February 2021 – Cape Town Thing

February 26, 2021March 8, 2021

Joshy O’ Hook releases #LifestyleZuluBoyEP to public acclaim!

Joshy O’ Hook releases #LifestyleZuluBoyEP to public acclaim!

The Year 2021 kicked off really well for Joshy O’hook, formally known as Oduma O’Hook. A month after the release of his latest project, #LifestyleZuluBoyEP, it is safe to say the rising superstar is getting the attention he really deserves. The EP includes artists such as hot and happening Nigerian Artist Wande Coal, who has made quite a name for himself with previous hit singles and is featured on the main single of the EP, “Tonight”. Joshy O’Hook, is an artist that composes diverse music including genres like Deep House, Tribal, Acoustic, Hip-hop, Trap, and EDM to name a few.

The #LifestyleZuluBoyEP was one of the top trending topics on Twitter in South Africa after its release, reaching No. 2 on the Trends List. Spotify recently playlisted “Tonight” on the AFROBEATS FRESH TAGS 2021 playlist, alongside African juggernauts such as DAVIDO, BURNA BOY & WIZKID to mention a few. Joshy O’Hook is currently doing his media tour promoting this project which is currently on rotation on various major Radio Platforms.

Starting his music career at a tender age, the musical adventure for Joshy O’Hook started in 2017 in the city of Lagos, Nigeria when he dropped his first single “Follow You”. He later signed up with the record label LITENATION RECORDS in 2018. The artists’ main aspirations are to reach out and inspire a greater audience through his music.

When asked about his latest project he said “Women deserve all the best things in life, with a dash of happiness. If it means flowers every day, why not? After all, our women go through the most on a daily [basis]”. According to Joshy #LifestyleZuluBoyEP is about Unity, love and it brings people together from different regions, religions & culture. His goal is to create various sounds and believes music is the art of creativity. “The Process of creating music is like painting a picture for myself & my listeners”

Previously, Joshy O’Hook was involved in various entertainment activities such as acting band, choir performance. Joshy O’Hook later came to reside in Cape Town and has managed to not only uplift the community but also collaborate with Cape Town based artists in this project.

Listen to the EP on Spotify here!

#LifestyleZuluBoyEP is currently available on all online platforms.

STREAMING LINK: https://ditto.fm/lifestyle-joshy-ohook

You can also follow him on social media: INSTAGRAM and TWITTER.

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February 16, 2021February 17, 2021

Birthday Specials and Freebies in Cape Town

What’s the best gift you can get for yourself on your next birthday? Free things of course just because it’s your special day. We have a few freebies that will keep you smiling, feeling pampered and keep the gifts coming..

Here are a few freebies and specials across Cape Town that you can get on your birthday:

1. The Cape Wheel

The Cape Wheel is a popular attraction located in Victoria and Alfred (V&A) Waterfront. It gives you a stunning view of the Mother City and an experience you’ll be happy you had on your birthday. Sign up on their website to their birthday club, fill in your details and you’ll get a 30 day redeemable voucher. Make sure to bring a printed copy and you’ll receive a birthday picture.

2. Free movie at the Galileo Open Air Cinema

Another great reason to visit the wonderful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens-their outdoor cinema under the stars. Galileo offers an array of movies that you can choose from so make sure to order your ticket online. The location is surrounded by greenery, beautiful views of the mountains to set the mood for a cosy night out on your birthday.

They offer you a free movie, blanket and backrest for your birthday which usually goes for R119-R195 if it’s not your birthday. This is the perfect way to end your special day, under the stars and eating some of the delicious snacks they sell.

3. Two Oceans Aquarium

Waterfront just keeps spreading that birthday freebie love at their aquarium. Two Oceans Aquarium gives you a free ticket on your birthday redeemable 6 days afterwards. The aquarium is home to over 8000 creatures and is uniquely situated where the Indian and the Atlantic Ocean meet, hence the name Two Oceans. This is definitely a place you need to visit this year and it feels even more special when you get to enter for free.

