Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 22 April 2026 -/African Media Agency(AMA)/ – Yango Ride, the ride-hailing service from global tech company Yango Group, has launched an official app in ChatGPT, enabling users to plan routes and rides directly within the conversation. The rollout is a global update covering more than 25 countries where Yango operates, spanning regions from the Middle East and South Asia to Africa and Latin America.
With the ChatGPT integration, users can view the exact price for a selected route with no hidden fees, compare travel times across alternative routing options, and check both the trip’s estimated time of arrival (ETA) and the vehicle’s arrival time. The integration also helps users identify optimal pickup points to reduce waiting time. Once the user is ready to proceed, the fare estimate opens in the Yango app or in the web version, where the booking can be completed securely.
The integration allows frequent travelers, tourists, and business users to plan their day without switching apps. By bringing ride‑hailing directly into an AI conversation, Yango Ride provides a frictionless experience that fits naturally into daily workflows and travel routines.
The Yango Ride integration is available within the ChatGPT web interface, as well as mobile apps on both Android and iOS. Powered by live traffic data and smart routing technology, it provides accurate, real-time trip planning and dynamically updated estimates as road conditions change.
Yango Group plans to further expand its presence in ChatGPT and expand the integration to include its services beyond ride-hailing, such as delivery, public transport options, and food delivery.
Planning a holiday to Cape Town is exciting. But, before you embark on your journey, it’s important to consider one crucial aspect: the best time to visit this vibrant city.
Cape Town offers a diverse range of experiences throughout the year, each with its own unique charm and appeal. Whether you’re looking for sunny beach days or cultural festivities, Cape Town has something to offer every traveller, no matter the season. So, let’s delve into the best time to visit this captivating destination and make the most out of your holiday.
Visiting Cape Town in January and February
January is one of Cape Town’s busiest months, and for good reason. It’s usually hot and sunny, and there are loads of summer events to attend. Summer is in full swing. The daily temperatures average between 17°C (63°F) and 28°c (82°F), although it can reach as high as 40°C (104°F). Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it gets its rainfall in the winter months, so January and February are mostly dry.
Expect long, warm days with blue skies, when the sun only sets after 8pm and there’s always something going on. It can be windy sometimes, and Cape Town is a fantastic windsurfing destination in January and February.
Many people believe this is the best time to visit Cape Town, which means January is peak season. Flights and accommodation are a little more pricey, and attractions can be busy so it’s a good idea to plan your timing to get there before the crowds. Luckily you have over 14 hours of daylight to work with every day, so you’re in no rush. By February, things have calmed down a little, but it’s still quite busy.
Perfect For: Beaches, water sports, views, outdoor activities, adventure Pack: Sandals, swimsuits, loads of sunscreen, hats or caps, shorts and dresses
Recommended activities:
Seal Snorkelling
Place: Pisces Divers Location: 1 Main Rd, Simon’s Town Opening Times: 8am – 4.30pm Contact: 021 786 3799 Website: piscesdivers.co.za/
Jet Skiing
Place: Ocean Star Sailing Academy Location: Nautilus House, 14 West Quay Road, V&A Waterfront Opening Times: 8am – 4pm Contact: 021 418 4074 or 061 107 0536 Website: oceanstarsailing.com/
March is the beginning of the shoulder season, when the summer holiday crowds have left. During March and April, there are a number of very big events, including the Two Oceans Marathon, the Cape Town Cycle Tour, and Easter Weekend, which bring in quite a few local and international tourists. These few weekends can be very busy, and flights and accommodation are booked up long in advance and can be a little more expensive than other times. If you’re not coming for those events specfically, plan around them for lower price.
Temperatures in March and April are between 15°C (59°F) and 27°c (81°F). By April, the first cold fronts of the winter sometimes begin, bringing an average of six days of rain throughout the month, whereas March only has an average of two rainy days.
Perfect For: Big events, shoulder season rates, outdoor activities, fewer crowds Pack: Summer gear, swimsuits, and one or two warmer items for the evenings
Recommended activities:
Winelands Tour (Hop-on hop-off Experience)
Place: Franschhoek Wine Tram Location: Corner of Main Road and Cabriere St, Franschhoek Opening Times: 9am – 5pm Contact: 021 300 0338 Website: winetram.co.za/hop-on-hop-off/
By May Cape Town is starting to cool down significantly. This is when the first rains fall, and days are often chilly enough for a light jersey/sweater. Temperatures in May are between 13°C (55°F) and 22°c (72°F). There are very few tourists around, so there is easy access to all the major attractions, although you run the risk of rain putting a damper on things.
