The One & Only Cape Town.

by Ondine Cohane

I have been thinking about South Africa a lot this week. Mostly because of the recent election, of course, but also because my husband has some South African guests staying with us. Regardless of what you think of Jacob Zuma (and I will stay out of politics here), there is no disputing that the country has plenty to attract tourists: wine, wildlife, and gorgeous natural surroundings from bush to beach.

Cape Town is consistently a reader favorite at Condé Nast Traveler, and with the opening of a One & Only resort there this month, the city is going to become even more popular. Nelson Mandela and Mariah Carey were among the boldfaced names at the grand opening, and it sounds like it is going to be an impressive property with a 3,767-square-foot infinity pool (I am trying to visualize that), a huge spa and fitness center, both a Gordon Ramsay Maze and a Nobu restaurant (the first in Africa), and gorgeous views of iconic Table Mountain.

When I visited Cape Town in the early '90s I stayed at the beautiful Mount Nelson Hotel before going on safari in Botswana, but there are great places to see game in South Africa. I got an e-mail from a friend this week asked whether she should stay at Singita or Londolozi lodge for her honeymoon. I am sure she would be happy in either spot, but if you have visited them, let me know which you would choose. Another option would the brand-new Cliff Lodge, a two-bedroom retreat with its own swimming pool and dining room and the latest addition to Richard Branson's Ulusaba Private Game Reserve. Apparently Christian Slater was the inaugural and very happy guest.

Further reading:
* Ulusaba's Cliff House has an opening special: Before June 30, 2009, you can stay 4 nights, pay 3 nights; stay 5 nights, pay 4 nights; or stay 7 nights, pay 5 nights. This came to us by press release, but it's not yet online, so call the property directly to inquire.
* Travel Wish List 2009