Miguel

I am going on my honeymoon to SA and Mauritius in November. Couple of questions: We are renting a convertible sports car for a day to go to the winelands. I am, however, a little concerned about safety issues on a convertible. Is it really that unsafe that I should avoid doing this?<BR><BR>On Mauritius, I am staying at the Oberoi, I don't know if I should rent a car or just take taxis all over. Any suggestions on day trips, scuba diving, sightseeing, romantic getaways?<BR><BR>Has anyone stayed at the Royal Malewane? is it worth it?<BR><BR>Any other suggestion welcome.<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR><BR>Miguel

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Anyone?

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Anyone?

james

Miguel, I go to SA every year - usually to Cape Town and the Winelands - never had a problem and have used a convertible. Would put the hood up when stopping in town though - but certainly not at a winery, I'd leave valuables in the boot...even aroud CPT have never had a problem, but others will tell you otherwise (as always). Common sense pays. ps if going to the Winelands - get to Franschhoek for some lunch at La Petite Ferme - book ahead as it is always busy, ask for a window seat - the view down the valley is quite beautiful and romantic. AS for avoiding it - NO WAY! Cape TOwn is so stunning but you would regret not seeing the winelands and especially Franschhoek so much.<BR><BR>~In Mauritius, I take taxi's - they aren't expensive, but it depends how much you want to see -scuba diving is pretty good, Marlin fishing is good for feeling sick ( and you might get lucky) but forget all that you're on Honeymoon aren't you?!! COngrats enjoy - SA & Mauritius will be a fab holiday.

Miguel

James, thanks for your tips, I will certainly consider them. Although I will be on my honeymoon, my fiance and I enjoy scuba and fishing and will most likely take on these activities. Any recommendations for diving spots (any reef or shipwreck in particular? sharks?) Also, besides chilling, what would you recommend to do in Maurtius?<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR><BR>Miguel

Guenter

Miguel, I am also going on my honeymoon to SA (in Oct), because on my first stay there, it's 3 years ago, we were very enthusiastic about this country - and we've also seen Mauritius after that. Cape Town/Winelands looked fairly safe to me, especially the winelands. Be careful in some areas of the city (Long Street, between city and Waterfront), especially in the evening. If time allows, it's also worth to to go by car around the cape peninsula. On Mauritius, we rented also a car. It's more adventurous than take a taxi but it was not as dangerous, as we heard before. You can easy go in one day around the island, only the capital is a little stressing because the traffic - but the market there is very interesting and busy.<BR>I'm sure, SA is perfect for honeymoon!

Selwyn Davidowitz

Hello Miguel,<BR><BR>Firstly congrats on your marriage and also for making the choice of Cape Town as part of your honeymoon. I can assure you that you will not be disappointed.<BR><BR>In terms of safety and the hiring of a convertible my advice to you as a Capetonian is "go for it" as you will have no problems. Many people have read so many stories in the media about the safety factor in Cape Town and two questions are always asked of me by people who want to visit my city. The first question is whether all that the media publish is true? The second question that I am always asked is whether coming to Cape Town is a life threatening adventure? My answer to this is that just as in most cities that I have been to all over the world, Cape Town has its security problems however no matter what the media reports I can honestly tell you that nobody in my, or my wife's closest family, have ever had an experience with crime in Cape Town and we have all lived in the city and its surrounds for all of our lives. What I tell all the folk who travel with me is that when you visit any city in the world you should always "watch your back" and that when you are in “Table Mountain City” or in the Winelands there should be no difference in your vigilance, however in Cape Town and on the Winelands that truly is not a difficult task to accomplish as you always look around more than once anyway so as to get another glimpse of the magnificent scenery that you are continuously passing. ) ) Thus in summarising all I can say is that if your attitude is such that you are prepared to accept the usual risks associated with foreign travel when you venture to any city of the world, then there should be no reason that concern about your safety should deter you from coming to see the marvels of Cape Town or the Winelands so go out and hire that convertible buddy!<BR><BR>Btw the advise that James and Guenter have given you is in my opinion first class. Do take James's suggestion of going to Le Petit Ferme seriously as it is a great one to spoil your bride with. Also listen to his advice about booking early and trying to get a window seat because it is spot on.<BR><BR>Hope that you have a great stay in my city and on the winelands<BR><BR>Selwyn Davidowitz<BR><BR><BR>

Kit

Miguel<BR>My husband and I spent 10 days in Mauritius last November and had a wonderful holiday. We were staying in the Maritim just round the bay from the Oberoi, it's a beautiful area. We went on a deep sea fishing trip - it was great to get a view of the island but we were disappointed only to catch two small "Bonitos" rather than Marlin etc. So be prepared to not catch anything despite being out at sea for 6 or 7 hours (take a good book!). We hired a car for a day (enough time to explore the south of the island) and also spent a day cycling along the north coast - it's very flat. We also did a trip to the Botanic Gardens with a very informative guide. All can be organised when you arrive. But I'd recommend spending lots of time just relaxing and enjoying the great hospitality of the Mauritians.<BR><BR>Have fun!

Miguel

Guys,<BR><BR>Your advice has been great. I really appreciate all of you taking the time to write. I live in Mexico City, which also has a history of crime. I have been a victim myself and it is not a pleasant experience. However, I know the stories are blown out of proportion, and rational precautions, as in any big city, are the only necessary precautions. I will certainly look at La Petite Ferme and all your advice.<BR><BR>Please contact me if you are planning a trip to Mexico.<BR><BR>Thanks,<BR><BR>Miguel