May comes with its own advantages though. There is seldom any wind, so on clear days the beaches are beautiful. The sea is actually warmer in the winter months too, so the beach isn’t off the cards yet. Rain only falls an average of nine days in the month so there are many gorgeous sunny afternoons still to be had.
May is also the month when the annual winter restaurant specials kick off, and you can enjoy some of the world’s best fine dining experiences at a fraction of the usual price. Accommodation providers also have winter specials. May is the perfect time to skip the crowds, save money, and still have a great time in this fantastic city.
Perfect For: Saving money, wining and dining, road trips, quiet beach days Pack: Light jerseys or sweaters, a jacket, boots, but also clothes that suit warmer weather
Recommended activities:
Explore and dine like royalty
Place: Casa Labia Location: 192 Main Road, Muizenberg Opening Times: 8am – 5pm Contact: 0211803119 Website: www.casalabia.com/
Brush up on your history in the most unique way!
Place: Long March to Freedom Location: Century Boulevard, Century City Opening Times: 10am – 4:30pm Website:www.longmarchtofreedom.co.za/
June to August is mid-winter, so these are the coldest and rainiest months. Depending on your interests this can definitely be the best time to visit Cape Town. For starters, there are barely any crowds at the top attractions. Just make sure your trip doesn’t coincide with Table Mountain’s annual winter closure (usually for two weeks at the end of July). The restaurant and accommodation specials continue throughout these colder months, and flights are much cheaper than other times of year.
It’s also worth mentioning that Capetonians have a very South African definition of cold. Temperatures are between 11°C (52°F) and 20°c (68°F), and most days are a crisp but bearable 13°C (55°F). Rain falls an average of 10-11 days in each month. There is occasional snow on the high-lying mountain regions outside of the city, and there are regular clear days in the Winelands where you can have lunch beside a fireplace with spectacular views of the snow-capped mountains and sprawling vines. It’s also the greenest time of year, and while days are shorter, there are still around 10 hours of daylight every day. On clear days, hiking is incredible. There are waterfalls tucked away in iridescent green forests, and mornings often bring moody fog in from the sea.
July and August are also peak whale season, when Southern Right and Humpback whales can be seen calving in the shallow waters just off shore.
Perfect For: Off-peak rates, fewer crowds, wining and dining, amazing views and skies, hiking, whale watching Pack: Rain jackets, boots, layers (the weather can change over a few hours), scarves, coats
Recommended activities:
The Iziko South African Museum
Place: The Iziko South African Museum Location: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens, Cape Town Opening Times: Daily from 9am to 5pm Website:www.iziko.org.za/museums/south-african-museum
Visit the Aquarium
Place: Two Oceans Aquarium Location: Dock Road, V&A Waterfront Opening Times: 9.30am – 6pm Website:www.aquarium.co.za/
Urban Axe Throwing
Place: AXE-O Location: The Spice Yard, 100 Voortrekker Rd, Salt River Opening Times: 9am – 10pm Contact: 074 609-6591 Website:axe-o.com/
September marks the start of spring in Cape Town. You’ll catch the end of whale season, but this time of year is most famous for the wildflowers. All over the Western Cape, blooms take over vast fields and mountains and splash the region with bursts of colour. The rains ease up a little, falling only five to eight days each month.
Temperatures are between 13°C (55°F) and 21°c (70°F), and most days are 14-16°C (57-61°F). The winter specials also end around this time, so the days of frugal travel are over, but it’s worth the extra few pennies for the longer, warmer days, drier weather, and outdoor adventure.
There are some great music festivals to attend too. It’s also shoulder season, so prices are still lower and you’ll be able to miss the crowds that come with summer.
Perfect For: Seeing wildflowers, whale watching, outdoor activities, hiking, outdoor events Pack: A light jacket, sunscreen, hats or caps, antihistamines if you suffer with allergies
Recommended activities:
Visit Intaka Island
Place: Intaka Island Location: Grand Central Precintp, 2 Park Ln, Century City Opening Times: 7:30am – 5pm Contact: 021 552 6889 Website:intaka.co.za/
Place: Majik Forest Location: Van Riebeeckshof Rd, Van Riebeeckshof Opening Times: 7am – 7pm Contact: 0860 103 089
Visiting Cape Town in November and December
During the summer months toward the end of the year, Cape Town really comes to life. The long, balmy days are a treat for locals and visitors alike, and people come out in droves to go to beaches, attractions, festivals, and events. There are food and wine festivals, outdoor music shows, beach parties, and all kinds of summer joys. This is the start of peak season, and there’s something cool going on every day and night. By December, things are in full swing and it’s the most festive time of year by far.
