Selene Brophy

Cape Town’s drag royalty doesn’t get more iconic than Kat Gilardi. With her powerhouse performances, old-school anthems, and glittering stage presence, she’s one of the stars lighting up Night of the Queens at Time Out Market Cape Town.  Beyond the sequins, Kat is all about family, community, and celebrating the city she calls home.  From oysters and bubbles at the Waterfront to poolside lounging in the CBD, we caught up with Kat to find out how to make the most of the Mother City.   Catch Kat Gilardi with Manila von Teez and Vida Fantabisher at Night of the Queens on Thursday, September 11, at Time Out Market Cape Town.   Time Out Market Cape Town     How would you describe Night of the Queens to someone who’s never been? Kat Gilardi: Start with a glass of wine and great food from Time Out Market, and then get ready for a proper sing-along. It’s the kind of evening that can be anything you want it to be — a date night, a family night, or just a midweek pick-me-up. We’re PG, so it’s open to everyone. You’ll hear music across genres, though I love throwing it back with 80s and 90s hits. They’re nostalgic for me and for so many in the audience. What inspires your performances? Kat Gilardi: The Market itself has an energy that you just tap into. Cape Town audiences are open and ready to vibe, so we always bring variety. Each queen adds her own flavour — I’ll send my song list, Manila sends hers, Vida hers — and then we balance it out. Any surprises this time around? Kat Gila

Spring in South Africa is pure magic. Our unique floral heritage is fully displayed from carpets of wildflowers stretching across the Namaqualand to the hidden bulbs tucked away in forgotten valleys of Richtersveld.  Few people are more passionate about celebrating our natural splendour than Leon Kluge, a leading landscape designer and global ambassador through his award-winning exhibits at the prestigious Chelsea Flower Show in London.  But for Leon, it’s not just about winning medals - it’s about ensuring South Africa’s botanical heritage is celebrated, conserved and shared with the world.  Each year, he introduces new indigenous plants to the international stage - from proteas and fynbos to rare bulbs - showcasing South Africa’s biodiversity and promoting green tourism to draw visitors back home. Plants, as he says, have always been his first love. “I grew up in the botanical gardens of Nelspruit. My dad was a curator there, my granddad was a curator at Harold Porter Botanical Gardens in Betty's Bay, and my mom ran a wholesale nursery. Weekends were spent orchid hunting and at flower shows.  "I was never going to be a fireman, doctor or accountant. It just doesn't interest me. I need to be surrounded by green, flowers, and work creatively with it."  Why South Africa’s Spring is Like Nowhere Else Across much of the world, wild landscapes are vanishing - paved over, farmed, or manicured into submission. But in South Africa, Leon reminds us that we are still lucky enough to h

For many children growing up in under-resourced communities in South Africa, the ocean is something they’ve never experienced, let alone imagined as a career path.   Zandi Ndhlovu is changing that. A filmmaker, conservationist, and founder of numerous projects that bring ocean literacy into township spaces, she is opening doors, both literal and figurative, so that young people can see themselves in marine science, environmental leadership, and ocean-based innovation. From launching an Ocean Hub in Philippi to representing Africa at global climate gatherings, Zandi is determined to make conservation accessible and inclusive. She’s proof that ocean stewardship isn’t only for those who live near the shore - it’s for everyone. This Women’s Month, we're showcasing female changemakers using their power for good. In this Q&A we celebrate Ndlovi as a changemaker shaping the tides of opportunity for the next generation.  Time Out: It’s Women’s Month, and you’re involved in so many incredible initiatives. What’s the most important message you want to put forward right now? Zandi Ndhlovu: I’m a big believer that women in leadership can shape the world differently, often leading with grace. Globally, from wars to local challenges, women bring a different approach to problem-solving. Women’s Month is a reminder of the world we could live in if women had equitable access to power. Zandi Ndlovu FacebookPlans to further expand the Philippi Ocean Hub are firmly on Zandi Ndlovu's radar. Yo

In Cape Town, climate justice isn’t a distant crisis; for many, it’s a daily reality.  Especially for young girls growing up in townships and informal settlements along the Cape Flats, such as Khayelitsha, Gugulethu, or Lavender Hill.    It looks like walking for water, bracing for winter floods that you know are inevitable, or navigating unsafe streets, to get to school.   That’s the reality Xoli Fuyani is determined to shift. As the founder of Black Girl Rising, a grassroots NPO empowering young girls to lead on climate justice, she’s building a movement rooted in storytelling, mentorship, and practical action.   From food gardens that feed families to girls standing up in Parliament and voicing their concerns, her work proves what happens when you put the mic (and the power) in the hands of those most affected. This Women’s Month, we're showcasing female changemakers using their power for good. In this Q&A, we celebrate Fuyani as she shares why representation matters, what keeps her going, and how she's mentoring these brave girls to rewrite the future.   Time Out: What sparked the creation of Black Girl Rising? Xoli Fuyani: I grew up in Gugulethu, and even as a kid, I saw the disparities in Cape Town. Driving from Khayelitsha into Sea Point, you see the difference immediately: access to green spaces, running water, safe streets. My career has always been in the environmental education and policy space. And early on, I realised that those lived realities of marginalised

