Cape town Day 2 - Another day of visiting hostels under out belts
Not such an early start for us on the Thursday morning thankfully. Feeling a little worn out from too much sun earlier on in the week we needed to sleep in a little. Having covered a large part of the Cape the previous day we were a little more confident of where we were headed for day two.
Out the door at 8:30 we drove to the Zebra Crossing Lodge. I met with Karen who gave me the lo-down on the property. A nice quiet hostel that is a little more family orientated than others in the area it’s a perfect choice if you are looking for peace and quiet while enjoying a communal way of living.
With lovely clean and tidy rooms and situated near plenty of shops, bars, restaurants and clubs along with the fact that it’s at the foot of Table Mountain it’s a top choice if you are looking for a peaceful stay.
Next up situated just around the corner is The Backpack. Among my favourite places to stay in the Cape this property boasts the most incredible view of Table Mountain.
Situated in the most beautiful of areas and along with the amazing atmosphere and lively and sometimes crazy staff it’s a very cool place to stay. It’s important to note that at The Backpack they do not accept groups in high season. Groups are accepted only between the months of May and July.
The Backpackers @ 147 on Main is situated in Green Point. This hostel is only 10 minute walk from the V&A waterfront and on route to Camps Bay.
Set in a very old house that is incredibly homely and cosy with lovely clean rooms and right near the bus route is yet another great choice.
This unassuming house looks much like any other house along the road when you drive past however, get through the metal gate and you will find yourself welcomed into the warmest of homes. I met with Sandy who is a family member of the owner of the property. She mans reception and deals with the bookings. She was a delightful character who briefed me on the history of the family run Sunflower Stop hostel.
All rooms are very well kept and remarkably clean. With a lovely pool that greets you at the entrance and a thatched bar area where you can enjoy a good old South African braai it’s a lovely choice for the social backpacker.
Sadly the next property I went to visit is actually closing in February of next year. Aardvark Backpackers has been running for several years however its elderly owners have decided to close up shop in search of new adventures. The property is set to become a language school. Booking can only be made up to and including the 14th of February 2007 when they officially close their doors.
Cape Town Deco Lodge is situated in Woodstock. Here you can enjoy a typically Capetonian atmosphere where plenty of both local and foreign backpackers choose to stay. Set at the family home of Hannes and Robin you are immediately made to feel most welcome when you make it through the massive big gates.
With a lovely garden and swimming pool and plenty of areas to sit around and take in the relaxed atmosphere and mingle with the other visitors it’s the perfect place for the easy going and chilled out traveller.
Last up for the day was the Green Elephant Backpackers, this property is situated in the Observitory area of the Cape. I had a meeting with Jackie who gave me a run down on the property.
There was something really special about this property. To me there was a real “South Africaness” to it. Even more so than any other I had visited so far. Perhaps not the only hostel to do so but the first to advertise the fact that they are very eco friendly I was pleasantly surprised to see the efforts the staff and visitors make to look after the environment. With specially marked dustbins for different litter and special eco friendly washing detergent for their washing machines and the use of washing machine water for all toilets I was amazed at the efforts. The use of solar panels also helps them to keep costs down and take better care of our environment.
All rooms were very individual and tidy and privacy was there should you need it but there is always something going on should you wish to mingle and socialize with other like minded travellers.
Another day of visiting hostels under out belts and I was beginning to get the feeling that Cape Town hostels are among some of the best in the world. The over all standard was incredible and the people of Cape Town incredibly friendly and warm hearted.
That evening we visited a restaurant at the Spier winery which is along the wine route. Another incredible South African experience the Moyo restaurant is well worth a visit.
