Tasneem Thomas recently came to stay with us at Road Lodge Cape Town International Airport (Road Lodge CTIA), a hotel that she declared “all sorts of amazing!” Tasneem, or Tazz for short, is a Capetonian and avid blogger on her popular site City Girl Vibe. She loves her city, so we asked her to join the ranks of our Travel Bloggers and write about her adventures in Cape Town while staying with us.
Tazz, along with her aunt who was on holiday from Dubai, spent a night with us at Road Lodge CTIA during the month of August and the two of them, with Tazz as tour guide, did some whirlwind exploring of the city. Here are her top three recommendations for a short stay in the Mother City…
TOPLESS IN TOWN
Tazz insists that the red City Sightseeing Cape Town bus is a MUST for every Capetonian and visitor.
“Everybody knows how much I love Cape Town’s beloved red bus so obviously it was the first thing that we would do. We drove around the Cape taking in the sights and sounds.”
This hop-on, hop-off bus company sells 1- and 2-day tickets that allow you to use the bus system at whim for the duration of that time. The buses stop at key tourist destinations such as Table Mountain Cableway (where you can catch a ride up the mountain for panoramic views), Long Street (for some unique dining options), Jewel Africa (Africa’s largest jewellery showroom, located in the historic Bo-Kaap), Seapoint (with its great view of Table Bay), and Camps Bay (a perfect spot for sundowners and a walk on the beach).
VISIT THE JOLLY ROGER
Tazz and her aunt also visited the Victoria and Albert Waterfront (the V&A for short) to take a trip on the Jolly Roger Pirate Boat…
“I love love love cruising the waters of the V&A and I knew the waters would be a bit rough because of the weather but being the stubborn noodle that I am, I didn’t let that put me off. Seeing that I’ve already cruised the canal on City Sightseeing Cape Town’s Shosholoza, we decided that the Jolly Roger would be right on point. We got entertained on board and I have to stay that I felt like a kid … Which is a good thing in my opinion.”
Complete with canons and manned by staff dressed as pirates, the Jolly Roger is a fun outing on an authentic pirate ship that shouldn’t be missed, particularly if you have kids!
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=imH6a017Kok
TAKE A TRIP ON THE WHEEL OF EXCELLENCE
Tazz and Aunt then went for a ride on the Wheel of Excellence, also at the V&A. This giant observation wheel offers breathtaking views of Cape Town’s skyline, the city’s beloved mountain, Robben Island, and the distant Paarl Mountains, which are often capped with snow in winter. The enclosed cabins take you 40 m above ground and for each ride you’re given four revolutions – time aplenty to ogle all the sights at leisure.
ROAD LODGE CAPE TOWN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
“Firstly upon arrival the friendly staff greeted us with warm ‘Hellos’ and were very eager to accommodate us, when wanting to change rooms to a room that allowed smoking, which is something that I appreciate seeing that we’re always on the receiving end of bad service. I appreciate it when staff go the extra mile. Definitely a brand plus.
“We got shown to our cozy little room on the 2nd floor where we immediately felt at home. The room was equipped with its own flat-screen tv, en-suite and heater to keep you warm in the BRRRR Cape Town weather. I loved that we didn’t have to peep out the window to check on the car the entire time as the premises had security 24/7.
“One of the main aspects that I loved about staying over at Road Lodge CTIA is that everything is so accessible. Darlings, I’m talking walking distance to Cape Town International Airport where you can shop till you drop … heck even hop on a plane to Bali. From cab services to stay in “Mr Delivery” services or even room service, whatever tickles your fancy.
“This hotel is absolutely one of the most user friendly and convenient hotels that I’ve ever stayed at. In my opinion, it would not only be great for people stopping over in Cape Town for a couple of hours but also it’s easy on the pocket. You’ll be experiencing 5☆ and the fraction of the price.”
We’re so glad you and your aunt enjoyed your stay with us, Tazz, and hope to see you again soon!
FOLLOW TAZZ
Did you enjoy Tazz’s insights and warm personality? You can follow her on social media like we do…