Cape Town loves its rugby almost as much as its sundowners, and when the Bokke take to the field, the city transforms into one giant fan zone. From buzzy beer halls and family-friendly pubs to seaside taverns with big screens, there’s no shortage of spots to soak up the gees and cheer on the green and gold. We’ve rounded up the best venues to catch every scrum, try and tackle - these are key fixtures you’ll want to mark on your calendar. Go bokke! Rugby Championship 2025: Seven weeks of high-octane southern hemisphere rugby, as South Africa defends its title against the Wallabies, All Blacks and Los Pumas. SA vs Australia — 16 Aug, Johannesburg SA vs Australia — 23 Aug @ 17h10, Cape Town SA vs New Zealand — 6 Sep @ 9h05, Auckland, New Zealand SA vs New Zealand — 13 Sep @ 9h05, Wellington, New Zealand SA vs Argentina — 27 Sep @ 17h10, Durban SA vs Argentina — 4 Oct @ 15h00, London, England SEE: Where to eat and drink near Cape Town Stadium FNB This content is proudly brought to you by FNB, a Division of FirstRand Bank Limited, an Authorised FSP and Credit Provider.

Winter in Cape Town means it’s often more tempting to pull on your woollen slippers than your dancing shoes, but with the cold and wet weather comes plenty of great opportunities for locals to get out and discover Cape Town and the Winelands. With fewer tourists around to book rooms, and restaurants looking to entice diners to often-empty tables, now’s the time to seek out bargain deals at some of the city’s best and brightest hotspots. So, whether you fancy a weekend away in the Winelands or a glam night out in the city, here’s how to make your Randelas go further this winter. Just don’t forget the brolly. RECOMMENDED: 😋 The best indoor activities for kids in Cape Town🍳 The best breakfast and brunch spots in Cape Town☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town📍 The best things to do in Cape Town  

Cape Town’s own dance dynamo, Rudi Smit, has been setting stages alight. Known for his electric choreography, deep love for the local dance scene, and his fierce loyalty to his UntimitiveDance crew, Rudi is all about movement with meaning. We caught up with him fresh off a whirlwind tour to Europe to talk creative recharge spots, favourite city haunts, and the dancefloor that never fails him.  View this post on Instagram A post shared by RUDI SMIT (@rudi_smit) You've just come back from Germany, tell us about it - what was the most exciting part? I was on a small European tour in Germany, Amsterdam, Paris and Malta for about 3 weeks, which was really fun! I think the most exciting part was going to the small town of Bonn and getting to see the theatre that I’ll be working in at the end of the year for two months, as I go there to choreograph the opera called Il Barbiere Di Siviglia with South African director, Matthew Wild.  When you're hosting international dancers in Cape Town. Where are you taking them to eat, drink, and get a feel for the city?   To eat, I’ll take them to Hacienda. For drinks, I’ll take them to Kloof Street House. To get a feel for the city, I’ll take them out to a First Thursday and hop from spot to spot in town!  View this post on Instagram A post shared by Hacienda Cape Town (@hacienda_sa) Where's your go-to spot to catch live music or a DJ set in the Mother City? If there’s ever a Str

Armed with a deep understanding of how invisible labour holds up the world, Busi Jama has put her psychology degree and entrepreneurial spirit towards the kind of work that doesn’t come with much fanfare or institutional sponsorship.   For six years, she walked into the female centre at Pollsmoor Prison before sunrise, offering motivational talks and building sisterhood circles for wardens working in what can best be described as one of the country’s most emotionally demanding and toxic environments.  She did it without a title or salary, and knowing the rewards of her mentorship today, she’d do it all over again in a heartbeat.  These days, you’ll find her using her spare time mentoring young girls, including Black Girl Rising, a grassroots NPO founded by activist Xoli Funyani.  Jama says she looks to meet young girls where they are - emotionally, mentally, spiritually - and helps them open up through storytelling, while encouraging them through relatable voices and the same powerful formula harnessed at Pollsmoor: honest love and a consistent, unwavering sense of care and presence. “I use love as a tool for change,” she says. “Because that’s what I needed. That’s what we all need.”  This Women’s Month, we're showcasing female changemakers using their power for good. In this Q&A, Jama shares why she thinks sisterhood is the fiercest form of resistance.  Time Out: You’ve said, “I use love as a tool for change.” What does that mean in real, everyday terms?  Jama: We live in a

Cape Town’s West Coast is one of those places that sneaks up on you with its rugged beauty and its wild unpretentiousness. Come spring, the fynbos explodes into riotous bloom, and the coastline swaps grey skies for golden afternoons.  The 'Weskus' certainly has some big drawcard energy: charming fishing villages, unspoilt beaches, salt-of-the-earth food and just enough off-the-grid magic to feel like a picture-perfect escape you’d want to take again and again.  Together with my family, I've honed this West Coast meander down to a mini-break fine art over the years. Let's hit the road and soak up all the laid-back wonder.

