19 Nov 2009, Posted by Peter in Cape Town, Lifestyle, 0 Comments

Cape Doctor – what to do when the South Easterly is blowing

Yesterday I got the following mention on Twitter: “what to do in CT when the SouthEaster is blowing? @peterfabricius , give us some ideas on your blog please please”.

Here are my Top 5 Do’s & Don’ts. Please note that this post is my response to a question by a local. It is not written from a visitor (tourist)  point of view, but is relevant to anyone.

Do’s

1. Go Windsurfing

Even though the kite surfing phenomenon has been stealing some of windsurfing’s ‘cool’, Cape Town still has some killer spots to kick it old-school. This will take a few tries to get the hang of, and I recommend finding an instructor or making use of the ‘buddy system‘. Buying equipment is a steep investment, so hiring is probably your best option at first.

2. Make a kite from a plastic bag

Can’t remember the last time you flew a kite? Recycling does not necessarily mean dumping your plastic bags in the right bin people. I honestly can’t see myself doing this, but I have a feeling a few of my readers will See how

3. Do Laundry, loads of it

This would probably be more useful during ESKOM’s load shedding rampage. Take advantage of nature’s free tumble dryer, thus saving electricity and the hassle.

4. Build a Wind Power Generator

This video shows how a Wind Power Generator can by constructed using a motor from an old exercise treadmill and some PVC pipe. Please try this at home.

5. Visit the Two Oceans

When the conditions get really bad out there (sometimes the Cape Doctor adds some extra elbow grease to the cleaning process), consider a visit to the aquarium. The enjoyment of scenic natural beauty and character, with the comfort, shelter and security of being indoors. Everybody wins.

Don’ts

1. Wear embarrassing or dirty underwear

If the Doctor can knock over a Vespa, I’m sure he can reveal your ‘Team Edward’ bottoms.

2. Refer tourists to the Cableway

The Table Mountain Cableway does not operate in harsh windy conditions. Remember being a good host?

3. Wear a wig

Just don’t.

4. Throw your bud out the window

Now, there is no excuse for doing this in any circumstance, even when it rains. Why? it’s pollution. However, if you want to be that guy, keep in mind that the combination of winds and throwing burning cigarettes around maximises the potential of causing terrible damage to the Mother City and its residents. Think.

5. Eat a sandwich on the beach

Grrrr grrrr