The city’s 'oldest new' hotel, The Taj Cape Town, has opened. This five-star luxury hotel is located in the heart of the city centre in an area steeped in history and alive with art, culture, cuisine and entertainment. It has been created by restoring two historical city buildings, namely the South African Reserve Bank and Temple Chambers.

The Taj Cape Town has two entrances that lead into a magnificent lobby (once the main banking hall), dominated by a barrel-vaulted skylight. Leading off the lobby are a formal lounge, cocktail bar and cigar bar. A beautifully crafted wooden staircase leads from the lobby to the first floor which houses the banqueting and meeting rooms. The 176 guest rooms combine old-world quality with modern amenities, most with a view over the city or mountain.

The restaurant repertoire includes the Bombay Brasserie, a fine-dining Indian restaurant, Mint, an all-day informal restaurant and Twankey, a relaxed seafood and champagne bar. Another feature (exclusive to the Taj group) is the Jiva Spa, which draws on the ancient Indian healing wisdom of Ayurveda. There is also a fully equipped modern Techno gym complete with a heated indoor pool and two saunas. A mix of historic and contemporary Cape Town, reflecting the surrounding city - this is The Taj Cape Town.

The luxurious Lion Sands River Lodge has added a new River lounge to the lodge amenities. Built on the banks of the Sabie River, the lodge is about spirit, warmth and nature and here guests are invited to relax and experience African hospitality at its finest.

River Lounge, adjacent to the Safari Lounge, now offers guests further comfort areas for them to spend time in. The space has been designed with the ability to be converted into an intimate dining venue, adding to the several other options that are available such as Riverbed, Bush, Lower deck and Jackelberry, all ensuring that each dining experience is not only different but uniquely beautiful.