Topic Wiki

Cape Town

Trip Reports
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shmebebleLink
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UPDATED: Kosher Info from Beth Din in Cape Town (last updated Dec. 2020) http://www.uos.co.za/kashrut/ct_kosher.asp

Kashrus Note According to link above, all meat is glatt however milk is NOT Chalav Israel.

Restaurants

NameTypeHoursContactLocation & Description
Avron's Place (Sea Point)
Meat
S – T: 11am – 3pm; 5pm – 10pm; F: 11am – 2:30pm
+27 (0)21 439 7610 Link
19 – 33 Regent Road - Oldest kosher meat restaurant in SA. The humbly adorned, family-friendly eatery, serves a wide variety of dishes, including beef ribs, burgers, mixed grills, boerewors, Cape lamb curry, vegetarian platters, pastas and sushi. Prices rather reasonable. On Tuesdays there's a special on its beef burger and chips (R49 instead of the usual R59). Offers takeaways and catering and packed Shabbat meals for visitors. For the Sephardim the meat is Bet Yosef. But check to make sure.
The Press (Sea Point)
Meat
S – T: noon – late; F: 11am – 3pm; Sat: 1 hour after Shabbat till late
+27 (0)21 434 7724 Website
176 Main Road - Restaurant and Bar (many craft beers on tap).
Coffee Time (Gardens)
Milk
M – T: 8am – 3:30pm; F: 8am – 3pm
+27 (0)21 461 8414
20 Breda Street - Set in an old house in a lush, garden environment. Lawn seating with views of Table Mountain. Breakfast, brunch or lunch. Menu includes scrambled egg, salmon and humus wrap, fish bobotie with homemade chutney, tuna lasagne, sandwich, salad, quiche or smoothie. Early-morning special between 8am and 11am (a combo of two eggs, grilled tomato and mushrooms goes for R25) and also serves a delicious, and incredibly popular, buffet lunch every Wednesday between 12:30pm and 2:30pm. Gluten-free and sugar-free options. Offers catering. Proceeds support the Astra Centre.
Café Riteve (Gardens)
Milk
S – T: 8:30am – 5pm; F: 8:30am – 3pm
+27 (0)21 465 1594
Website
88 Hatfield Street - Located on a piazza that’s part of the same centre as the historical Gardens Shul, the South African Jewish Museum, the Cape Town Holocaust Centre and the Jacob Gitlin Library. Large and varied menu includes three-egg omelette, sushi salad, grilled hake, falafel with dukkah wedges and humus, tuna and mushroom cannelloni, smoked salmon and cream cheese sandwich and chocolate ganache-filled croissant. Also sells range of shakes and juices as well as kosher wine and liquors. Offers catering, takeaways, no delivery. They had some CY, just ask. The earlier you go the more likely the have.
Goldies Deli and Diner (Sea Point)
Meat & Pareve
S – T: 8:30am – 8pm; F: 8:30am – 4:30pm
+27 (0)21 439 3008
Link
174 Main Road - Meat and parev deli and bakery - next door and connected to The Press. Menu include burgers, steak rolls, schwarmas, bagels, salads, fish cakes, breakfast plates and more. Specials every Wednesday and Friday (deals like a three-course meal for four for R120). Delivery is free in Sea Point. Bakery treats include carrot cake, cinnamon twists, chocolate brownies, doughnuts, cupcakes, apple crumble, croissants and teiglach. Offers Shabbat meal orders.
Café B'tayavon @ Highlands House
Milk
021 461 1100
9 Gorge Rd, Highlands Estate - Snacks and Light Meals
Jean's Kitchen @ The Kaplan Centre
Milk
021 650 3064 info@jeanskitchen.co.za
The Kaplan Centre - University of Cape Town - Tea, coffee,
sandwiches, gourmet salads, falafel etc
Baskin Robbins @ Mojo Market (Sea Point)
Note: This is the only kosher B & R
All ice creams, ice cream cones, milkshakes and waffles are Kosher, milchik.
The following topping ONLY are kosher: Crushed Almonds, Crushed Cashews, Fudge, Mini Astros, Mint Crunch
NB: Cakes are NOT KOSHER

Bakeries, Groceries & Ice Cream
Checkers Sea Point- 76 Regent Road - They have a large selection of kosher products including a kosher take out and bakery.
Spar Sea Point - 96 Regent Road - They have a large selection of kosher products including a kosher take out and bakery.

