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Global South 2010 will be held near the picturesque town of Stellenbosch, known
as 'the town of oaks' due to the abundance of oak trees that line its quiet streets.
Stellenbosch is home to the University of Stellenbosch, which is recognised as one
of the top four research universities in South Africa.
Situated in the Jonkershoek Valley, a more beautiful and appropriate setting could
not be imagined and the town of Stellenbosch, with its rich history, dramatic scenery
and challenging intellectual environment will provide a world-class locale for the conference.
Grapes have been cultivated in the fertile valleys around Stellenbosch since the 1680s
and the region is the centre of the South African wine industry. It is arguably one of
the country´s most famous wine routes and is home to 106 historic and modern cellars,
many of them open for tours, wine tasting and sales.
The town's streets are shaded by oak trees, with a mix of historical Dutch
architecture, outdoor cafes, boutiques and galleries. The town’s layout is perfect
for walking, and the combination of young university students together with sage
locals creates a cosmopolitan atmosphere. Stellenbosch is also attractive to the
active nature lover, with hiking trails and nature reserves just outside of town
and in the surrounding mountain ranges.
Stellenbosch is within easy reach of Cape Town, one of the world's most
attractive cities. At the foot of the iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town is a melting
pot, where East meets West in Africa, and the resulting blend is a fascinating
mix of cultures, flavours and history – a diversity that is easily seen in the
faces of its people, their languages, architecture and food.
"By any standard, the Cape Town region... is one of the most beautiful and
compelling places to visit on the planet. Here, in addition to a city with
fascinating historical sites, excellent museums, vibrant markets and a handsomely
restored waterfront, I encountered mountain wilderness, rugged coastlines, sandy
beaches, lush gardens, beautiful wine estates, superior hotels and some of the
warmest, most welcoming people I've ever met."
(Richard Busch, Travel Editor,
National Geographic Traveler)
The Mother City, as she is fondly known, offers visitors a wonderfully diverse
range of activities and attractions. With a breathtaking combination of sea and
mountains, few cities can challenge Cape Town for sheer natural beauty, and you
could spend months exploring this beautiful region. You can however get a good
feel for Cape Town in as little as two or three busy days. But be warned, once
you have visited this vibrant city you’ll be back again and again.
Cape Town's top 6 tourist attractions are all undoubtedly worth a visit: the
breathtaking Table Mountain – easily accessed on the cable car; the emotional
and inspiring trip out to Robben Island; the Waterfront with its vibrant retail
and entertainment areas; and a lazy day sampling world-class food and wine in
the beautiful winelands. The drive along the Peninsula to Cape Point has few
international rivals and boasts some of the Cape’s best seaside restaurants.
And last but not least is Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens on the slopes of Table
Mountain. Kirstenbosch is a wonderful showcase of the unique diversity of South
Africa's flora, especially the world-renowned fynbos of the Cape Floral Kingdom.
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