has something to captivate every visitor.

Table Mountain

A Natural WonderDominating the city's skyline, Table Mountain is Cape Town's most iconic attraction. This flat-topped mountain, recognized as one of the New7Wonders of Nature, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city, coastline, and beyond. Adventurous souls can hike up the mountain or take the cable car for a mesmerizing ascent. Once at the top, the awe-inspiring vistas and unique flora and fauna make for an unforgettable experience.

Cape of Good Hope

Where Oceans ConvergeLocated at the southwestern tip of the African continent, the Cape of Good Hope is a place of myth and historical significance. As the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, this rugged headland showcases dramatic cliffs, sweeping vistas, and a wealth of indigenous wildlife. Exploring the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, visitors may encounter playful baboons, ostriches, and even Cape fur seals. The iconic Cape Point Lighthouse, perched on the cliffs, is a testament to the region's seafaring history.

Beaches of Bliss

Camps Bay and BeyondCape Town is blessed with an array of stunning beaches, each with its own unique charm. Camps Bay, nestled at the foot of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, is a picturesque stretch of soft sand and crystal-clear waters. Surrounded by trendy restaurants and cafes, it offers the perfect setting for sunbathing, people-watching, and enjoying breathtaking sunsets. For those seeking a quieter seaside retreat, Clifton's four pristine beaches, protected by granite boulders, provide secluded spots for relaxation.

Cultural Kaleidoscope

Diversity and HistoryCape Town's rich history and cultural diversity add depth to its natural allure. Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, serves as a poignant reminder of South Africa's struggle for freedom during apartheid. Visitors can tour the prison where Nelson Mandela was held captive, gaining insight into the country's turbulent past. The vibrant neighborhoods of Bo-Kaap and Woodstock showcase Cape Town's multicultural fabric through their colorful facades, traditional cuisine, and lively markets.

Gastronomic Delights

Cape Town's Culinary SceneCape Town's vibrant food scene caters to all tastes and budgets. From fine dining establishments serving innovative dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients to bustling food markets brimming with flavors, the city is a haven for food lovers. The Victoria & Alfred Waterfront offers a wide range of culinary experiences, while the Cape Winelands, just a short drive away, beckon with award-winning wines and picturesque vineyards.

Cape Town, South Africa, with its remarkable blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and culinary delights, is a destination that captivates the hearts of travelers from around the world. Whether you find yourself ascending Table Mountain, exploring the untamed beauty of the Cape of Good Hope, basking in the sun on Camps Bay's golden sands, or immersing yourself in the city's diverse culture and gastronomy, Cape Town offers an experience that will leave an indelible mark on your soul. Prepare to be enchanted by this vibrant city that harmon.

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A Chronology of The Peculiar Institution: Slavery Timeline 1300-1600