Shuls
Sea point is the main Jewish area.
Green and Sea Point Hebrew Congregation (Marais Road Shul)
Chabad


Hotels with Points near a Shul (Walking Minutes)
Protea Sea Point

Airport Transfer Options
Cab -
Executive Bus -
Public Bus -
Train -

Major Activities
Name
Cost
Distance from CPT
Description and Notes
Boulders Beach
R17035 min• "I found that there were two different entrances, boardwalk and beach. The boardwalk has a higher density of penguins but if you want a better experience, I recommend visiting the beach side- especially at low tide. Because of the tide I was able to walk past the few dozen folks on the beach, climb under and over some boulders, and encounter effectively a different private beach- with penguins!!"
• For budget travelers, take the train to Simonstown and from there a cab to Boulders beach - R20.
Betty’s Bay
1.25 hoursAlso features African Penguins though less crowded than Boulders beach, though further.
Chapman's Peak Drive
R45/car45 min• Beautiful scenery, you have the mountain on one side and the ocean on the other side, great pics, great to make a BBQ come during daylight hours.
NOTE: You need Rand or an SA issued card to pay for the Chapman's Peak toll.
Cape of Good Hope/Cape Point
R360/pp1.5 hours• LONG but AMAZING drive
• almost a full day activity
Lions Head
• Hike - not difficult
• Paragliding - around $85 (prices might be outdated). Book ahead
Robben Island
Tours depart three times a day and take about 3.5 hours, consisting of a ferry trip to and from the island, and a tour of the various historical sites on the island that form part of the Robben Island Museum. These include the island graveyard, the disused lime quarry, Robert Sobukwe's house, the Bluestone quarry, the army and navy bunkers, and the maximum security prison. Nelson Mandela's cell is shown. Reviews are mixed
Table Mountain (Cable car or hike)
~R350• Follow on Twitter for updates on if open or closed
• Cableway costs ~R350 rand pp - depends if morning or afternoon
• Can repel down
• 895 rand pp (prices might be outdated)
• repel for like 15 mins
• hike back up is 25 mins
• Closes 6pm
• BOOK IN ADVANCE
Signal Hill
Go there for a sunset with bit more a "local" flavor. Views aren't great compared to Lion's Head and can be quite crowded at sunset.
V & A Waterfront
The Garden Route
long scenic drive

Kirstenbosch Gardens
Shark Diving
$88 +$34 for video (prices might be outdated)2 hoursCan do in Gansbaii. Links:1, 2, 3

Sandboarding
Bring goggles!
Skydiving
$170 (prices might be outdated)
Cheaper
Quad Biking (ATVs)

Hout Bay market

Kayaking at Hout Bay
Link
Amazing experience. Views may very but can often see Heaviside dolphins jumping right in front of you
Cheetah Outreach
Where you can go and pet cheetahs and other animals super cool. Website

Aquila Private Game Reserve

2 hoursPricey but quality accommodations for overnight stays. Good for people who aren't leaving Cape Town area but want to see wildlife. Some dismiss as a "glorified zoo"
Cango Wildlife Ranch

5 hours


Winelands
[Likely way more then listed but those are the few I remember]
(Might be worthwhile to make a trip to the winelands, even if one does not enjoy wine, for the scenery. Only about an hour or two from CPT)
  • Franschoek
  • Kleine Dracken - Kosher
  • Backsberg - Kosher

Johannesburg

Trip Reports
CbsLink
MarkusLink
YaaliliLink
Yehuda57Link
Ponash123Link
YehoshuaLink

Restaurants
http://www.uos.co.za/kashrut/restaurants.asp

http://yeahthatskosher.com/2013/04/kosher-restaurants-travel-advice-for-johannesburg-south-africa-joberg/

