Western Cape Tips

1) Trips on Table Mountain Aerial Cableway start at 8am and end as late as 9.30pm, but these times vary seasonally and are weather-dependent. Check on the day by calling the information line on +27 (0)21 424 8181. Be prepared that if you go up and the cable car shuts, you'll need to make your way down. If you haven't booked in advance, the tip is go on line get your ticket there and then it saves the queue!

2) Whale watching: For the best land-based whale watching in the world, try the Cape Overberg coast from Stony Point near Betty’s Bay, along the Kleinmond cliffs and at Onrus and Hermanus between June and November.

3) The best way to see Cape Town is by taking a guided, open-top bus trip that includes the V&A Waterfront, Table Mountain and Camps Bay, among many other landmarks. Even the wineland tours! Just don't miss your bus home like I did. Blame the wine.

4) Langebaan on the West Coast has a tidal lagoon that attracts thousands of migratory birds and is also covered in flowers in spring (late August and September).

5) If you decide to hike up Table Mountain, go in a group and always let someone know which route you intend taking. As with Lions Head and Signal Hill - both well worth it if Table Mountain is a little too hard.

6) If you take the cableway to the top of Table Mountain, take a warm jacket because the weather is prone to change unexpectedly, with sudden drops in temperature common.

7) Beautiful as they are, Western Cape beaches sometimes have strong undertows, so always swim in designated areas, never swim alone, and listen to lifeguards’ instructions. It's not known as the Windy City for nothing! Be aware of the sun the wind is deceiving south the temperature.

8) Through interaction with humans, some baboons in the Cape have become opportunistic thieves and scavengers. Keep all food hidden and never feed these animals as they can be treacherous.

9) Download Uber. Unless it's a bus or tour that's all you should get into during your stay in SA.

10) Longstreet is known for the parties when dark. Stay safe by avoiding walking alone and take Ubers. Cape Town feels very safe, lots of families during the day and police presence.

You'll fall madly in love with this mother city. My favourite place in the world. City, mountains, green and sea!

If you're thinking of going, please contact me. I'm a Certified South African Specialist and have experience visiting too so can book you a safe, memorable trip - you won't want to leave!

You're in safe hands!

Shara