Cape Town

Cape Town reclines on a sunny peninsula on South Africa’s glittering southwest coast. Here, outdoorsy types can explore the rugged trails of the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, adrenaline junkies can abseil down the soaring Table Mountain, while those seeking relaxation can find it on the silver sands of Blouberg Beach.

The city’s vibrant blend of cultures is best sampled in a local restaurant or lively market, while its past can be discovered in numerous historical landmarks. A trip to Robben Island, the prison where Nelson Mandela was once held, makes for a somber yet captivating experience.