Selene Brophy

When the air fills with the scent of incense and the soft glow of clay lamps lights up homes across the Cape, it’s a sure sign of celebration. For many South Africans of Indian heritage, that might mean Diwali, honouring Lord Rama and the triumph of light over darkness. Others who follow Lord Shiva, Karthigai Deepam holds special meaning — a time to light lamps in his honour, offer prayers, and share in the joy of sweet meats that symbolise light and renewal. Though these two celebrations fall on different dates and honour different deities, they share one beautiful thing: an abundance of mithai — those irresistible Indian sweets made with ghee, milk, sugar, and love. From syrupy jalebi to creamy burfi, Cape Town’s Indian confectioners have perfected the art of making every festive moment a little sweeter.

Christmas is coming, and Cape Town is getting ready to turn up the festive cheer - especially when it's listed as one of the best places to visit for Christmas in the world. Whether you're after a free family outing, a traditional carols concert or an evening of Christmas classics with a glass of wine, plenty is happening across the Mother City. Where can I see Christmas lights in Cape Town in 2026? Cape Town's festive season officially kicks off on Sunday, 29 November 2026, with the free Festive Lights Switch-On at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street. It's one of the city's biggest Christmas celebrations, with live music, entertainment and thousands of Capetonians joining the festivities. Other popular spots to enjoy Christmas lights and festive cheer include the V&A Waterfront and the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden - although some 2026 festive programmes are still to be confirmed, we'll keep updating until we're in full swing for Dezemba!  For Christmas carols, look out for concerts at Ratanga Park in Century City, St George's Cathedral and Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek.  So, read on for our detailed guide to some of the best festive lights and carols events to add to your calendar, with more celebrations to be announced. RECOMMENDED:  🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🍕 The best pizza in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town This guide was written b

There's something about the colour purple. Blessed, in the words of Alice Walker, and certainly rooted in the beauty of a jacaranda tree. I've always loved the colour and the tree-lined streets of Pretoria for that reason.   Living in Cape Town, where planting new jacarandas is restricted, means I can't simply go into my garden and wait for that glorious springtime display, even though I would very much love one! My mom lived in Pretoria and worked for the Swedish Embassy for more than a decade, so visiting her during the city's annual purple takeover was always super special for me. Earlier this year, Japan, one of the world's most popular tourist destinations with its remarkable cherry blossom festival, implemented cancellations due to overtourism. Experiences rooted in nature remain massive drawcards for travellers the world over.  So, I can only wonder about this kind of first-world problem for Japan, when a country as beautiful and expansive as South Africa is home to an equally phenomenal flower spectacle. Adding to the perplexity of it all is that we only just exceeded our pre-COVID visitor numbers last year, setting a new record of over 10 million travellers.  Last year Japan welcomed a whopping 42.7 million international visitors. That's closer to our entire 63+million population, and nearly a third of theirs. The fascination with this island country hasn't slowed in 2026 either, with the destination being a prized passport stamp for any self-respecting wanderer.  IC

Cape Town is a rewarding family holiday destinations, packed with activities for kids of all ages, especially during the warmer spring and summer seasons, which is when the Mother City truly comes into her own. With golden beaches, dramatic natural landscapes and a relaxed outdoor lifestyle, the city offers families the freedom to slow down, reconnect and explore together.  From barefoot beach days and wildlife encounters to leafy parks, creative play spaces and ocean adventures, families can mix free, budget-friendly outings with a few memorable spoils. Whether your children's idea of fun is building sandcastles, spotting penguins, riding bikes, cooking up a storm or discovering life beneath the waves - there are options aplently. Nature is never far away in the Mother City, and it forms the backdrop to many of its best family experiences. Mountain trails, coastal boardwalks, urban parks and world-class reserves invite children to burn off energy while sparking curiosity about the natural world. At the same time, Cape Town’s vibrant city heart adds a playful edge, with harbours, boat rides, sporting hubs and interactive attractions keeping young minds engaged. Together, these experiences make Cape Town an effortless choice for a family holiday. So, if you’re wondering what to do with the kids in Cape Town, read on. There’s a magnetic mix of fantastic free activities, budget-friendly outings under R250, and a few special spoils for those once-in-a-holiday treats. 

Over the past half-decade or so, much has changed in the way we live, work and play in our cities. It wasn’t too long ago that lockdowns rendered the city centre all but obsolete and brought to the fore the vital role of our immediate neighbourhoods and communities.  Now, the balance has been restored. Our local neighbourhood remains fundamental: mini-villages where the barista knows your order, where local restaurants, bars and indie businesses thrive, and where communities continue to band together for all sorts of cool stuff, from art walks and day festivals to creating greener streets and pedestrian-friendly spaces. And six years on from the pandemic, the city centre is seeing a renaissance, with brand-new music venues, galleries, coffee shops and more opening up and welcoming a new generation of hybrid workers and the back-to-the-office crowd (and, of course, city-breakers and tourists).  On this year’s list of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods, you’ll see this mix play out. There are downtown hubs and seaside strips, homely enclaves and warehouse districts, all nominated by our global network of on-the-ground experts. This lucky lot spends their time exploring every corner of their hometowns to discover the best places to eat, drink, shop and hang out right now, so you can trust we know what we’re talking about. To decide the final ranking, a panel of Time Out editors vetted each neighbourhood against a range of criteria, including food and drink, nightlife, unique loc

