Image Courtesy of fabulousfabs

A key event on South Africa’s Parliamentary and political calendar is the opening of Parliament in Cape Town and the State of the Nation Address. This year the opening of Parliament will be taking place on 9 February 2012 as Cape Town once more hosts the National Assembly and the National Council of Provinces.

Completed in 1885, the parliament building with its central dome and Corinthian porticos and pavilions was originally designed by Charles Freeman who, following a miscalculation of the foundations, was later replaced by Henry Greaves.

The building itself lies in the uppermost corner of Company Gardens, with an entrance on Parliament Street.  During parliamentary sessions between January and June, tickets to sit in the public gallery are available to visitors as well as guided tours though the Houses of Parliament buildings during the week.

The opening of parliament does come with its downside though as several road closures creates a challenge getting in and out of the Cape Town city centre.

Between attending the spectacle of the State of Nation address and chancing the tactical-plan-ahead-escape-routes out of the CBD, the opportunity to spend a relaxing evening in the city centre is too often overlooked.

With its large street-side windows which create a unique viewing room for glimpses of the Houses of Parliament and Table Mountain, as well as its plush comfortable décor, the Twankey Bar is perhaps the best place to be during the opening of parliament.

A relaxing evening of fresh seafood tapas, perfectly poured cocktails, a range of champagnes and excellent oyster experiences makes the end of any workday a celebration and the opening of parliament a breeze.

The Taj Cape Town provides luxury accommodation in Cape Town and is home to the Twankey champagne and oyster bar open weekdays from 16:00 till late.

A romantic night in the heart of the Mother City awaits those looking for the ultimate romantic gesture. A Valentine’s Day treat of exotic spa treatments, champagne and oysters, sumptuous dinners and luxurious accommodation and an evening of elegance, glamour and romantic indulgence.

Romantic foods, exotic locales and luxurious settings, the Bombay Brasserie will indulge your culinary fantasies with a sumptuous 5-course dinner in Cape Town’s finest modern Indian restaurant.

Enliven the senses with a special His & Hers Valentine’s menu featuring ‘dillwali’ macchi (dill flavoured tandoori salmon) and murg mumtaaz (cardamom and pandanus scented chicken curry), as well as a Valentine’s dessert sampler of anjeer halwa (fig and almond halwa) and rose petal kuli (rose petal ice cream) to be shared.

If your romantic tastes run towards the intimate dinner with jazz accompaniment, The Mint Restaurant is offering Chef Mark’s carvery and naturally aphrodisiac themed ‘love food’ inspired buffet.

The buffet features a fresh oyster bar with Namibian Luderitz and wild oysters from Mossel Bay, avocado and cherry salad, Alba truffle glazed asparagus, ginger duck noodles and a hearty dessert buffet with apple and toasted almond crepes, chocolate Grand Marnier cake and cinnamon poached pears.  Let fine dining amidst a jazz duet and roses whisk you away on a romantic culinary adventure.

For the ultimate in romantic relaxation, the Jiva Spa has a 2 hour ‘Nectar of the Gods’ treatment package. Two therapists will perform a candle-lit, Indian aromatherapy massage, using evocative oils to set the mood for romance.

Couples are encouraged to arrive 30-45mins prior to enjoy our steam, vitality pool & relaxation area. And after this indulgent massage, a rose petal bath together and some exclusive time alone with a bottle of champagne can be enjoyed.

As always, the Twankey Bar is available for that between locations interlude of Cap Classique and oysters as well as the ever popular ‘Twankey Teaser.’

To end the perfect Valentine’s Day evening, the Taj Cape Town is also offering luxury city view rooms and one-bedroom suites with breakfast for two included, special romantic turndown service, access to the private Taj Club lounge, as well early check-in and late check-out.

The Taj Cape Town provides luxury accommodation in Cape Town and will be providing a host of indulgent Valentine’s Day activities and luxurious accommodation from  11 – 16 February 20 12. Contact us to find out more.