Cape Town

“So, how safe is Cape Town?”

The taxi driver laughed when I asked him this, and pointed out that a man was hacked to death by extremists in London not so long ago. “You should be more worried about living in the UK.”

I’m not so sure about that, but yes, Cape Town certainly seems and feels safer than South Africa’s general reputation would have you believe. It is low season here at the moment, and I have been really lucky with the weather, and so it has been a really pleasant place to start my trip.

South African people seem to be very proud of their friendly culture, with everyone I meet being more than happy to help me and people are always very warm. It feels very welcoming.

Of course, you must be sensible in the area. I am aware of the gang crime and the fact people begging may be affiliated to these gangs. I also know that pickpockets are very clever and you ought to be careful of the mini cabs as, like most places, some people are out to extract as much money as possible from the tourists.

All of these things netted together display for me how tourism in the area works. There are tour companies willing to cut corners and out to rip you off, but there also many that are very honest, looking to help you and find you the best deal, even if this means directing you to an alternate company and losing the sale. Mile by Mile Tours (http://www.milebymile.co.za/) is one such company, and during my interviews with Ndonona (who was incredibly well informed and equally as lovely) I gained an insight into the way things worked in Cape Town.

He believes that tourism is a sustainable way for countries in Africa in general, including South Africa, to develop, saying that the old model of industrialisation for development is becoming out dated and is unsuitable for newly developing countries. Instead of trying to compete in manufacturing for example, South Africa should advertise its beauty to international tourists to generate income. It was really enlightening talking to someone who clearly cares so much about the way the country is developing, but also with a concern for the environment and had informed opinions on how industries should be moving forward. Needless to say the interview went on longer than I intended!

His ideas are supported by the statistic that for every eight tourists, there is one job in Cape Town, which was kindly told to me by the owners of the hostel Atlantic Point (http://www.atlanticpoint.co.za). When interviewing Tim and James, the attitudes towards the environment of people who grow up and live in South Africa helps to explain the way business is subsequently practiced. However, they also described how the backpackers who visit the hostel share their respect for the environment, suggesting room for ecotourism to grow in this sector of the market.

They were also responsible for an amazing Braai (South African BBQ) in which there was loads of people, loads of food including ostrich meat, and loads of really fond memories made. Thank you very much Tim and James, all of the staff and top guests who made it a golden night! If ever I could feel the warmth of South Africa, it was here.