Our Story
About us
Tal Aviram met Amelia in India on the beach. They traveled together for three months, and Amy convinced Tal to come to South Africa (it wasn’t hard). Tal had originally planned to fly from India to Australia. Even back then, Amy knew she wanted to open a hostel, while Tal, like many Israelis, wanted to be a chef. And so it happened.
Tal quickly found himself managing the kitchen of one of the most successful restaurants in Cape Town (Il Leone), and Amy worked as a waitress. It didn’t take many years before the opportunity arose to open THE BIG, which is a bit more than a regular hostel. Clean and stylishly designed to a high standard, with a team always ready to help with a big smile.
THE BIG is located in a quiet and beautiful neighborhood in Green Point, within walking distance of the Waterfront, Sea Point, the sea, and more. Very quickly, THE BIG became a leading guest house not only in Cape Town but also in Africa, winning numerous awards. Twelve years of success were cut short at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and THE BIG had to close its doors for three years.
Don’t be mistaken; the pandemic didn’t stop Amy and Tal, who by then had married and had two amazing sons named Reef and Jax.
After the success of the camp and THE BIG, which by the way has already reopened its beautiful new doors, Amy now manages the farm itself, and Tal manages the family businesses, which has led to a very successful collaboration between all the businesses. So if you plan to be in the area, come say hello or have a cup of coffee that will probably turn into a glass of wine because Tal is also involved in the wine industry and always loves to host.
We Love To Explore New Worldwide Destinations.
We love to explore new destinations
Whether you’re a nature lover, city slicker, or both; The BIG is your home away from home as you set fourth and explore Cape Town.
We travel this big world in search of the small treasures, and cherish all the details along the way.
Situated below Signal Hill in Green Point, the BIG is a 20 minute walk from the historically rich Cape Town city centre; the iconic V & A Waterfront; and trendy Bree Street restaurants and bars.
The BIG is your window into the soul of Cape Town.
This is our passion
We’re passionate about the small moments that leave big impressions; and everything in between that fills life with wonder.
This is your space
We are beyond a backpackers. A rest to the wayfaring, a sojourner’s sweet respite. A happy hacienda where you can breathe and let your mind be still, or laugh until your belly hurts.
It’s where joy, love and community come together to let you know you’ve arrived. Where the lines between friendship and family are blurred.
What we offer
It’s the gentle crackle of fire under a bespangled night sky, or soft morning light bringing with it the songbird’s symphony.
It’s the icy kiss of an ocean swim followed by the comforting embrace of the sun’s warmth.
It’s the mighty mountains towering above us, and the fine sand between our toes.
It’s a full belly and a happy heart, where the wine is flowing and laughter is shared. Here’s to the unforgettable nights and the moments that never leave us.
