This hotel is a gem of Cape Town

04 November 2008 - 02:00
By unknown

Zenoyise Madikwa

Zenoyise Madikwa

Planted at the entrance of the V&A Waterfront in a city known for the marvellous Table Mountain, is the Southern Sun Waterfront, which stands loftily at Lower Buitengracht Street for all to see.

Snuggled inside is a dimly lit and darkly appointed Yizani restaurant, an eatery with an African theme. This is a sort of place where grown-ups can have an intimate connection or mingle with tourists.

Simply translated, Yizani means "come in", and this is all the more appropriate because it is a restaurant that is really a furniture showcase. The decor exudes Africanness, romance and warmth and has an inviting atmosphere that offers a perfect setting for the casual elegance.

Nuzzled like teenage lovers on a comfortable seat, we enjoyed the aroma of pleasantly decked cuisine.

It is in this place where my partner and I started our blissful and romantic weekend after we were picked up from the airport by the hotel shuttle.

After eating the delicious fare, it was time to go to our room that was to be our residence for the weekend. The room offered a majestic view of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, and breathtaking views of the Cape Town skyline.

The air-conditioned room had a generous modern bathroom that offered a comfortable, relaxing environment for us. Other room facilities included a well-stocked mini bar, compendium and tea and coffee makers.

The following morning, while taking a soothing shower before a delicious breakfast, my fitness-conscious partner enjoyed a workout at a well-equipped gymnasium.

Afterwards, we visited Kirstensbosch Botanical Gardens. It is a place to escape to for a day spent loafing and meandering among the beautiful trees, all the time lulled by birds chirping sweetly and the relentless whoosh of the trade winds.

We later set off on a tour of the city, which was conducted by friendly Ilios Travel guides, and we visited Cape Point, the Atlantic seaboard, Hout Bay, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and the penguin colony at Boulders Beach in Simonstown.

We mingled with easy-going Americans and Europeans. It was interesting to hear what these tourists thought of South Africa.

After the tour we were back at our hotel where we were once again treated to a delicious meal.

I have always had a negative perception of Cape Town and its people. This time their hospitality and willingness to serve guests was exceptional.