Expats moving to Cape Town often find themselves seduced for a time far longer than they initially anticipated. The city's considerable popularity rests on its celebrated natural beauty and many outdoor attractions, coupled with a relaxed lifestyle, and easily accessible culture and mild climate.

Though located on the very tip of Southern Africa, the "Mother City" is anything but isolated. The city is home to Christians, Jews, Muslims, Hindus and Africans with traditional belief systems; existing in harmony and creating a multi-cultural edge that could rival the biggest and the best cosmopolitan destination.

Although small, Cape Town has all the trappings of an international metropolis with excellent restaurants and cafés, world-class shopping, and top quality private healthcare.

In general, expats moving to Cape Town can expect a laid-back atmosphere marked by locals looking for a healthy, balanced alternative to the high stress work environment of other locations. Rush hour traffic is benign compared to that of Johannesburg, especially if you reside in the city bowl, which is close to the central business district.

The cost of living is reasonable, though Cape Town's hedonistic impulses don't lend themselves to large salaries. Still, whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, impassioned art lover or overzealous volunteer it's easy to have a good life in what some affectionately refer to as this European fishing village.

Cape Town is South Africa’s most efficiently run metropolis and crime levels are lower than any of the country’s other large cities. However public transport is poor, making it necessary to rent or buy a car.

With the exception of this mild hiccup, expats will find it easy to settle in and adjust to life in Cape Town.