Every year, we create a definitive ranking of the world’s greatest cities for eating and drinking. The aim is to celebrate the chefs, kitchens and street food stalls that feed the city, bringing locals and visitors together to savour life’s one greatest pleasure: an excellent meal. So, how is the list decided? This year, Time Out’s Best Cities for Food with Intrepid Travel was created on the back of a survey of more than 24,000 locals, based all around the world. We asked them to rate the overall quality of the food scene where they live, how affordable it is to eat out and the food spots they believe their city does best.  We then paired their thousands of responses with the insight of Time Out’s expert food panel – editors and food critics from across Time Out’s network – who voted for the cities they think are the most exciting dining destinations on the planet right now. Only the highest-scoring city in each country made the final 20, ensuring our list reflects culinary capitals globally.  As our list demonstrates, it’s a very fun time to be eating out in the city right now. Restaurants from Lisbon to Lima are serving up some of the most striking, daring and downright delicious plates of food you can find. On the menu? Satsuma creamsicles in New York, fish bone noodles in Copenhagen and fancy phở in Ho Chi Minh. There’s fine-dining in Melbourne and ‘fun dining’ in Cape Town, food trends from sandwich crazes to elevated tacos, and coffee and cocktail scenes well worth trav

Here at Time Out, we love all hotels equally: the flashy five-stars, the cool boutiques, the well-thought-out budget stays. But some are, undoubtedly, better looking than others. Whether ‘beautiful’ to you is a secluded jungle lodge or an eco-cool city stay, a kitschy motel or a reawakened royal residence, we’ve got them all on this list (and then some).  Now, it goes without saying that any list of the world’s most beautiful hotels is entirely subjective and by no means exhaustive. But what we can offer is real-life experience: every place on this list has been visited by one of Time Out’s editors, writers and hotel experts. From Punjab to Palermo, California to Costa Rica, we can guarantee that each hotel packs serious wow factor, and you’ll have an excellent stay at them all.  The world’s most beautiful hotels at a glance 🏰 Best heritage hotel: Ashford Castle  ⛰️ Best for show-stopping scenery: The Hiramatsu Karuizawa Miyota 🌺 Most beautiful gardens and grounds: Four Seasons Hotel Firenze 🎨 Best for avant-garde art and design: Jackalope Hotel 👑 Best for all-out maximalism: The Fifth Avenue Hotel 🏊 Most beautiful pool: The Phoenicia Malta 🏙️ Most beautiful city-centre hotel: Le Pavillon de la Reine How did we choose the world’s most beautiful hotels?  Our global team of editors, writers and hotel experts spend a lot of their time reviewing hotels in their corner of the world. Every hotel on this list has been selected for a reason: show-stopping scenery, beautiful i

Cape Town’s food scene has become one of the most exciting reflections of the city's multicultural, slightly chaotic approach (in the best way) to seasonal winter flavours.Across the city, chefs are drawing on Japanese ramen bars, Thai spice markets, East Asian small plates, Italian comfort food, African coastal ingredients and Cape nose-to-tail cooking - while still grounding their menus in local produce.  One minute, you could be slurping deeply savoury ramen on Bree Street at Yatai, the next you’re eating Thai-inspired winter dishes at Chefs Warehouse at Beau Constantia. Settle into the rich simplicity of Giorgio Nava’s silky Chicken Alfredo from Carne (winter comfort in a bowl!). The ocean flavours and African storytelling at Seebamboes and COY are inspirational. While the bottomless bubbles will fire up your Sundays at The Pot Luck Club. Equally enticing is how confidently Cape Town chefs are blurring the line between fine dining and comfort food. At Test Kitchen Fledgelings, Korean fried chicken sits comfortably alongside smoked snoek pâté and bone marrow brioche. The Belly of the Beast Group is giving East City’s ever-evolving food culture life, where menus are driven less by rigid structure and more by the seasonal intention for that particular day. The results are a winter menu offerings that take risks without losing its local food instinct or dialect! So go on, be adventurous - don't just stick to your favourites. Try something different with menu specials catering

Sadly, Bafana Bafana have crashed out of the 2026 World Cup tournament. Hardlines boys, you did us proud.   If 2010 taught us anything (and as many South Africans will happily remind you), it's that football gees hits differently. Sixteen years after hosting the world's biggest sporting event, Bafana Bafana were back on football's grandest stage and through to the Group 32 stages - the first time any South African soccer team had made it that far in the history of the tournament.   Canada beat our boys on Sunday, 28 June, in extra time, to send Mzansi out of the World Cup tournament.  WHERE TO WATCH: Best Spots for Live Sports Event Gees in Cape Town View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Cape Town (@timeout.capetown) Your 2026 FIFA World Cup Planning Guide Whether you're a lifelong football fan or someone who only starts paying attention when South Africa is involved, now is the time to start planning your World Cup experience.  The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the biggest in history, expanding from 32 to 48 teams and featuring a record 104 matches across three host nations. Where is it taking place? For the first time ever, the tournament will be hosted by three countries: United States Canada Mexico The opening match takes place at the legendary Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, while the final will be played at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey, USA. When does it start? The tournament kicks off on 11 June 2026 and concludes with the f

Bafana Bafana’s World Cup hopes have come crashing down in the extra time minutes of their match against co-hosts Canada.  After earning a crucial draw against Czechia, Bafana Bafana headed into the final group-stage match knowing that a win would secure a place in the knockout stages. The stakes couldn’t have been higher. But it was not meant to be. Hardlines Bafana, you did us proud!  Still, the tournament showcasing the beautiful game continues. Here's where you can continue to catch all the World Cup action.

