V&A Craft Market & Wellness Centre (Blue Shed)

by Amanda
(Sea Point, Cape Town)

Obviously, one would assume being in the V&A that this is a market just for tourists, and it does indeed stock some craft that appeal to tourists, but in fact it has much more to offer local visitors.

The market is open 7 days a week but weekdays are my favorite time to visit as I often find the artist or crafter is there (sometimes they work on site too) and I enjoy talking to them about what they do, it is so inspiring.

I always head there for unusual/original gifts as there is so much choice, but they also offer unique jewellery items and art as well as clothing, shoes (and bags!) and then home furnishings as well.

The advantage of going at the weekend is that there are usually some extra traders who come only for the weekend, and that can be interesting too. The Waterfront has a great vibe over the weekend.

In the same building is a Wellness Centre and it is really affordable for things like seated massage and beauty treatments, plus you don't usually have to book way in advance, if the therapist is busy, then you can do a little browsing until they can see you.

TIP: Try the pizza/pasta place at the entrance nearest to the Aquarium, their food is awesome, I especially love their pasta dishes.