Cape Town surprised me completely on this trip to South Africa

I went to South Africa with modest expectations and left completely won over, largely thanks to time spent in Cape Town. The city has a pace and character that travel guides undersell. Found a great spot for bobotie on day two and went back every day after that.

Table Mountain was the big planned experience and delivered as expected. But it was stunning Cape Winelands that became the unexpected highlight — something I stumbled across rather than planned. 18 days was just right for getting below the surface without rushing.