The author shares impressions from a two-day trip to the West Cape, which allowed him to experience what it is like to be inside the Southern Sun Waterfront hotel, which he used to see daily from his office window.
For a long time, while observing the Southern Sun Waterfront from his office in the Portside building, the author wondered about life inside this place. He noted that knowing the exterior appearance, location, and the people entering and exiting does not provide an idea of the true guest experience.
Before visiting the Southern Sun Waterfront, the author went to Arabella (Arabella Hotel, Golf and Spa). There, the pace of life seemed to slow down, and the atmosphere encouraged leisurely walks around the grounds, where one could explore different corners and enjoy the views.
During the visit to Arabella, the author visited various areas, including the golf club, pool, spa, hydrotherapy pool, and gym. He contemplated the contrast between how for some it is a luxurious vacation, and for others—just home.
The first experience of high tea was very pleasant: exquisite desserts and tea were accompanied by picturesque views. After this, the author checked into a premium suite with a view of the Bot River Lagoon.
The evening was dedicated to further enjoyment: after having sushi and wine, he went to the spa for a Swedish massage. The quiet atmosphere and the ability to disconnect made the treatment especially pleasant. Later, he relaxed in the hydrotherapy pool.
One of the memorable moments was the attention of the hotel staff: the employees prepared the room for his return, leaving slippers next to the bed, which the author called a display of thoughtful luxury.
The next morning, the author woke up at 5 am and stood on the balcony with a cup of tea, watching the Bot Lagoon illuminated by the first rays of the sun. This silence and beauty of the moment became one of the trip's most cherished memories.
The second day was dedicated to exploring the surroundings. The author joined a Cape Town Jeep Tours tour, heading to the Cape Point Vineyards. Upon arrival, they were greeted with glasses of wine, after which they had a picnic near the restaurant.
The journey then continued along Chapman's Peak, where the winding road and dramatic coastal landscape provided new impressions. The author noted that sometimes changing the route is enough to appreciate the surrounding beauty.
Finally, the author arrived at Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town. The check-in was joyful, as he finally saw the hotel he had long observed from afar. A bottle of wine, refreshments, and gifts awaited him.
The evening continued at The Cullinan, where a tour of the hotel was organized. The atmosphere was lively: cocktails were served by the mixologist, and appetizers such as shrimp and antelope skewers added local flavor. Dinner consisted of three courses, including a Mediterranean nectarine salad, a beetroot tower, and a roasted seasonal salad as starters.
In conclusion, the author emphasized that the most valuable thing about the trip was the feeling of hospitality. Whether it was the attention of the staff at Arabella or the opportunity to enter a place that was long only an object of admiration, these details made the trip unforgettable.
Returning to the Portside building, the author looked at the Southern Sun Waterfront differently: it was no longer just a building visible from the window, but a place where he experienced its hospitality.
