You could not be more central than this apartment! It is a short walk from tourist attraction like the Gardens and Greenmarket Square, the hip bars and restaurants of Bree Street and Loop Street, as well as bustling everyday spaces like the Grand Parade and Adderley Street. It is literally steps away from the Slave Lodge and a short walk to the District Six Museum, National Gallery, and SA Museum.

You will get a way more authentic impression of the city than if you stay in more suburban or tourist-friendly neighbourhoods; on the other hand, this also means that you should exercise caution when walking in some directions after dark.

There is a lovely breakfast and lunch spot right next door with wonderfully friendly wait staff.

The apartment is also near a MyCiti bus stop, which can get you to a few places outside the city, such as Woodstock. We also rented a car for a few days, but there was unfortunately no parking in the building. We parked in the Mandela Rhodes building, which is close and a reasonably safe walk at night, but perhaps not ideal for first time visitors.

The balcony has a delightful view of Lion's Head and Signal Hill. It looks up Wale Street, a downtown thoroughfare, so expect some urban noise starting in the early morning and peaking during rush hour.

Gary has a flamboyant way with decor and the apartment is a trove of curious objects and intriguing art. Perhaps it is a spacious bachelor pad, but as a couple we struggled to find place for our belongings. I'm about 6 foot and found the bed a little short.

We unfortunately did not meet Gary, who seemed to be out of town meeting a deadline. He did appoint a representative to let us into the apartment, and he did respond to our emails. There were some misunderstandings involving an unexpected housekeeper and unfinished laundry, but I think these were due to the representative. Perhaps all would have gone more smoothly with Gary himself around.