Our final REGULAR Day - September 15

So today is the final day in Cape Town before our group splits up...half going home and half going off to Zimbabwe.  So how better to spend the day than...Road Trip.

South Africa is growing in notoriety for it's wine growing  Much like the coast of California the climate is perfect for many varietals.  We learned that every varietal is grown here, including a Pinotage that is a cultivar developed just for SA.  Our trip through the wine-producing region was interrupted by a brief stop at the quaint historical town of Stellenbosch.

Somewhere along the line it occurred to me
that we hadn't been visiting many churches.

Stellenbosch dates back to 1770's, having been developed by the Dutch East India Company.  Varied architecture is viewed walking around the city but it all reflects the Anglican, Dutch past.  As a touristy stop, the town abounds with quaint hand-craft shops, galleries and museums.

Stunning altar truly doesn't show
 in the pix.

Many stunning stained
glass windows. 

The juxtaposition of art and life.

Chicago could adopt this.  

The offer of free shipping was mighty tempting.
But where would be put a 2 foot elephant?

Not grapes yet.

Onward to SpierWine Estate for a quick walk on the grounds and some tasting.  Not a very dynamic stop, the wine-tasting was still interesting and we picked up a few new details while tasting the crisp whites and hearty reds.  The pinotage was an interesting varietal but will nee more 'at-home' research to determine it's true value.

Learning and Discovery.
Oak barrels need to be imported from the US
or France. SA Oak is too soft so the wine leaks out.

A 'sit 'n'sip experience.

Arriving back in Cape Town, we elected to do a little street research on our own.  We had heard of the Green Point Market and the Pan African Market that just cried to be explored.  Taking leave from the group and bus we toured the area for a bit before hailing a cab with a few other travelers back to the hotel.

This 3 story building was a shoppers paradise.

That is IF you like this style.  One floor was enough for us.

This one's for you, Erin.  See I recognize a Djembe
 when I see one.

This is Cape Town?  You could almost pass this off
as a European street scene.

 As our final night together, we had a farewell dinner at the top of the Ritz Hotel.  This lovely rotating dining room on the 22nd floor provided us with 360 degree sunset views over Cape Town.  This beautiful city is even more engaging when the lights come on.

On the menu...Kudu.  Nope it doesn't taste like chicken but rather a very fine, lean cut of beef.

Add caption

No stalling on the trip tonight as we leave for the airport at 4am to fly to Johannesburg and then Victoria Falls.  Have to say good-byes tonight as it is doubtful that that not going on the extension will be rising to say send us off.