“People go to an exhibition expecting to be bored, to be quite candid, and they're delighted when it's not,” Albie Sachs tells me in a near-whisper, leaning in during the opening of Spring Is Rebellious, now on at Zeitz MOCAA. “And I think this is a total surprise,” he adds with a glint of mischief. Listening to Sachs reflect on a turbulent period in Southern Africa’s history, and his own life as an activist, is quite something. There’s a radical optimism in it. Not the hollow kind peddled by revivalists, but something more complex: a joy hard-won, defiant, and elevating. The curatorial approach, led by Dr Phokeng Setai, resists the trap of monumentalising one man (though Sachs, by all accounts, deserves it). Instead, it becomes its own rebellion against the singular hero narrative. And yet Sachs, with his signature blend of humility, humour, and piercing intellect, still anchors the experience. His personal collection, along with that of the Constitution Collection (commissioned and curated under his watch), shapes the experience. His story, including surviving a car bomb planted by apartheid security forces that cost him an arm and the sight in one eye, is not presented as tragedy. It becomes, in his words, a testament to “the intense joy of survival.” Yes, it’s a historical exhibition and a biography - but also a deeply moving love letter to a life lived in full colour. A life of freedom fighting, legal vision, Constitutional Court judge and an unwavering belief in the tr

Whether you’re here to sip champagne in a booth, sweat it out on a packed dancefloor, or chase sunrise with your besties, Cape Town’s club scene has something for every kind of night owl. Fresh off its Time Out global ranking as Africa's Best City for Nightlife right now, the Mother City is serving serious after-dark energy, from amapiano-fuelled lounges and LGBTQIA+ celebrations to underground techno dens and multi-venue dance corridors. And we’re not just talking about the clubs; the city’s late-night energy is pulsing through pop-up sets, hybrid venues, rooftop bars and basement hideaways. Whether you're vibing to a live DJ in a heritage mansion, losing yourself under strobe lights in a warehouse, or kicking off a Kloof Street bar crawl that spirals into 2am dancefloor therapy - this list is your golden ticket to the best nightlife scenes in Cape Town. RECOMMENDED:  😋 The best restaurants in Cape Town🍷 The best wine farms in and around Cape Town🏨 The best hotels in Cape Town🏖 The best beaches in Cape Town ☕️ The best cafés and coffee shops in Cape Town

Tucked beneath The Pot Luck Club in Woodstock’s Old Biscuit Mill, you’ll find Salon - a space that began as an overflow area and is now an award-winning dining destination in its own right. There’s a considered rhythm to service here: a storytelling Explorer Menu unfolds course by course, from cheese shaved on a girolle to the theatre of a Crêpe Suzette-inspired duck plated table-side with a three-day citrus jus. A hush falls as plates arrive - not out of stiffness, but out of anticipation. “When Luke Dale Roberts opens a restaurant, people want to eat,” says Executive Chef Carla Schulze with a laugh. “People were ordering the canapés twice over. So we introduced a main course. And it eventually evolved into an 11-course tasting menu.” Carla's been there through the thick of the evolution, leading the pass to clinch Restaurant of the Year at the 2025 Luxe Restaurant Awards, where she was also awarded Culinary Innovation of the Year. In short, Salon's Explorer Menu is a globally inspired seasonal journey, visually mapping flavours across Italy, Morocco, France and the United Kingdom, while being anchored by local South African ingredients.  Karoo saffron lifts a Sicilian-inspired broth. Simon’s Town choka (octopus) is paired with miso and chilli. The reinvention of the humble ‘slangetjie’ is a quirky surprise, as each plate nudges you towards unexpected memories of homegrown flavours in the most wonderful way. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Time

Dinner at Chefs Warehouse Beau Constantia feels like a special occasion.  Whether it's a date night or an actual celebration, Constantia Valley’s elegance, mixed with executive chef and co-owner Ivor Jones’s playful and sometimes irreverent food philosophy, makes for the perfect setting. The launch of a new five-course set menu marks a shift in rhythm for the restaurant that's more structured but no less surprising.  In fact, this menu feels considered in every aspect for Jones, building layers of flavour across the evening while still leaving space for detours, personal choice and the odd left-field pairing. It's clear why the dining room is abuzz throughout the service, as Jones and his team make it all about enjoying the food at your own pace. It helps, of course, that the setting is as dramatic as ever.  Perched high on the slopes of Constantia Nek, Beau’s glass-walled dining room is a front-row seat to one of the Cape’s most beautiful valleys, while the open kitchen pulls you straight into service.   As the evening unfolds, the sparkling city lights below are quite something, naturally enhancing the restaurant's appeal.  What’s on the menu? The new pairing menu offers quite the selection. The freshest West Coast Saldanha oysters with a kick of nam jim (a signature Asian move for Jones) are worth the supplement, and I could have happily feasted on that all evening.  The braaied linefish, with champagne cream, is absolute perfection. Adding prawn and scallop sui mai (trad