Cape Town loves its rugby almost as much as its sundowners, and when the Bokke take to the field, the city transforms into one giant fan zone.  Of course, there is also soccer and cricket, all bringing their own legendary following to a big screen near you.  From buzzy beer halls and family-friendly pubs to seaside taverns, there’s no shortage of spots to soak up the gees and cheer on the green and gold. We’ve rounded up the best venues to catch every scrum, hat-trick or LBW!  SEE: Where to eat and drink near Cape Town Stadium  

Winter weekends were made for red wine, good conversation and discovering your next favourite bottle. The Time Out Market Cape Town continues to be a local favourite for bringing all three together, with its monthly Winter Wine Series. It's a relaxed afternoon of tasting that puts some of the Western Cape's most exciting producers under one roof. Running on the last Saturday of every month from June to September, the event transforms the Market's studio into a wine lover's playground, where you can sip your way through a curated selection of wineries while soaking up the all buzz of the V&A Waterfront.  The next tasting takes place on Saturday, June 27, bringing together producers from some of the Western Cape's most celebrated wine regions, including Stellenbosch and Paarl, Robertson, and the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley. "Cape Town's wine culture is one of the things that makes this city so special, and our Winter Wine Series is all about bringing a fantastic mix of established favourites and boutique producers togehter to give guests the chance to discover different regions, along with the stories behind the wines, right here in the heart of the V&A Waterfront," says Sivu Nobo, Time Out Market Cape Town's Events Co-ordinator.    "It's essentially a wine route without the driving. Just award-winning wines, great food and a fantastic atmosphere overlooking this unique harbour." So what can you look forward to at Saturday's event? Rijks, Tulbagh One of Tulbagh's most acclaime

The scenic drive from Cape Town’s windy West Coast towards the lush ridges of the Southern Suburbs and Steenberg Farm is always beautiful, barring any peak-hour traffic.  Checking into the hotel itself takes that sense of retreat to another level.  It is close enough to reach without surrendering half your weekend to the road - but you feel well removed from the bustle of the city. Within minutes of arriving, the mental clutter of a busy working week begins to soften.  At least, that was the plan.  An urgent work deadline meant my pre-arranged site inspection suddenly had to be moved. Dinner also needed to be reshuffled, as my partner was also running late due to M3 traffic.  None of it appeared to fluster the Steenberg team, though. Plans were calmly adjusted, reservations moved and alternatives found. No request felt like too much trouble.  That flexibility became one of the defining features of my stay.  Why stay at Steenberg?  Steenberg offers that rare Cape Town combination: a Winelands escape without the lengthy drive to Stellenbosch, Paarl or Franschhoek (all worth it in their own right, but the stone's throw does make Steenberg an exceptionally convenient choice).  Set beneath the Steenberg Mountains in the Constantia Valley, the estate brings together a five-star hotel, spa, winery, two restaurants and an 18-hole championship golf course. You could check in, park the car and spend the entire weekend without leaving the farm.  There is also far more to the property th

The Pink Lady, the grand dame of Cape Town, that's the Mount Nelson, adding a timeless space to Cape Town's hospitality. Long after trends come and go, the Mount Nelson continues to embody a kind of old-world allure that feels uniquely its own. Beneath its striking pink façade, generations have gathered for baby shower afternoon teas, weddings, milestone celebrations and memorable dinners. Tucked away inside the hotel, Amura extends the latter to the tee.   On a recent visit to sample the restaurant's new winter menu, it became clear that Amura has settled into itself. The fanfare of its December 2025 opening has deepened into something more confident and considered. In the past few months, the restaurant has hosted industry events, welcomed visiting chefs, and drawn plenty of attention since opening, but this visit felt like the first opportunity to properly experience what it intends to be as one of the main dining experiences of the Nellie. Others, of course, include The Red Room by Chef's Warehouse and The Oasis Restuarant.  ALSO SEE: Alain Roux and Ángel León are cooking together in Cape Town The Background Amura is the first restaurant outside Spain from internationally acclaimed chef Ángel León, widely known as "El Chef del Mar" for his pioneering work with marine ingredients at his celebrated Andalusian 3-Michelin-starred restaurant Aponiente. The restaurant occupies the space formerly known as The Colony Restaurant, a fixture of Cape Town fine dining through much of

Sushiya is a restaurant greater than the sum of its parts. While chef Peter Tempelhoff – also behind Ramenhead at Time Out Market Cape Town – and chef Shin Takagi – owner of a two-star Michelin restaurant in Kanazawa, Japan – are both hugely accomplished chefs and restaurateurs in their own right, when they decided to collaborate on a new restaurant, greatness was pretty much guaranteed.  READ: Sushiya x Stickman collab brings the fire! Sushiya at Time Out Market Cape Town takes the shape of an upscale 'sushi shop', offering authentic yet contemporary Japanese sushi. The menu is made up of small dishes with classic pickled and preserved Japanese-style vegetables, a variety of modern nigiri platters, a platter of maki, and temaki and gunkan maki infused with local and classic Japanese flavours. Beyond the considered cuisine, Tempelhoff and Takagi also use Sushiya to showcase their dedication to sustainable sourcing, craftsmanship and tradition.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time Out Market Cape Town (@timeoutmarketcapetown) SUSHIYA MENU   Temaki Hand RollsWhite Fish Ceviche - Tempura nori, ponzu dressing, red onions, avocado, cucumber R145Yellowfin Tuna Chives, miso egg puree, crispy onion R185  Sashimi Mixed4 pieces R1658 pieces R310 Uramaki Inside-out Rolls Prawn California Roll R190 (8pcs)Tiger prawn, avocado, lime, katsuoboshi flakes, spring onion  Zesty Roll Seared R180 (8pcs) tuna, zesty mayo, amazuzuke onion, avocado, rocket leav