4. Dolce Bakery

Dolce Bakery is a personal favourite bakery located on Lower Main Observatory in Cape Town. Not many know of it, but on your first visit you’re sure to tell the entire world about this true gem.

Visit them on your birthday and get yourself a free cheesecake (their most popular dessert). It’s probably the largest cheesecake I’ve ever had the joy of eating. Moist and shaped like a mini cake with a dollop of caramel (or Nutella) in the centre. It’ll keep you wanting to explore the rest of their baked goods.

5. Table Mountain Cable Car

The great Table Mountain with its clouds, sky high views of Cape Town and a cable car that can get you all the way up, for free on your birthday. If you’re not feeling up for a lengthy hike with friends up the mountain then all you need is your ID and you’ll get your ticket valid for a week after your birthday. Don’t forget to take plenty of pictures and take in the glorious views once on the table top.

6. Free Donuts at Krispy Kreme anyone?

Yes, you heard it here people, you get 12 free donuts at Krispy Kreme if it’s your birthday. All you need to do is buy a dozen donuts and you’ll receive another dozen for free! If that isn’t completely nutty then I don’t know what is.

Treat yourself to the max this year and be sure to pass by one of the branches and add to your list of great gifts to you. Download the Krispy Kreme App 48 hours before your birthday and redeem your birthday special. If you’re a donut lover then indulge yourself on your donutty birthday.

February 12, 2021February 12, 2021

The Best Hiking Trails and Mountains in Cape Town

Hiking can be the best and cheapest way to get active outdoors.Get your blood pumping as you walk through mountains and venture through forests. Cape Town is known for its many mountains that hold some of the most wondrous views of the Mother City.

Here’s a list of the best mountains to hike and trails you can conquer this year:

Table Mountain

The great Table Mountain, people come from all corners of the earth to visit it. It is quite the attraction indeed with over 16 million tourists having gone up this mountain since 1926. This flat topped mountain is often covered with clouds that drape over the top which look like a tablecloth.

Explore the national beauty of Cape Town and hike up Table Mountain with friends or family. It’s about a 1.5- 3 hour hike if you take the quickest route and make sure you stretch cause it’s quite the steep climb. We recommend also packing a few light snacks and a jacket as the temperature drops the higher you go.

The top of Table Mountain offers a self service restaurant seating 120 people with delicious meals. They also have a Cableway Cocktail bar complimentary for watching the sunset and embracing the city view. There’s much to explore on this beautiful landmark from the flora to the history behind the cable car. Make sure to take loads of pictures once you make it up.

Lion’s Head

Lion’s Head is located next to Table Mountain and is perfect for beginners looking for a short hike. The mountain coined its name from the shape of the mountain resembling a male lion’s head. Tell us if you see the resemblance.

The path is stunning and overlooks the ocean and the magnificent city. The scenic views at the top are what tourists and locals admire most about this hike. Most begin their hike at around 5pm to catch the magical sunset overlooking well known areas like Robben Island, Camps Bay and Clifton Beach

As you hike up you’ll see many passing up and down this mountain as it’s loved by locals and tourists. There are people hiking with their children, their pets and people speaking all kinds of languages. The greatest take away I got from hiking Lion’s Head is how friendly all the hikers are. You’ll find strangers motivating you that you’re almost to the top and making sure you’re okay as you hike down.

Elephant’s Eye

Silvermine’s Elephant’s Eye is an amazing hike, it’s not so steep but it still feels like a good workout. Located in the beautiful mountains of Constantia this cave overlooks the amazing Houtbay area.

The hike expands across the Silvermine Nature Reserve and can take about 2 to 5 hours to complete. It makes up one of the many trails attracting bird watchers, mountain bikers and tourists. Make sure to bring lots of sunscreen and a hat cause this hike isn’t as windy as the Table Mountain or Lion’s Head.

