Located in the heart of the Mother City this 5-star hotel boasts some of the most beautiful views you could ask for, especially if you are experiencing Cape Town for the first time. Not every Tom, Dick, and Harry gets to wake up next to one of the 7 wonders of the world (Table Mountain) with a picture-perfect cup of coffee in the morning, but let’s start from the beginning.

The arrival

You are greeted by two suited up men with a friendly hello and a smile on their faces, waiting to show you the way to the underground parking.

Hard to miss is the CTICC (Cape Town International Convention Centre) just a stone throw away, which is what obviously makes this one of the most popular and convenient choices as a business traveller.

Once I had parked, I was very pleased to hear a soft voice behind me; a staff member offering to take my bags up to the hotel on a golden little trolley, what a relief, because if you are anything like me I tend to over pack!

The atmosphere

Luxury is an understatement, from the time you walk in; you know this is definitely going to be worth your while. Warm, cosy and classy describes this best! Carpeted in my favourite colour, red, with funky design, is the reception area.

At the desk I was given all the information that I needed, as well as a reminder and description of my ‘boast worthy’ package which was booked. Yes…I booked a three course dinner and a breakfast!

My room card was handed to me and I was ready and set to go, but just then a shop caught my eye, not just any shop folks, but an array of top wines. Way too distracted by this I had to go take a look… and then, on your way you begin to notice all the little touches that make this hotel so prestigious and fascinating, from the soft couches to the indoor water features to the giant bead designs hanging from the ceiling, the soft piano playing in the background and the perfectly lit hallways which almost guide you along the way.

Right next door to the wines are another two shops jam-packed beautifully with cultural, proudly South African products and souvenirs to take home, but before I got carried away, I had to put my bags down!

The Room

“Wow, they have literally thought of everything,” were the first words that came to mind after looking around the ¾ twin sized en-suite room. The floors are soft and spongy under your feet with 100% white cotton bedding inviting you in. The headboards are decorated with lavender design and a soft glow of yellow light just behind it.

While travelling and working, sleep is of utmost importance to me, hence why the roll on lavender stick which directs you to apply on your temples and wrists was such a charming touch…

Lights are placed strategically around the room with switches right next to your bedside, so convenient once you have hopped in and turned on the LCD TV or scrolling your favourite sites with the free Wi-Fi.

The view from the bedroom had me starry eyed for at least ten minutes, there is something about the height and overlooking this incredible city that gives me butterflies in my stomach. This is definitely a view to start your day off!

Right across from the bed is an office desk with a comfy chair. Much needed for that extra bit of work that has to be done, but remember to fix yourself a cup from the middle of the cupboards before you sit down.

This serves a surprising array of tea, as well as a filtered coffee machine, packed with mugs and glasses. You can also chose a cold beverage from the mini-bar fridge just below.

With more than enough cupboard space, right at the end, a pair of white slippers and gown awaits you after the choice of a hot bath or shower.

The bathroom is closed off by sandblasted glass doors. The basin area offers face cloths, a variety of soaps, towels and even little water bottles …did I mention the tiles are heated?

Dining Time

Now this is always the best part if you are a foodie like me… Chicken pot pie, at Thirty7 Restaurant on the ground floor. This is an ultimate ‘must try’, with herbed mash potato, roasted carrot and crispy chicken skin, need I say more; exceptional! This was just the starter.

A main meal made up of tender lamb neck, cooked for 12hours, literally melts on the tongue. By this time I wanted to hug the chef. The food was outstanding.

There is always space for desert right? To end of a flawless feast, I chose a rooibos and apricot baked cheese cake with apricot gel and lemon and thyme gelato. Picture it!

The restaurant setting was the cherry on top, great service and stunning décor which you can admire throughout your course.

As a business traveller you probably work a lot during your stay, so I would advise indulging in a large breakfast. As they say, the most important meal of the day.

The Westin out did itself with a massive buffet; cereals, yoghurts, fruits and all kinds of breads.  Jams, nuts, sauces and numerous kinds of condiments were served. There were cheeses, cold meats, salads and fritters.  All laid out in silverware were eggs, mushrooms, sausages, bacon and more!

This was washed down dreamily with selection of fresh fruit juices.

If you have a sweet tooth early in the morning, three eye catching jars full of colourful chocolates are waiting for you.

The Spa

Heavenly Spa by Westin… I could not have imagined a better fitting name. Strikingly groomed ladies welcome you at the door with various pamper packages to choose from. Candlelit passages filled with sea like décor soothe the soul on the way to the indoor heated pool and Jacuzzi room.

The view from this area is absolutely breath-taking. You can literally see a panoramic view across the ocean and the harbour and the city. Wait until you see this view in lights while enjoying a Jacuzzi session in the evening, speechless…

Take your time and soak it all up by lounging on the sun chairs or gently swimming in the warm pool.

On your way through the spa you will also notice the gym, enjoy and get your blood pumping after sitting still for those grind hours.

The Heavenly Spa was definitely a perfect way to end my business trip…

• Edited and Written by: Jadine Gracie
• Film and photography: Jadine Gracie and Maxine Gracie
• Video editing: Ruairi Abrahams and Jadine Gracie