Moving to Cape Town

A story about taking a step back and then taking two steps forward, intentionally.

by Le Editor

I had coffee with my friend the other day. We wanted to see each other once more before he left for the UK (the vacuum cleaner that seems to target my friend group).

I asked him: What is one thing you started doing since moving to Cape Town that you want to continue doing in London?

“Paddling. When I arrived in Sea Point, I looked at the ocean every day and knew I needed to be on it, so I started paddling and never looked back. I have found a paddling club near London. There is a session the first week I arrive that I’ll try to attend.”

I could feel the nervous excitement of doing something familiar in an unfamiliar place.

I realised: If I had to move cities next week, I would do the same. I’d look for a space that would allow me to pursue a hobby while meeting new people.

I stared into my friend’s eyes. I reflected on the fact that nothing is stopping me from finding a new space that allows me to pursue a hobby while meeting new people here in Cape Town, my current place of residence.

Why don’t I pretend that I’m moving to Cape Town for the first time?

What hobbies would I want to pursue if I was alone and new to Cape Town?

What routines would I want to fall into if I was alone and new to Cape Town?

I stared into my friend’s eyes (again) and decided I should take the plunge. I booked a ticket (I didn’t actually book a ticket) and started planning my move.

Who’s keen to move to Cape Town with me?