This is not covering the Arab slavery of our people. The reason for this post is I have seen so many of us who have no clue about how and when it started. I hear people say Black started slaver here or we sold our people into slavery and it makes me sad and mad. Anyway much could be added but I cant make it long because we will not read it. If I missed any points just let me know. Do you know how the names Grain, Gold, Slave Coast came about? Im working on a post about our fight against the Maafa which has never been told in full. 1380 In the aftermath of the Black Plague, Europe’s slave trade revives in response to the labor shortage. The slaves come from all over Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. Later on they will ever use their own children. 1444 We learn from the Portuguese royal chronicler Gomes Eanes de Zurara, who was a young ship captain named Antam Gonçalvez, who sailed to West Africa in 1441 hoping to acquire seal skins and oil.  After obtaining his cargo, Gonçalvez called a meeting of the twenty-one sailors who accompanied him and unveiled his plan to increase their profits. According to Zurara, Gonçalvez told his crew, “we have already got our cargo, but how fair a thing would it be if we, who have come to this land for a cargo of such petty merchandise, were to meet with good fortune and bring the first captives before the presence of our Prince?” That night, Gonçalvez led a raiding party into Cap Blanc, a narrow peninsula between Western Sahara and Mauritania, and kidnapped two Berbers, one man and one woman. Another Portuguese mariner, Nuno Tristão, and members of his crew soon joined Gonçalvez. Although the raid resulted in less than a dozen captives, Zurara imagines in his account that prince Henry of Portugal responded to this enterprise with, “joy, not so much for the number of captives taken, but for prospect of other [countless] captives that could be taken.”While Gonçalvez’s voyage in 1441 is widely considered to mark the beginnings of the trans-Atlantic slave trade, it may also be viewed as an extension of an older tradition of raiding and ransom on both shores of the Mediterranean. Upon returning to Portugal, Gonçalvez treated his captives in accordance with this custom, and allowed them to negotiate the terms of their release. Rather than offering a ransom of money, the captives promised to give Gonçalvez ten slaves in exchange for their own freedom and safe passage home. According to royal chronicler Zurara, the Berbers explained that these new captives would be “black [and] not of the lineage of Moors, but Gentiles.” Thus in 1442, Gonçalvez returned his Berber captives to Western Sahara, receiving as payment ten enslaved sub-Saharan Africans, whom he then transported back to Portugal for re-sale. Please understand this was no trade, it was kidnapping. Its was also a agreement of one white man with another all believers in a book that said God will make Africans people slave the them. No European nation was willing or able to put an army in western Africa until the Portuguese colonization of what is now Angola (this Angola was part of Congo Empire) more than a century later (and even then, Portuguese forces received extensive aid from armies of Imbangala or “Jaga” mercenaries). Early raids as they say are nothing more than kidnapping, but really such as the one made by Gonçalvez and Tristão in 1441 were unusual, and may have only been possible because the Portuguese had never previously raided south of Cape Bojador. Portuguese mariners soon learned that inhabitants along the Upper Guinea coast were more than capable of defending themselves from such incursions. Not long after his 1441 voyage, Tristão and most of his crew were killed off the coast of present-day Senegal.Prior to the colonization of Angola, Portuguese colonies and commercial hubs in Africa were generally established on islands that had previously been uninhabited. I cant recall what pope made it illegal to kidnap thus creating what we now know as the slave trade. but was it really a Trade???? 1502: Juan de Córdoba of Seville becomes the first merchant we can identify to send an African slave to the New World. Córdoba, like other merchants, is permitted by the Spanish authorities to send only one slave. Others send two or three. 1504: a small group of Africans - probably slaves captured from a Portuguese vessel - are brought to the court of King James IV of Scotland. 1505: first record of sugar cane being grown in the New World, in Santo Domingo (modern Dominican Republic). 1509: Columbus's son, Diego Cólon, becomes governor of the new Spanish empire in the Carribean. He soon complains that Native American slaves do not work hard enough. 1510: 22 January 1510: the start of the systematic transportation of African slaves to the New World: King Ferdinand of Spain authorises a shipment of 50 African slaves to be sent to Santo Domingo. 1513: 2 April 1513: Juan Ponce de Leon becomes the first European to reach the coast of what is now the United States of America (modern Florida). 1516: the governor of Cuba, Diego Velázquez, authorises slave-raiding expeditions to Central America. One group of slaves aboard a Spanish caravel rebel and kill the Spanish crew before sailing home - the first successful slave rebellion recorded in the New World. 1516: in his book Utopia, Sir Thomas More argues that his ideal society would have slaves but they would not be 'non-combatant prisoners-of-war, slaves by birth, or purchases from foreign slave markets.' Rather, they would be local convicts or 'condemned criminals from other countries(AKA prison industrial complex) , who are acquired in large numbers, sometimes for a small payment, but usually for nothing.' (Trans. Paul Turner, Penguin, 1965) 18 August 1518: in a significant escalation of the slave trade, Charles V grants his Flemish courtier Lorenzo de Gorrevod permission to import 4000 African slaves into New Spain. From this point onwards thousands of slaves are sent to the New World each year. 1519: 20 September The circumnavigation expedition of Ferdinand Magellan sets out from San Lucar de Barameda. In December 1520, Magellan discovered the ocean which he named the Pacific. Magellan died in the Philipines, 27 April 1521. Only one of the five ships to set out returned to Spain, on 8 September 1522. 13 August 1521: with the capture of King Cuahutemotzin by Hernan Cortés and the fall of the city of Mexico, the Aztec empire is overthrown and Mexico comes under Spanish Rule. 1522: A major slave rebellion breaks out on the island of Hispaniola. This is the first significant uprising of African slaves. After this, slave resistance becomes widespread and uprisings common. 