After a warm and sunny week in the Algarve, we have returned to wind, rain and rather chilly temperatures – leaving us in no doubt that winter is most definitely on its way!

We are approaching November, so we shouldn’t be surprised, but after a long and (unusually) warm summer this year, the thought of stepping into four months of frosty mornings and dark chilly evenings is not too inviting…

However, our dear friends down in the Western Cape of South Africa could do with a bit of sunshine after all the rain they have had this year, and with daily temperatures reaching 25 degrees, it looks as though summer has finally arrived in Cape Town – and if we want some sun this winter, we need to head south!

November through to April are fantastic months to visit South Africa, especially if you are looking for some winter sun, and while the hotel prices jump up over Christmas and New Year (like everywhere else in the world), there are some fantastic bargains to be had in Cape Town.

A cosmopolitan city steeped in culture and history, Cape Town has much to offer the international traveller, and while the Atlantic Ocean is not exactly swimming temperature (it rarely gets above 14°), you can certainly dip your toes in as your stroll along the iconic beach of Camps Bay with the magnificent 12 Apostles as your backdrop!

Those who like to indulge in a bit of activity will appreciate the endless shark-cage diving, cycling, and hiking possibilities, while those who prefer to indulge their taste buds will admire the exquisite dining venues and world-famous vineyards of the Western Cape Winelands.

So, if like me, you dread the thought of winter, book your end of year break to Cape Town and Escape to the Western Cape!