Quick disclaimer before we get into it:

This is in no means a call for anyone to disregard lockdown rules at our current level. The aim of this article is to provide ideas to adapt to life in this new normal. Always wear a mask when outside and practice social distancing. You can get more info on COVID-19 Regulations and Guidelines on the gov.za website.

Take a walk

I know this sounds like a very simple and boring activity, right? However, I think a lot of us forget that our bodies need at least 15 minutes of sunshine everyday to stay healthy and happy. I realise that most of us are back work (be it at the office or working from home) and some of us never stopped working, so this might prove difficult since the winter sun has already set by the time we're done with our daily duties. Don't worry though, I got you!

One way to get your dose of vitamin D in is to swop your working-at-your-desk lunch for a sit down outside. Not only will you be getting some sunshine, you'll also get a chance to stretch your legs and relax your shoulders.

Another way and this is something that I myself have started doing recently, is to have walking meetings. If you have a VC that doesn't require you to show your face or access your computer, you can download Zoom (or Teams or Slack) onto your phone, grab your earbuds/headphones and tune in to your meeting while getting a walk in.

Go for a drive

South Africa is known for its scenic routes and beautiful landscapes and we're lucky enough to have a lot of these in and around Cape Town. My sister and I took a drive out to Langebaan for the day last Saturday. It was a beautiful, calm day and the roads were nice and empty. We drove past West Coast National Park and although we didn't make the stop (we were chasing the sunset in Langebaan) they are open for self-drive game watching (see next point).

Go on a virtual safari

Since closing their doors to the public when the nationwide lockdown began, a number of game reserves have offered virtual trips of their reserves. A few of these include Tintswalo Safari Lodge, Shamwari Private Game Reserve and WildEarth SafariLive.

Take a hike

The government recently opened hiking routes to the public again provided you remain cautious, wear a mask and practice social distancing. While hiking has been opened up in Level 3 a lot of TMNP site still remain closed so be sure to check before venturing out to your favourite hiking spot.

Please note: Lion's Head had to close shortly after reopening due to hikers not complying to the Level 3 rules.

Watch a cape sunrise or sunset

Our magical sunsets are one of the many bragging rights we've earned as Capetonians and luckily our beautiful city offers many beautiful places for those not lucky enough to be able to catch the sunset from their balcony or backyard. Signal Hill, Kloof Corner and Bloubergstrand are only a few but there's definitely something for everyone.

Go to a drive-in movie

While I'm not entirely happy about lockdown forcing us to go back to the "old ways of life", I must admit I've always wanted to watch a movie on a big screen in the middle of nowhere. If you're like me, then your dreams are about to come true. Two companies are in the works to bring you the cinema in the comfort of your own car. For more info check out Mother City Drive-in and Hillcrest Quarry.