Comprising three interconnecting Victorian terrace houses that now share a pretty courtyard with pool, An African Villa is a 13-roomed guesthouse is cool and comfortable, and one of the most affordable places to stay in Cape Town. Without ignoring the original architecture and fittings, owners Jimmy and Louis have cleverly combined contemporary furnishings with ethnic elements in a tasteful blend that draws on African art and design. The bedrooms at An African Villa are categorized according to the view (or lack thereof) and relative sumptuousness of what’s on offer-it’s definitely worth bagging a Platinum, with a personal balcony facing Table Mountain, while the street-level Bronze rooms may pick up noise from the street alongside. Jimmy and Louis are superb hosts but you’re encouraged to make yourself totally at home, with free reign to traipse through the kitchen, where you can chat with the staff or help yourself at the well-stocked honesty bar. In winter, you can share a spot at the dining table, warmed by a cosy fire. And, beyond the front door of An African Villa, you are walking distance to a wide variety of neighbourhood restaurants and drinking venues.