Letters Home

As the aeroplane begins its descent, I find myself glued to the window. There it is! Table Mountain, rising above the Mother City, with the Atlantic shimmering beneath it. In an instant, emotions I didn’t expect arrive all at once: nostalgia, gratitude, excitement… and a quiet sadness.

Why Cape Town Never Stops Calling Me Home

For 27 years, this was home before we moved to Zurich. No matter how many times I return, Cape Town has a way of reminding me that some places never really let go of your heart. This visit is especially precious. We’re here to spend time with my adult sons, my sister, and her children. There is something deeply comforting about gathering around a table, sharing meals, laughing over old stories, and creating new memories together.

Living in Switzerland has introduced us to a wonderfully international community. Many of our friends have lived on several continents and are passionate travellers. Over the years, people have told me about their family holidays in South Africa. Almost without exception, they describe it as one of their children’s favourite destinations. They remember the dramatic landscapes, unforgettable wildlife, delicious food, and, above all, the warmth of the people.

Many friends dream of visiting South Africa but hesitate because of what they see on the news or social media. Their question is almost always the same: “Will we be safe?” My answer is simple: yes, with sensible planning and awareness, you can enjoy Cape Town with peace of mind.

Getting Around Cape Town Safely and Stress-Free

Cape Town isn’t simply a place you visit; it’s a place you experience. Around every corner is another breathtaking view, a hidden beach, a mountain trail, a vineyard or café inviting you to stay just a little longer.

Because the city is spread over a large area, getting around requires some planning. Unlike many European cities, public transport is limited. For convenience and peace of mind, I’d recommend using Uber or Bolt rather than renting a car. They’re affordable, reliable, and widely available, and they can help make getting around feel safer and less stressful.

One Uber journey became memorable for an entirely different reason. Curious about his background, I asked our driver where he was from. Before long, he was telling us about his family in Zimbabwe, the languages he speaks, and the hopes he has for his children. It reminded me that travel isn’t only about destinations; it’s about people. Sometimes the conversations between attractions become the memories that stay with us longest.

A favourite way to explore Cape Town is on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus. It removes the stress of driving while allowing you to enjoy the spectacular scenery with all your senses. With the wind in our hair and cameras in hand, we explored Groot Constantia, wandered through Hout Bay where seals played offshore as we enjoyed fish and chips. We ended the day watching the sun sink behind the Twelve Apostles mountain range in Camps Bay.

Where to Stay in Cape Town: Finding the Right Base

Choosing where to stay can shape an entire holiday. This time we chose Century City because it offered exactly what our family needed: security, convenience, and plenty to do for our young adult children.

Located just 15 to 25 minutes from Cape Town’s city centre, Century City combines modern living with beautiful green spaces. My nephew and niece, who live on a farm, especially loved exploring one of Africa’s largest shopping centres. Each morning began with my sister’s home-baked buttermilk rusks before we walked through the peaceful wetlands of nearby Intaka Island.

The Best Time to Visit Cape Town: Every Season Has Something Special

Winter may not be the obvious choice, but for us, it was. Flights and accommodation were cheaper, restaurants offered generous winter specials, and cool temperatures made sightseeing comfortable.

Every season has its own charm. Summer belongs to beach lovers, autumn is a favourite among locals for hiking and wine tasting, while spring transforms the Western Cape into a sea of wildflowers.

Cape Town’s Food Story: A Blend of Cultures and Flavours

One of the highlights for my 17-year-old son wasn’t a famous landmark. It was rather the abundance of affordable, high-quality meat and fresh seafood. Living in Switzerland, where meat is expensive, this felt like a luxury. My family are cattle farmers, so my sister surprised us with a cooler box filled with farm-fresh beef. Many evenings, our nephew grilled it on the apartment’s stoep while we lingered around the table long after dinner.

Cape Town tells its history through its food. As an important stop along the ancient spice route, the city became a meeting place of cultures, and nowhere is that more evident than around the dinner table.

The Warmth of South African Hospitality

Visitors often arrive for the scenery but return because of the people. The warmth in the air invites you to pause and settle in. Greetings come easily, conversations flow without effort, and laughter rises naturally. The place feels welcoming enough to relax into.

We’ve travelled to many beautiful places around the world, but nowhere have I experienced hospitality quite like South Africa’s. Visitors aren’t simply welcomed. They’re made to feel safe and that they belong.

The Unexpected Joy of Travelling Together

While travelling on the Hop-On Hop-Off bus, a young man asked whether he could spend the day sightseeing with us. At first, we were surprised, but we soon found ourselves sharing stories, taking photographs for one another, and laughing together like old friends.

Anthony had travelled from Ghana to attend a Hotel and Hospitality Expo in Cape Town. When he learned that my sister’s children hope to build careers in tourism, his face lit up as he shared his experiences and encouragement.

By the end of the day, I realised we’d gained far more than a travel companion. He reminded me that travelling together not only feels safer but often opens the door to the most meaningful connections. We boarded the bus as strangers and stepped off as friends.

Why I Hope More International Friends Will Discover South Africa

Whenever an international friend says, “I’d love to visit South Africa one day,” I smile. Because I already know what awaits them.

Some places impress you. Cape Town stays with you. Its people, its flavours and its light linger long after you’ve flown home.

I invite you to experience the city that shaped me and still feels like home. And when you step into the arrivals hall at Cape Town International, I hope I’ll be there, ready to welcome you.

Regards

Emsia