A Day At The V&A Waterfront
Derelict docks across the world have been redeveloped with varying degrees of success, but the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town is amongst the most successful. The cavernous buildings with their iron work and suspended galleries clearly recognise the heritage of the docks and the sheer variety of things to do ensures that the V&A is always busy. There are all sorts of shops, from clothing to souvenirs and very upmarket jewellery. There is the Two Oceans Aquarium, which is definitely worth a visit, and in the plazas between buildings all manner of impromptu open air entertainment goes on, creating a very lively atmosphere. When you get hungry, all manner of restaurants tempt you, from seafood, to Portuguese, to Asian, to fast-food outlets: all tastes and budgets are catered for, and nearly all the restaurants offer the possibility of eating outside to make the most of the sun. The harbour is a scene of continuous activity: although there are few commercial vessel movements, you'll see fishing boats, harbour charters and the Robben Island ferry going back and forth all day: indeed you may be embarking on one of these yourself. For the indulgent and adventurous, there are helicopter trips either as a means of transport across the city, or to get an aerial view of Cape Town offered from the V&A helipad. Finally, there is the Two Oceans Aquarium, which is worth an hour or so of your time. There is enough going on here to comfortably spend a day pottering around, and partaking in the various activities available.
