Local Intel: Carl Wastie

I love a good hike, and Table Mountain offers several paths of tranquillity and unmatched views of the city. The Pipe Track is a great starting point for any hiker, and it can be lengthened or shortened depending on your available time or how much you want to challenge yourself. Newlands Ravine is much the same – just as beautiful – but it's perfect for taking the dogs on what I like to call “walkies on steroids.” I'm a dog dad to four Boston Terriers, so this is essential.

[Check out our complete list of the Best Day Hikes in Cape Town]

A trip on the Cape Town City Sightseeing bus is one of the best ways to feel proud of the city I live in. It offers the opportunity to see many places I can check off my bucket list, and the Hop-On Hop-Off feature makes it a full day of fun and connection with loved ones. A little-known fact is that I’m the voice of the City Sightseeing bus, so I literally get the chance to practice what I preach through those earphones.

This place will always be special to me and my family. It offers picnics with friends, which lead to games of 30 Seconds and snacks on the lawns. Their restaurant, Vadas, serves the best Pastéis de Nata I have ever tasted, along with Smokehouse offerings one can only dream of. Who would’ve thought a head of broccoli could be so good? I’d highly recommend it.

R310 Baden Powell Dr, Stellenbosch

[Did you know that Spier has undergone quite the revamp? It's well worth a visit]

One of my favourite places in the world is Franschhoek. It is brimming with amazing restaurants and truly incredible experiences. The chef at the helm here is Charne Sampson (Mouton), who is a genius when it comes to mixing lekker Cape Malay flavours with French techniques. When you’re there, snap as many pics as you can, especially of the ice cream cart that swings by for dessert.

Le Quartier Français Hotel, Huguenot St, Franschhoek

I love this spot – it's fine dining, but it never feels inaccessible. The menu changes beautifully and often, not just seasonally, thanks to the experimental mind of my friend, Chef Ivor Jones, who just scooped Chef of the Year at the 2025 Eat Out Awards.

1043 Constantia Main Rd, Constantia

[In the mood to eat? Check out the Best Resturants in Cape Town]

Clearly, I’m a restaurant guy, but this place is one of those spots where your phone constantly comes out to snap pictures of the décor, graffiti, and preserved history. The menu is always fresh and creative, and the chef, Ryan Cole, is a humble, talented guy who makes you feel like you’ve been invited over to his place for some chow...even though it’s a multi-award-winning, must-see restaurant.

Round House Rd, Camps Bay

Recently, I was invited to experience Tulbagh, just a little over an hour outside of Cape Town, and I was highly impressed with the incredible places one can explore there. This included a stay at Rijk’s Wine Estate as well as Manley Estate, where I was thoroughly impressed with the culinary team, made up of trained local women from the area. I’m also booked to stay at the Geodome accommodation soon, something I’ve wanted to do for the past few years.