Entertainment at Canal Walk
Canal Walk is the ideal destination for fun and entertainment on a rainy day. I personally prefer to go there on a weeknight or a late Saturday afternoon, when it’s not as busy. The first thing I enjoy doing once I have arrived at Canal Walk is to stroll the alleys, where the indoor markets that sell unique local goods and one-of-a-kind pieces are located.
I normally go and watch the latest blockbuster at the Nu Metro Cinema that boasts with state-of-the-art facilities. I’m quite a simple girl and it doesn’t take a lot to make me happy - just a large popcorn and a cherry flavoured slush puppy and I am good to go.
After the movie, I grab a bite at one of the restaurants that cater to different palates, but I always opt for the same burger or pizza. Before I leave, I make a stop at the Fast Food and Snacks Court for a treat on the go.
Shopping at the V&A Waterfront
What I love most about the V&A Waterfront is its exquisite setting - yachts and ferries rest along the banks of a busy harbour, stellar views of the Atlantic Ocean and Table Mountain serve as a scenic backdrop, and the beat of the marimba drums by local performers sets the pace for a memorable day of retail therapy.
Although the Waterfront can get quite busy, I’ve never had a bad shopping experience. The Waterfront has an array of shops that I enjoy browsing. A typical day at the Waterfront for me starts with shopping for the least expensive product at luxury makeup store, scoring a sample or two while I’m at it. I then make my way to the local and international retailers to shop the latest trends.
After a productive day of shopping, I treat myself to a pizza or burger and a milkshake at one of the semi-alfresco restaurants. Even when the weather is gloomy, I want to enjoy views of the impeccable harbour. I always squeeze in time to visit the market - open 7 days a week - to purchase local goods.
Semi Alfresco Dining
There is something so magical about semi alfresco dining when it rains. I personally love the earthy smell of rain, especially around leafy greenery, and there is no better way to experience than at the Company’s Garden Restaurant. A slice of cake, a cappuccino and a seat by the window is the ideal rainy day treat.
Long Street also has a number of alfresco dining options. I adore the Mexican-style eateries and adorable cafes in Long Street, where I can enjoy people spotting and listen to the pitter-patter of the rain. Like I also previously mentioned, Waterfront has one of the best settings for an semi alfresco dining experience when it rains.
Discovering the Art and Culture
Other than shopping and indulging in delicious food, I can’t think of a better way to spend a rainy day in the city than browsing the museum or a bookstore. My personal favourites are the Iziko South African Museum or Planetarium in Queen Victoria Street, and Clarke's Bookshop in Long Street.
While I was interning for a youth magazine I discovered the art world of Cape Town, and found out that it comes to life every first Thursday of the month until 9 pm. Along with the other interns, we used to hop from art gallery to art gallery to find shelter from the rain, and to indulge in the complimentary wine some of the galleries offered.
A personal favourite of mine is the exquisite contemporary art at the AVA Gallery, located at 35 Church Street, Cape Town.
By Cherri Rhode