Map of Kosher Johannesburg

NameTypeContactLocation & Description
Corner Cafe (Glenhazel)
Milk
+27 11 440-3160 Link
Corner of Queens square and cross road in Glenhazel. Corner Café is the best place to go (or maybe the only) for kosher gluten free muffins. I’m told they’re very good. They also have great breakfasts and pastas, but I usually stick with a toasted cheese and chips.
Dee-Jays (Sandton)
Milk
+27 11 883-2265 Link
Morningview Shopping Centre, 100 South Road, 2196 - Dee-Jays provides casual dairy food that is perfect for a breakfast out with the family. Their fishballs are really good and if you need a cake in the Sandton area, they’re the place to go.
Market Cafe (Norood Mall)
Milk
Cholov Yisroel cafe
KosherWorld, Mi Vami Kosher and Chop N Wok (Glenhazel)
+27 11 440 1402 Website
1 Long Avenue, Johannesburg, 2192
Gelatisimo (Glenhazel)
Across the road from Kosher World, authentic Italian gelato. Chalav Yisroel. Absolutely fantastic.
Michelos (Glenhazel)
Milk
+27 11 885-1500 Link
17 Northfield Ave, Johannesburg, 2192 - Michelos is the second best pizza restaurant. They are very centrally located (in the Jewish area of Glenhazel) and their food is nice. Never go there the night after Pesach because you’ll wait hours but most other times are good, plus they serve chalav yisrael.
Nandos Kosher (Savoy)
Meat
+27 11 885-1496 Website
553 Louis Botha Ave, Savoy, Johannesburg, 2090, South Africa - Nandos is a large chain of Portuguese chicken restaurants, but there is only one kosher Nandos in South Africa, so be aware that you can’t step into any of them! They serve top notch chicken but be sure to also try their beef burger (and order extra sauce).
Next Door "Non-CY" (Norwood)
Milk
+27 11 728-2577 Link
80 Grant Ave, Johannesburg, 2192 - Next Door is rated as a top restaurant in Johannesburg, kosher and not, so you know it must be pretty good. It is usually full so booking is highly recommended. While their sushi may not be top class, their pizzas certainly are and, if you’re around in Summer, definitely try their fish braai (barbeque in South African).
Pie Works (Sandringham)
+27 11 485 2447 Website
74 George Ave, Johannesburg, 2192 - Their pies (clearly) are the best kosher pies in the country and are perfect if you want to buy some to take home and reheat. Their burgers are delicious and the have a milk side with pizza that is really good. They’re situated on what is known as the Kosher Strip, so any Jew will be able to direct you.
RTG "Ready to Go" (Norwood)
A fast food place next door to ... Next Door. While they do offer steak and a Chinese menu, the focus is their extensive burger and hot dog menu.
The Deli Store (Sandton)
011-656-3142 / 4915  info@thedelistore.co.za, http://thedelistore.co.za/menus/main-menu/
Shop 52, (opposite Woolworths) Morning Glen Shopping Mall Cnr Bowling & Kelvin Road Gallo Manor - Reviewed in CBS's TR, as having excellent food for very low prices. According to Google is "Permanently Closed".
So Sushi (Glenhazel)
Jozi Blue (Glenhazel)
Milk
They have some items Cholov Yisroel, which they will serve on disposables on request


Bakeries, Groceries & Ice Cream
Kosher World - http://www.kosherworld.co.za/

Shuls

Hotels with Points near a Shul (Walking Minutes)

Airport Transfer Options
Cab - Uber
Executive Bus - Shuttle from HLA airport to anywhere in Sandton for R80 per person.
Public Bus -
Train - Gautrain from JNB airport is R135-155 depending on destination. Must purchase gold card before for R13.

Major Activities
Apartheid Museum
Flea Market
Gold Reef City - amusement park, along with other African themed attractions (tribal dancing, old "gold mine tour")
Lion Park - see lions from your car up close, pet lion cubs.
Monte Casino - Casino and shopping mall, with cool "outdoor" Tuscan style
Soweto Tour
Pilanesberg Safari- If you can't make it to Kruger for malaria, time or other concerns,  this is a much smaller park with less wildlife, and not as good of an experience, but definitely well worth it. About 2 hours out of Joburg, it can be done in your own vehicle, but will be a lot better with a guided game drive.
Sun City Right outside of Pilansberg
Elephant & Monkey Sanctuary- About an hour out of Joburg. Get close to elephants, touch, feed and ride them. The monkey sanctuary has a massive enclosure with hundreds of various monkeys and lemurs. No feeding or touching, unless one jumps on you. If you do go to Pilansberg, this can be done on the way.

Kruger National Park

Trip Reports
CbsLink
shmebebleLink
txtmax4Link
Jomaster28Link


Tour Options

Major Activities

Near Kruger:

The Panoramic Route includes a half dozen waterfalls; Lisbon, Horseshoe, Bridal Vail, Mac Mac, Sabie and others; The Potholes, G-d's Window, Wonder View, The Pinnacle, The Three Rondawels and views of the stunning Blyde River Canyon (third largest canyon in the world).

AJK SA trip route planning - forums.dansdeals.com/index.php?topic=33867.msg669659#msg669659

« Last edited by mendelk on February 20, 2022, 11:02:13 PM »

Author Topic: Southern Africa (SA/Zim/Zam/Botswana/Namibia) Master Thread  (Read 467425 times)

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1940 on: September 26, 2021, 12:11:52 AM »
Thoughts?

