February has arrived, and we’re officially in the last month of summer! But for a lot of it we had an alcohol ban, a 9pm curfew and our beloved beaches and parks closed. Now that these lockdown regulations have thankfully eased, we’ve got some summer fun to make up for, while there’s time to make the most of it. The pandemic is still here for the foreseeable future though, so we’ve rounded up some socially-distanced summer experiences to take advantage of before the cooler weather hits.
- Take a local vacation
International travel may be off the cards for now, but there’s so much to explore, discover and soak up in our very own slice of southern paradise. Whether it’s a remote camping trip in the Great Karoo, booking a self-catering house along the Breede River or a five-star bush lodge in the Kruger National Park, South Africa has some epic spots to enjoy with your family or a loved one. Taking a trip straight into nature not only helps the social distancing cause, but is also the perfect way to reset and refresh.
- Experience open-air cinema
Love the movies, but don’t want to risk a visit during the pandemic? Outdoor cinemas are still in business, and are the perfect place to get your fix. Cape Town is well known for its outdoor movies with The Galileo Open Air Cinema in locations like Kirstenbosch Gardens, V&A Waterfront, and the Grand Daddy Boutique Hotel on Long Street. While Johannesburg offers the Bioscope, located in the Maboneng Precinct, and Durban is host to Parkflix, a series of outdoor drive-in venue’s located in Durban, Umhlanga and Hillcrest.
- Hit the beach or local park
Public recreation spots are finally open again! Cape Townians and Durbanites can get their fix of ocean air, while those in Joburg can get back to kayaking, fishing or just relaxing at their local dam or nature reserve. While most of us are back to work, it’s the perfect weekend activity while the sun is out and shining. You may need to do a little prep for the day out, especially if you have kids, but there’s nothing quite like dipping into the ocean and drying off on the warm, white sand, or adventuring and picnicking in nature.
- Find a local outdoor market
Gone are the days of bargain craft markets. Today, they’re all about gourmet cuisine, craft beers and gin, and locally made, artisan goods that feed our entrepreneurial economy. If you haven’t tried one out yet, or you’re keen to find a new spot, a quick Google of markets in your area will most likely present you with dozens of options held throughout the week. Whether you’re a budding foodie, into local, sustainable clothing brands or just want to check out what the latest micro-breweries have to offer, you are sure to find an outdoor market just right for you.
- Start a food garden
Always wanted to try growing veggies but never found the time? Or do you long for a herb garden that fills your outdoor space with fresh smells of mint, basil and thyme? With the help of an outdoor SweepStar, you can transform that bare patch of soil into a veggie or herb garden, all while maintaining those important safety protocols of fresh air, social distancing and mask wearing. The sustainable food trend is no longer a trend, but rather a way of life. So if you’re looking for a way to lighten your carbon footprint, a veggie or herb garden is the way to go.
While the warm weather is still here, let’s make the most of our beaches, parks, local travel destinations and even our own backyards, all while doing so safely.