1524: 300 African slaves taken to Cuba to work in the gold mines. 1526: Hieronymous Seiler and Heinrich Ehinger of Konstanz become the first Germans we know to have become involved in the slave trade. 1527: earliest records of sugar production in Jamaica, later a major sugar producing region of the British Empire. Sugar production is rapidly expanding throughout the Caribbean region at this time - with the mills almost exclusivly worked by African slaves. November 1528: a slave called Esteban (or Estevanico) becomes the first African slave (Know 2 the white man, African not slaves had beeen coming here long before) to step foot on what is now the United States of America. He was one of only four survivors of Pánfilo de Narváez's failed expedition to Florida. He and the other three took eight years to walk to the Spanish colony in Mexico. After their return in 1536, the group's leader, Álvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, published an account of their journey through modern Texas and Mexico 1530: Juan de la Barrera, a Seville merchant, begins transporting slaves directly from Africa to the New World (before this, slaves had normally passed through Europe first). His lead is quickly followed by other slave traders. 1532: William Hawkins of Plymouth becomes the first English mariner to visit the coast of West Africa, although he does not take part in slave trading. 22 January 1532: Martim Afonso de Souza founds the first Portuguese colony in Brazil at São Vicente. Sugar production begins almost immediately. 15 November 1532: Francisco Pizaro massacres the Incas at Caxamalca (modern Caxamarca) and captures King Atahuallpa, an event that marks the Spanish conquest of Peru. 1539 30 May 1539: Hernando de Soto, following reports from Cabeza de Vaca, lands on the coast of Florida. Of about 1200 men in his expedition, around 50 were African slaves. After exploring modern Alabama, Arkansas, Florida, Georgia, Mississippi, and South Carolina, the expedition ended in disaster. September 1541: on his third voyage to Canada, Jacques Cartier establishes the first French colony in the New World at Charlesbourg-Royal, close to modern Québec. 1555: the Portuguese sailor Fernão de Oliveira, in Arte de Guerra no mar (The Art of War at Sea), denounces the slave trade as an 'evil trade'. The book anticipates many of the arguments made by abolitionists in the eighteenth and nineteenth centuries. 1555: Queen Mary of England, under pressure from the Spanish, forbids English involvement in Guinea. July 1555: a small group of Africans from Shama (modern Ghana) described as slaves are brought to London by John Lok, a London merchant hoping to break into the African trade. 10 November 1555: a group of Norman and Breton sailors, under the command of Nicolas de Villegagnon, found the first French colony in South America. The settlement, close to modern Rio De Janiero in Brazil, is named La France Antarctique. 1556: The Italian city of Genoa tries to prevent trading in slaves - not for any humanitarian reasons - but only in an attempt to reduce the numbers of Africans in the city. 1556: Domingo de Soto, in De justicia et de jure libri X (Ten Books on Justice and Law), argues that it is wrong to keep in slavery any person who was born free. October 1562: John Hawkins of Plymouth becomes the first English sailor that we know about to have obtained African slaves - approximately 300 of them in Sierra Leone - for sale in the West Indies. Hawkins traded the slaves illegally with Spanish colonies, but the trip was profitable and others followed. These contributed to increasing tensions between England and Spain. (As well as initiating the English slave trade, Hawkins also introduced both the potato and tobacco to England.) 1569: a Sevillian Dominican, Tomás de Mercado, publishes Tratos y contratos de mercaderes (Practices and Contracts of Merchants), which attacks the way the slave trade is conducted. 1571: the Parlement of Bordeaux sets all slaves - "blacks and moors" - in the town free, declaring slavery illegal in France. 1573: a Spanish-Mexican lawyer, Bartolemé Frías de Albornoz, publishes Arte de los contratos (The Art of Contracts), which casts doubt on the legality of the slave trade. 20 February 1575: Paulo Dias de Novães founds the Portuguese colony of São Paulo de Luanda on the African mainland (modern Angola). The colony soon became a major slave-trading port supplying the vast Brazilian market. 13 December 1577: Sir Francis Drake sets out from Plymouth on his circumnavigation of the globe. (Returns 26 September 1580) 29 January 1579: with the Union of Utrecht, the northern provinces of the Low Countries unite to create a Calvinist republic free from Spanish rule. The United Provinces (modern Netherlands) soon becomes an important slave-trading nation and an aspiring colonial power. 1580: Following the death of King Henry of Portugal, and a short campaign by the duke of Alva, Spain and Portugal are united under Philip II of Spain. Spain thus becomes the most important colonial power - and the largest participant in the slave trade. 27 July 1585: the first English colony in the New World is established at Roanoke Island (modern North Carolina), organised by Sir Walter Raleigh and governed by Ralph Lane. It was not successful, and the colonists withdrew in June 1586. 16 November 1585: In the first of a series of attacks on Spanish colonial interests, Sir Francis Drake sacks the slave-trading settlement of Santiago in the Cape Verde Islands. 11 January 1586: Sir Francis Drake sacks the Spanish colony of Santo Domingo (modern Dominican republic). He goes on to sack Cartagena (modern Columbia) and St. Augustine (modern Florida). These acts of piracy are among the factors that precipitate war between England and Spain. 23 July 1587: A second English colony is founded at Roanoke Island, again organised by Sir Walter Raleigh. When it is revisted by English ships in August 1590, it has vanished without trace. July-September 1588: the failure of the Spanish Armada (an intended Spanish invasion of England, largely destroyed by bad weather) provides a boost for English maritime power and for English colonial ambitions, although the boost may have been more psychological than actual. 1592: Bernard Ericks becomes the first Dutch slave trader. 1594: L'Espérance of La Rochelle becomes the first French ship positively identified as participating in the slave trade.