A musical as iconic as Chicago demands precision - from choreography to comic timing, to the band and the lighting - and the latest South African production delivers it in spades.   Now in its fourth production on local shores, it blends vaudevillian sass, jazz-soaked satire, and biting commentary on celebrity culture that feels as relevant today as it did when it first hit Broadway in 1975. Currently on at Cape Town’s Artscape Theatre, this all-local staging of Broadway’s longest-running American musical lets you know you are in for a ride from the moment the first brass notes ring out from the 11-piece live band. Every shimmy, shake, and jazz hand lands, matched by the snappy interplay of Roxie Hart (Kiruna-Lind Devar), Velma Kelly (Samantha Peo), and the ever-watchful Mama Morton (Tankiso Mamabolo). From the solos to the duets, they bring all the spicy rivalry and reluctant camaraderie the show is well-loved for.   Numbers like Cell Block Tango, All That Jazz, and Class had the audience tapping along, reminding us why this musical remains a long-standing favourite.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Chicago The Musical (@chicagomusical) Jonathan Roxmouth oozes charisma as smooth-talking lawyer Billy Flynn, particularly in All I Care About and Razzle Dazzle, scenes that had the opening night audience roaring with delight.   The American accents are razor-sharp, the choreography (by resident director and choreographer Darren Greeff) retaining

Foresters Arms, better known to Capetonians as Forries, is one of the city’s oldest pubs and a landmark in the leafy suburb of Newlands. First established in the 1800s, it’s been serving pints and plates for generations, making it as much a local tradition as Newlands Rugby Stadium just down the road. Whether you’re a lifelong local, a student from UCT, or a visiting sports fan, Forries is the kind of place you only need to visit once to understand why it’s legendary.  Key details Address: 52 Newlands Avenue, Newlands, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11am – late Ticket prices: Free entry (special events may vary) Nearest public transport: Newlands train station (10 min walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; staff are on hand to assist  What’s on the menu? Classic pub grub with a South African twist is the order of the day. Wood-fired pizzas are always a crowd-pleaser, while their burgers, steaks and ribs remain menu staples. Sharing platters make it easy to snack while watching the game, and Sunday roasts are a longstanding tradition, drawing families who want a hearty meal in a relaxed setting. Forries also has a solid drinks selection - from draught beers to cocktails and wine - making it a versatile spot for different tastes. Is there outdoor seating? This is one of Forries’ best features. The large, leafy beer garden is shaded in summer and warmed with outdoor heaters in winter, making it a year-round drawcard. On sunny afternoons, tables fill quickly with students,

  Rascals in Claremont is a vibrant neighborhood pub that seamlessly blends a relaxed atmosphere with a passion for live sports. Known for its welcoming vibe, hearty pub fare, and a solid lineup of drinks, it's a go-to spot for both locals and visitors. Whether you're here to catch the latest game or enjoy a casual meal, Rascals offers a space where camaraderie and comfort food meet. Key Details Address: 2 Meyer Street, Claremont, Cape Town, 7708 Opening hours: Monday: 1pm – 12am; Tuesday – Sunday: 10am – 12am Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: Claremont Station (approximately 10–15 minute walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; outdoor seating accessible; staff available to assist What’s on the Menu Rascals offers a menu of pub classics and comfort food, including burgers, pizzas, salads, and sharing platters. Their menu rotates seasonally to incorporate fresh ingredients, and vegetarian options are also available. Pair your meal with local craft beers, cocktails, or their curated wine selection. Is there live music? Yes. Live bands and DJs perform regularly, particularly on weekends, adding energy and entertainment to the casual pub vibe. Is it family-friendly? Not ideal for small children. The layout, outdoor seating, and approachable menu does make Rascals suitable for families visiting Claremont. Kids are welcome during daytime hours, and the relaxed setting ensures a comfortable experience. How do you get there? Rascals is easily accessible by car, w

