Meet Brian and Jay! Couple living in Cape Town. Brian is an American journalist and Jay is a South African high school teacher. Brian and Jay know everything in Western Cape and they have a business of personal tour guiding to give you the trip you never had in your life! Let's hear from these guys the best fun in Cape Town.
What makes Cape Town a favorite gay destination?
Cape Town's liberal social attitudes and health-conscious lifestyle make it a perfect gay destination. Stroll along the Promenade and you'll see same-sex couples holding hands and making the most of South Africa's LGBTI rights. We're also a popular destination for models on assignment, so there's no shortage of eye candy.
What is the best gay event that takes place in Cape Town?
The best gay event is Mother City Queer Pride, Africa's biggest gay costume party. Thousands of people attend each December wearing next to nothing and covered in glitter. My partner and I met on the dancefloor a few years back when the theme was Royal Navy. I was a pirate and he was a sailor. Fortunately for us, the party never ended.
What is your favorite gay establishment to grab a bite for lunch? a nice dinner?
Birds Boutique Cafe on Bree Street.
Best gay bar for a cheap beer?
With the South African rand at historic lows, alcohol is always cheap by European or US standards. The best cheap beer is Bootlegger Coffee Company on Regent Rd. in Sea Point during Happy Hour (between 16:30 and 18:30). Our local Cape Brewing Company (CBC) Lager and Amber Weiss are half price at that time, meaning a pint only costs about 1 Euro.
Best gay bar for a refreshing cocktail?
Cafe Manhattan in De Waterkant.
Which famous gay person is from Cape Town?
800 meter gold medalist at the Rio Olympics Caster Semenya isn't from Cape Town but she is proudly South African. Semenya reportedly married her long-time girlfriend last December.
Ready to go dancing--what is the best gay dance club?
Hit the drag show at Beefcakes then head next door to Crew.
Which gay bar offers the best happy hour on a Wednesday?
Several restaurants offer 2-for-1 dinner on Wednesdays. The best option is the lamb burger special at Sotano. Beluga does a daily happy hour: half-priced cocktails and sushi between 5 and 7 pm.
Where to start a gay tour in Cape Town?
Our flat in Sea Point overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Lion's Head! :)
Best place to socialize with the local gay community?
Cafe Manhattan or walking along the Sea Point Promenade.
Best place to be surrounded by the local gays?
De Waterkant or Sea Point.
How gay-friendly is Cape Town?
The Atlantic Sea Board and the entire City Bowl are extremely gay-friendly. There can be incidents in the townships, but most tourists don't visit those areas.
A gay place for brunch on weekends?
Jarryd's in Sea Point is nice, but you'll want to make a booking to avoid queues. If it's too busy, there are plenty of other options within a block or two.
What is gay life like in Cape Town?
Very active! We're as likely to meet up for hikes or tennis as we are to grab a drink.
What are your favourite gay venues in Cape Town?
All the ones listed above, especially Cafe Manhattan.