Experience in Cape Town, South Africa by Jane

What is it like to live in Cape Town? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Cape Town is also known as the "Mother City". It is very relaxed, colourful with a mix of many cultures.

What is the student lifestyle like in Cape Town?

The main campus of the University of Cape Town is in the suburbs. Easy access to all transport and shopping. Stellenbosch University is about a 40 minute drive from Cape Town and is very much a student town.

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How much does it cost to live in Cape Town?

The cost of living in Cape Town is expensive for locals but is relatively cheap for international visitors.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Cape Town? Is there any advice you can give?

The student residences are not very popular. Students normally share housing or apartments in and around the university. Accommodation is fairly easy to find.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Its not often that you come across typically South African food. The only food I have not come across in Cape Town is Indonesian food. All other types of food and fast food outlets are always within walking distance. Big supermarkets are situated in all areas.

What places would you recommend visiting in Cape Town?

Table Moutain, Cape Point, any of the Vineyards in the Cape - and there are many. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl are within a 40 minute drive from Cape Town. Talk Bay and Muizenberg are beach areas on the Indian Ocean side of Cape Town, while Camps Bay, Clifton and Bantry Bay are on the cold water, Atlantic side of Cape Town. Beaches and mountains are beautiful. There are many food markets and outdoor activities over the weekends.

Is it good to eat out in Cape Town? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

Cape Town has so many different restaurants which cater for all tastes. The Woodlands Eatery, Fat Cactus, Hudsons, The Royale, etc.

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Is the nightlife good in Cape Town? Where is good to go?

Lots of live music venues, festivals, etc., The Assembly, Fixtion, the whole of Long Street.

What advice would you give future students heading to Cape Town?

Don't rely on the public transport, and don't use the local taxi's. Use proper taxi companies if you don't have your own transport.