My Hood: A life so charmed it should be a crime

Crime novelist Margie Orford lives in "a lovely old house" (built in 1932) in Oranjezicht.

Why Oranjezicht?

It has always been my favourite part of Cape Town. I love the views and the granite embrace of Table Mountain. We have lived here for 13 years and I run a Home for Lost Girls, it seems. My children cycle in and out of home. The house is special - it feels as complete with one person as it as it does with a party of 50. I have always worked from home, and have a lovely studio in my garden - no internet, no phone, no pictures. But I do go out quite a bit to prevent cabin fever.

Downtime?

The Book Lounge in Roeland Street is heaven on earth. When I want Wi-Fi and great coffee I go to Lazari's in Maynard Street. I have written two books there - they are very patient with me.

Bakoven is my favourite beach. Perfect swimming. Last time I went a whale and her calf were playing in the water.

Eating out?

When I'm in the mood for a big brunch I like having it at home: croissants, bacon, scrambled egg, avo, cherry tomatoes and fresh orange juice. I go to the Mount Nelson for high tea sometimes. It's a buffet of absolutely everything you can think of. Like a fancy Famous Five-feast. And you can do faded-celebrity spotting there.

When there's a special celebration with friends we'll go to Maria's Greek restaurant in Dunkley Square or Societi Bistro in Orange Street.

Shopping?

If I need to get a gift I go to Imagenius in Long Street. Or (more often) I give people wine - almost always from Nabygelegen Cellars in Wellington because the wine maker, James McKenzie, is a friend and a super-fast wine deliverer, and the wine is wonderful.