Cape Town: West Side & City Centre with a Local

Starting in the Bo Kaap, the cobblestoned streets are filled with brightly coloured houses, unique architecture, mosques, and the temptations offered by the spice shop. Three centuries Cape Malay history, Islam at the Cape, and the modern-day debates on gentrification in this area. We move on to some of the lesser-known heritage sites. It is hard to imagine that you will find the oldest vine in South Africa, tucked away in a courtyard. The Slave church reveals stories about enslaved lives, and the role of European missionaries arriving in the early 19th century. The influences by the different occupations at the Cape, the discovery of diamonds and gold and the political apartheid system reflect in the variety of architecture and memorial art we will see on route. Last stop, the first landscaped garden in South Africa. Tour is around three hours at a pace comfortable to you with and there will be opportunities for refreshments on route.

After we meet, we will cover the following spots: Bo Kaap Musuem: enter for around 15 minutes Bo Kaap: brief walking tour of the area (for around 20 minutes) Heritage Square: historical buildings and the oldest vine in South Africa Long street: a mix of two centuries of architecture Greenmarket Square: African market for curios and craft, The Town House (18th century Cape Dutch Administration building, and the Methodist Church (ask me about the silent bell). Slave Lodge: enter and learn about the history of enslaved lives at the Cape. St George's Cathedral: Archbishop Desmond Tutu Parliament Buildings Company Gardens: the oldest landscaped garden in South Africa, historically used to grow fruit and vegetables to supply passing ships. Ask me to show you our Champion Tree. War memorials: the role of South Africans in world wars I & II Please note: on Saturdays the churches are closed, on Sundays the museums and churches are closed.