For more than four decades, Faldielah “Aunty Diela” Gamildien has stood among the bright blossoms at the Adderley Street Flower Market, greeting customers with an infectious smile and a bouquet always close at hand.
She first arrived at the market aged just 15, helping her mother pack flowers and clean the stalls while learning the rhythms of the century-old market. Today, the Grassy Park local can craft just about any bouquet you can imagine. But for Aunty Diela, flowers are more than just items to sell.
“Flowers are not just flowers. They’re for birthdays, weddings, funerals… for love.”
“When people are happy, they buy flowers. When they are sad, they also buy flowers,” she says. “So, I see everything.”
Here’s how she spends her ideal day in Cape Town:
Adderley Street Flower Market
As South Africa’s oldest flower market, with a history of over 150 years, the Adderley Street Flower Market is full of colour, scent, and local charm. Located at Trafalgar Place, visitors can wander through an alleyway lined with fresh blooms, from roses to proteas and everything in between.
You can find almost any kind of flower at the market, including aunty Diela’s favourite: the stargazer lily. Bouquets can be mixed and matched to your preference. And if you ask politely, the aunties might “make a plan” to get you the best deal at the market.
“The flower market is like a family. We look after each other here,” adds Aunty Diela.
Location: 13 Adderley Street, Cape Town City Centre,
Price: From R30
The Company’s Garden
When Aunty Diela needs a break from the hustle and bustle of the flower market, she takes a short walk to Company’s Garden, the oldest park in South Africa. There, she finds a quiet bench and takes a moment to enjoy the beauty of the space.
“Just five minutes here, and I feel calm again,” she says.
No visit is complete without spotting the resident squirrels that roam around the garden.
“The squirrels are the real bosses here!” she chuckles.
Location: 12 Government Ave, Cape Town City Centre
Price: Free
Website: www.thecompanysgarden.com
Cape Town City Hall

Cape Town City Hall is one of the city’s most renowned landmarks, celebrated for its striking architecture and historic significance. It is also the place where Nelson Mandela delivered his first public speech after being released from prison in 1990.
“I was one of the people who lined up in the crowd to see Mandela. It was a very special moment for us,” Aunty Diela recalls.
Today, visitors can explore City Hall and enjoy numerous photo opportunities along the way. On the second floor, the Nelson Mandela in Cape Town – Legacy Exhibition features interactive displays, audio-visual clips, and panels that reveal more about Mandela’s connection to the city. At the Attic Exhibition on the third floor, you’ll find a collection of art and artefacts that tell the story of Cape Town over the years, from water and electricity to railways. It also explores //Hu!gaeb, the original home of the Khoi, and the different places of faith.
Location: Darling St, Cape Town City Centre
Price: Free entry
Website: www.capetown.gov.za
Eastern Food Bazaar
When it’s time for a bite to eat, Aunty Diela goes to her favourite food spot in the city centre: Eastern Food Bazaar. This lively place is known for its mix of flavours, including Indian, Chinese, and Turkish street food all under one roof.
“My favourite order is the butter chicken,” she says. “You get big food for a good price.”
Location: 96 Longmarket St, Cape Town City Centre
Price: Various
Website: easternfoodbazaar.co.za/
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