By Tiaan Booyens
The start of the new year brings many new faces to town. Some of them might have visited before, others have loved ones living here currently or family that have attended university in the city of oaks – some might be completely new, without a clue of where to get started on becoming a local.
You don’t automatically become a local, so be sure to befriend those who are already. A waitress here, a bartender there, and anyone who’s willing to stop and talk under the oak trees. In the words of The White Lotus’s standout star Meghann Fahy, “you’ve got to make friends in the places you want to be a local at.” Consider me a local friend, if you’d like, and let me introduce you to a few ways you can become better accustomed to town.
Don’t knock it till you’ve tried it.
And by it, I mean any of the range of different events and activities that occur almost weekly in Stellenbosch. Read more about everything you can fit into your week to ensure you get the full experience here; our article on what Stellenbosch has to offer throughout the week goes into detail about local dive bars and band nights – even some wine soirées for obvious reasons.
Take it from Gen Z
The age-old advice while travelling or trying to stay in the moment is to stay off your phone, but in this town, using your phone helps you find more things to do, for less. Apps like Djol, created by local student entrepreneurs Arnold Hattingh and Jené Venter, that scout and list all the local restaurant and bar specials are super helpful to find your new favourite hangout without blowing a budget. While you’re personalising your home screen, be sure to download the other essentials like Uber Eats, Checkers Sixty60 and Airbnb (there are some cool suggestions for things to do and picturesque places to stay) for when the need arises.
Social media can be your friend
Stellenbosch is definitely a town that hops on a trend; even the university librarians have their own TikTok profile to amuse and inform the student demographic. Other communities that have looked to social media platforms to engage with the town are the Sunday Dorp Street Market, the Stellenbosch University Botanical Gardens, as well as the official tourism office of the Stellenbosch Municipality. Each of these places, and many more, usually advertise upcoming events and occasions in town that you wouldn’t want to miss out on. Amble through weekly thrift markets, see rare and endangered flowers bloom right on your doorstep, or attend marches and parades through the town streets!
Try out some cultural deep cuts
When you’ve had enough of the slightly more mainstream attractions, get to know some places that locals sometimes even miss out on. Attend a concert or musical performance at the Endler Hall on beautiful Victoria Street. You’re guaranteed to feel fancy inside the beautiful venue, so be sure to dress up and make it a night! Try out the art and sculpture scene at places like the Rupert Museum at the bottom of Dorp Street, or the famous Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden at Mulberry Farm on Paradyskloof Road. Or you could attend a theatre production throughout the year put on by students and professionals at the Adam Small Theatre complex, Drostdy Theatre and more.
Stay for the people
One thing that’s as true in Stellenbosch as it is anywhere, is that sharing it with the right people makes all the difference. You’re bound to meet loads of interesting characters on your journey to becoming a local. Be sure to take advantage of staying in Stellenbosch and foster relationships that have the potential to last a lifetime, because in a university town, there are always people who come and go. So, return this favour when it’s your turn to welcome newcomers as a local guide.
