IN PICS | Curiocity has to be most high-style backpackers' hostel in Cape Town

Bheki Dube is something of a pioneer. When he started his first Curiocity backpackers in 2013, there wasn't much else like it — a hospitality space that celebrated its location, revelled in it even, at a time when many couldn't appreciate the dynamism of inner-city Joburg.

A role player in the regeneration of Maboneng, he had an instinct for creating a buzz. After establishing a footprint in Joburg, he set up in Durban, and has now brought the vibrant energy and accessible style of the brand to Cape Town's Green Point.

With a brand whose venues are moulded by location, Dube elaborates on what brought Curiocity to Cape Town.

"Curiocity Cape Town has always been on our roadmap. Travellers spend on average five nights in Joburg, head to Kruger National Park, visit the Drakensberg, do Durban and then spend two weeks in Cape Town. So opening a site here made sense."

The new space illustrates Dube's own evolution and is a more sophisticated and comprehensive offering than his first iteration in Joburg.

"I was 21 years old when I opened the first Curiocity site and had just been exposed to the backpacking industry. In Durban, I elevated my design style. Cape Town reflects where I'm at seven years on. I wanted to create a site with accommodation that I'd want to stay in myself."

The dorms all have en-suites and kitchenettes and the team has worked with local designers to give it a sense of style.

"I think when a developer is able to design based on personal intuition then it becomes a site with soul," says Dube. In charge of bringing this identity to life was Attik Design, who Dube briefed to unpack the history and heritage of Green Point.

"We wanted to give it an African meaning and reimagine what an integrated space Cape Town can become."

From architectural motifs and African fabrics to communal public areas, the spaces celebrate their context.

"We wanted spaces where people can integrate, sit down and share experiences," says Dube.

Local artists and creatives added their touch, including Kim van Vuuren, Sarah Grace and Atang Tshikare, who did the mural on the façade. Local suppliers were favoured for products and accessories, giving the spaces meaning. The colour palette, inspired by Bo-Kaap, further cements the space in its location.

Curiocity is a refreshing addition to the landscape. A combination of comfortable accommodation, tailor-made local experiences and on-site food and beverage allows travellers to get a sense of the city they are in.

"We offer experiences that range from a sunrise power hike and meditation to a walking tour which uncovers black spaces around the city. I think this really sets us apart," says Dube.

"As a hybrid hotel, we are in an interesting segment where backpacking meets boutique. As pioneers in the segment itself, we have created a new way of travelling, not just in South Africa, but Africa as a continent."