Constantia: Cape Town’s Historic Vineyard Haven

• HelloHallo
  [ha-lo]
• GoodbyeTotsiens
  [toht-see-ens]
• YesJa
  [yah]
• NoNee
  [nee]
• Please/You're welcomeAsseblief
  [ah-suh-bleef]
• Thank youDankie
  [dun-key]
• Excuse me/SorryVerskoon my
  [fur-skoohn may]
• How are you?Hoe gaan dit met jou?
  [hoo gahn deet met yoh]
• Fine. And you?Goed. En jy?
  [goot. en yey]
• Do you speak English?Praat jy Engels?
  [praht yey eng-guhls]
• I don't understandEk verstaan nie
  [ek verstahn nee]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseEk wil asseblief die spyskaart sien
  [ek vil ah-suh-bleef dee spays-kahrt seen]
• I don't eat meatEk eet nie vleis nie
  [ek ayt nee flays nee]
• Cheers!Gesondheid!
  [guh-sunt-hate]
• I would like to pay, pleaseEk wil asseblief betaal
  [ek vil ah-suh-bleef buh-tahl]

• Help!Help!
  [help]
• Go away!Gaan weg!
  [gahn vehg]
• Call the Police!Bel die Polisie!
  [bell dee poh-lee-see]
• Call a doctor!Bel 'n dokter!
  [bell un dohk-tur]
• I'm lostEk is verlore
  [ek is fuh-lor-uh]
• I'm illEk is siek
  [ek is seek]

• I'd like to buy...Ek wil koop...
  [ek vil kohp]
• I'm just lookingEk kyk net
  [ek kayk neht]
• How much is it?Hoeveel kos dit?
  [ho-veel kohs deet]
• That's too expensiveDit is te duur
  [deet is teh duhr]
• Can you lower the price?Kan jy die prys verlaag?
  [kahn yey dee prace fur-lahg]

• What time is it?Hoe laat is dit?
  [ho lah-t deet]
• It's one o'clockDit is een uur
  [deet is ayn oor]
• Half past (10)Half tien
  [hahlf teen]
• MorningOggend
  [oh-khent]
• AfternoonMiddag
  [mid-ahg]
• EveningAand
  [ahnt]
• YesterdayGister
  [gih-stur]
• TodayVandag
  [fahn-dahg]
• TomorrowMôre
  [moo-ruh]
• 1Een
  [ayn]
• 2Twee
  [twee]
• 3Drie
  [dree]
• 4Vier
  [feer]
• 5Vyf
  [feyf]
• 6Ses
  [sehs]
• 7Sewe
  [seh-vuh]
• 8Agt
  [ahgt]
• 9Nege
  [nee-guh]
• 10Tien
  [teen]

• Where's a/the...?Waar is 'n/die...?
  [vahr is un/dee]
• What's the address?Wat is die adres?
  [vut is dee ah-drehs]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Kan jy my wys (op die kaart)?
  [kahn yey may vays (ohp dee kahrt)]
• When's the next (bus)?Wanneer is die volgende (bus)?
  [vahn-neer is dee fuhl-guhn-duh]
• A ticket (to ....)'n Kaartjie (na ....)
  [un kahrt-chee (nah)]

Constantia's history began in the 17th century during the establishment of the Cape Colony by the Dutch East India Company. In 1685, the land was granted to Simon van der Stel, the first governor of the Cape, who recognized the area’s potential for viticulture. He named the estate 'Constantia,' after a Dutch word meaning 'steadfastness,' and began cultivating vineyards, which laid the foundation for South Africa's wine industry.

By the 18th century, Constantia became renowned for its sweet dessert wines, particularly the famous Constantia dessert wine, which gained international acclaim. The wine was favored by European nobility, including figures like Napoleon Bonaparte and King Louis-Philippe of France. This period marked Constantia as a significant player in the global wine market, contributing to Cape Town's economic prosperity.

Throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, Constantia experienced significant changes due to colonial policies and the later apartheid system. The estate lands were divided, and many vineyards were sold off, leading to urban development. The socio-political landscape affected the local communities, as apartheid laws enforced racial segregation and land ownership restrictions, impacting the demographics and economy of the area.

After the end of apartheid in the early 1990s, Constantia began to reclaim its heritage. Efforts were made to preserve historical sites, including the Groot Constantia estate, which is now a museum and a popular tourist attraction. The area has evolved into an affluent suburb known for its wine estates, luxury homes, and natural beauty, while still honoring its rich historical context.

Today, Constantia reflects a diverse cultural tapestry, combining its historical roots with modern influences. The community is a blend of local residents and international expats, contributing to a vibrant atmosphere. The region hosts various cultural events, art exhibitions, and culinary festivals, celebrating its rich heritage while fostering a contemporary identity that attracts visitors from around the globe.

Constantia is located approximately 20 kilometers from Cape Town's city center. The most convenient way to reach Constantia is by car, either by rental or taxi. You can take the M3 highway from the city, which provides a scenic route through the lush landscapes of the area. For public transport, the MyCiTi bus service operates routes to nearby areas, but note that you may need to transfer to a taxi for the last leg of your journey.

Constantia is best explored by car, as public transport options are limited within the neighborhood. However, you can use local taxis or rideshare services like Uber for convenience. Bicycles are a popular choice for navigating the area, particularly with its numerous trails and scenic routes. Walking is also feasible, especially around the Constantia Village area, which has shops and restaurants close together.

Constantia is generally considered a safe neighborhood for tourists. However, it is advisable to stay vigilant, especially after dark. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas, and keep your belongings secure. While the area is not known for high crime rates, petty theft can occur, so be cautious in busier locations and while using public transport.

In case of an emergency, dial 10111 for police assistance or 10177 for medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the location of the nearest hospital or clinic, such as the Constantiaberg Mediclinic. It is advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. Pharmacies are available for minor health issues, and many have English-speaking staff.

Fashion: Do dress comfortably and respect local customs, especially in religious settings. Don't wear overly revealing clothing when visiting churches or vineyards. Religion: Do be respectful of local customs and practices. Avoid discussing sensitive topics such as politics and religion unless invited. Public Transport: Do respect fellow passengers and give up your seat to the elderly. Don't eat or drink while on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly smile and a handshake. Don't be overly familiar; keep personal space in mind. Eating & Drinking: Do try local wines and farm-to-table dining experiences. Don't waste food or refuse hospitality, as it may offend your hosts.

To experience Constantia like a local, visit the Constantia Village, where you can shop at boutique stores and enjoy local cafes. Explore the wine estates, such as Groot Constantia, for tastings and tours. Participate in local markets, particularly the Constantia Fresh Market on weekends, for fresh produce and artisanal goods. Engage with locals—they can provide valuable insights and recommendations about hidden gems in the area. Lastly, enjoy the beautiful hiking trails in the Constantia Greenbelt for a taste of the natural beauty surrounding the neighborhood.