Nestled at the southern tip of the vast African continent sits a city so far removed from its surroundings it could be a country of its own.

Just as Manhattan is so different from much of its neighbouring American states, so too is Cape Town from much of Africa.

Cynics the world over, and many South Africans too, are talking of how the city’s hype around the World Cup masks what is really going on, politically and socially.

But whatever the outcome for the city this summer, there is no doubt that Cape Town has been chosen for its stunning setting, first-class restaurants and sensational hotels.

The perfect weekend A Cape Town morning shouldn't start without brunch at Winchester Mansions. A beautiful hotel in its own right, guests and non-guests alike flock to the hotel’s restaurant, Harvey’s, every Sunday for its infamous Jazz Brunch.

There is no better way to start the day than with a Sunday newspaper, a strong Bloody Mary and the mellow sounds of local and international jazz artists (www.winchester.co.za, tel: +27 21 434 2351).

Shopping in Cape Town has gone from strength to strength; the city is packed from top to toe with shops and malls. Constantia Village boasts endless retail outlets; the best for men being Belafonte, which offers exceptional on-site tailoring and alterations (tel: +27 21 674 3484).

Also in Constantia is Peter Gildar jewellers (www.petergildar.com), which sells an epic range of unset diamonds and jewellery of every conceivable precious and semi-precious stone.

Because so many head to South Africa to take advantage of the excellent diamonds, this jewellers, run by a father-daughter team, is recommended without reservation. Those wanting to browse local flea and antique markets for more one-off pieces would do well to visit either the Greenmarket Square in the Central Business District, or The Victoria and Albert Waterfront Market (www.waterfront.co.za).

The most popular beaches are Clifton and Camps Bay. Before stripping off for an afternoon in the sun, we recommend lunch at La Med, a very hip joint perched on a headland between these two hotspots, though if you’re there for the World Cup when temperatures aren’t at their best, La Med transforms into a cosy watering hole during the country’s chillier months. Freshly shucked oysters and other seafood dominate the menu (www.lamed.co.za, tel: +27 214 385 600).

If you plan on spending time in the city before or after the World Cup definitely make time to head outside its parameters for otherworldly experiences.

Those up for a safari should take a look at the Makanyane Safari Lodge for the perfect excursion. This is the finest safari money can buy, set on a private lodge in the 75,000ha Madikwe Game Reserve.

There are only eight suites so serenity is guaranteed. All are designed by world-renowned architects and each is set around the gym and spa (www.makanyane.com, tel: +27 417 789 600).

WHERE TO DRINK

Rhodes House
Set within the elegant walls of a beautiful Queen Street building, Rhodes House has no less than three upstairs bars, a gorgeous outside courtyard for warmer nights and a lounge with a VIP area. This tends to magnetise the moneyed set of Cape Town but its themed nights and 4am cut-off make it a popular draw after a good, solid Martini (www.rhodeshouse.com, tel: +27 214 248 844).

Baraza
Baraza follows a Zanzibar theme, which perfectly suits its oceanfront location in Camps Bay. Located on the seafront and next door to the popular restaurant, Blues, Baraza showcases a live DJ set every night against the lapping waves of the sea and the dusky light of the sunset (www.baraza.co.za, tel: +27 214 381 758).

Green Dolphin
Another winner for jazz fans, Green Dolphin is considered the best of its kind in the city. The music and the notoriously strong drinks are world class. Though it gets busy, Green Dolphin is set within the waterside venue of the Victoria and Albert Waterfront so the sea breeze keeps things cool. For music lovers there really is no finer place to enjoy an evening (tel: +27 214 217 471).

More to explore The surrounding Winelands are another major pull, offering the most spectacular views around of South Africa’s countryside, delectable wine and fine gastronomy to boot. The Tokara Wine estate is one such fabulous example with its restaurant, Tokara, located within the grounds.

The views of Table Mountain and the sea are epic and the inventive menu features local delicacies, including ostrich. All are to be washed down with the finest local wines (www.tokararestaurant.co.za, tel: +27 218 085 959).

Heading back into the city centre, first-time visitors to Cape Town simply cannot miss the cable ride to Table Mountain. It may sound trite but the views of the city and out across the ocean are some of the finest the world over. Head back down into the centre of town and kick start the evening with a cocktail at trendy Tank.

A veritable hub of Cape Town’s finest can be found seated around fish tanks sipping their drinks. Dinner can be enjoyed in any number of fabulous places (see our recommendations, right) before heading for some fantastic night-time partying. Jazz lovers will adore Marco’s African Place, which serves fabulous food and even finer live African jazz (www.marcosafricanplace.co.za, tel: +27 214 190 007).

If you fancy walking the streets and stopping in whichever bar takes your fancy, head to the lively neighbourhood called Gardens, home to the worldfamous hotel, The Mount Nelson, another great spot for a top, late night cap. (website: www.mountnelson.co.za, tel: +27 214 831 000).