The Big - Luxury Backpackers in Cape Town

The BIG offers newly renovated rooms with unique styles by interior decorators. Each room has a private bathroom, daily housekeeping, and fresh towels and linens. An inverter system keeps the lights on during load shedding. Room types include private doubles and 3-bed dormitories (mixed or female). Some rooms feature Netflix, walk-in showers, and safes. The 'Throne Room' has frosted windows, while 'The Room That Everybody Wants' is a popular choice.

Breakfast is included and served at a communal table: fresh bread, yoghurt, cereals, bowls of fruit, and eggs you cook yourself. The kitchen team prepares everything before 7am. An honesty bar stocks wine, champagne, and snacks. BBQ facilities are available, and the staff hosts braai nights where John cooks international and South African dishes. Special diet menus can be arranged.

The outdoor pool has sun loungers and umbrellas. Guests can borrow bicycles, join bike tours or walking tours, and attend movie nights, live sport events, and yoga classes. There is a games room, and the garden features an outdoor fireplace and BBQ facilities. Evening entertainment includes cultural tours and a weekly braai. For quiet time, there is a study room and shared lounge with TV.

The BIG is in Green Point, a 5-minute walk from the V&A Waterfront and Sea Point Promenade. The stadium is minutes away, and Lion's Head and Table Mountain are a short drive. The area is quiet and residential with cafes and shops nearby. Guests can use Uber or taxis; the hostel offers airport shuttle (charge) and free parking for up to 5 cars (first-come, first-served). Bus stops and the metro are within walking distance.

The 24-hour front desk provides concierge and tour desk services to book excursions like township tours and shark diving. Daily housekeeping includes bed-making and towel changes. Laundry, dry cleaning, and ironing are available. Luggage storage and lockers are provided. Security features include CCTV, 24-hour security, and safety deposit boxes. The staff are known for being friendly and helpful, often joining guests for breakfast and organising activities.