Mitchell’s Scottish Ale House is a Waterfront institution, combining hearty pub food, pints and a lively, welcoming atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where locals and travellers mingle over fish and chips, live music and long draughts. Key Details Address: East Pier Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11am – late Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: MyCiTi bus stop – Waterfront Accessibility: Wheelchair-accessible entrance and restrooms What’s on the Menu Expect comforting pub classics: burgers, bangers and mash, pizzas and pies. Fresh seafood dishes nod to Cape Town’s location, and there are sharing platters for groups. On tap? Local and international beers, ciders, and a solid whisky selection. Is there live music? Yes. Evenings and weekends see regular live music or DJs, giving the pub a festive, social energy that complements its hearty food and drink. Is it family-friendly? Yes. Families are welcome, with kid-friendly meals and a relaxed Waterfront setting that’s easy to pair with sightseeing. How do you get there? Mitchell’s sits right in the V&A Waterfront, within easy walking distance of the shopping mall, harbour and tourist attractions. Paid parking is available onsite, and the MyCiTi bus stops nearby. Why go? For a bustling pub experience at the Waterfront, Mitchell’s nails it - good beer, generous portions and a sociable vibe that makes it a reliable choice year-round.

Time Out Market Cape Town brings the best of the city under one roof, showcasing a curated line-up of the city’s top chefs, restaurateurs, and mixologists. From innovative fine dining to street-style eats, it’s a one-stop culinary hub in the heart of the Waterfront. The lively communal setting, open daily, makes it as much about socialising as it is about eating and drinking. Did you know: Every in-app purchase unlocks stamps, vouchers and surprise perks, from free drinks to exclusive dishes, so the more you visit, the more you enjoy. Key Details Address: Old Power Station Building, Dock Road, V&A Waterfront, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 11 am – late Ticket prices: Free entry (event specific ticket price may apply) Nearest public transport: MyCiTi bus stop – Waterfront Accessibility: Fully wheelchair accessible, with lifts, ramps, and accessible restrooms What’s on the Menu Expect a rotating line-up of Cape Town’s culinary stars. Stalls include elevated local dishes, global flavours, fresh seafood, artisanal pizza, plant-based fare, and decadent desserts. The bar program brings award-winning cocktails, fine wines, and craft beers to the table. Is there live music? Yes, the Market regularly hosts live DJs and music sessions, especially on weekends, giving the venue a buzzing, celebratory feel. Is it family-friendly? Absolutely. Families are welcome, with spacious communal seating and a diverse range of food options that cater to kids and adults alike. How do you get the

Woodstock Brewery is a relaxed, industrial-chic craft beer destination in the heart of Cape Town’s Woodstock district. Known for its small-batch beers, hearty pub food, and laid-back vibe, it’s a favourite among locals and visitors looking for a casual spot to unwind. With indoor seating, an outdoor beer garden, and regular events, Woodstock Brewery balances craft authenticity with social energy. Key Details Address: 252 Albert Road, Woodstock, Cape Town Opening hours: Daily, 12pm – 10pm (check website for weekend events) Ticket prices: Free entry Nearest public transport: Woodstock Station (10–15 min walk) Accessibility: Step-free entrance; outdoor garden accessible; staff available to assist What’s on the Menu Woodstock Brewery’s menu pairs craft beers with hearty, shareable plates. Expect wood-fired pizzas, gourmet burgers, sausages, and seasonal specials. Vegetarian options are available, and their tasting flights allow visitors to sample the full range of in-house brews. Is there live music? Yes - live music and DJ sets take place regularly, particularly on weekends and for special events, giving the venue a lively, social atmosphere. Is it family-friendly? Yes. While the brewery is primarily known for its beer, the spacious layout, casual menu, and daytime hours make it suitable for families visiting the area. How do you get there? Woodstock Brewery is easily accessible by car, with limited on-site parking and nearby street parking. It’s a 10–15 minute walk from Wood

Airbnb isn’t just about finding a cool place to stay anymore. At the recent Skift Global Forum in New York, CEO Brian Chesky laid out the company’s next chapter: a “super travel app” where you can book not only homes, but also boutique hotels and curated extras designed to make your trip more immersive. For travellers eyeing a trip to Cape Town, that could mean an even more seamless stay. Picture arriving at a Sea Point apartment with the fridge already stocked and a private chef ready to serve up local flavours.  Or booking a Constantia villa where a sommelier-paired dinner is waiting, drawing from some of the oldest wine farms in the country. Adventure seekers might add on a surf lesson at Muizenberg, a guided trail run on the mountain, or even a post-hike massage without leaving the app. While the South Africa services offered on the app are limited (we've contacted Airbnb to get the latest info and updates - so watch this space) Photograph: fokkebokView from The Rock viewpoint in Cape Town over Campsbay A natural fit for Cape Town This evolution feels made for the Mother City. Lifestyle is the draw here, with a wide selection of experiences from wine farms, buzzing food markets, cutting-edge art and the ocean always easily within reach. Airbnb’s move into experiences could help visitors lock in those authentic, local-led moments in one place, making trip planning smoother and more personalised. It could also open up new opportunities for locals. Chefs, guides, artis

