My Cape Town: Armani “Mr Poppins” Minani

You might have seen Armani “Mr Poppins” Minani climbing up Lion’s Head in a swimsuit on viral social media movies. Behind the spectacle is a Rondebosch native utilizing curiosity and dialog to encourage actual change for township youth and the homeless.

He based Reveal the Cape to Me to introduce township youth to town, and Touching a Tummy at a Time to assist feed the homeless. “I wish to use my platform to inspire and encourage others,” he says. “A small motion could make a giant distinction in somebody’s life.” Right here’s how he spends a typical day in Cape City:

Hike Up Lion’s Head

For Armani, weekends usually start above town. First up is a hike up Lion’s Head.

“The views from the highest are completely price it – you’ll be able to see town, the ocean, Desk Mountain, and even Robben Island all laid out under,” he says as he will get to the highest. The hike begins simply off Sign Hill Street and takes about 90 minutes to 2 hours, relying in your tempo and what number of pictures you cease to take alongside the best way. The path winds across the mountain, providing you with views at each flip, earlier than a brief however steep scramble to the summit.

He has been climbing in his signature three-piece swimsuit and umbrella since 2017. What began as a joke shortly become a strategy to make a distinction. As he places it, “If you’re on prime of the mountain, you are feeling such as you conquered the world.”

Location: Sign Hill Street, close to the Kloof Nek junction
Worth: Free

Meals Vehicles close to the Sea Level Pavilion

After hitting the paths, you’ll discover him chilling on the Sea Level meals vans, soaking within the views of the Atlantic Ocean. There’s a variety of meals vans to select from, with loads of inexpensive choices, making it a favorite cease for runners and joggers.

One in every of his go-to stops is Braai Grasp, the place he orders a boerewors roll, then settles into one of many purple tables to tuck in. The strictly halaal meals truck additionally serves up shisa nyama, sandwiches and tender drinks. Earlier than heading off, he treats himself to one thing candy: a scoop (or two) from Iceziet.

Location: 152 Important Street, Sea Level
Worth: From R30

Greenmarket Sq.

Greenmarket Sq. is without doubt one of the metropolis’s oldest public areas and an area spot identified for its distinctive South African and African tradition and items. Right here, you’ll discover stalls with clothes, jewelry, equipment, and artwork.

“I really like shopping the stalls for distinctive bracelets and necklaces so as to add to my assortment. There’s all the time one thing new and fascinating to find at this market,” he provides. The market is open day-after-day, from Monday to Sunday, between 9 am and 6 pm.

Location: Burg St and Longmarket St, Cape City Metropolis Centre
Worth: Varied

Bree Road

Armani loves exploring Bree Road, one of many metropolis’s trendiest streets. When he’s feeling artistic, you’ll in all probability discover him at Clay Café, turning a pottery piece right into a masterpiece. If it’s extra of a chill day, he’ll seize a espresso at Frank’s Café as a substitute. He’s additionally a giant foodie,

all the time desperate to attempt new eating places alongside the strip. A few of his favourites embrace Iron Steak and LIV on Bree, well-known for its vibrant seven-colour feast on Sundays.

“Should you’re visiting through the summer season months, don’t miss Bree Road Sundays, a car-free motion the place individuals skate, play video games, socialise, and take in the vibe collectively,” he says.