When was the last time you were a tourist in your own country, even your own city?

I was chatting with some mates about some of the iconic places in Joburg and in Cape Town. It turns out that, generally speaking, those living in Cape Town had visited those places in Johannesburg and vice versa, but not necessarily in their own city.

We always say our country is one of the most beautiful, but do we truly appreciate it on a day-to-day basis or even on the weekends when we have the extra time to visit those special places?

This week I’m in Cape Town for work and I have to say the weather has been particularly beautiful – it’s showing off, really.

A friend of mine, Janine, decided to take me to Kalk Bay and Fish Hoek for a breakfast. We walked around like two tourists visiting the various art studios, antique stores and the “famous” coffee shops and restaurants. We took a walk along the harbour pier and I was very camera happy, snapping away like a true tourist. (Take a peek at some of my photos here). 

People even asked us where we were from and were so surprised to hear that Janine lives in Cape Town and I’m from Johannesburg.  It took us a morning to feel as if we had been on a mini holiday and I felt a little more enriched for having explored just one of the many gems of our country.

This weekend, take your friends and family out on a “tourist” day. Pack the camera and explore your city. Discover places you never knew were right on your doorstep. You’ll be surprised at the gems we have.

Love, Bailey