Cape Town's 2025/2026 cruise season officially kicked off this week with the arrival of MS The World, one of more than 70 vessels scheduled to call at Cape Town in the coming year.  Traditionally, the Western Cape cruise season coincides with the summer months between November and April. The record R1.79bn economic boost from the 2024/25 cruise season, up from R1.32 billion the previous year, indicates it's set to be a bumper cruise tourism season.  According to the latest Western Cape Cruise Liner Industry Report, the sector welcomed 79 cruise ships (83 vessels for the season) and 127,000 passengers, marking year-on-year increases of 18% and 16% respectively. Total expenditure by vessels and passengers reached R1.99 billion, a 32% rise on the previous season's R1.5billion.  READ: MSC Opera to sail from Cape Town this Summer Cruise tourism has proven to be a powerful catalyst for visitor spending. “The 2024/25 season has been a successful year for Cape Town and the Western Cape’s cruise industry. With record passenger numbers and expenditure, the industry is showing its ability to create jobs and stimulate growth across the province," according to Wesgro CEO Wrenelle Stander, who highlighted the benefits extending beyond Cape Town. Smaller municipalities such as Mossel Bay, Hermanus, and Saldanha Bay welcomed 32,000 passengers across 26 ship visits, generating R47.5 million in local spending. This supported small businesses, created temporary employment, and boosted these tow

Sea Point’s Regent Road is no stranger to change, but the latest development set to rise there is turning heads. Meet Dear Jean, a brand-new residential block bringing 127 apartments, ground-floor restaurants and retail, and a shiny R44 million penthouse to Cape Town’s Atlantic Seaboard. The development will sit at 33 Regent Road, Sea Point in Cape Town on the site of the old Regent building that was sold last month for R150 million by Kantey Commercial.  Completion of the development is pencilled in for the end of 2027, and if the plans are anything to go by, Sea Point is about to get another glitzy addition to its skyline. Ash Muller   Ash Muller     What’s on offer Studios: from R2.55 million (23m² – 32m²) Deluxe Studios: from R3 million (31m² – 41m²) One-bedrooms: from R3.75 million (37m² – 90m²) Two-bedrooms: from R6.55 million (64m² – 94m²) Penthouses: from R14.1 million, topping out at R44 million for 499m² of Sea Point luxury The developer plans to release 82 apartments to the market for sale, and the rest the developer will retain. Property sales data shows that the average price for a residential sale in the Atlantic Seaboard suburb of Sea Point is R3.4million, with about 901 properties sold in the area this year. While the asking price for the studio is on par with the average asking price for the suburb, the one-bedroom is slightly above the average R3.3 million average in 2025. Every apartment in this development will have their own balcony (a big win), an

The best things in life are free, and Cape Town is living up to the hype by doling out freebies like Chappies bubblegum this weekend. Insufficient funds for what?  The weather has a spring in its step with temperatures hovering in the late teens, so it's not quite summer vibes - yet! And not such a bad thing if you're participating in this weekend's Gun Run. It's also perfect to catch up on your steps counter with a silent disco on the beach, or get your vogue on with divas and diamonds.   CBD Candlelight: Vivaldi’s Four Seasons Friday, 12 September, 6.30pm Venue: Star Theatre at the Homecoming Centre Price: From R615 via Feverup.com Prepare to be mesmerised by Vivaldi’s Four Seasons and experience the famous composer’s classics under the gentle glow of candlelight, accompanied by a string quartet. Latecomers beware, no hall passes.   Photograph: Ruslan Lytvynblurred symphonic orchestra on stage with lots of candles for design purpose   Everybody Loves Sundays Saturday, 13 September, 1pm - 9pm Venue: Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel, Cape Town CBD Price: From R100, bookings via Quicket Start the new week with Everybody Loves Sundays. We’re talking soulful vibes and house anthems to ease you into Moody Monday. It beats the triggering Carte Blanche music that reminds us: game over for the weekend.   Grand Daddy Hotel   ATLANTIC SEABOARD  Disco Fit Fridays Friday, 12 September, 6.30pm - 7.30pm Venue: The Silo at the V&A Waterfront Price: From R80 via Quicket Now’s your chan

Big changes are underway at Table View Beachfront, and they look pretty amazing - much like the view this beachfront offers visitors of Table Mountain and the surrounding bay.   The City says it is pushing ahead despite winter storms, with completion slated for November 2026 (and the worst disruptive works wrapping up by mid-2026). The upgrade investment is an estimated R100 million, over the entire period, which started in 2024.   Deputy Mayor Eddie Andrews, who looked at some of the upgrades earlier this week, says, "I could already see the new wide walkway along the beachfront and the new parking area at Visagie Street taking shape. The aim of this project is to rehabilitate and revitalise this beachfront, one of the City’s prime tourist attractions along the Atlantic coastline.   City of Cape TownUpgrades taking shape at Table Bay beachfront.   Here’s what you can look forward to:  1. A super-sized seaside walkway The new wide walkway will stretch the length of the beachfront. It will be about 2km long and 4m-wide from Marine Circle to Perlemoen Street.  It’s designed for strolling, jogging, or just soaking up those postcard-perfect Table Mountain views.   2. Parking with a view New and reconfigured parking bays are being rolled out, including a major new lot at Visagie Street and an expanded Bokkombaai area. Some bays will offer elevated positions, so you can literally park off and admire the beach and mountain without leaving your car.    City of Cape Town   3. Natu