The wind picks up in the summer months, but this is also the time you’ll find picture-perfect summer days. There’s hardly any rain, and temperatures are back up between 17°C (63°F) and 28°c (82°F). It’s a great time of year.
Perfect For: Parties, outdoor events and activities, beach days, hiking, adventure Pack: Sandals, swimsuits, loads of sunscreen, hats or caps, shorts, dresses and possibly a light warm top and jeans for the occasional evening chill
Recommended activities:
Visit the Neighbourgoods Market
Place: Old Biscuit Mill Location: 375 Albert Rd, Woodstock Opening Times: Every Saturday and Sunday from 9am to 5pm Contact: 021 447 8194 Website: theoldbiscuitmill.co.za/
Beer-Tasting
Place: Distillers Union Location: 156 Victoria Road, Woodstock Opening Times: 11am to 5.30pm Contact: 021 447 2517 Website:distillersunion.co.za/
Shark Cage Diving
Place: Apex Shark Expeditions Location: Corner Wharf & Board Walk Centre, St George’s St, Simon’s Town Opening Times: 9am to 4pm Contact: 079 051 8558 Website:apexpredators.com/
Hiking
Place: Lion’s Head Location: Signal Hill Rd, Signal Hill Price: Free
India wins ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026
February 7, 2026
The ICC Under-19 Men’s Cricket World Cup 2026 was a landmark event for Zimbabwe, culminating with India crowned champions after a thrilling final against England, witnessed by the Deputy Minister of Tourism and Hospitality Industry, Hon. Tongai Mnangagwa and the Chief Executive Officer of the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority Dr. George Manyaya. Beyond the excitement on the field, the Tournament significantly boosted the country’s Tourism Sector, attracting Domestic and International Tourists who flocked to hotels and lodges driving high occupancy levels. Local businesses from Restaurants to Transport Operators, benefited from increased foot traffic as Tourists explored surrounding communities and attractions. The global broadcast of matches elevated Zimbabwe’s profile as a capable host of major Sporting events, reinforcing its position as a premier Sports Tourism destination. #ICCU19MensCricketWorldCup2026 #SportsTourism #ExperienceZimbabwe #NhakaYedu #IlifaLethu #OurHeritage #ZimBho
To further strengthen effective Corporate Governance,
Accountability and Transparency, the Minister of Tourism and Hospitality
Industry Hon Barbara Rwodzi, has announced the appointment of new Board Members
for the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority (ZTA) and the Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development
Company (Pvt) Limited, in line with the Constitution of Zimbabwe, the Public
Entities Corporate Governance Act and the Tourism Act. The appointments come at
a time when Zimbabwe’s Tourism sector is experiencing sustained growth, increased
global recognition and rising investor confidence, positioning Tourism as a key
driver of National Development.
The newly appointed Boards bring extensive experience and
expertise that will provide strategic guidance and effective oversight to
advance the Ministry’s Tourism mandate. The Mosi-Oa-Tunya Development Company
Board will focus on accelerating Tourism Infrastructure development and
facilitating Investment in Victoria Falls, while the Zimbabwe Tourism Authority
Board will strengthen destination promotion, enhance service delivery and
uphold regulatory frameworks that add value to Tourists and support industry
growth. These efforts will enhance Tourism’s contribution to GDP, strengthen
Zimbabwe’s global image and support the implementation of NDS 2, in line with
the Vision 2030 agenda of the President of the Republic of Zimbabwe, His
Excellency Cde. Dr. E.D. Mnangagwa, of attaining an Upper Middle-Income Economy
by 2030.
Dezemba in Cape Town is a lifestyle and, in case you didn’t know, it doesn’t start in December – in fact it starts early November and only ends mid-January. This is the time when the sun’s out, a hike is calling and groove is a non-negotiable.
