I am visiting Cape Town on business and have extended my trip over a weekend. However, I am somewhat nervous about being there alone, having heard lots of horror stories about the crime situation there. Is it ok to walk in the city centre at night for example? Miles Ingram, Brighton

Sunday Times travel expert Richard Green responds: Cape Town does have a dreadful reputation for violent crime, but as with much else in the area, there is a wild contrast between the posh beach suburbs down the coast, and the dusty townships on the other side of Table Mountain. Crime is much worse in the townships, but if you keep your wits about you in the downtown and touristy areas, you should be fine.

The city has installed CCTV cameras in the City Bowl - the historic part of town between Table Mountain and the Ocean. This has helped to improve the situation, but even in broad daylight, you should stick to busy the pavements on the main streets.

If you are heading from your hotel in the City Bowl down to the Victoria & Albert Waterfront for an evening stroll and meal ­ which you definitely should do at least once during your stay ­ then you are best to get a taxi from your hotel's front desk. The Waterfront is packed with tourists and is a good safe place to wander, and there are plenty of taxis for the journey back.

The biggest chance of a problem in the city centre is from pickpockets and bag snatchers, so avoid walking about on your own if you can, leave your valuables in the hotel safe, don't have much money on you, and where possible, avoid looking like a tourist fresh off the plane ­ so no showy cameras or jewellery.

When you get to your hotel, ask about the latest situation, and if in any doubt, do what the locals do - get the number of a trustworthy taxi firm and use them.

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