Perched on the marina at the landmark Cape Grace Hotel, the Bascule Bar has long attracted everyone from whisky collectors and business moguls to curious travellers looking for a nightcap. Following a relaunch in 2024, the space has traded some of its old-world whisky den energy for a slightly more contemporary vibe. And while prevailing smoking legislation has changed the approach to savouring some of the exceptional bottles on offer sans cigar in hand, the space remains an authentic draw. The Vibe Walk into the Bascule on any given evening and you'll find a fascinating mix of locals and visitors sharing stories over drams. Case in point: the Morris brothers.  For more than 20 years, the trio have made the Bascule bar their unofficial meeting room. Through ownership changes, renovations and evolving whisky trends, they've kept returning to the same bar overlooking the yachts. What makes their story even more interesting is that when the bar entered its latest chapter, the hotel's team didn't simply reinvent the space and hope for the best. "We were asked, 'How can we make this into something that would be more appealing to you?' They didn't just dismiss us. They knew we'd had a long history with the Bascule," the brothers shared with me.   And it's this sense of continuity that gives the Bascule a genuine community spirit. As one of the brothers puts it, "Guests have often joined us. They come to meet locals. And we enjoy sharing our whisky."   Which brings me to the Bascu

Seebamboes sits somewhat hidden above sister restaurant Galjoen, on Harrington Street. But make no mistake, this 16-seat restaurant has staked its claim by taking the familiar idea of surf and turf and seriously turning it on its head. There are unexpected flavour combos, with seaweed served alongside meaty flavours that leave a lingering richness on your lips. Named after Ecklonia maxima - the giant indigenous kelp lining the Western Cape coastline - Seebamboes translates to “sea bamboo.” This restaurant feels entirely connected to the ocean landscapes that have inspired its creative culinary team. The result is a striking menu of small plates that doesn't lose sight of being nourishing, while establishing it as one of the city's most distinctive dining experiences. The Backstory Seebamboes forms part of The Belly Restaurant Group, the hospitality collective founded by Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart - the duo behind Belly of the Beast and Galjoen.   What makes the group particularly interesting is its deliberate resistance to scale. None of their restaurants seats more than 35 guests, and all sit within two city blocks in Cape Town’s East City Precinct. Together, they’ve helped transform Harrington Street into an exciting culinary hub.   At Seebamboes, chef Adèl Hughes - who previously cooked at Galjoen and alongside Kobus van der Merwe of Wolfgat fame - leads the kitchen with confidence. Sustainability underpins everything both at Seebamboes and Galjoen, from locally foraged

Many things can prompt a recollection of a particular time in your life. Smell is a particularly powerful one.    I recently noticed a foul smell in the air over our West Coast neighbourhood and remarked that it smelled like tear gas. The fact that I had teargas as a point of reference was funny to my family, at first. But it stirred a memory of the Apartheid-era riots I experienced growing up on the Cape Flats, back in the eighties. Just a few days later, I would watch Rise 76, further stoking the uneasy power of these memories and making Tiisetso Mashifane wa Noni’s new production profoundly arresting. This play does not simply ask you to remember June 16, 1976. It hits uncomfortably hard, reminding us how close that history still sits beneath our skin.   Marking the 50th anniversary of the Soweto student uprising, Rise ’76: The Story of June 16 takes you to Molefe Secondary. In this fictional Soweto school, learners, teachers, and parents are pushed to the breaking point by being forced to use Afrikaans as the medium of instruction. What begins as black consciousness and progressive, thought-provoking incitement through poetry outside the classroom's walls soon gathers momentum into the terrible force of that historic day. Mashifane wa Noni, a two-time Fleur du Cap-winning playwright and director, avoids the broad textbook version of the uprising. Instead, she works in smaller, sharper moments by depicting a student meeting, a teacher’s fear, a mother’s grief, the bodies

At The Wes Bistro & Bar, winter is making a theatrical and somewhat indulgent statement. The newly launched winter set menu leans into classic French comfort, wrapped in a setting that feels pulled straight out of The Grand Budapest Hotel film.  The Backstory Megan Kritzinger has built her name on instinct as much as intention. After growing Stellski’s into a Bree Street staple, she’s carved out something more personal with The Wes.  Positioned beneath The Trade Boutique Hotel, the restaurant opened at the end of 2024 as the hotel's breakfast bistro. It carries a distinct identity by design. As Kritzinger puts it, there simply couldn’t be two Stellskis. Instead, The Wes draws from her time in Nice and a clear love of French bistro culture. It’s less about replication and more about interpretation, filtered through a playful lens - more specifically, the lens of celebrated American film-maker Wes Anderson. Vibe The immediate pull is visual. It’s Wes Anderson-coded in the best way: pastel-drenched, symmetrical, slightly surreal. A central fountain anchors the space, alongside a chic cocktail bar, while curved banquette and parquet floors lean into old-world glamour. It’s the kind of dinner spot that inspires you to dress up a little more. Not to be pretentious, but in a “lean into the moment” kind of way, and that adds to the fun.  The Food In addition to its all-day breakfast, the bistro offers an à la carte French-inspired menu. Its winter set menu (R495per person) is a tight