Here’s your official Mother City “Yes I was there!” checklist, because were you even in Cape Town if you didn’t…
Take a Train to Kalk Bay
The People’s Train is taking over Cape Town, from fan trains during special events and jazz experiences to silent book clubs. This seaside train journey offers gorgeous views of the ocean and Cape Town’s top attractions. Hop off in Kalk Bay to grab fish and chips, discover quirky antique shops, look for harbour seals, and relax on the beach.
Cold Plunge at Saunders Rock
Brrr. If you’re chasing that instant Cape Town exhilaration, Saunders Rock is where it’s at! This local gem is where the local (and some international tourists) hangout for its icy waters and Insta-worthy photo opportunities. Grab a few friends, pack a flask of coffee (trust us, you’ll need it), and brace yourself for the ultimate refresh. Best enjoyed during sunrise or sunset.
Hike Lion’s Head at Sunrise
Is it really a Cape Town summer if you haven’t posted a triumphant photo from the top of Lion’s Head? This moderate 90-minute hike rewards every step with dramatic views of Table Mountain, the city, and the ocean. The chains and ladders can get busy in the summer months, so starting early is worth it, especially if you want to catch the sunrise at the top.
Drive Chapman’s Peak
Chapman’s Peak is the ultimate leisurely scenic drive. Picture winding cliffside curves, mind-blowing ocean views, and that one perfect lookout. “Chappies,” as locals often refer to it, snakes between Noordhoek and Hout Bay along South Africa’s southwestern Atlantic coast. Cue your ultimate playlist, roll down the windows, and soak in one of the world’s most epic marine drives. If hiking’s your thing, there’s a trail en route that’s worth a detour.
Sip Your Way Through the Cape Winelands
Wine not? Whether it’s Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, or Paarl, the Cape Winelands delivers a full-on wine adventure. Swirl, sip, repeat – and with plenty of tour buses and wine trams available, you can indulge without a care in the world. Don’t forget to buy a bottle. Or six.
Hop on the Stellenbosch Wine Tractor or the Franschhoek Wine Tram that will transport you to the various wine farms.
Watch a Sunset on Signal Hill
Our city is known for its picture-perfect sunsets, and Signal Hill is where it really shows off. Hundreds of locals and tourists arrive early to claim a seat at one of the world’s most iconic golden hour views. It can get a bit nippy, so bring a blanket and pack a picnic. Between the impromptu proposals and friendly strangers striking up conversation, it’s the city’s happiest hour.
Grab Sundowners in Camps Bay
Dress to impress, grab a drink, and hit the bars and restaurants lining the Camps Bay strip. As the sky turns a show-stopping hue of orange and pink, soak up the legendary sunset vibe, where cocktails, laughter, and a little bit of people-watching are all part of the ritual.
Party on Bree Street and Kloof Street
Once the sun dips, Bree Street and Kloof Street come alive. Kloof Street was recently named Time Out’s Coolest Streets in the World for 2025. These streets are lined with trendy cocktail bars, buzzing clubs, and rooftop bars. Expect killer music, even better people, and at least one person in an OTT outfit.
Discover the city’s most Instagrammable spots
Cape Town’s streets double as a gallery with bold street art at every corner. From Woodstock to the Cape Town City Centre, every splash of colour tells a story. Make your way to Salt River, Bo Kaap, De Waterkant, The Waterfront and Sea Point and snap those shots.
When they’re not leading adrenaline-filled adventures through Atlantis Dunes, Busi and Gugu Ngcelwane, the founders of Twin Venture, are out exploring the city like wide-eyed tourists.
Whether they’re on a run, cycling through the city’s green spaces, or soaking up Cape Town’s postcard-perfect ocean and mountain views, this dynamic duo knows how to balance thrill with chill.
“There’s nothing better than a day off spent doing our favourite things around the city,” says Gugu. “Cape Town’s beauty never gets old, and you don’t need to spend a lot to enjoy it,” adds Busi.
The Melkbosstrand twins enjoy keeping their itinerary fuss-free. Here are their favourite things to do in the city:
Run on the Prom
As passionate runners, the twins never miss an opportunity to explore Cape Town’s many scenic routes. One of their favourites is the Sea Point Promenade, stretching along the Atlantic Seaboard. Access to the Promenade is free, and the route offers more than just a good workout. Along the way, you can admire public art and photography, grab a tasty bite from local food trucks, or soak up the sun and sea breeze as you get your heart rate going.