Su
CLE-EWR 2:50pm-4:28pm UA2350 738 J
Narruto Bowl
EWR-JNB 8:45pm-5:45pm+1 UA188 789 J

Mo
Dinner: Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Pickup food for Victoria Falls at Moishes?
Stay: Ten Bompas Hotel or Marriott Melrose Arch with Marriott anniversary night.

Tu:
Breakfast at Corner Café, Hey Barista, or Frangelicas?
JNB-VFA 11:30am-1:05pm, BA6285 738 J
Batoka Sky Microlight flight 4:45pm
Walk around Zam side of falls
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

We:
7am-6pm trip to Chobe
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

Th:
7:30am-9am Devils Pool
Walk around Zim side of falls
VFA-CPT 1:15pm-4:20pm, Airlink391 E135 Y
Signal Hill sunset
Buy Shabbos food (Checkers or Goldies Deli?)
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 1 if Robben Island doesn't open a 1pm tour:
9am-11am: Kayak Haut Bay
11:30am-12:30pm Paraglide from Lions Head
1-2pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
2:30pm-5pm Table Mountain
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 2 if Robben Island opens a 1pm tour:
8am-9am Paraglide from Lions Head
9:30am-11am Table Mountain
11:30am-12:30pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
1pm-4:30pm Robben Island
4:30pm-5:30pm: V&A Waterfront
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Su:
7am-11am: Apex shark cage dive Simon's Town
11am-7pm: Boulders Beach, Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, Chapman's Peak Drive
If extra time: Kirstenbosch? Jewish Museum? VA Waterfront?
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Mo:
CPT-HDS 10:50am-1:10pm, Airlink391 E190 Y
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

Tu:
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

We:
Kings Camp morning game drive
HDS-JNB 12pm-1pm, Airlink872 E170 Y
Gelatissimo
Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Food for flight from?
JNB-EWR 8pm-5:45am+1 UA187 789 J

Th:
EWR-CLE 8:30am-10:16am, UA735 738 J
« Last Edit: September 26, 2021, 12:15:00 AM by Dan »
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

Offline Ergel

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1941 on: September 26, 2021, 12:54:53 PM »
Thoughts?

That's an awesome itinerary
Life isn't about checking the boxes. Nobody cares.

Offline tmendy226

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1942 on: September 26, 2021, 02:23:40 PM »
Did you plan your COVID tests? Big part of travel planning these days…

Last I know zim wants a 48 hr pcr so you’ll need to make sure to have that ready.

Offline Dawie

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1943 on: September 26, 2021, 05:56:19 PM »
Thoughts?

Su
CLE-EWR 2:50pm-4:28pm UA2350 738 J
Narruto Bowl
EWR-JNB 8:45pm-5:45pm+1 UA188 789 J

Mo
Dinner: Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Pickup food for Victoria Falls at Moishes?
Stay: Ten Bompas Hotel or Marriott Melrose Arch with Marriott anniversary night.

Tu:
Breakfast at Corner Café, Hey Barista, or Frangelicas?
JNB-VFA 11:30am-1:05pm, BA6285 738 J
Batoka Sky Microlight flight 4:45pm
Walk around Zam side of falls
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

We:
7am-6pm trip to Chobe
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

Th:
7:30am-9am Devils Pool
Walk around Zim side of falls
VFA-CPT 1:15pm-4:20pm, Airlink391 E135 Y
Signal Hill sunset
Buy Shabbos food (Checkers or Goldies Deli?)
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 1 if Robben Island doesn't open a 1pm tour:
9am-11am: Kayak Haut Bay
11:30am-12:30pm Paraglide from Lions Head
1-2pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
2:30pm-5pm Table Mountain
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 2 if Robben Island opens a 1pm tour:
8am-9am Paraglide from Lions Head
9:30am-11am Table Mountain
11:30am-12:30pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
1pm-4:30pm Robben Island
4:30pm-5:30pm: V&A Waterfront
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Su:
7am-11am: Apex shark cage dive Simon's Town
11am-7pm: Boulders Beach, Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, Chapman's Peak Drive
If extra time: Kirstenbosch? Jewish Museum? VA Waterfront?
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Mo:
CPT-HDS 10:50am-1:10pm, Airlink391 E190 Y
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

Tu:
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

We:
Kings Camp morning game drive
HDS-JNB 12pm-1pm, Airlink872 E170 Y
Gelatissimo
Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Food for flight from?
JNB-EWR 8pm-5:45am+1 UA187 789 J

Th:
EWR-CLE 8:30am-10:16am, UA735 738 J
Thoughts..... can i come?