A genuinely thoughtful seafood experience built entirely around responsibly caught South African produce. Named after the country’s national fish, Galjoen sits on Harrington Street in the East City Precinct, bringing an intimate, sustainability-led approach focused on what comes from our surrounding coastal regions. No Norwegian salmon, or Vietnamese prawns here! Instead, you'll find fresh local fish, shellfish and foraged sea vegetables sourced from a tight network of suppliers that fit the bill for responsibly sourced. The menu also shifts constantly, giving diners something new to look forward to each time.   The Backstory Harrington Street is having a moment. Once a gritty edge of the CBD, it now hums with galleries, boutiques and the promises of culinary excellence. If anything is challenging Bree Street’s dominance, it’s here, as the East City Precinct continues to reinvent itself.  At the centre of that shift is the Belly Restaurant Group, led by chef duo Anouchka Horn and Neil Swart. Between Belly of the Beast, Galjoen and the intimate Seebamboes, they’ve created a tight cluster of deeply South African concepts.  Head chef Isca Viljoen, who came up through some of Cape Town’s best kitchens, shares that philosophy completely. “Local is lekker” isn’t a tagline for her either; it’s the foundation of what the team is crafting at Galjoen. Viljoen and team treat local seafood as the entire point of your dining experience. And she's also making a convincing case for why

Brookdale's Bistro sits at the heart of the Brookdale Estate, where vines stretch towards the dramatic Drakenstein Mountains in views that just beg you to you exhale and unwind. Over the past three years, the estate's restuarant has earned its reputation for thoughtful wines and a casual, yet refined, dining style that showcases the best of the region. Helmed by executive chef Gary Coetzee, the restaurant recently earned recognition from Eat Out Woolworths Restaurant Awards, placing it among the country’s most notable dining spots.  The backstory Brookdale Estate with its Manor House and the recently launched Owner’s Lodge sit snugly on these 67 hectares of working farmland. The Rudd family acquired the once-overgrown farm in 2017 and has steadily transformed it into a polished Winelands destination known for its expressive wines and thoughtful hospitality. And just a short stroll from these luxurious stays sits Brookdale's Bistro - a relaxed, ingredient-led restaurant where the vineyards outside the window naturally find their way onto the table. The vibe The thing I love about dining at a wine estate’s bespoke restaurant is that the wine and food feel effortlessly paired, without the full theatre (or occasional pressure) of a formal wine pairing. At Brookdale’s Bistro, the synergy simply exists in a tasteful evening celebrating delicious flavours. The dining room leans towards a refined, yet casual experience. Think vineyard views, warm service and the sort of atmosphere th

The resounding “voetsak” (go away) bellowed during a scene by Awethu Hleli, who plays Emma in this reimagining of Russian playwright Anton Chekhov’s The Seagull, leaves little doubt that the dark comedy lands squarely in South African territory.  Now showing at the Baxter Theatre Centre, Aaron Posner's Stupid F'ing Bird proves that Chekhov’s century-old observations about human behaviour remain entirely relatable. Timeless human desires Director Maria Weisby’s interpretation emphasises that, while the world has changed dramatically since Chekhov wrote The Seagull in the late 19th century, human longing has not. Everyone in this story is searching for something. Whether it be recognition, success or affection, almost no one finds it where they expect.  Loneliness, as portrayed in the production, suggests it's not an individual struggle but a shared social condition. In a world increasingly connected, yet emotionally distant, the play lands with surprise immediacy and engagement - even as the audience is directly solicited for ways the scenes should unfold and a delightful turn that somehow personalises the overall experience of watching the play even further.  A collision of relatable characters Centred on a young playwright, Con, played by Nirel Sithole, who is desperate to breathe new life into the theatre. Each actor in The Baxter's Fires Burning Company approaches their role with such convincing verve that the inevitable collision of each character's flaws becomes all the

The Cape Winelands isn’t short on luxury stays, but now and then something arrives that simply raises the bar.   The newly launched Owner's Lodge at Brookdale Estate in Paarl is one of those. Perched on a secluded hill on the 67-hectare estate, this exclusive-use villa feels less like a hotel and more like a beautifully run private home. The kind where your mornings begin with birdsong and vineyard views, and evenings end around a long dining table with good wine and even better company.  The Rudd family bought Brookdale in 2017 when it was little more than an overgrown parcel of land. Fast-forward to today, and the estate has transformed into a polished Winelands destination, known for its fine wines and rated for its new-world boldness.  And after spending the night in the newly built Owner's Lodge, this feels like its most intimate offering yet.  Why stay at Brookdale Estate Owner's Lodge? The Owner's Lodge is perfect for a milestone trip, a multi-generational family gathering or a celebratory getaway with friends. The space lends itself so well to a relaxed break, where unwinding is the aim. The villa accommodates up to eight guests on an all-inclusive basis, with a private chef, butler and a steady flow of Brookdale wines included.  I also see this as an excellent pause in a longer Southern Africa itinerary. After a safari in Kruger or time exploring the Okavango Delta in Botswana, this is the sort of place where you would want to slow down and savour the afterglow of wh