“We recommend going at sunrise or sunset,” they say. “The energy, the diversity of people, and the fresh ocean air make it a truly unforgettable experience.”
Location: Beach Road, Sea Point. Price: Free.
Cycle Green Point Urban Park with CURIOCITY
For a more laid-back adventure, the twins take a smooth ride through Green Point Urban Park.
“We hire bikes from CURIOCITY Green Point,” says Gugu. “The rental lasts two hours, so there’s plenty of time to explore to your heart’s content. We usually head to Green Point Park, cycle through the paths, indigenous gardens and various public installations. If we have time, we find a quiet spot to relax and enjoy nature in all her glory.”
Bike hire can be arranged at the front desk of the hotel.
Location: Bike hire: CURIOCITY Green Point at 153 Main Rd, Green Point,
Park: 1 Fritz Sonnenberg Rd, Green Point. Price: R150 pp for the bike hire and free entry to the park.
Botany Café, The President Hotel
After an active morning, Busi and Gugu change into something fresh and make their way to The President Hotel for a stop at Botany Café. This sleek grab-and-go spot serves wholesome meals made with sustainably sourced, local ingredients and inspired by Bantry Bay. “We love building our own sandwiches or wraps and trying some of their hot drink selections. The staff are always so friendly,” says Busi.
Cape Town, Tuesday 19 August 2025 — Tourists are not only enjoying Cape Town’s world-famous views and dynamic culture scene, but they are also actively helping keep the city working. Cape Town Tourism’s latest Economic Value of Tourism report reveals that in 2024, domestic and international visitors directly supported over 106,000 jobs, accounting for 6.9% of total employment in the city.
A total of 2.4 million overnight tourists arrived in the Mother City in 2024, injecting R24.5 billion into the local economy through direct tourism spending and generating a noticeable economic ripple effect across industries such as transport, accommodation, food, culture, and attractions.
“The standout figure: One job is created or sustained for every 10 tourists. That makes every booking a significant contribution to employment in Cape Town,” says Enver Duminy, CEO of Cape Town.
“Every tourist who arrives in our beautiful city, walks our streets, dines at our restaurants, and books a bed contributes directly to someone’s livelihood. In Cape Town, tourism is more than just a holiday. It’s jobs for local guides, chefs, drivers, street artists, concierges, and so many more. It’s opportunity, growth, and stability. Every tourist helps keep someone employed, and in a country where every job matters, that kind of impact is huge.”
Crucially, this success depends on the work of Destination Marketing Organisations like Cape Town Tourism. By promoting the city globally, attracting high-value visitors, and working closely with industry partners, DMOs ensure that tourism growth translates directly into jobs, business growth, and sustainable economic impact.
International Tourists on the Rise
The report also highlights a 6% year-on-year growth in international arrivals and a 5% increase in bed nights sold, underscoring Cape Town’s continued appeal as a top global destination.
While international arrivals in 2024 were still below pre-pandemic levels, at 68% of 2019 volumes compared to a national average of 87%, the growth trajectory remains positive. Recovery is well underway, and signs for the second half of 2025 are even more encouraging.
ForwardKeys’ latest forecasts predict a 4.6% increase in international arrivals at Cape Town International Airport from July to December 2025. The United Kingdom, Germany, and the USA.
Air raid sirens in Rajouri in Indian-controlled Kashmir continued into Friday morning after another night of heavy shelling between Indian and Pakistani soldiers.
The two countries have been engaged in a growing military standoff since an attack on tourists in the Indian-controlled area of the disputed region last month. Twenty-seven people including 25 Hindu tourists were killed and 20 others were injured.
Indian military officials say Pakistani forces barraged their posts overnight with artillery, mortars and gunfire at mulitple locations, leading to fiece exchanges until dawn.
A woman was killed and two other civilians were injured in Uri sector, police say, bringing the civilian death toll in India to 17 since Wednesday.
In Pakistan, across the Line of Control that divides Kashmir, at least four civilians were killed and 12 others wounded, according to local authorities.
In the northern Indian city of Dharamsala, panic spread during an evening cricket match and more than 10,000 people were evacuated from the stadium and the game called off.
Tensions between India and Pakistan have reached their most dangerous levels since 2019, following a series of missile strikes, retaliatory threats, and mounting civilian casualties on both sides of the border.