Cape Town City Tour – The Perfect City Tour Experience In Cape Town

Explore on a Cape Town City Tour and delve into the soul of South Africa's Mother City. From the iconic Castle of Good Hope to the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, immerse yourself in a kaleidoscope of cultures, architectural wonders, and gastronomic delights that define Cape Town's allure. Let's uncover why Cape Town Tours are tailor-made for those seeking an authentic exploration of this captivating metropolis.

Begin your journey at the historic Castle of Good Hope, a testament to centuries of South African history. Continue to the reflective District Six Museum, bearing witness to the resilience of the human spirit amidst apartheid's injustices.

Transitioning through time, stroll through the colonial-era landmarks of Company's Garden, where history comes alive at every turn. Ascend Table Mountain for panoramic views of the city's skyline, a blend of old-world charm and modern innovation.

Complete your City Sightseeing Tour Cape Town with a leisurely stroll along the V&A Waterfront, where historical sites mingle with contemporary architecture, offering a glimpse into the city's maritime past and urban evolution.

Explore the vibrant shops and eclectic eateries of Kloof Street, a hub of creativity and cosmopolitan flair. Venture into the local neighborhoods, from the lively nightlife of Long Street to the laid-back charm of Hout Bay, experiencing the rich tapestry of Cape Town's culture, history, and flavors. Choose your Cape Town City Tour with Wow Travel & Tours and explore on a journey of discovery, diversity, and delight at every step.

