A refreshing start to the New Year: Cape Town Adventures
What a way to spend our 18th anniversary: Out on the water in Cape Town
As 2025 begins, I find myself reflecting on our recent family trip to Cape Town, South Africa, a place that holds a special place in my heart. It had been over eight years since my kids last visited, and it was such a joy to see them experience the beauty of Cape Town with fresh eyes. This trip offered everything we needed to recharge: relaxation, reconnection, and plenty of inspiration.
The best part of this journey was reconnecting with loved ones. Living so far apart makes these moments even more precious. We spent meaningful time with family and friends, sharing meals, laughter, and stories. Having my sister nearby, living in the same estate, was an extra special treat.
Playing Tourist: Beaches, Vineyards, and More
We immersed ourselves in the stunning landscapes and vibrant culture of Cape Town. Our days were filled with exploring pristine beaches, walking through lush vineyards, and enjoying the breathtaking mountain views. Some highlights included:
Vineyards and Farmsteads: We visited Uitsig, Babylonstoren, Groot Constantia, and Buitenverwachting. The Cape Dutch architecture—with its whitewashed walls, thatched roofs, and elegant gables—was a visual feast. Babylonstoren was particularly memorable. This working farm is meticulously designed and brimming with charm. Although it was a sweltering day, we enjoyed shopping for unique finds like a gorgeous tablecloth and pillows—a perfect anniversary gift to ourselves! Next time, we plan to stay overnight to fully experience its magic.
Beaches and Tidal Pools: My daughter surfed with her cousin while we soaked up the sun at Kalk Bay’s tidal pools, braving the freezing water with childhood friends. We also revisited Boulders Beach, home to the iconic African penguins, a nostalgic moment for the kids who remembered visiting when they were younger.
Hiking and Scenic Views: Guided by my niece and brother, we hiked Constantia Nek, which culminated at a stunning dam. The panoramic views of the farms below made the effort well worth it.
Where We Stayed
For two weeks, we called a modern home surrounded by mountains our base. It had everything we could dream of: incredible views, a pool, striking interior architecture, and an inspiring art collection. Every morning, I started my day with tea on the loungers, accompanied by chirping birds and warm South African sunlight. Spending Christmas here made it even more special.
Food to Remember
Cape Town’s culinary scene is unparalleled. One of my favorite dishes is grilled calamari tubes, and Limoncello in Noordhoek did not disappoint. Breakfasts were another highlight: think poached eggs on gluten-free bread with an indulgent amount of mushrooms—absolute heaven!
Memories That Inspire
This trip wasn’t just a getaway; it was a celebration of family and a rekindling of inspiration. It reminded us of our wedding in Cape Town 18 years ago and gave us a chance to relive some of those cherished memories. We even attended a Stormers versus Sharks rugby game at Cape Town Stadium, braving the heat to cheer on our team to victory.
Looking Ahead
Returning to Boston, I feel re-energized and ready to dive into the year ahead. Cape Town’s natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture have reignited my creative spirit. As we face the cold Boston winter, I’ll be drawing on these experiences and photos (all 500 of them!) to push our design projects even further in 2025.
Here’s to a year filled with creativity, connection, and growth. Thank you for sharing this journey with me, and I can’t wait to share more stories and inspiration in the months to come. Cheers to a wonderful start to 2025!
