Originally Posted by
needtoescape
Hi, I am planning my first trip to South Africa for December, and I am trying to decide about where to stay in Stellenbosch. I am choosing between the Protea Hotel Stellenbosch and the Protea Hotel Stellenbosch Dorpshuis & Spa.
I was wondering which of the two people would recommend ... I prefer the location on Dorp Street to give me the option of walking to restaurants for dinner, although I will have a car. Also, if either location is not suitable (i.e., safe) for a solo female traveler, that is another factor for me.
I've stayed at both, though about 3 years apart.
- Protea Stellenbosch at the Techno Park - it's out of town, so you will need your car or Uber It's quite a modern hotel, similar to chain hotels in the USA and Europe. Ours was a paid stay before the Marriott purchase. We didn't look for nearby restaurants so I have no view as to suitability for you. The hotel is fine. It is category 1.
- Protea Hotel Stellenbosch Dorpshuis & Spa - this is closer to the city centre. Much will depend on which room they allocate. I made some comments on our stay in post #90 . Ours was an award stay as Marriott gold. No Marriott benefits. I'd say walking to local restaurants wouldn't offer much. We used Uber extensively to get to shops, restaurants and attractions. It was category 1 when I booked but is now category 2.
I'm not qualified to advise on suitability for a single female, other than to say be aware of potential security hazards, especially at night. You're probably aware of these, but if not, it's worth reading up.
Having said that, most attacks are not directed at visitors. I'm sure you will enjoy Stellenbosch and Western Cape as much as we did.