Cape Town ranks as one of the world's most beautiful cities. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. About 25 miles from the Cape of Good Hope, near the southern tip of the vast African continent, Cape Town is dominated by the 3,000-foot, flat-topped Table Mountain and blessed with superb scenery and beaches. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises.
The official founding of the city is recorded as April 6, 1652. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. On that day, Jan van Riebeeck dropped anchor in Table Bay. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. His small expedition proceeded ashore to build a fort for the Dutch East India Company. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. The fort served as a base for their ships to shelter and stock up on fresh supplies of meat, fruit and vegetables. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. He started to barter with the Khoikhoi tribe for meat and planted gardens that are known today as the Company Gardens. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises.
At first sight, Cape Town appears surprisingly small. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. The city center, lying to the north of Table Mountain and east of Signal Hill, is also referred to as the City Bowl. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. Its compactness is best explored on foot, starting with the Castle, the oldest surviving building in South Africa. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. It was built between 1666 and 1679, replacing Van Riebeeck’s original mud-walled fort. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. In addition to numerous historical buildings, Cape Town offers museums, parks, gardens, markets and shops. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. Impressive mountains, magnificent surf beaches and outstanding wineries complete the picture of this beautiful city. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises. A ride on the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain offers visitors a spectacular panorama on a clear day. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises.
With its unique setting, cosmopolitan population and diverse cultures, Cape Town is a highlight of any visit to South Africa. Cape Town, South Africa Gay Cruises.
