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Cape Town accommodation for holidays 2011

Article by Bianca Jones

If you have begun planning your holidays 2011, then you are most likely starting to look for the perfect Cape Town accommodation for your holiday. With thousands of accommodation options to be found in this popular coastal city, it can be hard to know what to look for and where to stay. From the beautiful beach areas of Camps Bay and Clifton to the peaceful valley of Constantia, the city offers a broad selection of accommodation in Cape Town across each different suburb. This means plenty of options to suit every taste and budget, allowing you to find the right place to start exploring the city.

Some tips to help you get started with finding your ideal accommodation include the following:

• Make sure that you book as far ahead as possible – with a strong tourist trade, the Mother City starts to become very busy during the end of year holidays. Booking ahead will give you enough time to find the perfect accommodation, without the worry of not being able to find a suitable venue once you arrive.

• Like any other city, Cape Town accommodation has high and low seasons – the end of year, particularly December and January, is high season. Rates are higher during these times, as the city has more visitors, all of whom are seeking accommodation. Plan ahead to take advantage of low season specials, or plan your holiday around the season that suits your budget.

• If you want to be near the beach, choose accommodation in areas such as Camps Bay, Clifton, Llandudno or even Milnerton. These areas offer easy access to excellent beaches, with a range of villas, apartments, cottages and other options to consider. Even if you don’t choose to stay near the beach however, you will be able to visit the city’s beaches from your accommodation, with most being just a short drive away.

• Always ensure that you only book accommodation in Cape Town through reputable dealers or websites. While no-one likes to think about being scammed, it is always best to be safe. Check that you are able to see images of your accommodation before you book, and look out for testimonials, reviews, accreditations and any other signs that you are dealing with a legitimate provider. You may be asked to pay a deposit to secure your booking, but most venues do not charge the entire amount upfront. If you have any doubts, rather find another provider.

• If you want to be close to all the major attractions, the City Bowl is an ideal place to stay. This area is in the heart of the city, with easy access to the Waterfront, Table Mountain, Long Street, Green Market Square, the South African National Museum, South African Gallery, VOC Company Gardens, the Castle of Good Hope and many other famous landmarks.

• Villas are ideal for larger groups of friends or family, while apartments are perfect for single travels or couples. Self-catered accommodation is a more flexible option compared to traditional hotels and guest houses, allowing you to explore the city at leisure, without set meal times or curfews. Lock up and go style Cape Town accommodation offers the best convenience, with many villas and apartments also offering a greater level of privacy.

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