South Africa, View of the Cape of Good Hope (detail), Michael Zeno Diemer (German, 1867-1939)

The Ranthambore National Park Tiger Population And Other Major Attractions

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Written By Author in topcamauaz.com.com: Bùi Hữu Duy - Bui Huu Duy

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town. Wow. 

I didn’t have much in the ways of expectations for this city. For one, I tend to be less attracted to urban places on my trips, so I was less excited for this leg of our journey. And secondly, I was so worried about being safe in Cape Town that I wondered whether I’d enjoy it, or if I’d be too on-edge to really embrace it. But let’s just say, Cape Town absolutely blew me away, and it has quickly become one of my favourite destinations in the entire world. 

Safety-wise, as a tourist, it turns out I didn’t have much to worry about. That’s not to say it is a completely comfortable and safe place - there were definitely times when I felt a bit tense, and the rolling blackouts were a bit scary at night (more on that later), but because we were careful I didn’t feel unsafe at any point.

But of course I do want to acknowledge that our ability to enjoy Cape Town comes from a place of extreme privilege. For those under the poverty line, still suffering from the systemic horrors of apartheid, it is not at all as I’ve described. Our city tour guide grew up in the 'townships' - areas that were designated for black people during apartheid, which remain very poor and dangerous areas - and he gave us perspective on how much apartheid has affected everything about Cape Town. When we saw the Nelson Mandela monument in Cape Town city centre, he got emotional telling us about how he remembered seeing Mandela’s speech in the square on TV as a young boy, and how meaningful Mandela was to him. However, he also thoroughly described how segregated things still are today, and the struggles that black people face, even many years after apartheid has ended. We didn’t do a township tour as we didn’t feel it was ethical, but we could see these areas from our airport cab and it certainly offered a very different experience of this city. With over ~30% unemployment, homelessness and crime are major issues, and many people in this city are suffering. We got to see Cape Town through rose-coloured glasses, and were able to stay comfortable and safe through immense privilege. 

Alright, so let’s start with the scenery. The views in Cape Town city left me in complete awe. Never in my life have I seen a city so beautifully nestled into such powerful and stunning nature. You’ve got the ocean shores on one side, with beautiful blue waters and powerful waves, along with some quaint harbours tucked away here and there. Then on the other side you’ve got the mountains behind - old, flat mountains with steep rocky edges and beautiful greenery creeping up their sides. The mountain is SO close to the city, and yet looks so rugged and wild. Every little neighbourhood boasts different views of these nature features, making this city a gorgeous place to explore. 

When when first arrived we did a city tour with a guide we had through our hotel - Ismail, mentioned above. He drove us around and walked us through the city. I noticed that Cape Town city centre is very clean and modern, with beautiful old architecture reminiscent of European cities. The tropical greenery combined with the varied architecture and clean streets surprisingly reminded me a lot of Sydney, Australia, which I definitely wasn’t expecting. We saw some of the notable sites and monuments of Cape Town and took in some of the city’s history.

The tour ended atop Signal Hill, a spot with pretty ocean views and a view of Cape Town’s smaller mountain, called Lion’s Head. 

On our second day we explored the outer limits of Cape Town, taking a tour through to Cape of Good Hope and a few places in between. Our tour guide was Carlo - we got his number through a friend. He was so kind and wonderful, the kind of person you feel like you’ve known forever. We hit it off instantly.  Our tour took us through: Camp’s Bay, Chapman’s peak, Hout Bay (where we saw wild seals at the harbour), Cape of Good Hope, Simon’s town and a few small spots in between. 

