Hi I lived in Cape Town for many years and the worst that happened while we were out and about is that my wife's cell phone was stolen. I did have my house broken into a couple of times, but that is something you shouldn't have to worry about on holiday. Basically all the violent crime happens in the townships. I'd stay away from anywhere with an African name like Gugulethu and it's probably best to stay away from Mitchell's Plain as well. It sounds prejudiced, but it is a simple fact that the poorer people are the ones who get desperate enough to commit crime and South Africa has not changed as fast as most would like. Town Centre is probably not worth visiting at night. I'd recommend visiting Green Market Square in an afternoon but keep in mind that the trinkets there are usually available much cheaper somewhere else. Roadside vendors are usually willing to haggle. Green Point should probably also be avoided at night really. The Victoria and Albert Waterfront is well worth a visit and is perfectly safe anytime of night or day. Kirstenbosch Gardens is also a nice safe attraction. Canel Walk is a beautiful mall if you like shopping, there are some wonderful curio shops there and again it is a safe environment. The beaches are generally safe during the day. Clifton Beach has a reputation as being beautiful though I have not been there myself. Tableview has some beautiful beaches and a fantastic view of the moutain as the name suggests. It is also a wonderfully pleasant and safe suburb. My brother lives there and he has not experienced any unpleasantness that I remember. Cape Town people are generally friendly and most are aware of the crime rate and so should not be offended if you were to ask about safe spots to go. If you fancy travelling further afield, I highly recommend driving down the garden route towards Port Elizabeth. The scenary is stunning. I'd say go at least as far as Knysna which has been voted the most beautiful town in SA for a number of years now. It's a long drive, but well worth it.

Cape Town has had a reputation for high crime rates in the past but the authorities have taken substantial steps to reduce crime and improve safety, especially with regard to tourist safety. Nearly half a million Britons visit South Africa each year and most visits are trouble free. Common sense will ensure your safety in Cape Town, its not advised to walk around alone after dark, try not to carry large amounts of money or have cameras/camcorders dangling from backpacks etc. When travelling in Cape Towns surounding areas, extra care might be needed. The standard of driving in South Africa can vary so be aware if you plan on driving. Stay in company and avoid remote beaches and picnic areas. Most of the crime occurs in the townships, so if you are planning to travel into these locals will be able to advise of the places to avoid. Table Mountain National Park offers some wonderful sites but be vigilant in the quieter areas of the park early in the morning or just before the park closes. Hijacking, whilst uncommon, poses a threat to visitors so don't pick up anyone, motorists in 'distress' is a common ploy in hijackings - rather than stopping to help, its much better to inform the Police (10111 or 112 from Cell phones). A point to note if you plan on travelling to Table Mountain, the Table Mountain National Park suffered bush fires in late January. Lifts to the summit are now operating again and the park is open but some paths to and from the summit will be unsafe until they are cleared - wardens will be able to say if this has been done. Remember that many Britons visit Cape Town every year and tourists are very well looked after and it is uncommon to be the victim of crime. Have a great trip!

I'm going to be going on holiday in Cape Town and the surrounding areas for two weeks shortly. However, i'm worried about the dangers there. Is it safe to walk around there and are there any particular areas i should avoid? Where are the safest places?