If I were younger - and looking to relocate again - Cape Town would be calling my name.
Now that I’ve packed up my life and moved to Ireland, I’m not planning another big move anytime soon. But every time I return to South Africa, especially Cape Town, I find myself daydreaming. This city has a gravitational pull that’s hard to resist: bold, beautiful, creative, and completely cosmopolitan.
It’s a place where dramatic mountains meet the sea, where art and fashion pulse through the streets, and where you can go from sipping a flat white in a stylish café to sipping world-class wine in the vineyards by afternoon. It’s one of my favourite destinations on the planet - and here’s the best part: it’s far more affordable than you might think.
Let me walk you through what I just experienced—and why I’d love for you to come with me next April.
Cape Town: Cool, creative, and surprisingly affordable
We checked into the Radisson Red, a vibrant, art-filled hotel at the V&A Waterfront. With bold design, a rooftop pool overlooking Table Mountain, and a buzzing rooftop bar, it’s the kind of place that makes you feel instantly plugged in to Cape Town’s creative energy. It is one of the best, in the best location but still the rooms start at under $400 CAD a night - and you won’t believe how far your money stretches here.
From our base, we explored the Cape Peninsula, one of the most spectacular drives in the world. The day took us past wind-carved cliffs and surf beaches to the Cape of Good Hope, where two oceans crash together in a swirl of wild waves and untamed beauty. From there, we made our way to Boulders Beach, where the local penguin colony stole the show, waddling through the sand like they owned the place.
We ended the day in Simon’s Town, a charming old naval village where I go to - no exaggeration - have the best fish and chips in the world. Crispy, golden, and served with a sea view that makes every bite even better.
And because travel is always about those personal little wins - here’s one for the books: I heard about a wonderful new hair salon while I was there and really needed a refresh. I hopped in an Uber (a 20-minute ride for just $13 CAD), and for under $160, I had a full head of highlights, cut, tone, and blow-dry. It was hands-down the best hair appointment I’ve ever had. Ubers are affordable and safe, the food is delicious, and the wine flows freely. While the snow falls in Canada, the sun shines bright in South Africa—and once you get over the long flight, it truly is a pure delight.
Sip and Swoon: South Africa’s wine country
A short drive from Cape Town brings you to three incredible wine regions: Stellenbosch, Paarl, and my personal favourite, Franschhoek. This French-settled town is full of oak-lined streets, art galleries, and some of the best cuisine in the country.
We explored Franschhoek aboard the Wine Tram, a hop-on, hop-off vintage-style tram that takes the stress out of wine tasting. No need for a designated driver—you just glide between historic estates like Haute Cabrière (go for the MCC), La Bri (chocolate pairings!), and Boschendal, where the gardens and farm-to-table menu deserve their own fan club.
It’s indulgent, it’s beautiful, and - once again - it’s way more affordable than wine regions in Europe or North America.
The Safari of a lifetime—Without the price tag
Of course, no trip to South Africa is complete without heading into the wild. We were crazy and drove all the way to Kruger but the flight is much easier and safe . Once in the town of Hoedespruit we checked into a stunning safari lodge, where rates start under $400 CAD a night - including all meals and daily game drives.
That’s right. You can spot lions, elephants, giraffes, and rhinos—led by expert guides—then come back to cocktails around the fire and a chef-prepared dinner under the stars.
Every day felt like stepping into a David Attenborough documentary, and every night ended with gratitude for the opportunity to witness this part of the world in such an intimate, powerful way. Want to See for Yourself?
Here’s the best part. You don’t have to just read about it - you can come with me.
Next March as the snow still falls, I’m hosting a small group to experience it all:
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3 nights in Cape Town in stylish accommodation, with excursions to the Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach, and Simon’s Town, plus time to explore the city’s buzzing food and art scene
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2 nights in Franschhoek, staying in the heart of wine country, with a full day on the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram and tastings at iconic estates
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3 nights in Kruger, at a beautiful safari lodge, including one game drive per day, full board with all meals.
This 9-night itinerary includes at least five hosted dinners at carefully selected restaurants - from fine dining in wine country to authentic South African cuisine under the stars.
All in? Under $4,500 CAD per person. At March break!!! Less than going south at that time of year! Oh and I checked out economy flights and all were under $1900 with British Airways coming in at $1630.
That includes boutique accommodations, private transfers, guided excursions, daily game drives in Kruger, and the kind of unforgettable meals and experiences that turn a trip into a true adventure.
If South Africa has ever whispered your name, this is your chance. Come with me - and let’s explore together.
Join Me in Tanzania November or January
Ready to make solo travel your next adventure? Join me in Tanzania this November for the Great Migration. Whether you’re travelling on your own or with a friend, this trip promises unforgettable experiences, incredible landscapes, and a welcoming group to share it all with. Details here.
Dont forget if you are looking to travel I still own a TICO registered travel agency in Ontario and will be happy to help. Always the best way to reach me is by email as I mostly work remote and I can either set up a time to meet you or suggest a perfect local agent to help you.
Email me at [email protected]
Email my Ontario Based Agents Michelle Lucy or Lauren Preston
Check some travel info at www.conciergetravelgroup.ca
Or just check out some stories and videos at lorrainesimpson.com