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1944 on: September 26, 2021, 08:43:55 PM »
Did you plan your COVID tests? Big part of travel planning these days…

Last I know zim wants a 48 hr pcr so you’ll need to make sure to have that ready.
How strict are all these rules? Does RT-PCR work?
Does South Africa really need a PCR signed by a Dr?

Seems like we need a pre-trip test, a test in JNB, a test in VFA, and a test before flying home?
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

Offline tmendy226

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1945 on: September 27, 2021, 03:27:28 AM »
How strict are all these rules? Does RT-PCR work?
Does South Africa really need a PCR signed by a Dr?

Seems like we need a pre-trip test, a test in JNB, a test in VFA, and a test before flying home?

I wouldn’t want to play around with the rules and be stuck last minute having to reschedule

SA was fine with a “regular” PCR.

 only thing is about zim, zam and Botswana, make sure to find out exactly what each country’s rule is and plan accordingly. Specifically your trip to chobe and back to zim, you will need to have a test from within 48h of each entry if that’s sSometimes it’s hard to understand it…

Btw africa being africa I advise to print 2-3 copies of your tests especially for land borders as you never know which officer decided to “show off” to you that they’re serious about their rules

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1946 on: September 27, 2021, 11:30:38 AM »
SA was fine with a “regular” PCR.
Which did you use? Do they accept RT-PCR/NAAT?

PCR at JNB is $134. Better places to do it with turnaround time of less than 12 hours?
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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1947 on: September 30, 2021, 12:32:18 AM »
Which did you use? Do they accept RT-PCR/NAAT?

PCR at JNB is $134. Better places to do it with turnaround time of less than 12 hours?

I didn’t check. Just the one they had at NYC COVID center and whatever they had in Namibia. As long as it’s pcr it’s good.

airport is your only option AFAIK

Just a note: I know many people in the US fake tests, I’m not getting wether you should or shouldn’t but do NOT do it in Southern Africa. All pcr’s have a QR code on it and the airline staff and/or immigration officers scan it to verify (at least sometimes)

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1948 on: September 30, 2021, 12:35:28 AM »
I didn’t check. Just the one they had at NYC COVID center and whatever they had in Namibia. As long as it’s pcr it’s good.

airport is your only option AFAIK
Thanks.
Just a note: I know many people in the US fake tests
Not my style :)
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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1949 on: September 30, 2021, 10:00:42 PM »
Did you plan your COVID tests? Big part of travel planning these days…

Last I know zim wants a 48 hr pcr so you’ll need to make sure to have that ready.
We'll take a PCR in JNB on Monday evening, which will cover us for entry to Zim on Tuesday, Zam on Tuesday, Botswana on Wednesday, and Zam on Wednesday.
That brings us to entry into Zim and out of VFA on Thursdays. It seems like they have a 72 hour PCR exit requirement, so we'd still be covered for that. Is there a 48 hour land border requirement? Does it apply even with a same day departure from VFA?
Save your time, I don't answer PM. Post it in the forum and a dedicated DDF'er will get back to you as soon as possible.

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1950 on: October 01, 2021, 12:41:46 AM »
Thoughts?

Su
CLE-EWR 2:50pm-4:28pm UA2350 738 J
Narruto Bowl
EWR-JNB 8:45pm-5:45pm+1 UA188 789 J

Mo
Dinner: Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Pickup food for Victoria Falls at Moishes?
Stay: Ten Bompas Hotel or Marriott Melrose Arch with Marriott anniversary night.

Tu:
Breakfast at Corner Café, Hey Barista, or Frangelicas?
JNB-VFA 11:30am-1:05pm, BA6285 738 J
Batoka Sky Microlight flight 4:45pm
Walk around Zam side of falls
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

We:
7am-6pm trip to Chobe
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

Th:
7:30am-9am Devils Pool
Walk around Zim side of falls
VFA-CPT 1:15pm-4:20pm, Airlink391 E135 Y
Signal Hill sunset
Buy Shabbos food (Checkers or Goldies Deli?)
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 1 if Robben Island doesn't open a 1pm tour:
9am-11am: Kayak Haut Bay
11:30am-12:30pm Paraglide from Lions Head
1-2pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
2:30pm-5pm Table Mountain
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr: Option 2 if Robben Island opens a 1pm tour:
8am-9am Paraglide from Lions Head
9:30am-11am Table Mountain
11:30am-12:30pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
1pm-4:30pm Robben Island
4:30pm-5:30pm: V&A Waterfront
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Su:
7am-11am: Apex shark cage dive Simon's Town
11am-7pm: Boulders Beach, Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, Chapman's Peak Drive
If extra time: Kirstenbosch? Jewish Museum? VA Waterfront?
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Mo:
CPT-HDS 10:50am-1:10pm, Airlink391 E190 Y
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

