With Philippe Arlt (@philippearlt) in Capetown

Cape Town is extremely popular for its wine, the incredible nature and famous landmarks, such as the table mountain. Every year, Photographer Philippe Arlt spends 2-3 months in the South-African city, so today he will share what brings him back year after year and why he loves Cape Town that much. Of course we will also learn about his favourite places and the Must-Do’s to have the perfect Cape Town adventure.

What do you like about Cape Town?

In my opinion, Cape Town has a unique charisma, which is shaped by the breathtaking nature, the open and friendly people, the culinary diversity and the lifestyle which is connected to all of those. The (almost infallible) guarantee for great weather, my local friends, the international vibe as a melting pot of Africa and the opportunities to work as a photographer are only some of the many additional reasons why I return year after year.

You come back every year - why is that?

Due to the seasons being the opposite of European seasons and the incredible light conditions, Cape Town is one of the global meccas for photographers. Half of the industry flocks to the city between December and early April, so the business opportunities there are plentiful. Aside from that, the cape region is so diverse and vast that one visit would simply not suffice to explore it all.

What is your craziest Cape Town Story?

I am not sure, whether it is my “craziest” story, but it is definitely a time which I will not forget. In early 2018 the whole cape region was extremely close to drying out. Due to the absence of rainfall in previous winters there was an acute water scarcity in Cape Town and everyone was warned about “Day Zero” - the day when drinking water sources have gone completely dry. There were strict behavioural measures for all residents and we were not allowed to shower for more than 30 seconds or buy more that 3L of water per day. Thankfully, “Day Zero” never came.

How is the nightlife in Cape Town?

It is very young and creative. New districts for clubs and bars are constantly emerging and due to the many national and international artists there is a place for every different taste in music. In general, there are also plenty of music festivals on the weekend, which usually begin during daytime and are definitely worth a visit due to unique locations and superb music.

What are your secret recommendations?

Restaurants:
Kloof Street House (unique ambiance & great service), The Pot Luck Club, Codfather (the highest quality of fish) and Giovanni’s Deli

Bars:
The Power and the Glory, Yourstruly, Orphanage and Aces & Spades

What is your favourite place in Cape Town?

Definitely the Clifton beaches. Thanks to the extraordinary location in the middle of a mountain range and close to the sea at the same time, it is only a stone’s throw away from your residence to one of the most beautiful beaches on earth.

Bucketlist Capetown

☐ enjoy a sundowner at Clifton beach (Map ✈ 1)
☐ admire the sunrise from the peak of Lion’s Head mountain (Map ✈ 2)
☐ hike Table mountain (Map ✈ 3)
☐ observe penguins at Boulder’s beach (Map ✈ 4)
☐ take surfing classes in Muizenberg (Map ✈ 5)
☐ visit wineries and enjoy a wine tasting in Constantia & Stellenbosch (Map ✈ 6)
☐ take a day trip to Babylonstoren (Map ✈ 7)
☐ go kayaking in the morning
☐ celebrate a festival weekend
☐ shop at the many vintage stores
☐ take part in the first thursday cultural events
☐ visit farmers and food markets

The Gin for adventurerS

After travelling around the world, the friends Lupo and Basti decided to create their own dry gin, inspired by the world. The concept: The best ingredients from five continents, combined in a handcrafted Dry Gin - made in Germany.
Today the BIRDS brand is much more than just a gin brand. BIRDS sees itself as a global community of friends who share a passion for adventure, travel and enjoyment and who are always looking to expand their horizons.