Cape Town is a very diverse city. I can tell you that from my own experience. I have been living here for quite some time, and if you are wondering whether you should move to Cape Town, I have an answer. My answer is most definitely yes. Living in Africa, in Cape Town, is something that I can highly recommend. It is a once in a lifetime experience, and if you have an opportunity to move here – use it!
Cape Town is full of adventure
What can Cape Town offer you?
Well, to be honest, I have an urge to tell you everything. From my experience, you can have so many adventures here. The reason is simple, Cape Town has it all. It has beaches, mountains, wildlife, gardens, beautiful parks, and a really amazing nightlife.
In the last couple of years, the economy has changed drastically. And a lot of people are saying that this is becoming a go-to place if you want to have new business opportunities.
So, I will stand by my answer – it can offer you everything!
First question – safety?
Well, from my experience, my friends are all worried about their safety before coming here. After a couple of days, they realize that it was unnecessary to worry about their security. Safety is an issue, but not as big as a lot of people are thinking. You are not going to wonder dark alleys and feel safe. However, all you need to do is lock your car, lock your home and similar. And, all the popular places are secured by guards. So, there is no reason to be scared.
The only safety measure is to lock your door
Will you find a job easily?
The first thing that you need to understand here is that people are relaxed and happy. They tend to smile a lot and, to be honest, they have a really long lunch break. It is very common to see a lot of business people in Downtown just sitting and enjoying their lunch break.
Also, once you arrive here, you will notice that Cape Town has become a safe haven for the creative type of people.
Finding a job shouldn’t be hard / a group of women sitting in a conference room
In addition, you should know that Cape Town is the fifth largest mining sector in the world. This is one of the things that moves this country forward. Also, one of the most important things here is the finance sector. You will always be able to find a job in this field.
Also, I noticed one thing – digital marketing is becoming popular. New companies are opening very often. This simple fact is just creating more opportunities for you to work here. But be ready to be really competitive!
Can you move to Cape Town easily?
So, there have been some changes when it comes to moving here. There is a big chance you won’t need a Visa just to visit Cape Town. But if you would like to work here or to get a permanent Visa, then you should prepare yourself for a lot of paperwork. On the other hand, moving here physically can be easy. You just need to learn more about packing and moving process and you will be good to go. After all, you are packing up your whole life and starting an adventure. A rather exciting one, I must say!
Moving company, yes or no?
Well, it depends on your budget. The first thing that you need to do is check about your Visa. Can you get it and how long it will take? With a moving company, you need to set up a date for the move. And depending on your Visa status, it can vary. But you should definitely look for a moving company. And I can tell you – don’t fall for the cheap ones. You will end up spending more money.
Lifestyle
Well, when it comes to this – you need to know that it is very affordable to live here. In Cape Town, you will find a lot of restaurants, bars and, depending on your lifestyle, it can cheaper to eat out than to make lunch at home. I personally like to have lunch or dinner at the restaurant since it is much easier and cheaper than to make food for myself.
Cape Town is very diverse and you can choose which lifestyle suits you best
One thing that you will notice the moment you move to Cape Town is that it is all about balance. It is much easier to reach any part of the city if you have a car and you will save a lot of time. If you feel stressed, you can easily go to the beach and enjoy the sunset.
Since the weather here is great, you will have so many opportunities to enjoy outdoor activities. That is what I love about Cape Town. Since I came here, the moments when I am bored have been really rare. I always have something to do or something to see.
Schools
If you are moving here with your family and your kids – you do not have to worry. There are a lot of international and private schools. And I must tell you, not all of them are expensive. You can actually afford a pretty good school for your kids. Even if you are hiring a moving company, include your kids in the move. Tell them about Africa and tell them about penguins. My kids love them!
There are a lot of options for your kids / a child writing in a notebook
Healthcare
This is also one of the most common questions that I hear. Honestly, the public system is not the best. They have problems with insufficient funds and they are struggling. But there is a bright side to this – there are more than 200 very well equipped private hospitals in South Africa. As an expat, you can find an adequate international health insurance option. This way, in case anything happens, you will be covered. I personally use it and I must say I am very satisfied.
It is up to you!
If you ask me if you should move to Cape Town this year, my answer is yes. You will gain so much experience. You will have a chance to meet so many different people. You will enjoy the diversity very much. You will gain a new perspective on life and you will enjoy the fact that you can go up to the mountains and in no time reach the beach! If you are wondering whether you should move to Cape Town this year – the answer is yes! This can be one of the best decisions you have ever made!