As you hike, the trail will have plenty of signs and reserve guides who can assist you if you get lost. The view from Elephant’s Eye Cave is worth the journey. A great way to conclude the hike is to head down for a dip in the lake to cool down.

Entrance: R35 adults, R15 children (prices vary for foreign nationals)

Cederberg Wilderness Area

The Cederberg has a variety of stunning hiking trails and is just a 2 hour drive from Cape Town. If you’re looking for a serene and beautiful location then this is the hike for you. The hiking trails include paths with beautiful waterfalls, different plant life, wildlife as well as interesting rock structures.

A day away in Cederberg is just what you need to gain a sense of peace, calm and excitement as you enjoy the wilderness. The Cederberg Wilderness Area hosts multiple hiking routes you can choose from, depending on your fitness level and how long you’re planning to hike. There’s the Wolfberg Arch route which takes about 8 hours, the Maltese Cross 5 hours, the Waterfall trail and Uitkyk trail which take 3 hours each.

The hiking routes welcome bikers, hikers, thrill seekers and rock climbers. We’d recommend hiking in a group and carry enough food, water and health supplies on hand for these hikes. Ensure you read the hiking safety tips on their website about the hikes beforehand and that you’re well prepared.

The Cederberg Area also offers a range of other outdoor activities including quad biking, boulder climbing, canoeing and kayaking, bird watching and more. There’s so much to do and there’s something exciting to enjoy for everyone. Book online to plan your next adventure.

February 12, 2021February 12, 2021

Amazing Picnic Spots In Cape Town

The festive season has come to an end and now that we have embraced the new year, it’s somewhat necessary to slow down and unwind. A relaxing day outdoors, sitting with your loved ones and delicious food is definitely what you need to ease your way through 2021.

We’ve got the perfect spots around Cape Town to host a little picnic or braai as you dig into your picnic baskets and bask in the sun.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens

As someone who has made any excuse to visit Kirstenbosch, I can attest to its sheer greatness. As you enter you’re met with the beautiful mountains that surround the open picnic spaces and the sounds of birds chirping as you just feel far far away from the city.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a magnificent attraction in Newlands, Cape Town that is nothing short of breath taking. It has over 2500 plant species and is a popular spot for picnics, hikes, bird watching, outdoor movies, concerts and admiring the scenic views.

If you’re planning to catch the best views I’d suggest you catch the sunset from the Boomslang after your picnic. The Boomslang meaning tree snake is a long wooden bridge that’s located high amongst the treetops in Kirstenbosch.

From there you can watch as the sky turns shades of pink and orange as the sunsets accompanied by the scenic views. A friend of mine compared the view to a scene from the movie Avatar, because it definitely does look out of this world.

Entrance fee:R 75 for adults, R40 for students, R20 for scholars (6-17) and free for children under 6

Opening times: Everyday from 9am- 6pm

Green Point Park

This park is perfect for a day out with a few friends or family. It’s used by locals for everything from outdoor workouts, birthday celebrations, cycling and markets. In fact, the first time I visited this park I saw what looked like a kids playground, a soccer match in the distance, a wedding celebration and overheard the happy birthday song about 3 times.

The Green Point Park just has its own lively energy that will leave you having the most interesting picnic experience. The trees provide plenty of shade as you set up your blankets, snacks and meals for your picnic.

Enjoy the beautiful scenery in this park surrounded by some of most well known attractions in Cape Town . You can spot the Green Point Stadium, well known mountains as well as the flowers and birds residing in the park. Visit the biodiversity garden that tells you all about the fauna in the park and learn something new and interesting.

Entrance Fee: Absolutely Free

Opening time 7am-7pm

The Company’s Gardens

This picnic spot is somewhat hidden in sight as it’s surrounded by a student campus, a church that has an underground bar, a restaurant and a museum. Most don’t know of the picnic spots, benches and strolling spaces nestled between the buildings.

