Cape Town has a number of rather smart backpacker-type options, but Atlantic Point offers a few thoughtful touches beyond the scope of average hostels. A neat, style-conscious redesign of a residential home from the 1930s, the property has quite a bit of character, and you needn't share rooms (or bathrooms, for that matter, if you spring for something more than the dorms). The upstairs lounge is laid out with a comfortable sofa, beanbags, and a TV with a DVD player and a games console. There's also a fireplace, and booths for eating with a bit of privacy. The décor is Pop Art-inspired, with Cape Town-themed artwork, jazzy murals, and lots of bright colors. There's even music piped into the communal bathrooms, which are kept scrupulously clean. Most important, perhaps, are the luxurious linens. Atlantic Point also offers the advantage of being close to De Waterkant, where's there's a mix of bohemian spirit and contemporary sophistication. Staffers will happily sort you out with local information and point you towards all kinds of activities, from shark cage-diving to paragliding.