For the Love of Two Great Nations

South Africa is an amalgamation of different cultures. The circular buildings and kraals that are found along the rolling hills of Kwazulu-natal tell of the Zulu nation; the colourful, geometric patterns from the Ndebele bring brightness to many buildings; and walking around the winelands of the Western Cape, Cape Dutch architecture remains from European settlers, and is still used to this day. These are just a few examples of influences that make up the culturally diverse beauty of South Africa.

Another nation that has made a permanent home in the country, bringing with it a wealth of unique characteristics, without which South Africa would be unrecognisable, is India.

Many different traditions and cultures make up the fascinating subcontinent of India, and, over the past 200 years, these influences have become entrenched in the South African landscape through religion, architecture, commerce, gastronomy, music, and fashion – all of this adding to the vibrancy of the country.

While Durban has the biggest Indian population in the world outside of India, Cape Town is, too, blessed with a rich Indian heritage. In the city centre, Taj Cape Town, one of the most iconic hotels in the city, prides itself on its story rooted in the link between India and South Africa.

The 16th century and the numerous ocean voyages that took place opened up the Spice Route – when South Africa met with India.

The relationship between the two nations flourished with delicious spices, rich culture, and exceptional cuisine. Fast forward a few hundred years, South Africa opened the doors to its Reserve Bank in 1932. A few decades later, The Taj Hotels Resorts & Palaces group bought the Reserve Bank and Temple Chambers in 2010, and got to work restoring the building, uncovering and refurbishing once lost features, and adding contemporary characteristics to bring the building into the light of the modern age.

Now, when you walk in Taj Cape Town, the history of Cape Town and heritage of India is sensed: the barrel-vaulted skylight supported by three Portuguese Skyros columns made from the marble designed by the architect of the original Reserve Bank building, James Morris, who modelled the building on the Palazzo Pitti in Florence; the original chandeliers still hang proudly; the same clock from 1932 shows the time; and the notes of cardamom and clove in the air tells of the Spice Route.

Taj Cape Town’s philosophy on hospitality is described as Athithi Devo Bhava – the belief that guests are gods and should be revered as such. Throughout a stay here, from when you arrive and check into your room and experience a luxurious treatment at Jiva Spa, to indulging in an Indian feast of culinary excellence at Bombay Brasserie, you will certainly have the feeling that you have landed in heaven.

The spacious rooms at Taj Cape Town feature magnificent views of the city as well as Table Mountain. Indian-inspired furnishings reiterate the Indian atmosphere. The ample bathrooms feature a stand-alone bathtub and shower – surround sound in the bathroom allows for music to be played while relaxing in the tub. Chocolate truffles and fresh fruit provide a welcome to the room, and shows that attention to the finer details is beautifully paid.

Jiva Spa can be described as a wellness oasis in the heavenly atmosphere of Taj Cape Town. Warmly lit and with aromas of essential oils, it is easy to be enticed into the spa, and the range of treatments on offer will certainly make it an easy decision to dedicate at least a few hours to revel in the calming embrace of the spa. The Aromatherapy Massage, one of the most popular treatments, begins with your feet being gently washed before laying on the heated massage table. The therapist, according to your preference, coaxes knots out of muscles with the help of signature oils. A facial oil is applied to your face, and then, still in the blissful bubble of massage-induced relaxation, you are taken to a lounger to sit back and enjoy some tea and fruit.

If you love Indian cuisine and fine dining, you cannot miss out on an opportunity to dine at Bombay Brasserie. In a setting of sparkling chandeliers and crisp, white linen covered tables, an extraordinary journey of flavours can be experienced. Guests can choose between the vegetarian and meat options for the tasting menu if you would like to forgo the à la carte; the tasting menu ferries you through the different spices, ingredients, and wonder of Indian cuisine through intricate dishes presented artistically.

Indian culture is part of South Africa, so completely knotted that the country would cease to be recognisable should the heritage be taken away. An ode to this, and an iconic destination in the city, Taj Cape Town is a hotel of history, flavour, and lavishness.

For more info, visit tajcapetown.co.za.