This quaint park is a great place to have a small picnic, feed squirrels, and roam around Company Gardens. You can explore the museum, look through the flower bushes, explore the art gallery nearby.

You also get to admire the tranquility and the happy people cycling through, sitting in the sun or swinging in the giant nest near the restaurant. On my first visit I spent hours with my friend, surprised that we had never stumbled upon this side of the Gardens before.

Entrance Fee: Free for all

Opening time: 8am-6pm

The Lawns at the Roundhouse

The Lawns at the Roundhouse definitely is the perfect location to take in the serene views of Cape Town. It’s nestled by The Table Mountain and gives you the perfect view of Camp Bay’s wonderful ocean. The Lawns is a breezy area in the mountains that invites you to enjoy their exclusive views of the city.

The location provides outdoor seating suitable for you, from bean bags to wooden tables with umbrellas or picnic mats. It’s one of the fancier picnic options as it is a restaurant that offers contemporary European cuisine with a South African twist.

We recommend sipping on some of their bubbly drinks at sundown while catching the sunset over the ocean. Picnics need to be booked online 24 hours in advance on their website.

Entrance Fee: Details on the website while booking

Opening time: Wednesday- Sunday 9am-7pm

Where: Roundhouse Road (Off Kloof Road), The Glen, Camps Bay

February 3, 2021February 12, 2021

3 Unique and Interesting Experiences in Cape Town

3 Unique and Interesting Experiences to Have in Cape Town

Cape Town is South Africa’s laid back yet ambitious new aged city. Here you’ll be greeted by a diverse set of people and unique events that’ll leave you feeling intrigued and curious to try more.

Our city is filled with surfers, artists, skaters and photographers, business people and young entrepreneurs. It welcomes the new age, the old age, the go getters and vacationers. And with every unique city there are a set of unique experiences that you need to have :

Secret Sunrise

Secret Sunrise is all about empowering people to be positive, to keep dancing and celebrate being alive. That’s exactly what we all need this year. You get to experience a sunset (or sunrise) silent dance and meditation outdoors in Cape Town. Yes silent, because everyone has headphones on, jamming to music on rooftops, beaches, buildings and parks ( adhering to Covid regulations of course).

It’s a truly magical experience filled with laughter and uncontrollable smiles. It’s a great encounter that will keep you joyful all day. Just bring some friends or better yet meet new people there.

How much? R90- R100 per person, R75 for children and R120 if you want to donate to charity

When? Dates and venues are on their website for when you book

Ceramic Painting at the Clay Cafe

Looking for something relaxing and creative to do with friends? Why not release your artistry on a few mugs and plates at the Clay Cafe? The Clay Cafe is located on Main Road, in the beautiful Hout Bay. Create your own signature pottery by sculpting, painting and decorating whatever you decide to do there.

The experience can give you a chance to just do something fun and light-hearted or even open up a creative side of you that you left behind in your past. Once you’re done leave it at the Clay Café and you’ll be notified when your work of art is ready to collect.

How Much? Check their website to book, prices depend on the group size

When? Daily from 9-5pm

SupYoga , Yoga on a Tidal Pool

Imagine doing yoga, on a paddle board, in the sun while floating over a dam. It may sound crazy or like it’s meant for yoga pros, but this experience is enjoyed by all kinds of people.

Join Sup Yoga and their instructors for some revitalizing stand up yoga as you say namaste on the still waters of the canals or gorgeous views from Clifton or Camps Bay. Aah, now that sounds like a peaceful adventure. You get to focus on your breathing, still your mind and practice meditation and improve your yoga postures.

Where and When? Book online to see the next available session

February 3, 2021February 16, 2021

4 Top Rated Ice Cream Shops in Cape Town

1. Moro Gelato

Moro Gelato is a small gelato shop that serves handmade, authentic Italian ice cream. They aim to make gelato using the freshest local ingredients and traditions rooted from the coastal hills of Liguria. Basically, they dedicate their time and energy towards making next level gelato just for you and me.

