Cape Town Voted The Greatest City On Earth

Cape Town, the jewel of South Africa, has once again claimed its title as the Greatest City on Earth in the prestigious 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards.

Just days after South Africa was named the best travel destination by readers of the UK’s The Telegraph newspaper, Cape Town has garnered yet another remarkable accolade, solidifying its position as an unparalleled travel destination.

In a fierce competition against renowned cities such as Dubrovnik, Kyoto, Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, Florence, and Rome, Cape Town emerged as the clear winner. The Telegraph described the city as “a remarkable city, gleaming at a continent’s edge. Unfailingly beautiful in the hard ridge of Table Mountain, the gentle curve (and luxury resorts) of Camps Bay, the scenic promise of the Cape Peninsula, dangling south.” Cape Town’s charm extends beyond its natural wonders, with its proximity to the esteemed wineries of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek adding to its allure.

As I, Akesse Sanza, a travel blogger, have just landed in Cape Town for a thrilling 5-day visit to explore this mesmerizing city, the news of its prestigious award fills me with excitement and anticipation. The Telegraph Travel Awards honor excellence across all sectors of the global travel and tourism industry, and Cape Town’s triumph serves as a testament to the city’s commitment to providing exceptional experiences, celebrating diverse cultures, and engaging vibrant communities.

James Vos, the Mayco member responsible for economic growth, expressed his delight in Cape Town’s victory, attributing it to the collective efforts of the city and its partners in showcasing Cape Town’s allure on a global stage. He emphasized the importance of maintaining the city’s global relevance and appeal, especially in a competitive travel landscape. The award is seen as a well-deserved cherry on top after a significant travel resurgence, and it is expected to fuel momentum for Cape Town in the months to come.

Cape Town Tourism (CTT), the city’s official destination marketing and destination management organization (DMO), played a pivotal role in sharing Cape Town’s unparalleled attractions with the world. Enver Duminy, CEO of CTT, expressed his pleasure in receiving the prestigious accolade, and he believes it will further boost the city’s tourism sector, which has witnessed a strong recovery post-pandemic.

Under Duminy’s leadership, CTT has spearheaded inspirational immersive experiences, such as the highly successful “Find Your Freedom” choice-driven initiative. This gamified experience captured the hearts of overseas target markets, showcasing the city’s diverse offerings and unique adventures.

Moreover, Cape Town Tourism is actively working towards ensuring the city’s inclusivity through its “Limitless Cape Town” movement. The initiative aims to make Cape Town accessible to all visitors, regardless of their abilities, and pave the way for a more inclusive and diverse travel experience.

As I embark on my journey to explore Cape Town, I am filled with anticipation for the wonders that await in the Greatest City on Earth. From its breathtaking landscapes to its rich cultural heritage and warm hospitality, Cape Town promises to be an unforgettable experience for travelers from all corners of the globe. With this prestigious award in hand, Cape Town stands tall as a beacon of exceptional travel opportunities, inviting the world to discover its boundless beauty and charm.