Tu:
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

We:
Kings Camp morning game drive
HDS-JNB 12pm-1pm, Airlink872 E170 Y
Gelatissimo
Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Food for flight from?
JNB-EWR 8pm-5:45am+1 UA187 789 J

Th:
EWR-CLE 8:30am-10:16am, UA735 738 J

When we going?
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Offline mijo

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1951 on: October 05, 2021, 05:19:22 AM »
Mo
Dinner: Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Pickup food for Victoria Falls at Moishes?
Stay: Ten Bompas Hotel or Marriott Melrose Arch with Marriott anniversary night.
Dinner - Seating: Nandos has the most, Next Door is dairy, Burgers and brew vs RTG I'd take B&B.
Stay - 10 Bompas is a small complex, Marriott Melrose Arch is a very nice hotel.
Tu:
Breakfast at Corner Café, Hey Barista, or Frangelicas?
JNB-VFA 11:30am-1:05pm, BA6285 738 J
Batoka Sky Microlight flight 4:45pm
Walk around Zam side of falls
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani
I like the Frangleica's breakfast - you can daven Shacharit at 6:10 at Mizrachi across the road.
Assume about 25 mins drive to the airport. If renting a car, it takes them time to review, but it's in the same international terminal - 10 mins walk to check-in
You're landing in VFA and going over to Zambia that afternoon?
Zam side of the falls is cool, remember to have rain coats, the area is wet and bridges slippery.
Th:
7:30am-9am Devils Pool
Walk around Zim side of falls
VFA-CPT 1:15pm-4:20pm, Airlink391 E135 Y
Signal Hill sunset
Buy Shabbos food (Checkers or Goldies Deli?)
Dinner at Press Bar/Avrons
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge
Airport to Sea Point is about 25 mins drive at that time of day
Signal Hill is cool, however, Sunset on the Sea Point beachfront down the road from the Press is very nice too.
Avron's is only Take Out now, no sit down dining
Shabbat Food from Checkers or Spar is a good option - they are full supermarkets
Stay: Protea Sea Point is very central, 1 minute walk from the the press/goldies, 10 mins walk from Checkers, 1 street away from Chabbad, down the road from Morasha. Blackeath is near Avrons but not the shuls. However, Protea rooms are small, yet I like the location.
Fr: Option 2 if Robben Island opens a 1pm tour:
8am-9am Paraglide from Lions Head
9:30am-11am Table Mountain
11:30am-12:30pm: Lunch at Press Bar/Avrons
1pm-4:30pm Robben Island
4:30pm-5:30pm: V&A Waterfront
Check where the paragliding lands, usually on the Sea Point promenade.
V&A waterfront is chic shopping, similar to Fisherman's wharf in SF
Food for flight from?
JNB-EWR 8pm-5:45am+1 UA187 789 J
Pick n Pay Noorwood is near RTG, they have packed and hot food
Kosher World is across from B&B, otherwise Moishes but check their closing time

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1952 on: October 06, 2021, 02:43:06 AM »
Dinner - Seating: Nandos has the most, Next Door is dairy, Burgers and brew vs RTG I'd take B&B.
If we only have a dinner and a lunch, where are you eat from Nandos, Next Door, and B&B? Takeout from those places any good?

Stay - 10 Bompas is a small complex, Marriott Melrose Arch is a very nice hotel.
Seems like 10 Bompas is highly rated. Any reason to to the Marriott instead?

I like the Frangleica's breakfast
Anything in particular you recommend? Will they really be able to understand instructions for C"Y keilim only?
Is Corner Café or Hey Barista any good for breakfast?

Assume about 25 mins drive to the airport. If renting a car, it takes them time to review, but it's in the same international terminal - 10 mins walk to check-in
Seems like Uber is the way to go in JNB, no?

You're landing in VFA and going over to Zambia that afternoon?
No direct flights to or from LVI unfortunately. Could do LVI on the return to CPT and it would save us from potentially needing a PCR in Vic Falls, but would have to connect in JNB and would cost us Thursday sunset in CPT...

Signal Hill is cool, however, Sunset on the Sea Point beachfront down the road from the Press is very nice too.
Should be able to see that Friday/Shabbos/Sunday.

Avron's is only Take Out now, no sit down dining
Bummer :(

Shabbat Food from Checkers or Spar is a good option - they are full supermarkets
Are those better than Goldie's?
Does Chabad in Sea Point have a kiddush these days?

