I’ve been working on a really great project lately, which is basically travel guides for Cape Town.
Having been born and raised here, I know in theory about all the amazing things to see and do, but you think I have experienced most of them? Please, half of Cape Town don’t see much of their own city.
Sure I’ve done the wine route a few times, and I went up the cable car, even if it was in Sub A. I’ve been to almost every beach, I go to the museum at least once a year, I used to work at the aquarium and I know Long Street just as well as the Germans do.
But, for the last year I have been living on the border of the Cape’s oldest area – with the richest and oldest heritage, the most amazing architecture, incredible spice markets, local cuisine par excellence and a cultural phenomenon, and I haven’t once explored the area.
I’m talking about Bo Kaap of course, which is literally on my door step. In fact, many would argue that my road falls within the Bo Kaap border, it’s that close. Technically, my area is known as Skotchekloof – lying between Tamboerskloof and Bo Kaap.
I have seen the legendary ice-cream truck once, and heard it a few times, and I hear the muezzin sometimes. But until now, I haven’t really thought of actually seeing my hood with fresh eyes.
So, I reckon it’s time to take a S’hot Left and start getting to know my area. After all, it’s quite an amazing place to live in, and I am proud to be in one of Cape Town’s oldest places.