The Gun Run has been a Cape Town tradition for over 30 years, known for its scenic routes and festive atmosphere. This coming weekend, 13 – 14 September, will bring more than 18 000 runners across its trail run, 10km race, 5km fun runs, and the Half Marathon. There's even a pet walk taking place.  Residents and motorists are advised to plan ahead for road closures and traffic impacts - click here to see the full list of planned road closures Saturday, 13 September: Expect delays in Green Point, Mouille Point, and Sea Point during the 5km, 10km, and 17km races. Sunday, 14 September: Significant closures between 05:00 and 11:00 in Green Point, De Waterkant, Sea Point, Camps Bay, and Clifton for the Half Marathon. Key roads affected: Alfred Street (Green Point), Beach Road (Sea Point), Clarens Road (Sea Point), Kloof Road and Victoria Road (Camps Bay).   Gun Run Starting Points  Saturday, 13 September 2025 17km Trail Run – Van Riebeeck Park, 07:00 10km Run/Walk – Fritz Sonnenberg Road, 07:30 5km Fun Run – Fritz Sonnenberg Road, 08:00 5km Pet Walk – Fritz Sonnenberg Road, 08:10 Sunday, 14 September 2025 21,1km Half Marathon – Fritz Sonnenberg Road, 06:30 Cape Town's top race line-up continues to grow The Mother City remains a prominent destination for amateur and professional runnings with the following races firmly on the radar.    Cape Town Marathon sold out! Here's what you need to know  All eyes are on Cape Town this October. If the city delivers a world-class event in

Being a tourist in a world-class destination like Cape Town often has locals eyeing their shoestring budgets and wondering what's affordable. This September the city and its surrounds come alive with special offers that invite you to explore without emptying your wallet. Believe it or not, there are free ways to rediscover Cape Town’s heritage and nature - especially during Heritage Month, with Heritage Day on Wednesday, 24 September, and a special focus on tourism on World Tourism Day on Saturday, 27 September.    We've rounded up some of the freebies and specials you simply cannot ignore, to enjoy more time out and about in the world's best city for 2025.  Time Out Tips to make the most of Heritage Month: Don't forget your ID: Many free admissions and discounts require a South African ID or proof of residence; keep your documents handy. Plan ahead: Check official websites for real-time updates or possible visitor quotas. Combine nature and views: Enjoy the cableway early, then hike a CapeNature reserve the same day. Be mindful: SANParks’ free weekend slots are limited. So arrive early. ICYMI: You can still catch the tail-end of these winter specials running until the end of September - from spa days, brunch or wine paired menus. 1. CapeNature’s Free-Access Week From 20 to 26 September 2025, CapeNature offers free access to many reserves across the Western Cape, including popular spots like Jonkershoek, Kogelberg, De Hoop, and more. This includes day-visitor conservation f

The Blood Moon over Cape Town did not disappoint on Sunday night. Locals gathered all across the Mother City, from Signal Hill to Kalk Bay, to watch the celestial show. Table Mountain National Park issued a safety warning as large crowds were anticipated, but all's well that ends well, with no incidents reported. The total lunar eclipse saw the moon slip into Earth’s shadow, glowing a deep, rusty red from around 7.30 pm and lasting until about 8.52 pm, after it peaked shortly around 8.11 pm. Social media was awash with experts and locals alike capturing the Blood Moon in all its splendour.  But few nailed it quite like travel photographer Jay Caboz. His series of images depicts the Blood Moon perfectly aligning with the Table Mountain Cableway station. A capture he admits was no happy accident. Jay explained how he spent hours in the planning app @photopills, calculating angles and timings down to the wire from his vantage point on Bakoven Beach.   "This was one of the most intensely stressful shots I’ve ever planned, a mind bender. A few meters either side and it would not have passed by it. The relief when it worked out was indescribable," says Jay. "No one will be able to capture this shot again for another 9 years, maybe even longer, with the rugged coastline making such precise alignment so rare."    Jay Caboz Jay CabozThe Full Blood Moon rose in peak illumination for just a few brief minutes, Jay Caboz Take a look at some of the other images shared to social

