As with the Radisson Krakow, Radisson were leaders in developing their brand strategy in this market, which grew in the decade straddling the turn of the century from a million visitors a year to over seven million, and which is continuing to grow at high rates in the run-up to the 2010 World Cup, hosted by South Africa. Being first is risky but brings benefits. In this case the five star hotel enjoys a cachet in the local market, a cachet in part created by its stunning location. With its own marina and an infinity pool on the edge of the Atlantic breakers, its entry atrium spills through the restaurant onto one of Cape Town’s most popular dining and drinking spots, the large terrace overlooking the Atlantic and the entry into Cape Town harbor.

Over half the bedrooms have sea views, those looking inland looking across the town to the mountain range that has Table mountain and the ‘Twelve Apostles’ peaks as a part of their make-up. Recognizing the importance that a regular repeat business can bring the seaward facing rooms have been designated as Business rooms, and have upgraded services, That having been said all rooms are large and spacious, with plenty of daylight and all the amenities one would expect from a five star hotel including walk-in showers, soaking tubs, and free Wi-Fi.

Built around the atrium in the local vernacular for this part of the city (whitewashed stone) which contrasts vividly with the blue of sea and sky the interiors are recognizably Radisson. There is the addition of one or two shops in the ground floor of the atrium, but here staffing levels are generous and staff are smilingly enthusiastic , although he guy I saw with a feather duster at the railings separating the terrace from the sea was probably carrying housekeeping too far. I was shown around by an enthusiastic trainee who admitted that she had captured the plum work experience placing from the Hague Hotel School when she had landed her position at the Waterfront. That said her professionalism spoke volumes for the training of both the Hague School and Radissons own training programme.