In the early hours of Wednesday morning, Indian missiles struck several locations across Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir. One of the most significant attacks hit the town of Muridke in Punjab province — long associated with militant networks. These strikes, targeting at least 24 sites, were launched in response to what New Delhi claims was a deadly attack on Indian tourists in Kashmir last month, allegedly carried out by Pakistan-based militants.
Indian officials say the targets were linked to internationally proscribed groups such as Lashkar-e-Taiba and Jaish-e-Mohammed — organisations long accused of orchestrating attacks against Indian civilians and security forces.
“The Indian government says [the strikes] are affiliated with a series of what it considers terrorist groups…responsible for a number of very high-profile attacks — most notably the 2008 attacks in Mumbai,” said Dr. Walter Ladwig, Associate Fellow at King’s College London.
In Pakistan, the response was swift. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif condemned the strikes and praised his country’s military response. Speaking before a cheering parliament, he declared: “With the grace of God…our brave forces have given a resounding response to your dirty attack and turned the darkest night into the brightest night.”
Pakistan’s military reported that at least 26 civilians — including women and children — were killed in the Indian airstrikes. Among the dead were students at a seminary in Bahawalpur and worshippers at a mosque near a former Lashkar-e-Taiba complex in Muridke.
Dr. Ladwig warned that Pakistan’s response would likely follow its long-standing strategic doctrine. “The Pakistani military has a proclaimed policy of what they call quid pro quo plus,” he explained. “Whatever India does, we will do at least that in return, but also possibly a little bit more.”
This doctrine played out visibly in 2019, when India conducted airstrikes following a suicide bombing that killed Indian paramilitary forces. Pakistan swiftly retaliated with its own airstrikes. The hope among analysts is that, as with that crisis, both sides will seek to demonstrate resolve without crossing into full-scale war.
“That would be the optimistic case here,” said Ladwig. “That the Pakistani military will respond in some way that allows them to defend or restore their honour, but that it goes no further… If not, we could quickly escalate beyond control.”
Adding to the gravity is the evolving military landscape in South Asia. While India maintains a significantly larger defence budget, Pakistan’s military modernisation has been advancing rapidly — thanks in large part to Chinese support.
“Pakistan is reported to have gained access to Chinese variants of Russian air defence systems,” said Ladwig, pointing to jointly developed fighter jets and more robust air defences. “Although Pakistan has a significantly smaller defence budget, one of its huge assets is the fact that its main weapon supplier is China — and China delivers.”
India, for its part, continues to face challenges in modernising its armed forces. Despite multiple attempts, it has struggled to finalise large-scale arms procurements, relying heavily on legacy Russian tanks and a limited fleet of French Rafale jets.
In cities across India, civil defence drills have intensified, with air raid sirens echoing through urban centres. Schools are participating in emergency simulations, and citizens are bracing for further escalation. New Delhi has named its military operation “Sindoor,” after the red powder worn by married Hindu women — a symbolic nod to those widowed in last month’s Kashmir massacre.
Meanwhile, anti-India protests have erupted across Pakistan, with chants of defiance and vows of vengeance. Pakistan’s National Security Committee has warned that it “reserves the right to respond at a time, place, and manner of its choosing.”
Diplomatic ties have fractured further. Islamabad has closed border crossings, expelled Indian diplomats, and accused New Delhi of using terrorism allegations to justify attacks on civilians.
As the region sits on edge, the spectre of nuclear conflict looms in the background. Both countries possess nuclear weapons and a history of conflict stretching back to their partition in 1947. What happens next depends heavily on Pakistan’s next move — and whether the cycle of violence can be contained before it spirals out of control.
Among the roughly 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, many are keenly anticipating the upcoming Vatican conclave at which members of the College of Cardinals will elect a successor to Pope Francis.
There are no official candidates for the papacy, but some cardinals are considered “papabile,” or possessing the characteristics necessary to become pope.
After St. John Paul II broke the Italian hold on the papacy in 1978, the field of contenders has broadened considerably, such that even cardinals from far-flung countries are now possible successors to Pope Francis. Cardinals will begin voting when the conclave begins May 7.
Ordinary people, tourists, and the faithful wandering around St. Peter’s Square expressed their preferences and hope that their favourite candidate would become pope.
However, there are also those who believe that none of the cardinal electors has the necessary characteristics to become pope.
“There isn’t anyone at the moment who shows such strong charisma as Pope Francis or John Paul II. We’ll see,” said Rome resident Pierfrancesco.
