Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the summer holidays in December sees an influx of tourists from every corner of the world. With amazing weather, clear blue skies and a number of picturesque beaches the holiday mood in the city is tangible and totally irresistible. For most people, the festive season is a time to relax, unwind and let lose. This is especially true for New Year’s parties.
But for addicts in recovery this time of year sparks untold anxiety and fear of relapse. Memories of past parties become nightmare scenarios for those who value their sobriety. And the temptations are a very real threat with many year-end-functions and friends and family gearing up for a slew of festive happenings that very often involve alcohol.
Cape Town boasts some of the finest restaurants in the world and is well known for its vibrant night life and club scene. But is it possible to enjoy and truly experience all the city has to offer and remain sober?
Recovery is a gift hard won for most but it doesn’t mean that enjoying life and having fun is a thing of the past. Quite the opposite in fact. Imagine all those people recovering from a night out on New Year’s and suffering the consequences on the first day of the new year.
Luckily Cape Town has plenty of activities to enjoy while sober. One thing that many recovering addicts and alcoholics have learnt is who they associate with often affects their behaviour. Choose the right people on your trip and you will have a ball.
These are but a few offerings Cape Town has to offer:
Beaches, beaches and more beaches!
Cape Town has a number of Blue Flag Status beaches. These are beaches that meet stringent criteria for ablution facilities, safety and are clean.
- Clifton beach is described as the French Riviera of Africa
- Take a look at the local Penguin colony at Boulders Beach
- Try surfing or bodyboarding at Surfer’s Corner at Muizenberg Beach
Forests and hiking
- Take a relaxing stroll through Tokai Arboretum. The forest was established in 1885 and is well loved by locals. There are also a number of mountain biking trails for the more adventurous.
- Bring a picnic basket and enjoy the splendour of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. This botanical garden really shows off the beauty of the unique Fynbos indigenous to the Cape.
- Take in the starry skies and a panoramic view of the city from the summit of Lion’s Head
- Cape Point is a Natural Heritage Site and home to a variety of indigenous species. The best part is taking the funicular called the Flying Dutchman up to the summit.
Eating out
There are a number of top-class restaurants that don’t serve alcohol and they are mixing up a variety of refreshing and interesting drinks without the liquor.
- Greenhouse at Babylonstoren (Franschhoek, Western Cape)
A bright airy café nestled in extensive gardens their food and drinks offerings are a treat. Franschhoek is about an hour and half outside Cape Town.
- Pyjamas and Jam (Strand, Western Cape)
This funky restaurant has an extensive selection of amazing alcohol-free drinks and a really cool and relaxed vibe to add to the holiday spirit.
Have a safe and happy December.