This September, Zeitz MOCAA opens a landmark exhibition that feels especially fitting for South Africa’s Heritage Month. We Proceed in the Footsteps of the Sunlight is the first museum survey of Ghanaian-German artist Zohra Opoku. The exhibition brings together ten years of her work in textiles, photography, printmaking, and installation - opening on Thursday, 11 September 2025, and running until 4 October 2026. In the context of Heritage Month, Opoku’s exhibition feels like a gentle yet powerful reminder that heritage isn’t static: it’s something we carry, reshape, and sometimes rediscover. Born in East Germany, Opoku moved to Ghana to reconnect with her roots. Her work captures that sense of being between worlds - holding on to ancestry while shaping a future. Her story resonates far beyond Ghana or Germany, speaking to anyone who has asked where they come from, or how our individual backgrounds continue to guide us. Through fabric, memory, and ritual, Opoku explores how identity is formed and passed on, especially when those identities stretch across continents, borders and generations. Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African ArtWe Proceed in the Footsteps of the Sunlight: textured expressions of personal history and cultural inheritance. Unlike a solo exhibition that spotlights a single project, this museum survey zooms out, letting us trace how Opoku’s ideas and style have grown over time. Here, her work circles back to three recurring forces: Water (ritual and flow), B

Cape Town just took a massive step towards cleaner public transport. Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS) officially launched its electric bus project at the Arrowgate Depot this week, unveiling South Africa’s largest electric bus fleet and charging facility.  The rollout includes 68 electric buses already on the road, with 40 more arriving soon and a target of 120 by December, as detailed by Ash Muller, who attended the launch.   View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ash Müller | Ask Ash (@askashbroker) Each BYD B12 bus seats 65 passengers, runs on lithium-iron-phosphate batteries and can travel up to 240km on a single charge. At the new depot, charging infrastructure is powered by solar during the day and the grid at night. It has capacity for 30 chargers now and 50 by year-end. According to GABS, operating costs are dramatically lower too - R2–R3/km for electric versus R12/km for diesel.  Michael Leighton, CTO of Smart EV (the STS Tech Group division behind the charging tech), detailed that the depot can manage its energy load to avoid costly peak-hour charging. The shift has seen GABS cut its diesel use from 39,000 to 32,000 litres daily. With Cape Town commuters boarding these buses daily, the city is inching closer to a greener, smarter mobility future.  Sign up to Time Out Cape Town's free newsletter here for expert recommendations on new and amazing things to do, see, eat and drink in the Mother City. Or follow Time Out Cape Town on Faceboo

The City of Cape Town has announced the launch of the Bo-Kaap Market, a new community-driven trading hub set to open on Tuesday, 30 September 2025, at the corner of Pentz Street and Yusuf Drive.  The market will run daily from 10:00 to 19:00, offering a vibrant space to celebrate the area’s rich cultural heritage while supporting local entrepreneurship. Bo-Kaap has long been celebrated as one of Cape Town’s most photographed neighbourhoods, yet its residents have often seen little meaningful return from the influx of tourism. Despite the area’s global visibility, visitor spending benefits tend to bypass locals, with large operators and outside investors capturing much of the value.  SL_PhotographyColorful street view of the Malay quarter of Bo Kaap with its traditional architecture, Cape Town, South Africa. At the same time, locals have complained about gentrification pressures, short-term rentals, and luxury developments eroding the cultural fabric that makes the Bo-Kaap unique. The market initiative potentially addresses some of the broader challenges of directly uplifting the community that sustains this CBD drawcard, with the City announcing "no cost to trade during the initial launch" phase of the new market. "This initiative is aimed at supporting traders as they establish themselves in the market. Traders will be fully briefed on these details during the interview and onboarding process to ensure transparency and preparedness," said the City’s Mayoral Committee Memb

Veteran tourism entrepreneur Mohamed Baba has officially launched Aurum Africa, an employee-owned premium touring company. With a founding team of 40, including 25 staff shareholders, Aurum Africa offers curated, guided experiences and journey logistics across Southern Africa. The venture aims to redefine transformation in the tourism sector through "equity sharing local empowerment." Speaking at the launch event held at the Cape Grace Hotel, Baba said Aurum Africa was born from a desire to move beyond "lip service to real, lived transformation."   "True transformation isn't about compliance scorecards or token gestures. I’m determined that Aurum Africa will stand as proof that true empowerment is possible when you trust your people with real ownership, not just promises," he said.   At the launch, Baba, who spent three decades shaping local tour experiences in the industry, also confirmed that he is no longer involved in Illios Travel, the company he founded over 25 years ago.  Having exited the business in 2021, Baba said Illios remains an integral part of his legacy. However, Aurum Africa now represents a new chapter built on "shared ownership, a fresh vision, and a deeper commitment to transformation in the tourism sector." “Our guests deserve experiences shaped by people who are truly invested – not just employees, but owners,” he said.    Aurum AfricaNew employee-owned premium touring company. Shareholder Shadley Basadien, who spoke about “The Aurum Journey” at the l