Stay: Protea Sea Point is very central, 1 minute walk from the the press/goldies, 10 mins walk from Checkers, 1 street away from Chabbad, down the road from Morasha. Blackeath is near Avrons but not the shuls. However, Protea rooms are small, yet I like the location.
This is a tough call it seems. Protea reviews are pretty meh, but location and points are amazing.
Blackheath we can get a great rate for a suite and it's the number 1 hotel in CPT according to TA, but it's about a 15 minute walk to Press/Chabad. Hmm.

Check where the paragliding lands, usually on the Sea Point promenade.
Seems like it varies by day and they bring you back up again after.

V&A waterfront is chic shopping, similar to Fisherman's wharf in SF
How long does Robben Island really take in total? Will there be time to do Kirstenbosch gardens instead given their 5:30pm close time?

Pick n Pay Noorwood is near RTG, they have packed and hot food
Kosher World is across from B&B, otherwise Moishes but check their closing time
Any specific recommendations from Pick n Pay, Kosher World, or Moishes to bring to Vic Falls?

Thanks for your help!!!
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Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1953 on: October 06, 2021, 02:49:58 AM »
Some small updates to this...trip coming up soon  :)

Fr
PCR for entry into South Africa

Su
CLE-EWR 2:50pm-4:28pm UA2350 738 J
Narruto Bowl
EWR-JNB 8:45pm-5:45pm+1 UA188 789 J

Mo
PCR at IC JNB upon landing.
Dinner: Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Pickup food for Victoria Falls at one of the restaurant above or Moishes or Kosher World or Pick n Pay?
Stay: Ten Bompas Hotel or Marriott Melrose Arch with Marriott anniversary night.

Tu:
Breakfast at Corner Café, Hey Barista, or Frangelicas?
JNB-VFA 11:30am-1:05pm, BA6285 738 J
Walk around Zim side of falls 1:45pm-3:45pm
Cross into Zam. Worth doing a quick bungee or bridge swing?
Walk around Zam side of falls 5:15pm-6:15pm
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani
PCR at hotel for reentry into Zim on Thurs

We:
7am-6pm trip to Chobe
Stay: Protea with Marriott anniversary night or Royal Livingstone with Plat FHR credit or Avani

Th:
8:00am-8:30am Batoka Sky Microlight
9am-10:30am Devils Pool
VFA-CPT 1:15pm-4:20pm, Airlink391 E135 Y
Signal Hill sunset
Buy Shabbos food (Checkers or Spar or Goldies Deli?)
Dinner at Press Bar
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Fr:
8am-9am Paraglide from Lions Head
9:30am-11am Table Mountain
11:30am-12:30pm: Lunch at Press Bar
1pm-4:30pm Robben Island
4:30pm-5:30pm: V&A Waterfront
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Su:
7am-11am: Apex shark cage dive Simon's Town
11am-7pm: Boulders Beach, Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, Chapman's Peak Drive
If extra time: Kirstenbosch? Jewish Museum? VA Waterfront?
Dinner at Press Bar
Stay: Protea Sea Point with Marriott anniversary night or Blackheath Lodge

Mo:
CPT-HDS 10:50am-1:10pm, Airlink391 E190 Y
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives

Tu:
Stay: Kings Camp all inclusive kosher safari/game drives
eMed antigen for US reentry

We:
Kings Camp morning game drive
HDS-JNB 12pm-1pm, Airlink872 E170 Y
Gelatissimo
Next Door, RTG, Nandos, and/or Burgers and Brew?
Food for flight from?
JNB-EWR 8pm-5:45am+1 UA187 789 J

Th:
EWR-CLE 8:30am-10:16am, UA735 738 J
« Last Edit: October 06, 2021, 03:19:43 AM by Dan »
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Offline mijo