If you’re looking for a light, entertaining night out, Pretty Woman: The Musical is a sure bet. But you'd better move, as the production opened to sold-out performances for its opening week of its Cape Town run.   The smash-hit stage adaptation of the beloved 1990 rom-com - running at the Artscape Opera House until 19 April before heading to Johannesburg's Monte Casino - draws plenty of enthusiasm from the crowd. And it’s easy to see why.   This is comfort theatre at its most polished: familiar, fun and super nostalgic. The production leans into what audiences love most! Snappy one-liners lifted straight from the original film, big romantic moments and a Bryan Adams and Jim Vallance score that’s easy on the ears. You’ll find yourself swaying along more than once.   There’s a strong sense of '90s nostalgia throughout - from ring-dial telephones to Beverly Hills excess - all wrapped in glossy set design. The slick lighting and seamless scene changes are on point to keep you engaged with the storyline, even when you already know exactly how it ends. Performances that carry the charm Christopher Jaftha brings effortless charisma to Edward Lewis, delivering a performance that balances suave confidence with just enough vulnerability as he weaves between the detached bachelor and crooning lines of Something About Her. Opposite him, Leah Mari shines as Vivian Ward, bringing the required depth to her role while still snappily infusing it with relatable, real street-smart quips.   Tog

Cape Town, it's officially that time of year - sleigh bells, Mariah and all the tinselled chaos in between. Of course, a seasonal highlight to look forward to is the annual Festive Lights Switch-On, taking place on Sunday, 29 November 2026, with six hours of free entertainment at the Grand Parade and along Adderley Street. The City of Cape Town has announced the entertainment line-up, and it's banging!   Leading the line-up is SAMA Award-winning duo Jazzwrld and Thukuthela, bringing their Amapiano hits to the stage, alongside hip-hop heavyweight Nasty C.  Also making an appearance is the recently reunited Liquideep, the electronic music duo behind hits including Fairytale, Still and Alone. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Junior (@nasty_csa) READ: Safer nights out, same fun energy: Meet Ses’fikile founder Shakes Mbolekwana But it's not just the big names getting the spotlight. Cape Town's own Dee Koala will bring her distinctive Khayelitsha-rooted hip-hop sound to the Grand Parade. At the same time, Woodstock-born entertainer Ricky Vani Frontline returns for his second Festive Lights performance after making quite an impression in 2023.   The line-up also includes Afrikaans singer Monique Steyn, rising pop star Ben Rodrigues, Cape Town singer and guitarist Vernon White, DJ Dre from Heart FM, Neon Pulse and the West London All Stars. Keeping the show moving will be MCs Tyrone Paulsen and comedian Dalin Oliver.   City of Cape TownPlan a

There's something wonderfully indulgent about an evening at The Royal Countess Zingara. It's an invitation to leave the ordinary behind, dress up, embrace your eccentric side and step into a world where almost anything goes.  And if you've not recently experienced the magic of Zingara, you're certainly in for a treat. The latest production, Melanina – Return to Origin, opened at Century City on 10 October, bringing a fresh chapter of theatrical dining and extraordinary physical performances to Cape Town. But if, like me, your point of reference is last year's outstanding La Dolce Royal, you can't help but do a little comparison between the two. And I much prefer the variety of last year's production.   That's not to say Melanina isn't worth experiencing, far from it. A wonderfully whimsical welcome If there's one area where Melanina raises the bar, it's the arrival experience. From the moment you enter, there's a sense of stepping through the looking glass. It's a distinctly Zingarian interpretation of Lewis Carroll's Alice in Wonderland, but with a South African creative flavour, featuring iconic figures including Winnie Mandela, Miriam Makeba and Hugh Masekela.  The exterior spaces and installations offer a more immersive experience. Inside the plush Spiegeltent, all the old-world glamour is still there. The seating has been slightly changed up, with the booths still offering a cosy elevation. The inner circle is the prime spot, though. The Royal Countess ZingaraA new pr

Attending an airline launch celebrating 30 years of service to a destination might be routine in traditional air route hubs of Europe or the United States, but in South Africa it's a significant milestone. Factor in route optionality across much of the African continent and it becomes so much more than a birthday cake celebration. British airline Virgin Atlantic is increasing its Cape Town–London Heathrow service from seven to 11 weekly flights for the 2026/27 summer season, signalling continued confidence in the Mother City as a long-haul destination as it celebrates three decades of service.  The increase, first announced in May, comes as international airlines continue to expand their presence in Cape Town, strengthening connections with major cities across Europe, North America and beyond.  READ: Wish you were here? Cape Town just got two new island flights! Cape Town's international connections are soaring Virgin Atlantic's expanded schedule is part of a much bigger aviation success story for the Mother City. Speaking at the airline's anniversary celebrations at Leeuwenhof Estate on Tuesday, Western Cape Premier Alan Winde reflected on how SAA's withdrawal from the direct Heathrow–Cape Town route 14 years ago sparked a concerted drive to attract more international airlines. What began as an ambition to secure four additional direct routes has grown into a thriving international network. "This summer season, we will have 255 direct flights into Cape Town International pe

