Home to the newly built Green Point Stadium in the Western Cape province of South Africa is the city of Cape Town with a population of around 1.3 million. The main sources of industry in this part of the country are tourism, manufacturing and agriculture with the former being given a huge boost by the nation hosting the 2010 World Cup.
Whilst in between matches there are plenty of different activities for those staying in and around Cape Town including taking a boat to Robben Island and visiting Table Mountain.
2010 World Cup Activities in Cape Town - Robben Island
For anyone who is interested in South African history a trip to Robben Island should be top of the list to explore the location where many political activists were imprisoned including Nelson Mandela. Situated just seven miles kilometres from Cape Town, the island is accessible by boat. From the 17th to the 20th Century Robben Island served as a place of isolation and imprisonment whereas today the island is both a World Heritage Site and museum. Ferries to the island depart from Nelson Mandela Gateway at Cape Town's V & A Waterfront (weather permitting) at 9am, 11am, 1pm and 3pm.
There are a variety of tours available with the standard tour lasting 3.5 hours and including a return boat-trip, visit to the maximum security prison, interaction with an ex-political prisoner, 45 minute guided coach tour and the opportunity to explore Murray's Bay Harbour attractions. Established in 1997, Robben Island Museum operates as a site and living museum which aims to provide a life-long learning whilst maintaining its unique political and cultural resources.
South Africa World Cup Activities - Table Mountain
Table Mountain is an extremely popular visitor attraction in Cape Town offering breath-taking views and a aerial cable ride to the top. Nelson Mandela described Table Mountain as being 'a beacon of hope' for those imprisoned on Robben Island as the mountain represented the mainland where the captive longed to return. During the 2010 World Cup the first car up leaves at 8.30am while the last car departs at 5pm, returning back down within an hour. For those who enjoy hiking there are several routes available with something to suit all abilities from novice to expert. Guided tours come highly recommended and depart twice daily at 10am and midday.
At the top of Table Mountain there is a cafe, gift shop and ample opportunity for keen photographers to capture panoramic and spectacular views. As the top of the mountain can be around five degrees cooler than at base level it is worth remembering to bring something warm to wear. For the more adventurous there is also abseiling available down cliff faces with Abseil Africa.
As highlighted above, there is plenty to see and do for football fans based in Cape Town in between watching World Cup matches. Both Robben Island and a cable car trip up Table Mountain are suitable for all ages and well worth exploring.
Kate Le Page - Kate Henning-Le Page writes about eating disorders, body image and recovery issues. She specializes in anorexia recovery.
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