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1954 on: October 06, 2021, 03:09:06 AM »
If we only have a dinner and a lunch, where are you eat from Nandos, Next Door, and B&B? Takeout from those places any good?
Nandos and B&B - take out is good
Seems like 10 Bompas is highly rated. Any reason to to the Marriott instead?
Marriott Marble Arch is a bigger property - I've been to both.
Anything in particular you recommend? Will they really be able to understand instructions for C"Y keilim only?
Is Corner Café or Hey Barista any good for breakfast?
Corner Cafe is also good. I've had most things on the Frangelicas menu - you'll find something for sure. However, note the opening times and your departing flight. Morning traffic etc.
Seems like Uber is the way to go in JNB, no?
For you, yes , considering current rental car prices, driving on the other side etc.
Are those better than Goldie's?
They are supermarkets, you can get more than just cooked food, snacks etc.
Does Chabad in Sea Point have a kiddush these days?
Haven't been there in a long time, you'd need to ask.
This is a tough call it seems. Protea reviews are pretty meh, but location and points are amazing.
Blackheath we can get a great rate for a suite and it's the number 1 hotel in CPT according to TA, but it's about a 15 minute walk to Press/Chabad. Hmm.
True, the rooms are small, and only has a partial sea view.  However the location is good. I haven't stayed at Blackheath lodge (not a major hotel)
How long does Robben Island really take in total? Will there be time to do Kirstenbosch gardens instead given their 5:30pm close time?
Don't plan to get from V&A waterfront Robben Island Ferry to Kirstenbosch in the friday afternoon traffic that starts at 3pm towards the Southern Suburbs. You can't do the botanical gardens after Robben Island.
Any specific recommendations from Pick n Pay, Kosher World, or Moishes to bring to Vic Falls?
Salads, cold cuts, lots of MRE (not the military kind) but already frozen.
Thanks for your help!!!
My pleasure, that's what DDF is for. I'm also working on a trip to some places in SA that I don't always go to, thus needed to get updated info too. We may cross paths.....

Offline Dan

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1955 on: October 06, 2021, 03:27:40 AM »
Marriott Marble Arch is a bigger property - I've been to both.

Is bigger better? Quick review of each?

Corner Cafe is also good. I've had most things on the Frangelicas menu - you'll find something for sure. However, note the opening times and your departing flight. Morning traffic etc.
Good point. Frangelicas opens at 7 and CC at 8am it seems.
How much time to allow to get to JNB with morning traffic? Also need to pickup PCR results at the IC.
Don't plan to get from V&A waterfront Robben Island Ferry to Kirstenbosch in the friday afternoon traffic that starts at 3pm towards the Southern Suburbs. You can't do the botanical gardens after Robben Island.
Makes sense, thanks.
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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1956 on: October 06, 2021, 03:34:29 AM »
Is bigger better? Quick review of each?
10 Bompas is a fancy guest house complex - very nice, quiet but location is meh. For me, Marble Arch is good for meetings, distance to most places, and also the Marble Arch complex is good for shopping etc.  Bigger is better for facilities, upgrades and services.
Good point. Frangelicas opens at 7 and CC at 8am it seems.
How much time to allow to get to JNB with morning traffic? Also need to pickup PCR results at the IC.
I often do 6:10 Shacharit at Mizrachi, breakfast at frangelicas at 7 and make a 9:30am domestic flight (without luggage) that I've pre-checked in.

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1957 on: October 06, 2021, 04:16:00 AM »
A few thoughts:
10 Bompas is a nicer hotel but is slightly further from the Jewish areas vis a vis Melrose Arch. Early in the morning that might make a difference to you.
Frangelicas vs Hey Barista: probably for a light breakfast Hey Barista is a better option since it opens earlier and so more food will be available by 0700. There is 0600 shachris across the road.
Your BA flight to VFA has check in at the domestic terminal (British Airways Comair desks) but departs from the international one. Just adds 5/10 min walking. (Or at least it used to).

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1958 on: October 06, 2021, 07:01:04 AM »
Frangelicas vs Hey Barista: probably for a light breakfast Hey Barista is a better option since it opens earlier and so more food will be available by 0700. There is 0600 shachris across the road.
Good point, it's also 2 mins walk from Ohr Sameach that has Neitz, about 5:30 at the moment
There is also the Engen gas station quick-shop in the same parking lot that has kosher food including pies

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Re: South Africa Master Thread
« Reply #1959 on: October 06, 2021, 11:16:11 AM »
Wrt pcr test, there is a place called Testaro on Bompas Rd (so near 10 on Bompas) run by a Jewish guy. Results currently come back in approx 8 hours (although only guaranteed for 24hr)and they're open till 9 pm. R850. I can send you his whatsapp number.
For food in Vic falls area, I would be in touch with moishes. They can have whatever cooked food you want ready and double wrapped to pick up in the morning. Can also freeze and put in cooler box if necessary. For an 1130 flight, you don't need to leave earlier than 0930.
One other newish take out place is Zest Salad Bar. They recently started Chalav options (although not sure about keilim). Next Door pasta is better though IMO.
In LVI, the Protea is perfectly serviceable and great value for points. However, the Royal Livingstone has much nicer grounds on the falls, with giraffe and other animals roaming around.
There is (or was) a small Jewish section of the museum in Livingstone, and a Jewish part of the cemetery.