In the Cape of Good Hope park, Carlo took us on a little detour to see if we could find some antelope - he said he doesn’t always go this way but he had a good feeling that if we did we might see something, and he was right! We saw Bontebok - antelope that used to be very endangered in SA that are now protected in these parks. We also saw Klipspringers, which Carlo thought was very special. Prior to this day, he said he had only seen one in his entire time coming to Cape of Good hope (~18 years), and on our trip that day we saw three grazing together. He was more excited than we were! 

We reached the most SouthWestern point of Africa (*not the most southern, that’s elsewhere and a common misconception),  and saw some beautiful cliffs and lookouts over the ocean.  Other stops on this day tour included many beautiful roadside lookouts - one where we even saw whales! - as well as an ostrich farm (although we did see some wild ostriches on the coast too). The other cool thing we saw on the side of the road was a troop of baboons, including some nursing babies! 

But a huge highlight of the tour was our stop at Boulder’s beach in Simon’s Town, where we saw a wild penguin colony!!! Nothing could have prepared me for the cuteness of these little dudes. The boardwalk was a bit busy with people, but you can walk along it and find quieter spots to view them. We especially had fun watching them getting in and out of the water. In the water they are fast, efficient little torpedos - but as they get out onto land they are clumsy and wobbly. They have so much character and personality and it just an absolute pleasure to watch. 

We finished our day of touring at a place called Chef’s Warehouse Tintswalo - a stunning restaurant on the water, overlooking the mountains and ocean, just in time for sunset. It was a decadent meal of seafood tapas, to celebrate our official 1 year wedding anniversary. Couldn’t have been a better end to an amazing day. 

We started our third day with a hike on table mountain. There were many, many hikes to choose from, but we were not with a route called Skeleton gorge based on recommendations, and it was a great fit. Our guide was a local surfer named Mike, and we really hit it off with him as well (we truly lucked out with three days of fabulous guides!). The weather on the mountain was rainy and cold, but we had the right gear so it didn’t dampen our spirits, and our enthusiasm and preparedness delighted our guide. The hike started out in the Cape Town botanical gardens, which were absolutely stunning and lush, and our guide did a great job of showing us the different indigenous vs invasive species (the latter being ones introduced by European colonists). As we ascended the gorge, the surroundings became more rugged and wild. We had to climb rocky areas, wooden ladders, and even scale rocks through a waterfall for an extended part of the ascent, which is something I’ve never done before!  Once we made it into the higher mountain regions, there were so many beautiful spring flowers in bloom, in gorgeous shades of red, yellow and purple - a very well coordinated palette of colours - against a foggy backdrop of mist and clouds. 

One of the most unique scenes on table mountain was the alpine beach! Atop the mountain there was an enormous body of water with natural white sand surrounding the shoreline. Hard to believe it wasn’t man-made. Evan went for a quick dip despite the freezing temperatures!  After ascending to the highest peak of Table Mountain and Cape Town, we walked a few kilometres across the flat “table-top”. This would be where we’d see city and shoreline views, but sadly the cloud cover blocked it all - but on the bright side, it did make the mountain feel more remote and rugged to not see the city below.  We took the famous cable-car down the other side of the mountain after having a nice hot drink to warm up at the cable car station. We were absolutely thrilled to have an adventurous hike on our agenda, it felt great to get outdoors and moving. 

After a warm shower at our hotel, we spent the second half of our third day exploring the V&A Harbourfront and Camp’s Bay. V&A is modern and clean while still maintaining quaint harbour charm. We rode the Cape Town view wheel to get in the city bird’s eye view that we missed with the clouds on the mountain.  In Camp’s Bay, we enjoyed some ‘sundowners’ (golden hour drinks) at a beachfront bar, and then went for a beautiful stroll along the beach and took in the views. The Camp’s Bay view is one of my absolute favourites - you can see what they call the “12 Apostles” mountain peaks looming over the neighbourhood as you stand on a beautiful white sand ocean beach. Just amazing. 

