Disappointed by the tourist experience around Robben Island

Robben Island in South Africa is extraordinary — the scale and history hit you immediately. But the experience around it has been thoroughly commercialised. Getting there, navigating the crowds, and dealing with persistent sellers around Durban centre made it more stressful than it should be.

Away from the main sites the country improves dramatically. The food (bobotie especially) is excellent and stunning Cape Winelands was genuinely memorable. But I'd wish for a smoother experience at the headline attractions. It's still worth the trip — just lower your expectations around the big sights.