Bo-Kaap
We recently returned from the most wonderful holiday we've ever taken. It was a long haul for sure, a total of 10,000 miles each way, but the long flight was worth every hour we spent squashed in coach. The minute we landed on African soil we were enchanted (although our neighbor on the flight between London and Cape Town tried to convince us otherwise - blacks, danger, crime!) We didn't listen to a word he said and instead enjoyed the most relaxing, fun, beautiful, and adventurous vacation we've ever had. This trip was a long time in planning (well mostly, saving, talking, and dreaming) until we finally made all the arrangements 2 months before. And to think JSM tried to talk me out of it a couple times......word on the street is he wants that place to be more than just a vacation spot! 2 weeks in Cape Town and we are in love......with each other, of course (2 weeks with no TV does a lot for a 6-year marriage) and with the most amazing city in the world.
Our first stop was The Grand Daddy Hotel's rooftop trailer park. What a delight! We were in the Goldilocks trailer and it was.......as you guessed it, just right! With the most comfortable bed ever (maybe it was the 25+ hours of travel time) and the coldest air conditioning.....love! It was charming, too....
The evening we arrived I was reunited with one of my favorite people of all time, my college friend, CWDB. Now, I'm not the only one who thinks he's great, so does JSM! We met at Brewers & Union for beer, snacks and an outdoor area that rivaled any brewery in the contiguous US. In fact, for a minute I forgot I were even in Africa. Seeing someone you associate with Tallahassee after 15 years will do that to you. It was as if no time had passed.....he's still kind, funny, and a fantastic person. (He also has a lovely girlfriend who you'll meet later....)
The next day, we checked into our "House in the Sky", an apartment we rented on Air B&B from the most beautiful, awesome couple we've ever met. Nicky and Bryan were amazing hosts providing us with a fabulously stylish place to stay with floor to ceiling sliders, a view all the way to Robben Island, and a list of must-see restaurants, beaches, and wineries.
our bedroom
bedroom #2
the living room
the view....
The next day, I surprised my sweet JSM with a little boy fantasy in the form of a Replica AC Cobra that we drove down to Cape Point, SA. It was THE most scenic drive we've ever taken together and a fantastic way to spend an afternoon. I love a convertible and it's especially fun in one of these things! If you want to look like a million dollars, feel like a celebrity, or generally attract attention wherever you go, rent one! But, don't forget your sunscreen. I didn't, but I did forget to put it on the back of my neck. Did I mention that South Africa has the bluest sky and hottest sun I've ever experienced? I realized that once we got home....
Heading out of town....
Our heads got cut off, but our hearts were in the right place ;)
Stunning view!
We stopped at Boulder's Beach to see the Jackass Penguins....so adorable!
Along the drive....
Wouldn't mind living on the top of that hill....
We stopped at Muizenberg to see some waves and the oldest surf shop in Cape Town (as per JSM's request, of course!)
Sunset in Cape Town
The fourth day we finally got in a little beach time. It was well-deserved and a long time in coming. Now that we live in the pacific northwest the beach experience is very different: no beach towels, books, or bathing suits. They've been replaced with hoodies, jeans, and jackets! Thankfully, South Africa offered hot sun, blue skies, and plenty of beach umbrellas to shield my precious skin (and lots of SPF!) What Cape Town does lack? A place to buy a bikini by cup size. Seriously. And to think.....I was told that South Africa was the land of blonde chicks with big breasts. Ha - what a disappointment! (For the record, this girl can't buy off the rack and I finally found one.....only ONE in my size. And now, I own it - sorry, ladies!) Too bad I don't have many places to wear it....I guess that means we'll just have to go back!
Proof I actually went to the beach - haha!! I try to stay OUT of the sun most of the time....
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