Overall, the food in Cape Town was PHENOMENAL. One of our guides said “it’s hard to find a bad meal in Cape Town,” and wow, was that ever true. On our last night we ate at an amazing Ethiopian restaurant which had great food and a very unique, culturally inspired dining style - eating with your hands in a family style setting, on small chairs and tables close to the ground. So awesome! 

Cape Town really has it all for a tourist like myself: beautiful nature, extraordinarily kind and hospitable people, and delicious food. I can definitely see myself wanting more! 

Below is a summary of where we stayed and what we did, for those interested - all of which I would HIGHLY recommend. 

Accommodation 

• Tree House Boutique Hotel - amazing facilities and extremely kind people. Absolutely delicious continental and made-to-order hot breakfast included  every morning. 

Food and Drink 

• Addis Ethiopian Cuisine - incredible food and dining experience/atmosphere. Great vegan options. Incredible authentic Ethiopian coffee. 

• The Bungalow - amazing seafood and cocktails, beach-front setting, lively atmosphere. We went for dinner at sunset but would be great for a lunch in the afternoon. 

• Chef’s Warehouse Tintswalo - we went here for our 1 year anniversary dinner. It was a set course menu of tapas-style dishes, incredible culinary experience. The patio boasts coastal mountain views, amazing place for a sunset (be sure book your reservation early before sunset so you don’t arrive when it’s dark!). The menu is limited, but they still did a great job of accommodating both nuts and dairy allergy. 

• Willoughby’s - in the V&A waterfront mall. Not a great atmosphere since it’s in an indoor shopping mall, but great sushi - made for a relaxed, quick lunch. 

• Saveur (In Simon’s Town) - we went for calamari/fish and Chips and a cold beer. Great harbour view. Worth a stop-in after penguins! 

• Cafe Capris - nice place for a cocktail next to the beach at Camp’s Bay. Bougie area, our tour guide said this is where the pro athletes get drinks and party when they are in town. 

Things to Do 

• Cape of Good Hope tour

• Table Mountain hike - Skeleton Gorge 

• City tour 

• V&A harbour and water front 

• Camp’s Bay 

Cape Town General notes 

• September was cold/chilly! Pack warm.

• Take Ubers! 

• Don’t go out at night unless in an Uber or hired car.

• Expect blackouts - the people are very used to this and will accommodate you.

• Visa is accepted everywhere, including Apple Pay - cash for tips!

Top 10 Places To Visit in The

Embark on a journey of a lifetime to discover the world's most captivating destinations. From ancient wonders to modern marvels, these top 10 must-visit places around the globe promise unforgettable experiences for every traveler.

1-Machu Picchu, Peru: Nestled high in the Andes Mountains, this ancient Inca citadel is a testament to the ingenuity of its builders. Explore the mysterious ruins and take in breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.

2-The Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Dive into the world's largest coral reef system, home to an incredible diversity of marine life. Snorkel or dive among colorful corals, tropical fish, and giant clams for an unforgettable underwater adventure.

3-Santorini, Greece: Known for its stunning sunsets and whitewashed buildings, Santorini is a picture-perfect destination. Explore charming villages, sample local cuisine, and relax on beautiful beaches with crystal-clear waters.

4-Kyoto, Japan: Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture of Japan in Kyoto. Visit ancient temples, stroll through traditional gardens, and experience the beauty of the changing seasons in this historic city.

5-Bora Bora, French Polynesia: Escape to paradise in Bora Bora, with its turquoise lagoons and overwater bungalows. Snorkel in pristine waters, relax on white sandy beaches, and soak up the beauty of this tropical paradise.

6-Paris, France: The "City of Light" exudes romance and charm at every corner. Visit iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre Museum, stroll along the Seine River, and savor delicious French cuisine in quaint cafes.

7-Rome, Italy: Step back in time in the Eternal City, where ancient ruins blend seamlessly with modern life. Visit the Colosseum, Vatican City, and Trevi Fountain, and indulge in mouthwatering Italian cuisine.

