A 12 months in the past, twenty-three-year-old Aakifah Slarmie stepped outdoors her consolation zone by selecting to begin her days at the first light doing issues that introduced her pleasure. Now a viral TikTok sensation, she makes use of her platform to encourage others to rise early and discover the town.
The Deep South-based full-time pupil instructor and content material creator loves journey, whether or not she’s chilly plunging in a tidal pool at dawn, heading out for a 5km run, or taking a conscious stroll.
That is her half-day itinerary for exploring the Deep South:
Simon’s City Museum
For Aakifah, the Simon’s City Museum is linked to a few of her most treasured childhood reminiscences. She remembers visiting the museum together with her grandparents, wandering by way of the displays whereas listening to tales concerning the individuals who formed the world. If you happen to look intently whereas exploring, you may even spot the Slarmie title woven into among the museum’s historic information.
“It takes me straight again down reminiscence lane,” she says. “Visiting the museum with my grandparents, listening to the tales of the neighborhood, and seeing simply how far we’ve come.”
This 12 months, the museum, housed in what was as soon as the Simon’s City Justice of the Peace’s Court docket, marks its 249th anniversary. Over the centuries, the buildings have served as a hospital, submit workplace, college, customs home, police station, and Justice of the Peace’s court docket.
Location: Court docket Rd, Simon’s CityWorth: R20 per grownup and R5 for kidsWeb site: www.simonstownmuseum.org.za
Hike to Admiral’s Waterfall
Whereas Aakifah is accustomed to a 5km run, she additionally enjoys a brief, scenic hike, and Admiral’s Waterfall is her go-to spot. This straightforward 1.4 km path takes about 20 minutes and is greatest loved in winter or in the course of the wet season when the waterfall is flowing. Begin on the footpath on the finish of Barnard Avenue and observe the light uphill path to the highest, the place Admiral’s Waterfall is tucked away. There’s a little bit of scrambling close to the tip, however when you arrive, it appears like your individual hidden paradise. Pack a picnic and take within the gorgeous views over Simon’s City harbour.
Location: Barnard Avenue, Simon’s CityPrice: Free
Ice cream at Ice-Café
To chill down after the hike, Aakifah takes a fast drive to her favorite ice-cream store in Kalk Bay: Ice Café. Located simply reverse the practice station, this well-loved spot presents genuine Italian gelato, with 21 flavours rotating day by day, so there’s all the time one thing tempting to attempt. “I’m a vanilla girlie by way of and thru,” she says. “You can’t go incorrect with a basic.”
Location: 92 Most important Rd, Kalk BayWorth: From R39.50
Dalebrook Tidal Pool and Seaside
One in every of Cape City’s most-loved tidal swimming pools, Dalebrook, sits snugly between the railway line and the ocean. Aakifah prefers an early begin and normally heads right here within the morning to catch the dawn. The water is hotter right here, and the pool is usually protected against the wind, which explains why locals flock right here to chill off throughout summer season.
Location: Off Most important Street, DalebrookWorth: FreeWeb site: www.capetown.go.za/dalebrook
The Secret Pool in Kalk Bay
There’s this one spot Aakifah can’t get sufficient of… and hardly anybody is aware of about it.
“I would remorse this later, however it’s too good to not share,” she laughs.
The Secret Pool is tucked away in Kalk Bay. To seek out it, park on the prime of the harbour, stroll previous Harbour Home, and observe the footpath to the very finish till you attain the rock pool with insane ocean views. Professional tip: There are sea urchins within the pool, so watch your step.
Location: Kalk Bay Harbour, Kalk BayWorth: Free