The World's 50 Best Restaurants has announced its 51-100 rankings, and two Mother City spots have risen in the rankings. One is surprisingly missing.  FYN has climbed 17 places to No.65 in the world, up from No.82 in 2025, while Salsify at the Roundhouse has made an equally impressive leap, rising from No.88 to No.71. The annual awards, sponsored by S.Pellegrino and Acqua Panna, revealed the extended list of restaurants ranked 51–100 on Wednesday, 21 October, ahead of the main awards ceremony in Lima, Peru, on 4 November.  The two restaurants are also the only South African and African establishments featured in this year's extended ranking, which recognises exceptional dining experiences across six continents.  FYN continues its international success For FYN, this is the latest in its remarkable journey of international recognition. Led by chef-patron Peter Tempelhoff, culinary director Ashley Moss and service and beverage director Jennifer Hugé, FYN has been a regular fixture in the World's 50 Best rankings, reaching No.37 in 2022, when it was also named the Best Restaurant in Africa.   READ: Cape Town’s FYN selected for new UNESCO sustainability pilot FYNFYN has been a regular fixture in the World's 50 Best ranking And sustainability remains an evident factor in their success. In 2025, FYN became the first restaurant in Africa to achieve the highest three-star rating under the Sustainable Restaurant Association's Food Made Good Standard. The jump to No.65 in 2026 repr

When Virgin Atlantic's new CEO was asked to name the most underrated destination on the airline's network, he didn't hesitate to respond. "Here in the US, I'd say South Africa," Corneel Koster told Skift Airlines Editor Gordon Smith during a conversation at the Skift Global Forum in New York.  "We'll fly ten times a day to Cape, sorry, that would be great. Ten times a week to Cape Town, ten times a week to Johannesburg," he said.  Koster went on to describe South Africa as an "amazing destination", encouraging US travellers to discover the country via Delta's direct services or Virgin Atlantic's connections through London Heathrow.  Delta has a 49% stake in Virgin Atlantic, with the remaining 51% owned by Sir Richard Branson's Virgin Group. The endorsement comes as Virgin Atlantic celebrates 30 years of flying to South Africa, marking the milestone with increased summer capacity and an aircraft upgrade on its Johannesburg route.  READ: Passport Power 2026: SA loses visa‑free access to five countries Thirty years of connecting South Africa From 25 October, 2026, Virgin Atlantic will introduce its Airbus A350-1000 on the daily Johannesburg–London Heathrow service, replacing the aircraft currently operating the route. The new-generation Airbus brings the airline's signature Upper Class, Premium and Economy cabins, alongside improved fuel efficiency and a more modern long-haul experience. From December, three additional weekly Johannesburg services will bring the route to 10 f

The first Nelson Mandela Marathon, under the banner "Rise. Remember. Run.", united more than 30,000 runners of all abilities on Sunday, 18 October.   South African runner Arthur Jantjies of Pan African Resources Club stormed to victory in the men's 42km race on Sunday, 18 October. Jantjies crossed the finish with a finishing time of 2:15:14, claiming the inaugural men's title.   Nelson Mandela MarathonSouth African runner Arthur Jantjies of Pan African Resources Club storming to victory in the men's 42km race on Sunday, Ethiopia's Bize Beyira Negassa of Nedbank Running Club took the inaugural women's title with a winning time of 2:36:42.   Organised by international sports events company Golazo in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Foundation, the event is designed to connect endurance sport with the "values of dignity, justice, equality and freedom".    Nelson Mandela MaratonEthiopia's Bize Beyira Negassa of Nedbank Running Club took the inaugural women's title.  SEE: Why you should take this Cape Town Black History walking tour  Cape Town's old-world history is visible along its highways and etched into its street pavements, but keeping its stories alive in a meaningful way requires fresh ways to connect people with the past. And this is exactly what the Mother City's inaugural Nelson Mandela Marathon has done. Bringing together Madiba's legacy, the historic Slave Route Challenge and Cape Town's growing place on the global marathon stage, this new event is about much

Restaurant Week Spring Edition is in full swing, meaning you have about two weeks left to experience these specially curated menus at much more affordable prices. Running from 25 September to 1 November 2026, Restaurant Week sees a super-sized selection of over 200 participating restaurants across South Africa, including some of the Mother City's finest dining institutions.   Ultimately, the collaboration is about securing a good deal. Sweetening that deal is the opportunity to discover somewhere new, experience a chef's creativity beyond their usual offering or revisit a firm favourite. Durbanville Hills, a modern winery in the Northern Suburbs, is a good example that hardly needs introduction. What's earned this spot a cult following is its approach to great food with an experience that makes the most of its unique setting.    If you haven't experienced a sunset from here, please start questioning your QT choices. Beyond the setting, they have a fun selection of dining options, from an outdoor deli to tapas-style treats in their tasting room. ICYMI: The best affordable restaurants in Cape Town Selene BrophyAn iconic sunset view across the West Coast towards Table Mountain. Tangram is their more formal dining option for Restaurant Week 2026. They are offering a two-course menu by Head Chef Tamzyn Ehlers, starting at R245. Or choose a three-course menu for R345. Not only are the portions good value for money, but the menu also comes with paired wine tastings, which make t

The seasonal menu changes are a definite highlight for foodie lovers in the Mother City - and the Time Out Market's annual Summer Dish event is no exception. Why? Simply because of what the Time Out Market Cape Town aims to represent - a curated experience of some of our city's top chefs. And of course, with a focus on summer, the likes of Carne, Kapoochka, Sibas, Opa! and Sushiya, to mention only a few, bring a whole new approach to the vibrant, fresh flavours we consider non-negotiables as we head into Dezemba!   So what's on the Summer 2026 menu that has us salivating? After a ridiculously good showcase of 10 new dishes on Thursday evening, I'm hard-pressed to pick a favourite. But you certainly have a sweet seasonal selection available from this weekend, if you find yourself hungry and in the vicinity of the V&A Waterfront.   Some highlights included Una Mas's Baja-style crispy fish tacos (they made a special version for me due to my nut allergy), but the tacos' flavour and the crunch of the kingklip (all sustainably sourced) are consistent and undeniably yum.     READ: V&A Waterfront Initiative aims to strengthen sustainable fishing across the Western Cape Selene BrophyUna Mas's Baja-style crispy fish tacos The chicken potstickers from How Bao Now brought all the heat, and the selection on offer will see me heading back for more, if Head Chef Jeriah Frederick's explanation is anything to go by - like the steamed prawn dumplings with pickled daikon, carrot, spring onio