On entrance you’ll be greeted by their gorgeous interior décor, with golden accents that truly makes the shop feel prestigious. You’ll also be greeted by the friendly and bubbly ice cream makers who are sure to bring a smile on your face.

Their ice cream or gelato comes in an array of delicious flavours that honestly makes it difficult to choose just one or two. They offer flavours such as Pistacchio , Nocciola (hazelnuts), Fragola (strawberry sorbet) and many others depending on the season and the month.

Where? 165 Long Street, Cape Town

Operating Hours: Daily from 11am-7:45pm

2. The Creamery

If you’ve ever been to The Creamery then you’ll understand why it’s a top rated ice cream shop in the Mother City. Offering many interesting flavours that change monthly that keep loyal customers coming back for more.

A few interesting favourites include their Raspberry Cake, Cornflake Milk, Popcorn flavour, oh and their delicious Cookie Dough ice cream. The Creamery serves their ice cream on either a cone, a cup or nestled on their freshly made waffles. They also offer great toppings like the cookie crumbs, toasted marshmallows topping, sauces and more.

Not only do they give you a variety of tasty flavours, but The Creamery always has the friendliest service in our opinion. They truly make you feel right at home. A waffle smelling ice cream home, of course!

Where? Shop 4 Newlands Quarter, Deans Street

(visit their website for the other 6 locations)

Operating Hours: Daily 10am- 8pm

3. Crumbs and Cream

Crumbs and Cream is the ice cream shop for ice cream fanatics looking for a fun treat. With a great selection of all things ice cream with a playful twist that takes you back to your childhood desires.

Indulge in heaps of ice cream covered in sauces and toppings, or maybe a plate of delicious French Crepes drizzled with chocolate sauce. What about a 5 layered ice cream cookie sandwich, a Crumb Shake or a good old fashioned slush puppy?

Crumbs and Cream really makes an effort to offer plenty of options to suit your preferences. With well over 10 different flavours of ice cream and 11 different cookies and spreads to choose from. Oh, and not to mention their emphasis on making the entire process so much fun. Visit this amazing place with friends and family, it’ll surely bring them a whole lotta cheer.

Where? 16 Regent Road, Sea Point

17 Dock Road, V&A Waterfront

Operating Hours: Daily 8am- 8pm (Sea Point)

Daily 10am- 6pm (V&A)

4. Kristen’s Kick-Ass Ice Cream

Kristen’s Kick Ass Ice Cream is a gem that handmakes their oh so divine ice cream treats. Their range of desserts are made with fresh African ingredients creating the creamiest dairy, vegan and sugar free options, scooped with a whole lot of love.

Kristen started making her kick ass ice cream right after she moved to Cape Town from New York. Her love for all things ice cream inspired her to open up her own store in the Mother City and spread love with other dessert lovers from all around the city.

Dig into their delicious signature range, offering favourites such as their dark chocolate and honeycomb ice cream. Scoop up their chocolate chip cookie dough flavours or their non dairy, sugar free, coconut fudge. Don’t forget to check out their seasonal ice cream flavours to switch things up during special occasions.

As if that wasn’t enough, Kristen’s Kick Ass Ice Cream also sells pre ordered ice cream cakes and offer Sundae kits to help you create your very own ice cream sundae masterpiece.

Sounds absolutely delectable to me. Visit this amazing shop with friends or you can surprise someone with an ice cream gift voucher available online on their website.

Where? Noordhoek Farm Village, Village Lane

Constantia Uitsig, Spaanchemat River Road

Operating Hours: Daily 9am-5pm

Make sure to try out these top rated ice cream shops and share your experience with us @capetownthing. We’d love to see what you end up ordering. And remember life is too short to be limiting your ice cream indulgence.