Live it up in three of South Africa’s most exciting cities
Cape Town
Day
Start the day at Arnold’s on Kloof Street; Cape Town’s most famous breakfast spot. This is where the city’s most fabulous denizens shrug off the effects of the night before with all-day breakfasts and Bloody Marys in the shade of Table Mountain. If you’re feeling brave, try the crocodile tagine or marinated warthog ribs.
Hop on a non-motorised, off-road ‘monster’ scooter for a novel way of exploring Table Mountain. These ‘scootours’ will have you freewheeling along the mountain’s dirt roads while taking in awesome views of the city below.
Night
For an evening of laughs, head out to The Pumphouse at the V&A Waterfront, home of the Cape Town Comedy Club — open Wednesdays to Sundays until late.
Try the Lion’s Head Full Moon Hike for something more energetic. The 2,200ft hike can take from 45 minutes to an hour, but allow extra time to marvel at Cape Town spread out below you in the moonlight.
If you’re in the mood for something that requires a little less endurance then the Galileo Open Air Cinema shows movies at a variety of rotating venues across the city.
Durban
Day
The Big Rush Big Swing at the Moses Mabhida World Cup Stadium is an exhilarating way to start the day. The Guinness Book of Records named it the tallest swing in 2011 but don’t let that scare you. It’s thrilling to swing from the arch above the stadium, which is shaped like the Y on the South African flag.
Not everyone fancies a 720ft jump before lunch. For those in search of the simpler pleasures get yourself a table with a sea view at Beach Bums. Located in an idyllic spot on Durban’s North Coast, the restaurant encourages you to take off your shoes and dig your toes into the sand. Best enjoyed with a jug or two of potent cocktails shared among friends.
Night
Florida Road in the city centre has long been the hub of nightlife in Durbz, with clubs galore offering live music every night. But there’s a new venue that’s got the youth vote. Founded by popular local rapper, Aewon Wolf, The Werehouse in South Beach showcases emerging young talent.
Head to the Chairman on Mahatma Gandhi Road for some smoking live jazz, great homegrown artwork and potent cocktails in a stunning, sophisticated venue. The spot is meticulously designed inside and out, and is emblematic of Durban’s pulsing energy and unique aesthetic.
Johannesburg
Day
Housed in a former parking lot, the Neighbourgoods Market becomes the beating heart of the city every Saturday. Locals and visitors alike flock here for amazing street food, pumping live music and unique designer clothes — and to just soak up the electric vibe. You could easily spend the entire day sampling food from around the world and browsing the wares
For foodies, the Taste of Yeoville is a pan-African food tour offering samples of delicious and authentic South African dishes, as well as tasty selections from local food markets. Come hungry.
Night
Head to the Keyes Art Mile in Rosebank, which is closed to cars on the first Thursday evening of each month and becomes a buzzing open-air market with food, drinks and street performances. Galleries showcasing contemporary artists are open late, and local artisans sell their work from street stalls.
For an aperitif, Sandton City is just a short drive away. Walk under the glittering chandeliers and past the designer stores to the San Deck rooftop where you can watch the sun set with a cocktail in hand. Then, dance the night away at Harem, a high-end super-club featuring some of the continent’s hottest DJs.