Chances are you've seen Nick Hamman's scroll-stopping reels and snapshots! Whether he is sharing his latest Hammy Eats endeavour to spotlight small businesses doing the most to hero authentic South African cuisine, or walking through bustling vintage markets in neighbourhoods far off the popular tourist-beaten paths.   For this broadcaster, storyteller and Time Out South Africa Culture Connector, being named the 2026 Forty Under 40 winner in the Media (Digital and Social) category is well-deserved!  From helping save a Soweto burger joint to eating his way through some unique food experiences, Nick is forging an incredible legacy (and a delicious one at that) by turning local stories about everyday South Africans into viral must-experience trends. "It’s still sinking in, and I’m overwhelmed and deeply honoured," Nick told Time Out. "It’s easy to pretend that awards don’t matter, but this one really feels special to me. To be recognised at something as prestigious as the Forty Under 40 Awards and to join a global community of such incredible people feels like the culmination of a career’s worth of work." But he acknowledges that the recognition is fueling the purpose behind his platform and what he basically lives, eats and breathes daily, "My hope is to keep playing my part in building the future our country deserves."  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Nick Hamman ✌ (@nickhammangram) Amplifying our Culture Connection Having joined Time Out So

The City of Cape Town has revealed how it wants to transform the Foreshore: The latest proposal accepted by the city (because there really have been no shortage of ideas for these strangely unfinished bridges) outlines a new bridge, tunnel, and an entirely new neighbourhood.     The urban legend goes that construction was halted back in the day because an agreement couldn't be reached with a stubborn tavern owner just outside what is now the entrance to the V&A Waterfront Precinct. Over the years, development and investment have continued around these bridges, but the prime CBD land beneath them has remained underutilised.  Now, there’s a plan to finally finish the job! Albeit, over the next couple of decades. Cape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis unveiled the City’s vision to transform the Foreshore’s unfinished highways during a briefing held at unfinished highways on Friday.  The Foreshore Precinct Project sees some 15 hectares of land get a major rethink to tackle two of Cape Town’s biggest headaches: traffic congestion and affordable housing with a new mixed-use neighbourhood.      City of Cape TownCape Town Mayor Geordin Hill-Lewis detailed the economic opportunity for completing Cape Town's unfinished highways. So, what’s actually changing with the Foreshore Precinct Project? The project centres on three major moves:  Creating a direct route from the inbound freeway to Helen Suzman Boulevard Unlocking 15 hectares of prime land for a new mixed-use neighbourhood, includ

The Mother City's public swimming pools are ready to make a splash during the September school holidays, allowing visitors to stay active, cool off and enjoy the warmer weather.  If you're planning to use a public swimming pool near you, it will be open from 10:00 to 17:00 daily during the peak school holiday period.  The City also confirmed five swimming pools will remain closed during the September school holidays as essential maintenance and improvement work is carried out: Westridge Swimming Pool Bellville Central Swimming Pool Mnandi Swimming Pool Athlone Swimming Pool Vulindela Swimming Pool (closed for the entire summer, pending redesign and development) Maintenance work at Westridge, Bellville Central, Mnandi and Athlone swimming pools forms part of the City's ongoing efforts to ensure safe, functional and well-maintained facilities for residents. The reopening of these four pools will follow a phased-in approach and once the maintenance is completed the facilities will be subject to quality assessments and safety checks, the City’s Recreation and Parks Department detailed in a statement.  The reopening dates are set to be announced once confirmed.   Entry fees for public pools  Sea Point Pavilion: R39 adults, R23 children Bellville: R40 adults, R23 children. Long Street Indoor Pool: R40 adults, R23 children. Strand Indoor Pool: R39 adults, R22 children. Blue Downs Indoor Pool: R20 adults, R4 children. Retreat Indoor Pool: R20 adults, R4 children. All Community Out

Cape Town’s dam levels are 75% full and well below last year’s mark, as a very strong El Niño raises the prospect of a hotter, drier summer.  Recent thunder, lightning and welcome showers may have brought some drama to Cape Town’s skies, but they have not removed the need to conserve water. The City of Cape Town is considering introducing water restrictions as a precautionary measure, with combined dam levels at 75% - and while this does not put Cape Town's latest Water Outlook under an immediate threat to the municipal water supply - officials say the possibility of restrictions has increased, particularly if demand continues to grow and rainfall is lower than expected. Cape Town used 855 million litres of water a day during the latest reporting period – five million litres below the City’s winter target of 860 million litres a day.   READ: The (thirsty) story behind the Table Mountain dams  Why the recent thunderstorms are not the whole story The lightning and thunder recently experienced across Cape Town were not produced by the cold-front system that usually delivers the south-western Cape’s winter rain. Climatologist and weatherman Pete shared an explanation with Time O, but said the activity was initially caused by an inland low-pressure trough extending from the north towards the southwest as a frontal system approached from the west. Rising air within this system produced rapid updraughts and the build-up of powerful electrical charges – a process more commonly asso