After two years of calling Vancouver home, our December 2023 trip back to Cape Town felt like stepping into a dreamscape. I feel like Chris and I had spoken about going home for a visit so often, but finally, it was a reality. It was a whirlwind of joy, reconnections, and sun-drenched adventures that left an indelible mark on our hearts. Everything is really different when you become a tourist in your own home country.
Our visit began with a burst of excitement. From the moment we landed, and we got out the plane and that Cape Town heat hit us and boy it was familiar. The city was vibrant and alive, mirroring the excitement we felt about being back. We dove straight into a whirlwind of activities, but the highlight was celebrating the wedding of our best friends. Their special day was a perfect blend of love, laughter, and Cape Town’s unique magic. This trip made us realise just how blessed we are to have such strong friendships and for that, we are forever grateful.
One of our favorite memories was catching up with loved ones at Happy Folks. It’s not just a spot for dinner and drinks; it’s where cherished friendships grow. The joy of reconnecting in person, sharing stories, and simply being present was a beautiful reminder of why we missed Cape Town so much.
Family Braai’s were another highlight. There’s something undeniably comforting about gathering around a grill with family. It was a chance to laugh, share, and create new memories together, a stark contrast to our usual FaceTime calls. The comfort of the evening sun, a glass of wine in hand and the sizzling of the grill were perfect for our conversations and laughter.
Something that is incredibly close to my heart was meeting my two nephews and Godchild for the first time. Living abroad meant missing their births, so finally getting to hold them and see their little faces in person was nothing short of incredible. Their giggles and watching them run around and be happy reminds me of the importance of family and how much I missed these moments.
Cape Town’s weather was everything we had hoped for—hot, lively, and tropical. The city’s summer vibe was intoxicating. From walking around the Waterfront and exploring the bustling markets, every day was an opportunity to soak in the sunshine and revel in the beauty of our home country.
As the days rolled by, we spent a busy three and a half weeks embracing every corner of Cape Town and spending every minute we could with those we love. But, as much as we loved in our time back home, the pull of Vancouver began to set in. After two weeks, I found myself longing for the familiar rhythms of our life in Canada. It’s funny how that works—how one place can feel like home while another tugs at your heartstrings.
Reflecting on our trip, I feel incredibly blessed. Living abroad offers a unique perspective on life and home, and being able to return to Cape Town as a tourist in my own country was a beautiful experience. It made me appreciate the life we’ve built in Vancouver while cherishing the memories and connections we hold dear in Cape Town.
In the end, this trip was a reminder of the incredible balance we’ve found—navigating between two worlds, each special and uniquely ours. Here’s to more adventures, more reunions, and the joy of living life to the fullest, no matter where we are.
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