8-Maui, Hawaii: Experience the beauty of Hawaii on the island of Maui. Explore volcanic landscapes, relax on stunning beaches, and watch mesmerizing sunsets over the Pacific Ocean.

9-Cape Town, South Africa: Discover the beauty of Cape Town, with its stunning beaches, majestic mountains, and vibrant culture. Visit Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the Cape of Good Hope for a truly unforgettable experience.

10-New York City, USA: Experience the energy and excitement of the Big Apple. Explore iconic landmarks like Times Square and Central Park, shop on Fifth Avenue, and enjoy world-class dining and entertainment.

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10 Best Thing to Do in Our Latest South Africa Tour Packages

Embarking on a journey to South Africa promises an array of unforgettable experiences, from thrilling safaris to captivating cultural encounters. Our latest South Africa tour packages are meticulously crafted to showcase the best this diverse country has to offer. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a nature enthusiast, or a culture lover, here are the top 10 things to do on our latest South Africa tour packages, ensuring an extraordinary travel experience.

Safari Adventure: Dive into the heart of the wild with exhilarating safari experiences in renowned national parks like Kruger, Addo, and Hluhluwe-iMfolozi. Encounter Africa's iconic Big Five - lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinos - in their natural habitat, creating unforgettable memories on your South Africa tour package.

Cape Winelands Tour: Indulge in a sensory journey through the scenic Cape Winelands, where lush vineyards produce world-class wines. With our South Africa tour packages, enjoy wine tastings at acclaimed estates in Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl, accompanied by breathtaking views of the countryside.

Table Mountain Excursion: Ascend to the summit of Table Mountain via the iconic cable car ride, offering panoramic views of Cape Town and the surrounding coastline. With our South Africa tour packages, marvel at the natural beauty of this iconic landmark, capturing stunning photographs against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.

Robben Island Tour: Delve into South Africa's rich history with a visit to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was once imprisoned. Join a guided tour of the island, led by former political prisoners, and gain insights into the country's struggle for freedom and reconciliation.

Garden Route Exploration: Embark on a scenic journey along the Garden Route, a coastal stretch renowned for its natural beauty and diverse attractions. With our South Africa tour packages, discover charming towns like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and Tsitsikamma, where you can enjoy leisurely hikes, thrilling canopy tours, and scenic boat cruises.

Cultural Encounters: Immerse yourself in South Africa's vibrant culture with visits to historical landmarks, traditional villages, and local markets. With our South Africa tour packages, interact with diverse communities, sample authentic cuisine, and witness colorful performances that celebrate the country's rich heritage.

Cape Point Tour: Explore the rugged beauty of the Cape Peninsula with a tour to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. With our South Africa tour packages, marvel at dramatic coastal cliffs, encounter native wildlife, and visit the iconic Cape Point lighthouse, offering breathtaking views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

Victoria & Alfred Waterfront: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. With our South Africa tour packages, stroll along the bustling promenade, browse eclectic shops, dine at waterfront restaurants, and soak in panoramic views of Table Mountain and the harbor in our south africa tours

Blyde River Canyon Cruise: Cruise along the tranquil waters of the Blyde Dam in Mpumalanga, surrounded by the towering cliffs and lush vegetation of Blyde River Canyon. With our South Africa tour packages, enjoy a leisurely boat ride, spotting wildlife and marveling at breathtaking natural scenery.

Cultural Performances: Immerse yourself in the rhythms and traditions of South Africa with cultural performances that showcase the country's diverse heritage. With our South Africa tour packages, enjoy live music, dance, and storytelling, gaining insight into the rich tapestry of South African culture.

In conclusion, our latest South Africa tour packages offer a wealth of experiences that promise to create lasting memories for travelers of all interests. Whether you're embarking on a safari adventure, exploring the Cape Winelands, or immersing yourself in local culture, South Africa is sure to captivate your senses and leave you longing for more. So why wait? Book your south africa tours today and embark on an unforgettable journey through this captivating country.