There Are Many Nigerian Restaurants in Cape Town — Uti Nwachukwu

Popular actor and media personality, Uti Nwachukwu, shares fond memories of his trip to Cape Town, South Africa.

In what country did you have your most memorable travel experience?

I had a memorable and fun time when I travelled to Cape Town.

When did you travel there and what was your reason for going there?

I travelled to Cape Town sometime last year for a vacation but I can’t remember exactly when. My travel point was about to expire and I had ten free days; so, I decided to go see my friends in Cape Town.

How long did you stay in Cape Town and where did you stay?

I stayed for about 10 days at Sea Point, a suburb of Cape Town, and it was a great experience because I had a lot of fun.

Do you recall some of the things that fascinated you when you arrived at the country?

I have always loved Cape Town, especially the weather. It is very cool but not unbearably cold. There is just a vibe about Capetonians that I can’t explain; it is very common with people who stay by the sea. There is something very carefree about them and they don’t take life too seriously.

How would you describe Capetonians compared to Nigerians?

They are more relaxed than Nigerians.They don’t take themselves too seriously and they have an amazing sea food menu. Their sea food is mouth-wateringly fresh and unique.  They are similar to Nigeria in terms of partying because they love to party. Also in terms of fashion sense, Nigerians love to dress up and so do Capetonians.

Did you try any of their local dishes?

Every seafood dish I had blew me away because they were really tasty. I think they are one of the best in the world when it comes to preparing seafood.

How receptive were the people towards you?

They are very wonderful people and I have a lot of good friends over there.

In terms of security of lives and property, how would you assess the country?

Just like everywhere else in the world, there are safe places and other places you wouldn’t want to go to. Their security is okay; you just have to carry out research and find out the places not to go to. Generally, the popular places are very wonderful.

Which other places would you like to visit?

I would love to visit Amsterdam because I have heard a lot of great things about the place. I would also love to visit one of the popular islands, whether Trinidad and Tobago or the Bahamas. I would love to go to Brazil as well.

What advice can you offer prospective travellers?

I would advise anyone, who is travelling, to carry enough petty cash with them because our Nigerian bank cards can embarrass you at any time. Make sure you research about any country you are going to so you know more about the country. If you are going to stay at a hotel, make sure the hotel is central and have a lot of activities around them so you don’t spend too much on transportation. Try and travel to places where you know people but if you don’t know anyone, make friends. Keep an open mind and be ready to try out new things, especially regarding their culture; it could be their lifestyle or dress sense. Just be ready for new experiences and you will have fun.

While you were on the trip, did anything remind you about home?

When I went to the beach in Cape Town, it reminded me of our beaches in Nigeria. Their markets also reminded me of our markets and there were lots of Nigerian restaurants there. Anytime I went there, I would be taken back home mentally.

Was there anything you saw in South Africa that you would like to be replicated in Nigeria?

That would be tourism. Our government can learn the importance of tourism from Cape Town. They should develop more tourist attractions in the country because there are a lot of financial opportunities in it. Our beaches should be maintained and all the hoodlums that have ruined the experience of going to the beach should be stopped. They should build amusement parks and create variety of fun places for people to go to because if it is great, Nigerians will pay for it. It is another way of generating income for the country.